What do you buy the person who has everything? It’s a good question not always easily answered. One of the best ways to give a memorable gift is through experiences. Whether it’s sailing across Puget Sound or learning how to cook, there is an activity to fit all ages and interests in Thurston County.
If your gift recipient enjoys spending time outside, there are some amazing gift options. First, you could give a Discover Pass. While seemingly simple, this $33 piece of paper that dangles from your car window gives access to hundreds of parks statewide. From the coast to the mountains, the most beautiful hiking, biking, and walking trails are at your fingertips.
Maybe the gift of enjoying open water is more their style. Sail away across the Sound with cruises and lessons from Mystic Journeys. Participants can learn the basics of sailing aboard one of their many vessels or just sit back, relax, and take in the scenic views. Cruises vary in both price and length, so there are affordable options for everyone interested.
Another great way to enjoy the waterways of Thurston County is by kayak or paddleboard. Kayaking is a must for most residents here on both lakes and the open water. There are many rental options to choose from. One of my personal favorites is the Tugboat Annie’s spring option which includes breakfast and two hours of paddling time. For those with great balance, consider a gift certificate for a paddleboard rental or guided trip from West Bay Paddleboards. Be sure to check out some of the best routes for this challenging sport.
If avoiding the rainy weather is a part of the experience you want to give, check out the Warehouse Rock Gym. With a new, larger location opening soon in Lacey, there are boulders aplenty. The best part about this gym is that they offer classes to climbers of all ages. Group sessions are available, but private sessions are also an option for a few extra bucks. If you know an avid climber, annual passes are also available to purchase.
Classes can be an awesome gift for the curious people in your life. Start off by looking at the culinary arts. Bayview School of Cooking offers excellent courses that extend from beginners to advanced methods in the kitchen. There are also specialized classes for children. Gift cards are available along with a brochure, so your recipient can choose which classes they would like to take.
One of the greatest gifts my family ever received was an annual pass to The Hands On Children’s Museum. The pass allows families unlimited visits to the museum all year long and provides special discounts toward events. There are a variety of pass options to fit any budget. With more than 150 exhibits, crafts, and outdoor activities, this is an experience that really gives for 365 days.
If your gift is intended for someone who enjoys live theater, Olympia happens to have multiple options for you. First, check out the calendar at The Washington Center for the Performing Arts. Shows are constantly changing. From dance and movement to comedy and plays, there is something for any artistic taste. Just down the street you will find Harlequin Productions. The shows staged here are sure to please most adult audience members. You can buy tickets directly or purchase a gift card for use toward a future show this season. Have a family on your gift list with young kids? Grab a certificate to Olympia Family Theater.
If you are looking for something artistic that is a bit more hands on, be sure to check out the painting options in Thurston County. The Painted Plate allows for a family friendly experience creating a wide variety of items including mugs, plates and sculptures. While gift certificates are available, plan ahead for their date nights or parent and child escape specials where you can get even more bang for your buck. For the adults, take a walk down the street to Let’s Paint!, where beer, cider, and wine are on the sipping menu as you create your own masterpiece. Classes range from $35-$45 and include all materials.
Adventure seeking teens will delight in a family small plane tour via Jorgensen Air Service. The scenic flight can take three passengers for a view of Mount Rainier, Puget Sound and back to Olympia. It’s sure to be a memorable outing.
For even more options for a variety of experiences, be sure to check out Olympia Parks & Recreation and Lacey Parks & Recreations’ winter catalogs. Programs vary for interest and age groups. They even have day trips to Leavenworth and the beach. We are giving the gift of ballet lessons through Lacey Parks for our own toddler, and we know she will adore the experience.
No matter what experience you decide upon, it will be a memorable one.
