Not every dad likes to golf or needs new BBQ tools. These classic “gifts” for Dad don’t really work in our household. Sure, there is always some tool to add to the tool box or a desired piece of adventure gear, but sometimes I get tired of consuming (and don’t feel like dragging the girls to the store) so we opt for an experience rather than a gift.
Here are some ideas to create a new memory with your family this Sunday on Father’s Day. All activities are an easy drive from downtown Olympia so you won’t be burning a lot of gas (or running the risk of backseat bickering). In addition, many of these suggestions are free, keeping dollars in your pocketbook for a scoop of ice cream on the way home.
After a day spent exploring Thurston County, you can brush off the grill and throw on veggies and burgers. That will make any Dad smile.
- Help your kids become junior refuge managers at the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Find more information about the free program here.
- Enjoy family swimming at both the Olympia Downtown and Briggs branch of the South Sound YMCA.
- Take off the training wheels. Mark Father’s Day as the day when your child learned to ride a bike. Great biking locations can be found here.
- Grab a fishing line and lure at Offut Lake. Set up a family derby for first fish, biggest fish, and most fish.
- Download a copy of the recently revised Capitol State Forest map. Try a new trail or bike ride.
- Go on an urban safari around Capitol Lake. This article includes a list of animals and habitat to search for during your walk.
- Find 10 hidden lions at Olympia’s Lions Park.
- Visit the Hands On Children’s Museum. Free admission for Dads and Grandpa’s is offered on Sunday.
For a complete list of events happening around Olympia, visit our event calendar.
