As the days grow longer and the Pacific Northwest begins to bloom, spring offers the perfect invitation to step outside, explore your community, and reconnect with the people and places around you.
At Whole Health Naturopathy, we love to stress the importance of whole-person wellness. Good health isn’t just about what happens in a doctor’s office, it’s also shaped by the way we move our bodies, spend time in nature, build community, and take breaks from screens and daily stress.
Spring in Thurston County
If you’re looking for things to do in Thurston County this spring, there are plenty of opportunities to get out of the house and into the real world. Whether you’re planning outings with young children, looking for activities for teens, or simply hoping to enjoy a relaxing day around Olympia, this guide highlights some wonderful local options!
Fun Activities for the Kiddos
Spring is a wonderful time to encourage curiosity, creativity, and hands-on learning. These local organizations offer fun, educational experiences that help kids explore the world around them.
Hands On Children’s Museum
A favorite for families across the region, the Hands On Children’s Museum offers interactive exhibits that encourage kids to experiment, build, and learn through play. With art studios, science stations, and outdoor activities, it’s a perfect destination for curious young minds.
WET Science Center
The WET Science Center offers engaging educational programs focused on water, sustainability, and environmental science. Their rotating events calendar includes hands-on learning opportunities that make science approachable and fun for kids.
Olympia Family Theater
This beloved community theater creates magical experiences for young audiences. From imaginative stage productions to youth theater programs, Olympia Family Theater inspires creativity and storytelling.
Puget Sound Estuarium
After renovations this winter, the Puget Sound Estuarium is reopening this spring – a great time to show support and rediscover this local gem! Programs like Pier Peer, Meet the Beach, and hands-on marine exhibits help children learn about the unique ecosystems of Puget Sound.
Fun for Everyone
Looking for something the whole family can enjoy together? These Olympia favorites provide entertainment for all ages.
Arbutus Folk School
Arbutus Folk School offers a wide variety of workshops, from crafting and woodworking to cooking and traditional skills. Many classes are family-friendly and offer a great opportunity for kids to learn something new alongside adults.
Legends Arcade
Packed with classic arcade games, Legends Arcade offers a nostalgic experience for parents and a fun adventure for kids and teens alike.
Insert Coin Olympia
Insert Coin combines retro gaming with a lively social atmosphere. It’s a great stop for older kids, teens, and adults who want to enjoy some classic gaming fun.
Olympia Farmers Market
The Olympia Farmers Market is a must-visit for fresh, local goodness. From farm-fresh produce and handcrafted goods to artisanal foods and baked treats, the market is packed with delicious finds. Enjoy live music, vibrant community energy, and a variety of local eateries while you shop. It’s the perfect weekend outing for food lovers, families, and anyone who enjoys supporting local farms and makers.
Getting Outdoors in Thurston County
Spending time outside is one of the simplest ways to improve both physical and mental health. Studies show that time in nature can help reduce stress, improve mood, and encourage physical activity for people of all ages!
Washington State Capitol Campus
The State Capitol grounds are beautiful year-round and especially vibrant in the spring (thanks to our beautiful cherry blossoms!). Visitors can explore the Olmsted Brothers-designed gardens, including the historic Sunken Garden and the Pollinator Garden, while enjoying views of Capitol Lake and the surrounding campus (tours also offered). You can also consider a tour of the legislative building itself!
Yashiro Japanese Garden
This peaceful local garden offers a quiet place for reflection and relaxation. The garden is symbolic of the ties between Olympia and Yashiro, Japan. Dedication of the garden was May 6, 1990, following a two-year construction effort of 75 volunteers. Springtime blossoms make it an especially beautiful destination.
Watershed Park
One of Olympia’s most beloved green spaces, Watershed Park features forested trails and tranquil streams. It’s ideal for family walks, birdwatching, and enjoying a moment of calm in nature.
West Central Park
West Central Park hosts a variety of community events throughout the year, including markets, live music, and family activities. Beginning in May, the Saturday Market brings together local farms, craft vendors, and musicians for a lively weekly gathering.
Evergreen Woods
These scenic trails offer peaceful forest walks perfect for nature lovers and anyone looking for a refreshing outdoor escape. Features over 1,000 acres of dense, coastal forest, offering miles of hiking trails that lead to an organic farm and Puget Sound beach access.
Find Local Trails with AllTrails
Looking for a family-friendly hike or scenic walk? The AllTrails app is a fantastic resource for discovering local trails of varying difficulty levels throughout Thurston County.
