16 Things To Do Around Thurston County in 2016

It’s predicted that 2016 will be a strong year. The U.S. will elect a new president, a space hotel is slated to begin orbit, and if we have our way, the Seahawks will win another Super Bowl.

In Thurston County, 2016 can prove to be just as dynamic. Think of this list of 16 things to do in the New Year less as a list of resolutions and more as a source for inspiration. And if you have any ideas to add, please drop us a note at submit@thurstontalk.com.

1. Treasure hunt – Geocaching is becoming a national pastime. There are nearly 300 geocaches in the Olympia area alone. Find and leave weird stuff like Pokémon cards and pacifiers, and get to know Thurston County that much better as you follow clues and look in never-before-seen places.

2. 

   Kayak the sound – Gliding across Budd Inlet is an event everyone should do at least once. Even the thought of kayaking is rejuvenating and inspiring. Case in point, I shall write a kayaking haiku: A breath of fresh air. Where old and young are the same. We float without fins.

3. Volunteer – There are more than 1,800 nonprofit organizations in Thurston County. From planting trees to helping kittens, there are plenty of opportunities to lend a hand. Browse our archive of nonprofit stories to learn more about your local organizations and choose the one that’s right for you.
4. Take in an aerialist performance – Flying ladies and gents, unfurling fabric, and always a moment of surprise, The Brotherhood Takes Flight is a free show the first Wednesday of every month. Get there early for a good seat, and take a friend; they’ll want to witness it too.
5. Float (or paddleboard or tube) the Deschutes River – No matter your vessel, enjoy a 2-hour cruise from Pioneer Park to Tumwater Falls Park and discover the splendor of scenic trees, river bends, and the occasional trout angler.

6. 

   Take a cooking class – Understand edible weeds, brew a winter soup, perfect a pie crust, create a sourdough starter, brew kombucha, and upgrade your vegetable recipes with classes at the Olympia Food Co-op.

7. Take a nap – Seriously, carve out some time to lie around. Especially when it’s summer and there are dozens of nearby parks to spread out a quilt. Pack a picnic and a solo cup of wine, and just chillax.
8. Tour the Capitol – This activity is not just for tourists. Did you know the Legislative Building is comprised of more than 173 million pounds of stone, brick, concrete and steel, is the fifth-tallest masonry dome in the world, and has the largest array of solar panels on a capitol in the United States? Free guided public tours of are offered seven days a week.
9. Get diggy with it – Check out this list of public shellfishing beaches in Thurston County and harvest fresh clams, oysters, or even seaweed from your own backyard. There are approximately 144 tides each year that produce water levels of two feet or lower, the ideal time to dig. Check with Washington State Fish and Wildlife website for updates and tips.
10. Brew your own beer – The next beer brewing class at Cascadia Homebrew is January 16. Mmm, and it’s Belgian. Classes are great for the experienced or novice brewer, and of course, you get to take home the goods. It’s also a fun idea for groups and special occasions.

11. 

    Bird watch – Print out this checklist of Thurston County birds if you really want to get into it, otherwise, a quiet walk Wednesday mornings at the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge with area experts can be all you need to scope out our feathered friends.

12. Party in the street – Arts Walk, the quintessential Olympia event happens twice a year, where the streets, shops, galleries, and venues of downtown swell with people enjoying the creativity of our residents.
13. Join a gun club – Located inside T Brothers Liquor Lodge, Glacier Gun Club is the area’s newest shooting range. Liquor discounts and a swanky lounge are part of the perks. It’s members only though, so only avid shooters need apply.
14. Hit the trails – Specifically, try your hand at mountain biking. I’d suggest following Friends of Capitol Forest on Facebook to get the scoop on the best trails and group activities. There are trails from beginner to expert, and the lush terrain and stellar views are some of the best around.

15. 

    Watch Star Wars the Force Awakens or any movie for that matter – Thurston County has three theaters to choose from – Regal, Capitol, and Century. Go on, use the force and expand your cinematic horizons.

16. Flex and sweat – Finding time for yoga is always a good idea. How about kick it up a notch and get into hot yoga? 100 degrees is the average temp, guaranteeing a healthy sweat and more pliable muscles.  Find information on local yoga studios.

As the old year sheds its well-worn skin and 2016 brings promises of new beginnings, strengthened traditions, and infinite possibilities, we hope these 16 activities inspire you to explore our big and beautiful Thurston County.