Things To Do
in Tumwater
Tumwater is a city located in Thurston County, Washington, United States. It is situated at the southern tip of Puget Sound, near the state capital of Olympia. Tumwater is known for its rich history, being the first American settlement on Puget Sound.
The city has a charming downtown area, beautiful parks, and easy access to outdoor recreational activities.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike at Tumwater Falls Park. Enjoy the scenic views and the sound of cascading water.
Visit the historic Old Brewhouse and learn about Tumwater's brewing history. Grab lunch at a nearby café and enjoy some local flavors.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Deschutes River. Capture the sunset and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Kick off with a bike ride through the scenic trails of the Olympia Tumwater Area. Breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the natural beauty.
Stop by the Tumwater Valley Golf Club for a round of golf or simply enjoy the lush surroundings. Have lunch at the club's restaurant.
Unwind at a local brewery and sample the craft beers. Enjoy some live music or board games for a relaxing evening.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including proximity to the Olympic Mountains and various parks.
- Strong community involvement and small-town atmosphere.
- Good access to outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking, fishing, and camping.
- Affordable housing compared to larger cities in Washington State.
- Convenient access to nearby urban centers like Olympia for more amenities and opportunities.
- Limited job market with fewer employment opportunities compared to larger urban areas.
- Weather can be rainy and overcast for a significant portion of the year, which may not suit everyone.
- Public transportation options may be limited, making a car necessary for most residents.
- Some areas may have a higher crime rate compared to the state average.
- Limited entertainment and nightlife options compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Tumwater
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic Tumwater Falls, walking trails, and picnic areas in this beautiful natural park.
Enjoy activities such as hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching in the picturesque Pioneer Park.
Hike or bike along the Deschutes River Trail for stunning views and outdoor adventure.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tumwater with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tumwater
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers picturesque views of waterfalls and scenic nature trails for photo opportunities.
This shopping center features a rooftop parking area that provides stunning panoramic views of Tumwater and the surrounding area.
Food in Tumwater
Tumwater Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These delicious oysters are a local specialty, prized for their unique flavor and briny goodness. They can be savored raw or prepared in various enticing ways to showcase their exceptional taste.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught salmon from the Northwest is a must-try for seafood lovers. Whether grilled, smoked, or prepared in a traditional Native American style, the local salmon dishes capture the essence of the region's culinary heritage.
Renowned for its sweet, tender meat, Dungeness crab is a culinary delight in Tumwater. Locally sourced and expertly prepared, this delicacy reflects the coastal abundance of the area and is not to be missed.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tumwater better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of the city, the Tumwater Farmers Market is a vibrant hub for fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local culinary delights. Visitors can savor a diverse range of street food here, from gourmet tacos to fusion cuisine, showcasing the best of Tumwater's food scene.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tumwater, it's important to respect people's personal space and avoid getting too close physically, especially with strangers.
Greeting people with a smile and a simple 'hello' or 'hi' is considered polite and respectful in Tumwater.
When dining at restaurants in Tumwater, it's customary to leave a tip of around 15-20% of the total bill to show appreciation for good service.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tumwater with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tumwater
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tumwater, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, bars, and other service-based establishments. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill for good service.
Payment in Tumwater is commonly carried out using cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment options. Most businesses and vendors in Tumwater accept major credit cards, and cash is widely used for smaller transactions. Contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tumwater.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Tumwater with blooming flowers and mild temperatures
Great for outdoor activities with warm weather and long daylight hours
Beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures for exploring the area
Potential for snow and colder temperatures, but festive atmosphere and holiday events
Tumwater at Night
Hiking in Tumwater
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park featuring stunning waterfalls, paved trails, and forested areas, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
A scenic trail that offers diverse landscapes, including canyons and wildflower meadows, suitable for hikers of all levels.
An expansive refuge with a variety of trails for hiking and birdwatching amid wetlands and forests.
A vast area of diverse ecosystems with numerous hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, showcasing the beauty of the Olympic Peninsula.
Iconic park featuring breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and countless hiking trails for various skill levels, offering stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tumwater through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tumwater by plane.
Located approximately 55 miles north of Tumwater, SEA is the primary airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area and is a major hub for international flights.
Situated about 130 miles south of Tumwater, PDX serves the Portland area and offers numerous international flight options.
Located approximately 140 miles northwest of Tumwater, YVR serves the Vancouver area in Canada and provides various international travel services.
Roughly 280 miles east of Tumwater, GEG is the major airport for the Spokane area and connects to several international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest racial demographic group in Tumwater, comprising a significant percentage of the population.
A growing demographic group in Tumwater, including individuals of various ethnic backgrounds.
A smaller, but notable demographic group within Tumwater.
Includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds, representing a diverse segment of the population.
A very small percentage of the population, representing the indigenous peoples of the region.
A demographic group that includes individuals identifying with more than one racial category.
A category that includes other racial identities not specifically mentioned.
The Soul of Tumwater
Discover the essence of Tumwater through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a popular sport in Tumwater, enjoyed by many youth leagues and adult recreational teams.
Basketball is widely played in schools and community leagues, with many residents participating in pickup games.
Baseball has a strong presence in Tumwater, with local teams and youth programs fostering talent.
American football is popular at both the high school level and within community leagues.
Volleyball is frequently played, particularly in schools and during summer outdoor recreational events.
Running events and marathons attract many participants and are a common form of exercise in Tumwater.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tumwater.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Tumwater's dining scene is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes that celebrate the region's fresh produce and culinary innovation.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities will find a range of gluten-free options in Tumwater's eateries, ensuring that everyone can indulge in the local flavors without compromising on dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tumwater with these cultural adventures.