Thurston Bountiful Byway
Love a good road trip? The Thurston Bountiful Byway is a scenic 60-mile route featuring local farms, wineries, charming towns, and fresh regional foods. It’s a wonderful way to explore the beauty and agricultural heritage of Thurston County.
Live Entertainment & Music
Spring is also a great time to enjoy Olympia’s vibrant music scene, one of our favorite ways to move our body and connect with community!
Rainy Day Records
A beloved Olympia institution, Rainy Day Records has been serving music lovers for decades. Browsing the shelves is a great way to discover new artists and reconnect with old favorites.
Lantern Records
Lantern Records offers a carefully curated selection of vinyl for collectors and casual listeners alike.
Mossy Bottom Records
Another fantastic spot for digging through crates and discovering new music.
Ilk Brewing
Ilk Brewing regularly hosts live music and welcomes all ages, making it a fun stop for families where adults can enjoy a drink while kids hang out and listen to music.
Wild Child
Wild Child hosts many family-friendly events and offers a children’s menu alongside its regular dining options. Monday nights even feature a free kid’s meal with the purchase of an entrée!
Books & Comics
Encouraging reading and imagination is a wonderful way to balance screen time.
Danger Room Comics
A favorite among comic enthusiasts, Danger Room offers a welcoming space for fans of graphic novels and superhero stories.
Browsers Bookshop
One of Olympia’s most beloved independent bookstores, Browsers offers thoughtfully curated selections and cozy browsing spaces.
Last Word Books
This independent bookstore specializes in used and rare books, making it a treasure trove for readers.
Orca Books Cooperative
A long-standing community staple, Orca Books Co-Op focuses on providing a curated selection of used, new, and out-of-print books at affordable prices.
Gabi’s Olympic Cards & Comics
Another fun destination for comic collectors and fans of pop culture. A great hangout for older kids and teens, you are welcome to stick around and game with friends at the shop!
Vintage Shopping & Thrifting
Treasure hunting can be a fun and sustainable activity for teens and adults alike.
Local favorites include Dumpster Values, Lily’s What to Where Boutique, Hot Toddy, Fifth Avenue Flea Market, Courtyard Antiques & Home Decor, and Lighthouse Antiques & Crafts Mall. These shops offer everything from vintage clothing and decor to unique secondhand finds.
Thrifting not only supports small businesses but also encourages sustainable shopping and creative self-expression.
Art & Creative Activities
Creative hobbies are a powerful way to support mental health and relaxation as well as provide a strong sense of self!
Olyphant Art Supply
Olyphant hosts art workshops and stocks a wide range of supplies for artists of all skill levels.
Lost and Found Crafts
A fantastic spot for affordable craft supplies, recycled materials, and creative inspiration.
Painted Plate
Create your own ceramic art pieces in a relaxed studio environment, great for both young and old.
Flipped Pot Ceramics Studio
Pottery classes and studio time provide a hands-on creative outlet.
Arbutus Folk School
With classes ranging from traditional crafts to culinary skills, Arbutus Folk School offers endless opportunities to learn something new.
Bonus Spring Adventures Beyond Thurston County
If you’re looking to explore a bit farther, these regional events make wonderful day trips.
Washington State Spring Fair (Puyallup)
This classic spring celebration in mid-April features rides, games, fair food, live entertainment, monster truck shows, and even a dinosaur exhibit.
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
Each spring, millions of tulips bloom across Skagit Valley, creating one of Washington’s most stunning seasonal displays.
Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival
Held at the Seattle Center in mid-April, this festival celebrates Japanese culture through art, performances, food, and educational programming.
2026 Fresh from the Farm CSA Guide
Dive into the 2026 Fresh from the Farm CSA Guide from Community Farm Land Trust for more ideas and ways to get involved and visit your local farms!
Why Getting Out Matters for Your Health
At Whole Health Naturopathy, we believe that wellness extends far beyond the clinic. Getting out into your community and nature offers many benefits, including:
- Reducing stress and improving mental health
- Encouraging physical movement
- Strengthening social connections
- Supporting local businesses and organizations
- Helping children develop curiosity and creativity
It also provides a much-needed break from screens and digital distractions. For kids, teens, and adults alike, spending time exploring the real world can be incredibly grounding.
This spring, consider planning a few outings that spark curiosity, joy, and connection. Whether it’s a forest walk, a farmers market visit, a craft class, or a day trip to see tulips in bloom, these small adventures can have a big impact on your well-being.
If you’re looking for ways to support your health this season, our team at Whole Health Naturopathy is always here to help guide you toward sustainable, whole-person wellness!