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Spring Things: Best Spring Activities Around Olympia and the South Sound

The PNW in spring? Unmatched. After months of gray skies and soggy trails, the sunshine starts to peek through, the trees wake up, and it’s finally time to trade in those rain boots for hiking shoes—or tulip-chasing road trips.

Whether you’re a local looking for new ideas or you just moved to Olympia and want to explore like one, here are some of the best spring activities near Olympia, Lacey, and the South Sound to help you soak in the season.

🌷 1. Visit the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

A bit of a drive from Thurston County, but absolutely worth it. Every April, the Skagit Valley bursts into color with rows and rows of blooming tulips. It’s a photographer’s dream, a family favorite, and the perfect excuse for a spring road trip.

Location: Mount Vernon, WA
Season: Early to late April
Pro tip: Go on a weekday if you can—less crowds, more blooms.
👉 Learn more

🌿 2. Explore Nisqually Wildlife Refuge

Spring is one of the best times to visit this local gem. The birds are back, the boardwalk views are stunning, and everything feels alive again. Bring binoculars and take your time—you never know what you’ll spot.

Location: Just outside Olympia in Nisqually
Why go: Birdwatching, peaceful walks, family-friendly, lots of parking
👉 Plan your visit

🚶‍♂️ 3. Stroll Downtown Olympia’s Farmers Market

From fresh flowers to handmade goods, the Olympia Farmers Market is one of the oldest in the state—and one of the best ways to support local. Spring brings new produce, live music, and that fresh-out-of-winter buzz.

Open: Thursday through Sunday (Spring Schedule)
Bonus: Grab lunch and eat outside with a view of the marina.
👉 Market details

🛶 4. Kayak or Paddleboard at Tolmie State Park

On a calm spring morning, there’s nothing like launching from the beach at Tolmie and gliding along the water. It’s peaceful, it’s scenic, and it’s a reminder of why we live here.

Tip: Check the tide charts and pack a thermos—it’s still PNW chilly out there.
👉 Explore the park

🌸 5. Go Cherry Blossom Spotting

No need to go to Japan—Olympia and Lacey have their own pockets of cherry blossom magic. Check out Percival Landing, the Capitol Campus, or local neighborhoods that go all out each spring.

Why it’s worth it: These short-lived blooms are stunning. Take a walk, snap some pics, and enjoy the soft pink takeover.

🌼 6. Pack a Spring Picnic at Priest Point Park

This park is a local favorite for good reason. Forest trails, Puget Sound views, and plenty of grassy space for a laid-back afternoon. Spring is perfect for a blanket, some snacks, and letting the kids (or dogs) run wild.

Location: Just minutes from downtown Olympia
Pro tip: Watch the tide come in—it’s a slow show worth sticking around for.
👉 Park info

🌞 Spring’s Calling. Are You Ready to Answer?

Whether you’re adventuring solo, making new memories with family, or just soaking in the season, spring in the South Sound has a way of making you fall in love with where you live all over again.

Thinking about putting down roots somewhere that gives you access to all this and more? Let’s connect. I’d love to help you find your next place to call home—right here in the heart of the PNW.

📩 DM me or shoot me a message if you’re looking to make a move this season.

Guy DuVall

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    Ring in the New Year: Must-Do Festivities and Fireworks Around Puget Sound

    As we say goodbye to 2024 and welcome 2025, there are plenty of ways to celebrate right here in the Olympia area. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, a romantic date night, or the best spots to catch fireworks, this guide has you covered. Let’s dive into the top New Year’s Eve activities near JBLM, Lacey, Olympia, and beyond!

    Watch Fireworks and Light Shows

    Fireworks are a classic way to welcome the new year, and while Olympia itself doesn’t host a large-scale display, there are plenty of nearby options to enjoy.

    • Seattle Space Needle Fireworks: If you’re up for a drive, this iconic show is worth it. You can also stream it online for a cozy at-home celebration. (More info here)
    • Community Fireworks Displays: Keep an eye on local parks or neighborhoods in Lacey and Tumwater for smaller, informal celebrations.
    • DIY Sparklers: If you’re staying home, grab some sparklers or glow sticks for a fun, safe activity with the family.

    Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve Ideas

    Olympia and Lacey offer plenty of ways to celebrate with the kids:

    • Noon Year’s Eve Party at Hands-On Children’s Museum: Perfect for families with little ones who want to celebrate earlier in the day! The museum offers fun crafts, activities, and a countdown to noon. (Learn more)
    • New Year’s Eve Celebration at Olympia Elks Lodge #186: A family-friendly event featuring music, games, and a cozy space for everyone to enjoy. (More details)
    • Oly on Ice: Spend the evening skating at Isthmus Park in Olympia, where the holiday vibes are still in full swing. (Learn more)
    • Local Bowling Alleys: Strike up some fun at places like Aztec Lanes in Olympia. Many venues offer NYE specials.

