Top Boutique Shopping Experiences in Olympia, Tumwater, and Lacey
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 Thurston County, where a world of captivating stories is waiting for you to write the next chapter! Nestled near Olympia, Washington, 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.
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 weathers, and tons of evergreen adventures.
Top Fall Activities
Autumn in 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
Top Swim Spots In the Olympia Region
Our locals have a saying, 'It's the water.' After an afternoon in one of the region's iconic swimming spots, you'll…
Road Trip: Thurston County’s Small Communities
Now is the time to hop in your car and savor a bit of rejuvenating slow-down time in the smaller…
5 Spoooooky Facts About Boo-coda
Just 20 miles south of Olympia lies the small town of Bucoda, Washington – population: 562. During the month of…
4 Kid-Friendly Breweries Around Olympia
In recent years, the explosion of craft beer has brought more urban and family-friendly breweries to cities and main streets…
An Insider’s Guide to The Olympia Region’s Burger Joints
Whether you’re enjoying a cookout with friends and family or dining out at your favorite neighborhood spot, we all get…
Culture at the Capital: An Insider’s Guide to Olympia’s Murals
The streets of downtown Olympia offer water views aplenty, locally owned shops, vibrant characters and 70 colorful, creative murals. Did…
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…
The Most Instagrammed Spots in Olympia & Beyond
The people have spoken and 2018 was the year of Instagram! From snapping selfies at the state capitol, capturing wildlife…
A Tiny Town Big on History & Natural Beauty
In its historic heyday, Tenino was home to a booming sandstone quarry that put the town on the map.
Five South Sound Road Trips
King 5 Evening has announced the Olympia area’s Giant Metal Cows as one of Western Washington’s top Roadside Attractions.
Six Steps to Coffee Cupping Success
As featured on the recently launched South Sound Coffee Trail, the Olympia region’s roasters source and prepare a darn good…
Iconic Selfie Spots: Six Selfie Secrets From A New York Times Travel Photographer
We all know Washington state’s capital region for its iconic 287-foot dome, but courtesy of the team here at Experience…
Secret Spots and Swimming Holes in Olympia and Beyond
It’s been an unbeatable summer here in the Pacific Northwest. Hardly a cloud in sight and a holiday weekend on…
Hiking Capitol Forest: Tips From a Pro
Springtime is near. Create your bucket list now to ensure you can squeeze in every ounce of quintessential Pacific Northwest…