Olympia Waterfronts & Boardwalks
From the local waters of Puget Sound, to the many hidden inlets, rivers and lakes, the Olympia region is a…
Discover Our Outdoors
Embrace the Outdoors: Discover Thurston County's Natural Wonders
Welcome to your gateway to outdoor adventures in the stunning Olympia region! Let these stories be your compass for exploring the breathtaking landscapes, hidden trails, and exhilarating experiences that await. From kayaking on sparkling waterways to hiking through lush forests, immerse yourself in the natural beauty that defines this Pacific Northwest gem. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful escape, let us inspire you to discover the wonders of Olympia's great outdoors.
Get Outside!
Take a Family Bike Ride Along the Yelm-Rainier-Tenino Trail
Bike riding ranks highly among free, outdoor, family-friendly activities. After the initial investment of the family bikes, there’s no cost…
Best Outdoor Adventures Along the Thurston Bountiful Byway
Here, natural beauty abounds and you have permission to slow down and go at your own pace.
Capacity and Quality Makes Talking Cedar A Solid Partner for Craft Distillers
What if the traditional way of distilling single malt whiskey was flipped on its head – where flavor comes first…
Custom Dream Cakes in Downtown Olympia
Cranking out custom-made specialty cakes and pastries like clockwork might seem like a herculean task to those who don't know…
Ikonic Wings in Lacey — Consistently Crispy, Unforgettably Unique
Once you’ve had an Ikonic Wing, it becomes clear pretty quickly that Kelly Wynn knew what she was doing when…
Celebrating Washington’s Unique and Diverse Maritime Cultures — Maritime Washington National Heritage Area
Over the next year, the nonprofit Washington Trust for Historic Preservation is working with local residents and organizations like Experience…
Local Maker Highlight: Talking Cedar Brewery & Distillery Taps Into Regional Grain Supply
Just outside the bustling downtown of the capital city of Olympia lie lush and fertile farmlands where growers and craftsmen…
Sourcing Local Ingredients: Gochujang and Honey-Glazed Salmon
Boat In and Enjoy the Fall Bounty in the Heart of the South Sound
Summer in Olympia is a boater's dream, we can't deny, but the region lights up with warm gold and amber…
Find a Summer ATV Adventure at Capitol Forest’s Middle Waddell Campground
Nestled alongside Waddell Creek in the Capitol Forest is an adventure lover’s paradise. Camp among the tall trees with miles…
Where to View the Chinook Salmon Run in Olympia & Tumwater
Every year in late August, the Chinook Salmon return from their adventures in the Pacific and head back to their…
Recreational Opportunities Abound at Lacey Parks
Parks and open spaces are vitally important to a healthy quality of life in a community. They ensure the health…
A Dog-Friendly Outing in Olympia with Benz the Shepherd
When it comes to travel and exploring new places, a lot of us enjoy the added bonus of bringing our…
Go For a Summer Motorbike or ATV Ride at Rock Candy in Thurston County’s Capitol Forest
On the southwestern side of Thurston County, the Capitol State Forest offers motorbike and ATV riders opportunities to give it…
Boat In, Stay for the Week in the Heart of the South Sound
Planning to do a bit of exploration on the waters of the South Puget Sound? Olympia is the perfect place…
Summer Horseback Trail Riding at Margaret McKinney Campground in the Capitol State Forest
There is nothing like horseback riding through the Capitol State Forest with lush ferns, moss-covered trees and foxgloves as tall…
The Oldest Restaurant In Washington’s Capital City Is A Culinary Masterpiece
There’s just something about a restaurant with a long history that has stood the test of time that makes us…
Four Fantastic Reasons to Bird in Thurston County
Thurston County is a fine place to visit for a whole lot of reasons, and if you’re a birder, we’ve…
Ask A Local: Get Out On the Greens
Dust off those clubs—it’s high time for a round of golf in the Pacific Northwest.
Road Trip: Thurston County Lavender Farms
July and August is lavender season in Thurston County! Grab your camera and your wallet and take a tour just…
How to Pack: Tips To Help You Pack Like A Pro
There’s a bit of a long-standing joke among Pacific Northwesterners that we’re always dressed for a potential hike and/or rain…
ATV Guide to Capitol Forest
One of the things that makes the Capitol Forest so unique is how it is managed in a way that…
Equestrian Guide to Capitol Forest
Capitol State Forest is just a hop, skip and jump (trot, canter and gallop) from Olympia and home to over…