    Date Night or Night Out

    For couples or groups of friends looking for a fun night out, here are some great options:

    • Downtown Olympia Restaurants: Many local spots like The Oyster House and Swing Wine Bar host special NYE menus. Be sure to make a reservation!
    • Live Music or Karaoke: Check out The Rhythm & Rye in Olympia or other local bars for live entertainment to ring in the new year.
    • Cup of Swords Tavern: This unique spot in Olympia is perfect for a casual, quirky NYE celebration. (Details here)

    Reflective and Relaxed Celebrations

    If big crowds and late nights aren’t your thing, why not keep it cozy and reflective?

    • New Year’s Hikes: Start 2025 on the right foot with an early morning hike at places like Capitol State Forest or Tolmie State Park.
    • At-Home Celebrations: Gather close friends or family, cook a delicious meal, and play games to keep the vibe fun and low-key.
    • Holiday Light Displays: Many neighborhoods and parks keep their lights up through New Year’s—perfect for a scenic drive.

    Tips for Celebrating Safely

    • Plan Your Transportation: If you’re heading out, consider ride-sharing services or carpooling to avoid parking hassles and ensure safety.
    • Dress for the Weather: With typical temperatures in the mid-40s, a warm jacket and waterproof shoes are essential.
    • Be Mindful of Pets: Fireworks can stress pets, so ensure they’re safe and comfortable at home.

    Looking Forward to 2025

    As you celebrate, it’s also a great time to reflect on your goals for the year ahead. Whether it’s buying your first home, upgrading to a new space, or simply exploring what’s possible, I’m here to help make those dreams a reality in 2025.

    📩 Have questions about the local market or your next move? Reach out anytime—I’d love to help you start the new year in a home you love!

    Guy DuVall

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      From the Ballpark to the Bay: Discovering Summer Fun in Western Washington

      Hey everyone!

      Summer is here, and there’s no better time to dive into the endless activities Western Washington has to offer. Whether you’re a local or new to the area, there’s something for everyone. I recently had an incredible time at a Seattle Mariners game, and I’m excited to share more of my adventures around the Puget Sound with you!

      A Day at the Ballpark

      Thanks to Rob Rice Homes, I had the pleasure of joining their annual ball game night. Imagine this: 45 of us, all excited and ready for some baseball action, chartered up to Seattle and back. The Mariners game was thrilling—there’s something magical about the crack of the bat, the roar of the crowd, and enjoying a hot dog with friends. The evening ended with epic fireworks that lit up the sky, making the experience even more memorable. If you haven’t been to a Mariners game yet, I highly recommend it. It’s a great way to spend a summer evening with friends and family.

      It was great hanging out with the team from Rob Rice Homes. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with them on several new construction projects, and I’ve always admired their dedication to quality and community. Joining them for the Mariners game was a fantastic way to relax and enjoy the summer while catching up with good friends and colleagues.

      More Summer Activities

      But the fun doesn’t stop at baseball. Here are a few more ideas to make the most of your summer in Thurston County:

      1. Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the beautiful trails at places like Tolmie State Park and Priest Point Park. The lush greenery and scenic views are perfect for a peaceful day out in nature.
      2. Local Farmers Markets: Support local farmers and artisans by visiting the Olympia Farmers Market. Fresh produce, handmade goods, and delicious treats await!
      3. Water Activities: Whether it’s kayaking on Capitol Lake or paddleboarding in Puget Sound, the water activities around here are endless and refreshing.
      4. Community Events: Keep an eye on local event calendars for festivals, outdoor concerts, and community gatherings. There’s always something happening to bring people together.
      Exploring the Puget Sound

      Exploring the South Sound

      This summer, I’m committed to exploring more of the Puget Sound area and sharing my adventures with you. From hidden beaches to quaint towns, I’ll be highlighting the best spots and activities. Living in Western Washington is all about making the most of our incredible surroundings, and I’m excited to embark on this journey and take you along for the ride.

      Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to explore Western Washington! I recently had a blast at a Mariners game, thanks to Rob Rice Homes. We had 45 of us, all excited for baseball and fireworks—a night to remember!

      In this blog, I’ll share more about this adventure and other summer activities in Thurston County, from hiking and farmers markets to water activities. Plus, join me as I explore the hidden gems of the Puget Sound area.

      Read the full blog to discover all the amazing things our community has to offer. 🌞⚾️

      Join the Adventure

      Whether it’s catching a Mariners game, exploring local parks, or enjoying a day on the water, Thurston County has something for everyone. I’m looking forward to many more summer adventures and hope to see you out there enjoying everything our community has to offer.

      Ready to make the most of this summer? Let’s connect and share our favorite local spots and activities. And if you’re thinking about finding a new home in this wonderful area, I’m here to help you every step of the way.

      Cheers to a fantastic summer!

      Guy DuVall

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