Thurston County in Bloom: Your Guide to Spring Wildflowers
Blog
Take away new ideas to help shape your upcoming trip to our little corner of the world by browsing our blogs.
It’s the perfect way to learn a little or a lot about those travel details that are most interesting to you.
Welcome to Olympia and Thurston County, where a world of captivating stories is waiting for you to write the next chapter! Our collection of tales unveils a rich tapestry of outdoor adventures, inviting you to hike through lush forests, kayak along serene waterways, and breathe in the beauty of our natural landscapes. Dive into the heart of the Thurston Bountiful Byway, where farm-fresh delights and the rural charm of local markets beckon. Feel the pulse of artistic expression as our vibrant community showcases its creativity through galleries, performances, and cultural events. Whether you seek the thrill of outdoor recreation or the soul-nourishing embrace of artistic endeavors, Thurston County promises an unforgettable journey filled with diverse experiences that capture the essence of the Pacific Northwest.
Looking for seasonal inspiration? Browse through the collection below and discover "must-do" no matter what time of the year you're here.
Springtime In the Olympia Area
Spring usually comes early in the Olympia region and it's highlighted by bursts of color as bulbs and flowers bloom, and cherry and magnolia trees put on a spectacular pink and fuchsia…
Summertime in the Olympia Region
Summer is a coveted season in the Olympia region which draws visitors and locals alike to the outdoors to enjoy sunny days, temperate weather, and tons of evergreen adventures.
Top 15 Fall Things to Do in Olympia & Beyond
Autumn in and around Olympia brings cooler weather, changing leaves, and abundant opportunities to get outdoors. Celebrate the season with these top fall experiences!
Top Winter Activities
Winters in Olympia are for sleeping-in, spending time with friends and family, and celebrating the holidays at the festive events and markets that pop up throughout the season.
Featured Stories
Where To Find Brunch in Olympia & Beyond
Where to Find Donuts in Olympia & Beyond
Top Fishing Spots in Olympia & Beyond
Spa & Wellness Escapes in Olympia & Thurston County
Six Indie Bookstore Gems
A Taste of Thailand in Olympia and Thurston County: Where to Find the Best Dishes
Where to Find Pickleball Courts in Olympia & Beyond
How to Pack: Tips To Help You Pack Like A Pro
Top Fun-Filled Family Activities to Wow Your Kids
Springtime In the Olympia Area
Spring usually comes early in the Olympia region and it's highlighted by bursts of color as bulbs and flowers bloom…
South Sound Coffee Trail: Your Route to Roasters
Meet the roasters, learn about the origin of the finely crafted beans and warm up with a cup of some…
Tips From a Pro – Trails for Every Kind of Hiker
Get your heart pumping with a quick run, explore a forest that feels a world away from the city or…
Top Fun-Filled Family Activities to Wow Your Kids
Always on the quest to become the coolest parent ever but still searching for the perfect place to bring the…
A Guide to the Best Vegan Restaurants in Olympia and Beyond
As people seek healthier lifestyles and eco-conscious choices, the appeal of plant-based dining options is growing. Come explore a variety…
Broadfields Farm’s Reclaimed Farmland Cultivates Community
Small, local farms are the heartbeat of their communities, extending far beyond their fields. They foster a vibrant tapestry, intertwining…
Top Ramen Spots in Olympia, Lacey, and Beyond
Indulge in flavorful experiences and decadent ramen with family and friends.
Harbor for the Holidays: Embracing Festive Magic at the Port of Olympia
Local Maker Spotlight: How Chicory Is Defining Farm-to-Table Dining
Since the beginning, Chicory’s mission has been about more than just creating amazing food. It’s about supporting local farms and…
Olympia Bed Store — Building Better Bedding
Discover the Thurston Bountiful Byway
In the shadow of Mount Rainier, an agricultural corridor stretches between the Nisqually Valley and the Capitol State Forest near…
Top Phở Spots Around the Olympia Region
Discover some of the best pho places in Olympia, Lacey, Yelm, and beyond.
Experience Local Culture This Fall at the Port of Olympia
Mild temperatures, crisp air, and the seasonal transformation to fall makes this the perfect time to explore the Port of…
How to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in the Olympia Region
September 15 through October 15 is National Hispanic Heritage Month and the Olympia area’s celebratory lineup is something everyone will…
Explore Family-Friendly Historical Sites and Museums
Exploring the many historical sites and museums throughout the Olympia region offers a blend of education, cultural enrichment, architectural aesthetics…
See the Fall Salmon Run Upstream Olympia to Brewery Park
Capital Mall
Remember when hanging out at the mall with your friends was super cool? You've grown up since then, and luckily…
Sun and Fun at Offut Lake Resort
Discover the Port of Olympia this Summer
If you think the Port of Olympia is just about large container ships and international trade, you’re missing the boat…
Sea Kayaking in Olympia Out of Tugboat Annies at West Bay Marina
The crackling call of a kingfisher. Nesting seals and their seal pups. Bald eagles and herons swooping overhead. You can…
Sail Around South Puget Sound with the Olympia Sailing Company
Top Pizza Places in Olympia, Lacey, and Beyond
Seeking delectable pizza with the freshest ingredients and toppings? Explore one of these highly rated pizza places for your next…
Summer Hiking in Olympia Through a Coastal Forest on the Evergreen Geoduck Trail
Hiking is all about experiencing the natural world around you, and what could be more natural than a tranquil stroll…
Olympia Waterfronts & Boardwalks
From the local waters of Puget Sound, to the many hidden inlets, rivers and lakes, the Olympia region is a…