National parks are one of the things that makes Washington so special to Amelia and Peyton! Olympic National Park has a LOT to offer. Lake Crescent is a huge lake with TEAL glacier run-off water and mountains, with kayaking, swimming (if you’re not afraid to get cold), and more. Hoh Rainforest, Hurricane Ridge, Ruby beach, Salt Creek campgrounds and recreation, Rialto beach, Sol Duc hot springs and falls, SO MUCH more!! All beautiful. All worth the drive!
A classic tourist experience. Amelia lived in Seattle for a year, so she found some favorites. Among the sights and activities were the Fremont Vintage Mall, Seattle Aquarium, the downtown waterfront boardwalk; particularly Ivar's Fish Bar (specifically for the seagulls), then Dick's drive-in, Gasworks park and Kerry park, the Seattle Art Museum, shopping in U-village, the monorail, and the Seattle-Bremerton ferry. However, Amelia hates the space needle. But she loved showing Peyton, her favorite tourist, all these parts of the city.
Mt. Rainer is another special national park of Washington. After a trip together in July of 2023, Amelia and Peyton can definitely recommend. If you visit, there might even still be snow on the ground! Our favorite trail starts on the Paradise side of the mountain, there’s a couple trails to choose from depending on duration/difficulty. Beautiful all the way up and all the way down, this is a great day trip activity!
For an activity closer to Tenino, the Olympia Farmers Market in downtown Olympia! Open Thursday through Sunday from 10 am to 3 pm, you can spend the afternoon checking out all the vendors, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, artisan food vendors, pottery, soap, tapestries, and other handmade goods, restaurant vendors, and more.
As you may have guessed, a great activity to do with kids. The Hands-on Children’s Museum includes 150 exhibits involving art, science, learning, building, and discovery. Information about upcoming events and tickets are available on their website! Just 20 minutes from Tenino.
Olympia is home to many art galleries and displays. With a quick google search, you could make a plan to hit as many as possible, or pick your favorite and see just that one. Whether it’s one or all, we recommend checking it out!