Activities
(Also see specific destination for local activities)
Activities for Puget Sound General Area
A variety of leisure, educational, and sports activities are available on and around Puget Sound. Each port-of-call is unique, with its own personality and attractions. Few cities can offer such an experience as locking your boat from saltwater through the locks to Lake Washington. Along with boating adventures from any size craft, other activities include picnicking on a beach, hiking on the many trails, and camping at sites in state and county parks.
South Sound Places to Go, Things to See & Do
See the Famous Capitol Dome Olympia
Lovely trees and gardens surround the Legislative Building, the Governor’s Mansion, the Capitol Conservatory, and the Temple of Justice. Resembling the U.S. Capitol building, the Legislative Building was constructed in 1928, the last great domed capitol building in America. Louis Comfort Tiffany designed the floor lamps, sconces, and chandeliers. The Capitol Conservatory is a greenhouse containing tropical plants and bedding plants for the grounds. The Temple of Justice houses the Washington State Supreme Court and State Law Library. Tours are conducted in each building. State Capitol Visitor Center 360-586-3460.
Watch Tugs Race Olympia, Tacoma
September is the month for tug races. Watch the Vintage Tugboat Race during Olympia’s Harbor Days held Labor Day weekend. 360-586-3460. Later in September, go to Tacoma’s Thea Foss Waterway for the Maritime Fest featuring an art show, salmon bake, and concert. Tugboat races are held on Sunday. 1-800-788-TUGS. 360-352-4567.
Picnic at Point Defiance Park Tacoma
With over 5,000 animals to see in the zoo and aquarium, spectacular views of Puget Sound and Commencement Bay, beautiful gardens, and historic Fort Nisqually to bring history alive, this is one of the premier parks in the Northwest. It is accessible from moorage at park buoys along the shore of Commencement Bay or from Boathouse Marina at Point Defiance. 253-591-5337.
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