Summer in Thurston County
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.
Plan Your Summer Stay
As our wet and somewhat chilly spring gives way to the sunnier, warmer days of summer, you'll find an endless supply of outdoor events, activities, and adventures waiting for you to explore. Whether your fancy leans to the energy of live musical performances and art, or you'd rather lace up your boots for a long hike through evergreen forests, bike along our endless trails, or set sail on our bays, lakes, and rivers, there's something for everyone here in the Olympia region.
Spend time exploring the many shops and restaurants along downtown Olympia's boardwalk, jump in the car for an epic round-trip with your friends along the Thurston Bountiful Byway, and enjoy exploring the summer bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables at farms throughout Thurston County.
Weather in the PNW can be unpredictable, but these tips will keep you comfortable no matter what time of year you visit
The highlight of any visit to the Olympia region in summer is a tour of the beautiful lavender farms along Thurston County’s farmlands.
Olympia is home to the second largest farmers market in Washington, but you’ll also find a delightful array of markets throughout Thurston County featuring some of the Pacific Northwest’s best seasonal produce, ingredients, and arts and crafts.
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.
Endless Outdoor Adventures
Top Spots to View Mount Rainier in Olympia, Tumwater, Lacey, and Beyond
Explore the Capitol Campus Gardens
Tips From a Pro – Trails for Every Kind of Hiker
Find a Summer ATV Adventure at Capitol Forest’s Middle Waddell Campground
Recreational Opportunities Abound at Lacey Parks
A Dog-Friendly Outing in Olympia with Benz the Shepherd
Summer Hiking in Olympia Through a Coastal Forest on the Evergreen Geoduck Trail
Go For a Summer Motorbike or ATV Ride at Rock Candy in Thurston County’s Capitol Forest
Boat In, Stay for the Week in the Heart of the South Sound
Summer Horseback Trail Riding at Margaret McKinney Campground in the Capitol State Forest
Ask A Local: Get Out On the Greens
Equestrian Guide to Capitol Forest
Chehalis Western Trail: 22 Mile, Intermediate Level
Take a Family Bike Ride Along the Yelm-Rainier-Tenino Trail
Take a Day Trip For Dog-Friendly Hikes in Capitol Forest
Take a Trip to the Capitol Forest for Trail Running
Reconnect with Outdoor Art & Creative Culture
Best Outdoor Adventures Along the Thurston Bountiful Byway
Tee Off at These Courses
Whether you’re up for bonding over a friendly round of golf or looking to take on the physical and mental challenges of one of the top 10 most challenging courses in the state, we’ve got championship courses with superb year-round conditioning and exceptional waterfront views.
Our regional golf courses, famous for their gorgeous views and exceptional hospitality, make any time tee-time.
Our Golf Courses
Airport Golf & Batting Center
8080 Center Street SW Tumwater, Washington 98501 (360) 786-8626
Capitol City Golf Club
5225 Yelm Highwy SE Olympia, Washington 98513 (360) 491-5111
Delphi Golf Course
6340 Neylon Dr. SW Olympia, Washington 98512 (360) 357-6437
Golf Club at Hawks Prairie
8383 Vicwood Lane NE Lacey, Washington 98516 (360) 455-8383
Indian Summer Golf & Country Club
5900 Troon Lane SE Olympia, Washington 98501 (360) 923-1075
Olympia Country & Golf Club
3636 Country Club Dr. NW Olympia, Washington 98502 (360) 866-7121
Scott Lake Golf Course
11746 Scott Creek Dr SW Olympia, Washington 98512 (360) 352-4838
Tahoma Valley Golf & Country Club
15425 Mosman Ave SW Yelm, Washington 98597 (360) 458-3332
Tumwater Valley Golf Club
4611 Tumwater Valley Drive SE Tumwater, Washington 98501 (360) 943-9500
Al Fresco Dining
When the sun makes an appearance here in the Olympia region, you can bet we're taking every advantage to enjoy it, and that includes eating as many meals outside as we possibly can. If you're looking to soak in the rays while you enjoy a meal (or don't mind a few drops or gentle drizzle when it's cloudy), head to any of these restaurants throughout Thurston County and get your al fresco on!
Anthony’s Homeport
Briggs TapHouse
Casa Mia Yelm
Cascadia Grill
Cynara Restaurant & Lounge
Don Juan’s Mexican Kitchen
Eastside Big Tom
Gather Gastropub
Lady of the Lake Public House
The Mark Olympia
Mercato
Octapas Café
The Olympia Oyster House
Pizzeria La Gitana, Yelm
The Port Taco Truck & Cantina
Ricardo’s Kitchen & Bar
River’s Edge Restaurant
Row
State and Central
Stone Creek Wood Fired Pizza
Swing Wine Bar
Uptown Grill
Well 80 Brewhouse
Explore Our Great Outdoors
Saved Items
Create a Travel Plan
Make a list of must-sees in the Olympia area! To save items for your trip, explore our website for upcoming events, restaurants, hotels, attractions, and more. When you find something that suits your interests, click the "♥" button. These items will be added to your personal itinerary and can be shared with friends via email or with a link.