Thrifty Thurston Stays Home for the Long Weekend

Photo credit: Diane Waiste
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By Alyssa Ramsfield

lucky eagleWhenever a long weekend is ahead many people begin planning a trip out of town. Let’s stay home this time. Let’s plan an extended adventure in our own town. There is so much to see and do here (especially when the weather cooperates). So this weekend, let’s explore our own backyard and enjoy everything Thurston County has to offer.

Washington State Capitol Campus

olympia staycation
Tours of the Capitol campus are available during the weekend and include a look inside our state’s historic legislative building. Photo credit: jennlvs2smile

So quickly we forget that Olympia is the center of Washington State’s government. With that said, there are many experiences on the campus of the capitol to enjoy at your leisure. First, stroll through history in the multiple gardens and memorials found here. The grounds are perfectly manicured and offer one-of-a-kind views of the city. Self-guided tours of the campus can be found here. A free Capitol Campus Botanical Tour is available on Fridays at 11:00 a.m. from June 5 – September 25 to horticulturist enthusiasts.

Guided tours of the Washington Legislative Building are offered seven days a week, hourly from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on the weekends. Take a step back into the past and learn about our state’s future from expert guides. Twenty-five people at a time can see the behind the scenes of our state’s government. These tours last about 60 minutes and are absolutely free.

Downtown Shopping

A long weekend is an incredible opportunity to slow down and discover new shops in downtown Olympia. Start your shopping trip by visiting The Olympia Farmers Market. For 40 years, local artisans, bakers, nurseries, and gourmet foods have displayed their goods in this location. The market is open to shoppers Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Along with the market you will find a handful of uniquely Olympia stores. Archibald Sisters has a variety of items, but are most well known for their personalized fragrances. Whether you want to smell like Oly Rain or your own concoction, this store has you covered. Another must stop shop is Browsers Bookshop. Browsers has been a part of downtown since 1935. They offer a variety of books in a cozy, historic environment. Lastly, no trip downtown is complete without a look inside Captain Little. This toy store boasts a variety of products for children of all ages. They even offer a comfortable area to sit down and read a story.  When you need to refuel, step into Batdorf and Bronson coffee on Capitol Way.

nisqually wildlife refuge
An immature Bald Eagle rests at the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Photo credit: Douglas Scott

Nisqually Reach Nature Center

The educational facility at Nisqually Reach is one of the most beautiful spots in Thurston County. Activities are created to engage the community in understanding our fragile ecosystem. The center has four salt-water tidal aquariums filled with crabs, sea stars, anemones, and other marine animals found in South Puget Sound. Learn about marine life and visit the stunning Luhr Beach. This center is open Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

Paths crisscross through this gorgeous estuary open to residents 7 days a week. The Nisqually Wildlife Refuge focuses on the wildlife, community members can walk for miles through the refuge, take scenic photos, and learn about the area’s historic past from sunrise to sunset. This is a wonderful place to spot local varieties of birds and even endangered species. The refuge serves as a reminder to residents the amazing ecosystem we live in. The Visitor Center is open from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.

Boating

olympia staycation
It’s possible to see Orcas occasionally while out on the water in Thurston County. Photo credit: Kim Merriman

Ever look out into the Puget Sound, see the boats, and wish you were in one? Why not sail away during a long weekend? Mystic Journeys offers cruises that last from a few hours to a weekend away. A two hour sailing package allows you to see Budd Bay from a whole new perspective by traveling along the coast to Boston Harbor.

If sailing isn’t your cup of tea, kayaking is another great way to paddle through the weekend. Rentals are available across Thurston County at hourly and daily rates.

With so much to do and see in Thurston County, choose to make your next getaway a staycation instead. For more activities, check out the ThurstonTalk events calendar.

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, click here.

 

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