Thurston Bountiful Byway

Love a quality road trip? We do, too! We also happen to love foods grown and harvested in the region where we eat them!

AND we also love getting to know the local history, culture and characters in the areas we explore. If this sounds like you too, then a little road trip on the Thurston Bountiful Byway is in order. The Thurston Bountiful Byway is 60-miles of authentic cultural and culinary experiences. Plan your getaway, load up the car and hit the open road!

Farms and Farmers Markets
Parks, Trails, and More Outdoors
Food and Drink
Museums, Shops, Galleries and More
Where to Stay

Hit the Road

Welcome to the Thurston Bountiful Byway, a 60-mile loop providing authentic agritourism experiences, outstanding scenery, friendly towns, and exciting recreational adventures. Experience all that rural Thurston County has to offer: learn about the agricultural aspects of our region on a farm visit, at farmers markets selling products produced locally, and at businesses sourcing from local farms. Explore dozens of special stops and activities including creameries, nurseries, distilleries and breweries, sculpture gardens, and historic sites. There are more than 20 suggested agricultural, ecological, and cultural stops along the Bountiful Byway!

The route starts in the Nisqually Valley on the outskirts of Lacey, and stretches south to the city of Yelm and west to the Capital Forest before ending at the intersection of Mud Bay Road and Delphi Road SW in Olympia. The byway route provides access to diverse landscapes and experiences throughout Thurston County. Explore the scenic Nisqually Valley, walk through communities filled with history and art, explore productive farmland, enjoy hiking and biking opportunities in the Capitol State Forest and along the Chehalis Western Trail and Yelm-Rainier-Tenino trail, and learn about Washington State’s capital, all in one day!

Thurston Bountiful Byway Interactive Guide

Get a copy of the Thurston Bountiful Byway Interactive Guide and start planning your trip.

Download a copy of the Thurston Bountiful Byway Interactive Guide and meet the locals at specific Byway stops. Check back often (especially during the late summer and fall) for all kinds of special events and happenings along the route. If you have any questions, check our Visitor Information page for additional resources.

Use the Interactive Guide

Your Journey Begins Here - The Thurston Bountiful Byway

Farms & Farmers Markets

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. Visit any one of our local farms to reconnect with nature and experience the freshest seasonal produce. Savor delicious, farm-to-table meals, pick your own fruits and vegetables, and learn about sustainable agriculture while supporting the local community!

Parks, Trails, and Outdoor Adventures

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Thurston County with experiences like hiking and biking through lush forests in Millersylvania State Park and exploring the diverse habitats of the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. History buffs can discover the unique Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve and delve into the area's rich past with a visit to the Tumwater Historic District, featuring landmarks like the Olympia Brewery and the Schmidt House.

Food and Drink

The Thurston Bountiful Byway is home to a multitude of restaurants, eateries, brewers, wineries, and distillers, each eager to share their passion and unique stories. Sip on award-winning wines, sample handcrafted beers, and savor locally-sourced farm-to-table meals while enjoying the beautiful scenery. With a wealth of culinary delights and tasting rooms and taprooms to explore, the Thurston Bountiful Byway offers a delightful journey for any food and drink enthusiast.

Museums, Boutique Shops, Galleries and More

Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and culture scene along the Thurston Bountiful Byway! Discover hidden talents within by taking a class from passionate local artisans, and find one-of-a-kind handcrafted gifts to treasure. Meet the creators themselves and hear the stories behind their unique pieces. Delve deeper into the region's rich history and artistic spirit at fascinating museums, captivating historic landmarks, and an inspiring outdoor sculpture park!

Hotels + B&Bs

With so much to do along the byway, you’re going to need to set-up camp to take it all in. Whether you're looking for a modern hotel or feel like splurging on a spa-experience at a B&B, you’ll find numerous options for overnight stays along the Thurston Bountiful Byway at your fingertips.

Tribal Communities

The Thurston Bountiful Byway meanders through the heart of Thurston County, Washington, a region rich in Native American history, evidenced by the Coast Salish peoples who have inhabited this area for thousands of years.

The Nisqually Indian Tribe and the Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis reservation lands are located in proximity to the byway—Nisqually Indian Tribe to the north and the Chehalis Confederated Tribes to the south. The Nisqually Indian Tribe is one of the largest employers in Thurston County, providing healthcare and other services, environmental stewardship, and operation of the Nisqually Red Wind Casino. The Chehalis Confederated Tribes operate the Lucky Eagle Casino and Eagles Landing Hotel and recently have built new community and wellness centers. The Squaxin Island Tribe also has a deep history in the area, and the their tribal headquarters of Kamilche is located just outside of Thurston County, to the northwest.

Getting Around the Thurston Bountiful Byway

Stories Along the Byway

More to Explore

Things To Do

We can’t wait to discover what part of us speaks to you – whether it’s tasting a new cuisine, embracing your inner artist, or one-upping your greatest outdoor adventure, there’s a trail…

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More Places to Go