Family-Friendly

Families of all shapes and sizes will find endless opportunities to make lasting memories here.

We’re all about super fun activities with kids like laser tag and trampolines, as well as learning new things together at the Hands On Children’s Museum and WET Science Center. With exciting annual events and seemingly endless things to do we've got tons of fun things to do in the Olympia region with your kids. We guarantee you won’t hear a single “Mom, we’re bored!”

Family-Friendly Itineraries

Explore Family-Friendly Historical Sites and Museums Learn More

Top Fun-Filled Family Activities to Wow Your Kids Learn More

Take a Family Bike Ride Along the Yelm-Rainier-Tenino Trail Learn More

Best Outdoor Adventures Along the Thurston Bountiful Byway Learn More

Capital Mall Learn More

Free Things to Do Around Olympia Learn More

Thurston County is bursting with things to do in Olympia with kids, making it the perfect destination for family fun. Stretch your legs and your imagination with a bike ride or hike along the scenic Chehalis Western Trail, or spend a day of hands-on learning at the Hands On Children’s Museum and the Puget Sound Estuarium. For a dose of digital fun, explore local favorites like Legends Arcade, Insert Coin, or Laser Fun Zone. When the sun is shining, cool off at one of the area’s top swim spots, ideal for splashing and relaxing with the whole crew.

Looking for even more kid activities? Take a family road trip along the Thurston Bountiful Byway and discover hidden gems like the whimsical Monarch Sculpture Garden, the fascinating Tenino Depot Museum, and the inspiring Wolf Haven International. Wrap up your adventure with a splash-tastic stay at Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound, where waterslides and indoor fun keep the good times rolling year-round. From nature outings to immersive play, Thurston County offers unforgettable experiences for families of all kinds.

Celebrate 50 Years on the Water!

Visitors and locals walking the docks at Percival Landing during the Olympia Harbor Days Festival

The Olympia Harbor Days Festival celebrates the maritime heritage of the Puget Sound in Olympia for a weekend of entertainment, food, art, history and a last farewell to summer.

More Fun Activities for the Entire Family

Family Fun at Rutledge Family Farm

Since opening its doors in 2000, Rutledge Family Farm has become a cherished destination for families and visitors, offering a variety of seasonal activities that create lasting memories.

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Timberland Regional Library

So much more than "just" a place to pick up a good book, the Timberland Regional Library is a place to explore the region, create your own adventures, and learn to expand your horizons while you're visiting. Our seven Thurston County branches welcome everyone to a world of vibrant possibilities, connect people, places, and ideas, and is ever-evolving to meet the needs of the communities within Thurston County.

Timberland Regional Library

Kid-Friendly Breweries Around the Olympia Region

The explosion of the craft beer scene has brought more family-friendly micro-breweries and sprawling taprooms to Olympia. Now, parents can sip craft beer and enjoy delicious fare with little ones in tow at these locations.

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Capital Mall

Remember when hanging out at the mall with your friends was super cool? You've grown up since then, and luckily, Capital Mall has grown up with you. With a focus on businesses featuring locally sourced products, tasty and diverse eating options, and a pet-friendly environment, Capital Mall makes shopping, playing, and eating locally both easy and fun. So grab your friends and let's head to the mall!

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Top Swim Spots In the Olympia Region

Splash and play at these family-friendly swim spots throughout the Olympia Region. From building sandcastles and strolling along the shore to kayaking and swimming, there are plenty of water activities for kids of all ages to enjoy.

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Selfies with Salmon & Top Spots to View

Kids will love watching the salmon jump and flip out of the water during the salmon run. When families need to take a break from all the action there are hiking trails and playgrounds nearby.

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Olympia Farmers Market

The Olympia Farmers Market is one of the only vendor-owned and operated farmers markets in The State of Washington. Visit us for a variety of vendors including crafts, farms with fresh organic produce and fruits, meats, fresh seafood, fresh cut flowers and live entertainment.

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Events, Entertainment, and Excitement at the Thurston County Fairgrounds

A young girl with a helmet rides a horse around a barrel

With its rich history, the Thurston County Fairgrounds offers unique meeting spaces for a variety of community events. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering, a lively celebration, or a large-scale event, the…

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Plan Your Trip

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. *Note: itineraries are not saved indefinitely, so be sure to email or share your favorites for future reference.

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Head Off the Beaten Path with the Tread Map App

TREAD Map is a hyper-local trail mapping app built by outdoor enthusiasts in Washington State who understand what users want to know. Is a tree down on the trail? Is the parking lot full? This app delivers real-time updates that alert users to current conditions.

Tread Map Mobile App