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 communities of Thurston County.
Check out the back roads of Thurston's most beloved communities.
Road trips call for snacks of all kinds. Check out Country Corner Market or Bailey’s IGA for snacks and supplies.
Load Up In Rochester
Road trips call for snacks of all kinds. Check out Country Corner Market or Bailey’s IGA for snacks and supplies.
Head Eastward to Tenino
Take a leisurely drive eastward on US-12, which turns into Old Hwy 99 SW. Soak up the countryside views or take a detour north from Rochester (on Littlerock Rd. SW) to visit the Mima Mounds to experience their unique geology. See what rural Thurston County has to offer on your way to downtown Tenino.
Afternoon in Tiny Town Tenino
There are so many reasons to love Tiny Town Tenino from its terrific bike trails to its quirky downtown scene. Enjoy an excursion to the unconventional and unforgettable Monarch Sculpture Park or bring along friends and family members of all ages for a biking adventure along the Yelm-Tenino Trail. If you plan your trip for a Saturday, you can always stop by the Tenino Farmer’s Market for fresh produce or an afternoon snack.
Late Lunch, Early Dinner or Both
Road tripping is hard work, and you shouldn’t skip out on any good eats. If you’re still in Tenino when the cravings hit, try out Don Juan’s Mexican Kitchen (open Tuesday through Saturday from Noon to 8 p.m.) Their Carne Asada will keep you full all afternoon! Already on the road to Yelm? Grab a slice of authentic Italian pizza at Pizzeria La Gitana (open daily, hours vary) or a burger bowl and craft cocktail from Uptown Lounge (open Wednesday through Sunday, hours vary). Your stomach will thank you!
East and North through Rainier and Yelm
Enjoy the small-town vibes and backcountry sights as you journey out of Tenino (East along 507) through Rainier and into Yelm. If you need a pick-me-up, be sure to stop in at Glenda's Espresso in Rainier (pro-tip: they've got biscuits and gravy on the weekends!). As you enter Yelm, consider stopping to stretch your legs at idyllic Cochrane Memorial Park. Once in town, head north (along 510), passing through the Nisqually Indian Community and returning to I-5 in Lacey.
Lacey Producer's District
For one last hurrah before heading home, consider a mini tasting tour through the Lacey Producer’s District. Popular stops include Top Rung Brewing Co, Stottle Winery, and Axis Meads. If you have the kids in tow or are looking to spend more time outdoors, a visit to the beaches of Tolmie State Park is another fantastic way to round out your daycation.
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