Heading to the Pacific Coast is always a pleasure, especially when your destination is a spot like Lacey, WA. A suburb of Olympia, Lacey was originally called Woodland before changing in 1891. While Lacey was once a town that specialized in cattle and wood, today’s guests can take in the various wineries that make up the area. With wonderful restaurants and beautiful scenery, visitors can feel even better about their vacation knowing that Lacey was one of the first cities to be considered a Green Power Community by the EPA.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lacey is from late spring through early fall (May to September). These months offer mild temperatures and clear skies for hiking, kayaking, and outdoor festivals.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Lacey is just off I-5, about 1 hour from Seattle and 2 hours from Portland, making it easily accessible by car.
- By Bus: Intercity Transit connects Lacey to Olympia and surrounding areas. Greyhound and FlixBus also service nearby Olympia.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Cascades and Coast Starlight lines stop in Olympia-Lacey (Centennial Station), about 10 minutes from downtown.
- By Air: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is approximately 55 miles north of Lacey.
Where to Stay
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lacey – Convenient, comfortable, and centrally located with free breakfast and a pool.
- Best Western Plus Lacey Inn & Suites – Family-friendly with modern amenities and great service.
- La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Olympia-Lacey – Pet-friendly and close to restaurants, shopping, and parks.
Top Attractions
1. Discover Unique DIY Finds at Shipwreck Beads
Rating: ★★★★★
I don't normally head to a shop first, but this time was an exception. One of the most unique stores to visit in Lacey, WA, Shipwreck Beads began as a nautical themed store until the beads outsold the rest. Today’s Shipwreck Beads houses billions of beads and beading materials. Classes are offered occasionally to teach visitors how to bead, how to work with jewelry wire, and how to use metal clay. Beads of all sizes and colors are available for both retail shoppers and wholesale customers. Those visiting will find trained employees to assist shoppers, as well as shopping carts with store maps, and computerized kiosks providing direction for those with specific needs. 8535 Commerce Pl Dr NE suite A, Lacey, WA 98516, Phone: 800-950-4232
2. Relax and Reconnect at Woodland Creek Community Park
Visitors to Lacey, WA will want to check out Woodland Creek Community Park for some outdoor time. This park is 72 acres and houses some great visitor accommodations, like picnic pavilions, restrooms, playgrounds, and paved trails. In fact, there are several playgrounds on site, including age-appropriate ones. Though swimming and boating are not allowed in Longs Pond, there is a fishing dock for those interested. There is also a 9-hole golf course, putting green, and driving range for those who want to smack a ball around while the family enjoys wildlife and nature. The Community Center is available for rental for special occasions and events. More things to do in Washington
Address: 6729 Pacific Avenue SE, Lacey, WA 98503, Phone: 360-491-0857
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
3. Sip Local Flavors at Stottle Winery
Washington has an excellent climate for grape growing, which is why so many award-winning wineries can be found. Stottle Winery is located in a mixed business district, meaning that instead of winery views, guests have easy access to two tasting rooms in the area. At both locations, Lacey and Hoodsport, a tasting includes five wine samples of your choosing. The Lacey location also has two additional tasting options: a sit-down tasting with five wines and a Spanish cheese plate and a private winery tour with six wines and a gourmet cheese plate. Stottle currently has selections of both red and white wines.
Address: 2641 Willamette Drive NE, Suite E, Lacey, WA, 98516, Phone: 360-515-0356
4. Step Into the Past at The Lacey Museum
Built in the 1920s, the building used as the current Lacey Museum was once a residence, a firehouse, and a city hall. Today, guests can see historical artifacts, objects, photos, and papers that provide background on the history and the people of Lacey. Traveling exhibits are welcomed; for instance, the largest collection of Sasquatch-related artwork and objects is currently viewed. Permeant exhibits, like a Nisqually Totem Pole and the Lacey schoolroom, are available year-round. Guest speakers give lectures throughout the year, and educational classes and programs are put on by the museum. Visitors can also learn about genealogy and conservation techniques.
Address: 829 Lacey Street SE, Lacey, WA 98503, Phone: 360-438-0209
5. Marvel at the Beauty of Chastain Mist
Chastain Mist is an equestrian camp for girls aged 6-16. Its location has been touted for its excellent climate (average 70 degrees). Chastain Mist offers three types of camps for girls who want to get involved with horses: Eventing ExeQ for experienced jumpers; Exclusive Equestrian Camp, where each girl gets her own horse; and the Happy Camper Camp, which is best for beginning riders. Besides riding, the girls are immersed in horse care, such as ground driving, saddling, grooming, horse tying, etc. The girls also spend time getting to know their horse and playing polo horseback. Adult lessons are available by request.
Address: 3728 S Bay Road, NE, Olympia, WA 98506, Phone: 360-780-0808
6. Explore Nature’s Quiet Side at Lake Lois Habitat Preserve
A smaller outdoor area of 28.6 acres, Lake Lois Habitat Preserve is a perfect place if you are into wildlife viewing. The only thing I wished for was a restroom.
In fact, this preserve is a popular area for boy scouts looking to advance their standing to eagle scouts.
Over time, they have helped to better the area by building trails, kiosks, and gates.
You can fish off the bank, though it is recommended that catch-and-release is used. Guests can hike the quarter-mile loop trail, but be prepared, as there are no restrooms on the property.
Address: 6th Avenue SE & Lake Lois Road SE, Lacey, WA 98503, Phone: 360-491-0857
Where to Eat
7. Savor Fresh Flavors at The Lemongrass Restaurant
The Lemongrass Restaurant is a posh, exotic eatery that features Asian-inspired dishes. Combining flavors from Thailand, China, and Vietnam, patrons can be sure that they will find authentic Asian food made with the area’s freshest ingredients. The restaurants are open for both lunch and dinner, with several menu options featuring appetizers, soups, salads, noodle dishes, rice dishes, and of course, traditional Asian dishes. Consider trying some curry fried rice, rain drop noodles, pad talay, or the lemon grass seafood combo (featuring calamari, fish, scallops, muscles, and prawns). Of course, patrons can compliment their dish with a cocktail from the bar.
Address: 8125 Quinault Dr NE, Lacey, WA 98516, Phone: 360-459-9511
8. Spice Up Your Day at Mayan Mexican Restaurant
If you’re craving Mexican during your stay in Lacey, consider checking out Mayan Mexican Restaurant, with authentic Mexican cuisine. Serving brunch, lunch, and dinner, there are favorites that all tastes can enjoy. With three locations in Lacey, you should have an easy time finding one of these local favorites. Along with some delicious margaritas, consider picking up an appetizer, like chicken taquitos; soups, like sopa de mariscos; or salad, like tostadas. Along with freshly made enchiladas, burritos, tamales, chimichangas, and quesadillas, over 20 combination platters are available to get a tasting of multiple flavors.
Address: 2120 Marvin Road NE, Lacey, WA 98516, Phone: 360-456-8222
9. Grab a Hearty Bite at Meconi’s Italian Subs
Since 1986, Meconi’s Italian Subs has delivered delicious homemade subs to order in the Lacey area. They are such a favorite around town, that they’ve been named “Best Sub Shop” by the local newspaper several years in a row. All subs are served on freshly baked rolls. Gluten free bread is available for those in your family with special dietary needs. Toppings for the various subs include oregano and a homemade Italian oil. The cold subs include your average deli meats, but egg salad, tuna salad, and vegan options are also available. Hot subs include a hot sausage (with onions, peppers, and marinara sauce).
Address: 5221 Lacey Boulevard SE, Lacey, WA 98516, Phone: 360-459-0213
Plan Your Trip