Things To Do
in Yelm
Yelm is a small city located in Thurston County, Washington, United States. It is known for its rural charm and proximity to Mount Rainier National Park. The town has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century when it was founded as a railroad stop.
Today, Yelm offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, local shops, and dining options for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $90 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at the Yelm City Park, where you can enjoy the scenic views and fresh air. A quick breakfast at a local café will fuel your adventures ahead.
Visit the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge to observe diverse wildlife and take in the beautiful landscapes. Bring a picnic to enjoy while you explore the various trails.
Wrap up the day by dining at a local restaurant known for its farm-to-table dishes. Enjoy a leisurely stroll downtown and check out the charming shops.
Begin your day kayaking at the nearby lakes, surrounded by the peaceful nature of Washington. After a morning of water fun, grab a hearty brunch in town.
Head out for a hike on the Yelm-Tumwater Trail for some exhilarating outdoor exploration. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and take in the serene forest paths.
Relax at home or at your accommodation after an active day. Consider an evening campfire if staying at a campsite to unwind under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic natural beauty with proximity to beautiful parks and trails.
- A small-town feel with a close-knit community.
- Affordable housing options compared to larger cities in Washington.
- Access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping.
- Growing local economy with small businesses and amenities.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger urban areas.
- Public transportation options are sparse, making a car necessary.
- Potential for inclement weather, including rain and snow.
- Limited entertainment and dining options.
- Proximity to larger cities may result in increased traffic congestion during commutes.
Best Activities in Yelm
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A spacious park featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails, perfect for family outings and outdoor sports.
A scenic trail ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, offering beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
A local lake great for fishing, kayaking, and swimming, with accessible shorelines and picnic areas.
A community space that hosts outdoor events and activities focused on environmental education and sustainable living.
An outdoor market that features local produce, crafts, and live music, providing a great way to enjoy the community's offerings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Yelm with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Yelm
Visit one of these nice places.
A well-maintained park featuring walking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the surrounding trees and landscape, perfect for capturing nature photos.
Offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and is an ideal spot for photographing sunsets and the local flora.
Features open areas with views of Mt. Rainier on clear days, making it an excellent location for photography enthusiasts.
A natural haven where you can capture unique wildlife and serene water views, perfect for nature and wildlife photography.
Located just outside Yelm, this serene lake offers picturesque views and reflective water scenes, ideal for capturing stunning photographs.
Food in Yelm
Yelm Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Yelm Prairie Doughnuts are a must-try local delicacy known for their fluffy texture and delightful flavor. They are available at Yelm Prairie Mart and are perfect for a morning treat.
Must-Try!
Yelm's proximity to the Pacific Northwest allows for delicious salmon dishes. Try the grilled Northwest Salmon at the Yelm Timberland Library Bistro for a taste of local flavors.
Indulge in the sweetness of local Rainier cherries with a slice of Rainier Cherry Pie from Yelm's Farmers Market. It's a delightful dessert that captures the essence of the region.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Yelm better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Yelm Farmers Market for a variety of locally grown produce, artisanal products, and ready-to-eat snacks. It's a great place to sample fresh fruits, baked goods, and other local treats.
Visit Yelm City Park to discover a diverse selection of food trucks offering an array of cuisines. From gourmet burgers to authentic tacos, the food trucks provide a lively street food experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Yelm is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. Residents and visitors should show respect for the environment by keeping public spaces clean, following local guidelines for outdoor activities, and being mindful of wildlife.
Yelm has a strong sense of community. Participating in local events, supporting local businesses, and getting involved in community projects shows respect for the town's culture and encourages positive relationships among residents.
The pace of life in Yelm may be slower than in urban areas. Visitors should be mindful of this by being patient in interactions and respecting the local tempo, especially in social settings and public places.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Yelm with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Yelm
Ensure a smooth experience
In Yelm, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a common practice, particularly in the service industry. It is customary to tip servers in restaurants around 15-20% of the total bill. Tipping is also appreciated in other service sectors such as hairdressing, taxi services, and delivery services. While tips are not mandatory, they are often considered an important part of income for many service workers.
Payment practices in Yelm generally reflect those of the wider United States, where cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment apps are commonly accepted for transactions. Businesses typically display accepted payment methods at their locations. Contactless payment options have gained popularity, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, making transactions quicker and more hygienic.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Yelm.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Yelm typically runs from March to May. During this season, you can expect mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and a resurgence of greenery. The average high temperature ranges from 55°F to 70°F. It’s a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring local parks.
Summer spans from June to August in Yelm, bringing warm and sometimes hot weather. Average highs reach between 75°F to 85°F, making it the perfect season for outdoor festivals, camping, and enjoying the nearby lakes. However, it can get busy, so early booking for accommodations is recommended.
Fall, from September to November, showcases beautiful foliage as the leaves change color. Temperatures start to cool down, ranging from 60°F to 75°F. This season is ideal for wine tasting, harvest festivals, and enjoying the crisp air during outdoor activities.
Winter lasts from December to February, bringing cooler temperatures, usually between 30°F and 50°F. Snowfall is possible but not common. It’s a quieter season with fewer tourists, making it a good time for cozy indoor activities, local dining, and winter sports if the weather permits.
Yelm at Night
Hiking in Yelm
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park featuring a variety of trails with views of Mount Rainier, wildflower meadows, and pristine forests.
A peaceful area for birdwatching and easy hiking trails along the Nisqually River with scenic views of wetlands and wildlife.
Offers a range of hiking trails in a lush forest setting, ideal for both beginner and experienced hikers.
A family-friendly park with nature walks and trails, perfect for a leisurely hike surrounded by trees and creeks.
A small park with trails and paths, suitable for a short hike or a walk to enjoy nature near Yelm.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Yelm through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Yelm by plane.
Located approximately 35 miles northwest of Yelm, SEA serves as the primary international airport for the Seattle metropolitan area.
Situated about 150 miles south of Yelm, PDX is the main airport serving Portland, Oregon, and offers a variety of international flights.
Located roughly 250 miles east of Yelm, GEG serves the Spokane area and provides several international travel options.
Located about 30 miles northwest of Yelm, this airport primarily serves general aviation but also accommodates some commercial flights.
Located approximately 45 miles northwest of Yelm, PAE offers limited commercial service with a few international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Yelm, consisting primarily of individuals identifying as Caucasian.
A significant portion of the population that identifies as Hispanic or Latino, reflecting a diverse cultural background.
This group includes individuals of various Asian ancestries, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Yelm.
Representing a smaller percentage of the Yelm population, this group includes individuals of African descent.
This demographic group encompasses individuals who identify as Native American or Alaska Native.
This category includes individuals from various other racial and ethnic backgrounds not specifically listed.
The Soul of Yelm
Discover the essence of Yelm through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular team sport played by children and adults alike, with various leagues and clubs available in the Yelm area.
A traditional American pastime, baseball is played recreationally and competitively, with local teams for youth and adults in Yelm.
American football has a strong community presence in Yelm, with local high school teams and organized leagues.
Basketball is popular in Yelm, with numerous recreational leagues and high school teams engaging local youth.
Both indoor and outdoor volleyball are enjoyed in Yelm, with community events and recreational clubs.
With many parks and trails, running is a favored sport among residents, with organized races and events throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yelm.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Yelm offer vegetarian and vegan options, including Tacos Gaby, which provides plant-based alternatives for various dishes. Additionally, Dirtie Dog Coffee Co. offers dairy-free milk options for their beverages.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free options at Pioneer Bar & Grill, where they can enjoy gluten-free buns for their burgers and inquire about other menu items that can be tailored to accommodate their dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Yelm with these cultural adventures.
