When the sun shines, there is no better place to be than Olympia, Washington. Today, it’s a “the mountains are out” kind of day – characterized by blue sky, flat water, bright sun and a glorious view of Mt. Rainier and the Olympic Mountain range.
But, as all Pacific Northwest residents can attest to, today is a rarity. We long for these kinds of days where it’s easy to justify a lazy afternoon on the patio. We appreciate (some even worship) the sun.
And, we also know that we won’t melt in a little drizzle.
Today, it’s easy to see why I call Olympia home. Here are just a few of the reasons:
Outdoor Life
Pick your favorite outdoor activity and explore our natural resources:
- Mountain bike in Capitol Forest
- Trail run in Priest Point Park
- Paddleboard in Puget Sound
- Road bike on the Chehalis Western Trail
- Trout fish in area lakes
- Bird watch at the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
- Shellfish on Thurston County beaches
- Hike the McLane Creek Nature Trail
- Kayak in Boston Harbor
- Sail in Budd Inlet
And, that’s just the first ten that come immediately to mind. You can likely add more by just getting outside with friends and family.
Agriculture
My heart skips when I see the Spooner Berry’s Strawberry Hut go up at Ralph’s Thriftway. I do a little dance in my driver’s seat in anticipation of the first, ripe juicy strawberry. As a hobby gardener, I am in awe of the fresh fruits and vegetables that area farmers bring to our three local farmers markets in Olympia, Tumwater, and West Olympia.
Travel just a couple miles out of downtown Olympia and the landscape quickly changes. This diversity gives urban dwellers the chance to visit a farm, pick produce directly, and chat with local farmers. A visit to a corn maze and pumpkin patch in the Fall are highlights for all school children and only require a short drive.
Thurston County farmers and key stakeholders are working hard to maintain sustainable agriculture.
Environment
Olympians love their environment! A quick glance, from most viewpoints, and you will spot snow-capped mountains, plentiful waterways, and rivers and streams filled with salmon. Residents protect pristine areas throughout Thurston County.
Few communities are more environmentally conscious than Olympia. For example, look at the composting, recycling, and waste-free efforts of the Olympia Farmers Market or the salmon life-cycle education provided at Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail to local students.
Education
I recently overheard a friend tell an Olympia newcomer that “all the schools in town are great. You can’t go wrong.” How true! Our public schools are overflowing with qualified, amazing teachers.
Our community also boasts three higher education choices right in our backyard. Evergreen State College, St. Martin’s University, and South Puget Sound Community College consistently receive accolades and graduate students that contribute to our community.
But, I believe that “education” goes beyond what can be learned in the classroom. Olympia provides students, of all ages, opportunities to participate in new sports (think Olympia Yacht Club’s junior sailing program) or learn a skill in a welcoming environment (such as Procession of the Species Community Art Studio).
Festivals
I love a good parade. Whether it’s the classic 4th of July community parade or the entertaining Pet Parade, I’ll grab the kids and come out to watch. Olympia hosts an amazing variety of festivals and events throughout the year. Here are just a few examples, many of which include parades:
- Stroll downtown Olympia during the Spring and Fall Arts Walk.
- Enjoy music in the park throughout the summer.
- Listen to great music during the Greater Olympia Dixieland Jazz Festival.
- Build a sand castle at the Hands On Children’s Museum annual Sand In The City event.
- Take the kids to the totally free Lacey Spring Fun Fair.
- Treat Dad to the Olympic Flight Show that occurs during Father’s Day weekend.
- Participate in the family-friendly Pride Festival in early June.
- Round up the family and head over to the Thurston County Fair in early August.
- Grab a ride at the carnival or listen to live music at Lakefair in mid-July.
- Explore tug boats and marine craft over Labor Day weekend at Harbor Days.
- Cheer on competitors during the Capital City Marathon.
- See gorgeous costumes at the Procession of the Species.
Family Owned Business
Olympia citizens support local, family-owned businesses. Second and third generation families own small businesses in Thurston County. These families live in our neighborhoods and send their children to our schools. Family owned businesses are thriving in our community. Support them with your business.
Community Support
This community continues to give. Whether it’s showing support for a new Boys and Girls Club in West Olympia or funneling generous contributions to the Hands On Children’s Museum, Olympia residents give of their time and their resources.
Non-profit organizations throughout Thurston County continually improve lives. SafePlace offers shelter to domestic violence victims. The Thurston County Food Bank delivers to those in need. Community Youth Services reaches out to area kids that need a hand. GRuB builds kitchen gardens to educate about healthy diet and lifestyle choices. Left Foot Organics provides meaningful employment to people with developmental disabilities. Countless other groups are there when people need help the most.
Why do you call Olympia home?
