What is there to do in Thurston County in the spring? Thurston County comes alive in spring with farmers markets, hiking trails, waterfront events, and blooming parks — making March through May one of the best times of year to explore Olympia, Tumwater, Lacey, and the surrounding communities.
Spring in the Pacific Northwest has a way of sneaking up on you. One week it's gray and drizzly, and then suddenly the plum trees are blooming on Capitol Way, the farmers market is back in full swing, and everyone you know is making plans to get outside. That's Thurston County in the spring — and if you're new to the area (or just need a reminder of how good it gets), this guide is for you.
Whether you just PCS'd to JBLM, you're visiting before a move, or you've lived here for years and want to rediscover your backyard, here's what spring in Thurston County actually looks like.
The Olympia Farmers Market Reopens
For a lot of locals, the reopening of the Olympia Farmers Market is the unofficial start of spring. Running Thursdays through Sundays from April through October, the market sits right on the waterfront at Percival Landing and draws vendors from across the South Sound.
You'll find fresh produce, local honey, cut flowers, handmade goods, and some of the best street food in the region. It's also a genuinely great way to meet people and get a feel for the community if you're new to the area. Bring cash, bring a bag, and plan to stay longer than you expect.
Get Outside: Trails, Parks, and Water
Thurston County has an embarrassment of outdoor riches, and spring is when the trails really shine. Here are a few worth putting on your list:
Tumwater Falls Park
Right in the heart of Tumwater, Tumwater Falls Park offers a short but scenic loop past a series of waterfalls on the Deschutes River. Spring runoff makes the falls especially dramatic. It's free, accessible, and a local favorite for a reason.
Capitol State Forest
Just west of Olympia, the Capitol State Forest offers hundreds of miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The forest is managed by the Washington DNR and is one of the largest state forests in western Washington. Spring mornings here — with the fog burning off through the firs — are hard to beat.
Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
The Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge sits right between Olympia and JBLM and is one of the most underrated nature spots in the entire region. Spring migration brings an incredible variety of shorebirds and waterfowl. The boardwalk trail is easy, family-friendly, and stroller-accessible.
Watershed Park
Tucked into a quiet neighborhood in southeast Olympia, Watershed Park is a forested gem with a small creek, mossy trails, and old-growth feel. It's the kind of place that makes you feel like you're miles from the city — even though you're five minutes from downtown.
Spring Events Around Thurston County
The community calendar fills up fast once the weather turns. A few events worth knowing about:
Procession of the Species — Olympia's beloved annual street parade celebrating biodiversity and the arts. Expect elaborate costumes, community floats, and a very PNW vibe. Held every April.
Washington State Spring Fair (Puyallup, nearby) — Just a short drive up I-5, the Spring Fair at the Washington State Fairgrounds draws families from across the South Sound every April.
Concerts at the Capitol — The Washington State Capitol Campus hosts outdoor events and gatherings in spring. Worth checking the Washington State Department of Enterprise Services calendar for what's scheduled.
Explore Downtown Olympia
Spring is a good time to slow down and actually walk around downtown Olympia. The State Capitol Campus is genuinely beautiful in April when the cherry trees are blooming. Grab coffee at one of the local shops on Capitol Way or 4th Avenue, browse the independent bookstores, and take a walk along the waterfront at Percival Landing.
If you're newer to the area, downtown Olympia has a distinct character — part college town, part state capitol, part creative community. It's worth spending an afternoon getting to know it.
Why Spring Is Also One of the Best Times to Make a Move
If you've been thinking about buying a home in Thurston County, spring is historically when inventory picks up and more properties come to market. Sellers tend to list in spring knowing buyers are active, which means you'll have more to choose from than you did in January or February.
For those relocating to the JBLM area, spring orders often mean a summer report date — which puts home shopping squarely in this season. Getting a head start, even before you're physically in the area, can make a meaningful difference in what you're able to find.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Olympia Farmers Market open for the season? The Olympia Farmers Market typically opens in April and runs through the end of October, operating Thursdays through Sundays. The market is located at 700 Capitol Way N on the waterfront in downtown Olympia.
What are the best family-friendly outdoor activities in Thurston County in the spring? Tumwater Falls Park, the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge boardwalk trail, and Watershed Park in Olympia are all excellent options for families with kids. All three are free, accessible, and manageable for younger children.
Is spring a good time to buy a home in the Olympia or Lacey area? Spring is typically one of the most active times in the Thurston County real estate market. More homes come to market between March and June, which gives buyers more options. If you're relocating with PCS orders or planning a summer move, beginning your search in the spring puts you in a strong position.
Work With PCS Home Group's Local Experts
At PCS Home Group, we help JBLM military families and Thurston County residents find their footing — and their home — in one of the most livable corners of Washington State. Our team brings:
Ashleigh Camberg's strategic leadership: Deep community knowledge and a genuine love for Thurston County's neighborhoods, trails, and hidden gems
James Camberg's market analysis: Hyperlocal comp data and trend interpretation to help you make confident decisions
Kelly Barron's neighborhood intelligence: Micro-market expertise across Thurston and Pierce County
Whether you're new to the area or just ready for a change of scenery, we'd love to help you explore what's possible here — in every season.
Ready to learn more about living in Thurston County?
Contact Ashleigh Camberg:
Phone: (360) 513-9034
Email: acamberg@pcshomegroup.com
Visit: pcshomegroup.com
Meet the team: pcshomegroup.com/team-page
