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
5 Local Gems for Your Spring Staycation
Where To Find Brunch in Olympia & Beyond
Kid-Friendly Breweries Around the Olympia Region
Where to Find Donuts in Olympia & Beyond
Events, Entertainment, and Excitement at the Thurston County Fairgrounds
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
Downtown Olympia
In Olympia's downtown, you will find a rich diversity of community who come together as a confluence of personalities, perspectives…
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…
Cool Treats & Chill Sips: Where to Find the Best Ice Cream & Cold Drinks in Olympia & Beyond
Nothing beats a scoop of handcrafted, locally sourced ice cream on a warm day in Olympia and Thurston County!
Celebrate Swede Day in Rochester
Explore the Capitol Campus Gardens
The highlight of any visit to Olympia is a walk through the beautiful and lovingly preserved historic gardens of the…
Your Guide to Family-Friendly Parks and Outdoor Adventures in Yelm, WA
Welcome to Yelm, Washington, where majestic Mount Rainier serves as a breathtaking backdrop to a vibrant community and a wealth…
Where to Find Donuts in Olympia & Beyond
Find the perfect donut to fuel your Thurston County adventures.
The Port of Olympia — Places and Spaces
If you're looking to head to the waterfront from downtown Olympia, there are a variety of things to do along…
Thurston County in Bloom: Your Guide to Spring Wildflowers
Thurston County's prairies are a treasure trove of vibrant wildflowers each spring, offering you a front-row seat to immerse yourself…
The 12 Best Burger Joints in Olympia & Beyond
Whether you’re enjoying a cookout with friends and family or dining out at your favorite neighborhood spot, we all get…
InGenius Local Artisan Gallery & Boutique
Don’t miss a visit to the hottest new arts destination in Thurston County, a wonderful point of interest for those…
Top Fishing Spots in Olympia & Beyond
Discover local fishing spots around Thurston County, whether it’s a freshwater pond or a saltwater marsh.
Where to Celebrate Black History Month in Olympia
Top Six Rainy Day Adventures
Once you’ve had your fill of tea and TV on these chilly, overcast days, toss the blanket aside and experience…
Explore the Chehalis Western Trail
Explore the Chehalis-Western Trail. Bike past farmland, tranquil creeks, prairies and picturesque lakes—great for a weekend bikeventure.
Olympia Day Trip Itinerary
Experience Washington’s Capital in a Day
Olympia Farmers Market
The Olympia Farmers Market is one of the only vendor-owned and operated farmers markets in The State of Washington. Visit…
Sunken Garden: Renovated and Reopened
After two years of renovation, the Sunken Garden at the state Capitol Campus in Olympia has reopened to the public…
Washington Capitol Campus Tours: Plan the Perfect Visit
A visit to the Washington State Capitol Campus isn’t complete without a guided tour of the Legislative Building. These free…
Washington State Capitol Campus
Located in Olympia, Capitol Campus is the hub of Washington state government and civic engagement. This is where the Legislature…
A Pooch’s Paradise: The Best Places to Bring Your Dog in the Olympia Region
Traveling with your dog can be a blast! But finding a place to travel with your canine companion can sometimes…
Where to Take Your Valentine
The season of love is upon us.
Six Romantic Things to Do in the Olympia Region
Bags packed. ✔️ Reservations made. ✔️ Sitter scheduled. ✔️
Take a Day Trip For Dog-Friendly Hikes in Capitol Forest
There are few things better than taking a hike. The crisp, clean air, stunning vistas, the solitude and the plentitude…