Sad but true: the word “vacation” disappeared from my vocabulary shortly after having my second child. Call me crazy, but it’s neither relaxing nor particularly fun to pack up my tiny tourists and hit the traffic-laden highway. Sightseeing around a nap schedule is tricky at best, as is enforcing appropriate restaurant manners for an entire weekend away.
Staycations have become a lovely alternative—a chance to enjoy time together and make memories while remaining firmly in control of the hassle and expense. Even better, staycations give our family an opportunity to further explore our community and enjoy all those activities that all too often get pushed aside by the daily routine. Ironically, the only difficult part is to actually commit to full-time relaxing. I wouldn’t vacuum and dust my hotel room during a destination vacation, nor should I spoil my staycation with intrusive chores.
With a little pre-planning and permission to relax, Olympia can definitely offer something for everyone. The list of ideas below is by no means exhaustive, but it’s a good starting point for planning your next staycation.
Enjoyable Art – The Washington Center for the Performing Arts hosts all manner of performances, from speakers to symphonies and everything in between. It’s an excellent venue for enjoying drama, dance, and music. Theater buffs have additional local options including Harlequin Productions, Olympia Family Theater, and Olympia Little Theatre. Music lovers should check out the concert line-up at Traditions Cafe or Rhythm and Rye.
Fans of visual art can visit many galleries during a stroll through downtown Olympia. Of course, for a slightly different experience, you can make your own art. Painted Plate offers special packages for date nights and parent-child excursions. Check out the calendar at the Let’s Paint! Studio and sign up to create one of their featured paintings step-by-step.
Family-Friendly Fun – Of course, as part of our Thrifty Thurston series, most of the activities listed in this article can be enjoyed with little ones in tow. Check this list for kid-specific fun, or consult ThurstonTalk’s event calendar to look for specific events for your staycation dates. For retro entertainment, head to the Skyline Drive-In in Shelton. They often have a G or PG rated double feature. Looking for something active and enjoyable? The Hands On Children’s Museum is always a popular adventure and Skateland is budget-friendly and suited for any weather. Or, get a little creative and arrange a shopping scavenger hunt in downtown Olympia. Give everyone $10 and tell them to make a purchase commemorating this summer. After perusing stores like Captain Little and Archibald Sisters, you’re bound to wind up at Grandpa’s Soda Fountain and Ice Cream Parlor for a tasty treat while reviewing everyone’s choices.
Fantastic Food – If you need a vacation from your kitchen, consider the following inexpensive and kid-friendly restaurants around town. Perhaps your canine companion wants to come along as well? Leave the littles behind and dine out with your beloved during a romantic couples’ night. For those of us with dietary restrictions, there are plenty of local options for gluten-free dining, ranging from casual sandwich shops to fine Italian cuisine. Additionally, many area restaurants are sourcing local ingredients that offer their patrons fresh, farm-to-table deliciousness.
Leisurely Learning – Ease back into the school year with some educational excursions. Enjoy the interactive exhibits at LOTT’s WET Science Center or take advantage of all that the South Sound Estuary Association has to offer. Visit their headquarters on State Avenue, chat with one of their tan-vested naturalists at a local public beach, or sign up for a Pier Peer at Boston Harbor Marina. Visit a park to enjoy the interpretive plaques offering insights into local history and ecology. Take a trip to a local museum or historical house. Find the free Capitol Campus tour that best fits your family’s interests. Through September 25, horticulturalists lead botanical tours on Fridays at 11:00 a.m. Indoor tours occur daily, year round, starting at 10:00 a.m. on weekdays and 11:00 a.m. on weekends.
Outdoor Adventures – Make the most of these long, dry days before wetter weather sets in. Rent some kayaks from Tugboat Annie’s, or pack a picnic to enjoy at Yashiro Japanese Garden. Play at the park or indulge in a summer swim. Enjoy bikes and beaches while the summer warmth holds. Or bring the whole family (and don’t forget the dog) on one of these recommended hikes. Grab your Discover Pass and enjoy one of the many trailheads, day-use areas, and campgrounds managed by Washington’s Department of Natural Resources. Check here for a great primer on diverse delights of Capitol Forest.
Stay home, Olympia. Enjoy the final days of summer languishing in the beauty of our very own backyard. Thurston County offers the pleasures of a vacation without all the hassle. And who knows? You may find out that your favorite destination is just around the block.
Thrifty Thurston highlights inexpensive family fun in Thurston County. The weekly series focuses on family-friendly activities throughout our community. If you have a suggestion for a post, send us a note at submit@thurstontalk.com. For more events and to learn what’s happening in Olympia and the surrounding area, visit our complete event calendar.
