THE SUMMER AWAY! Get Out and Play...

by Kathryn Millhorn

Admit it, the arrival of summer turns you into a kid again. It’s magical when daylight first slides past 8 p.m. and the sound of the ice cream truck cuts through winter’s doom and spring’s gloom. Whether you’re looking forward to three months without school, a chance to travel and play, or just sneaking in a weekend getaway or mid-week staycation, Thurston County has plenty to offer kids of all ages.

The best thing about summer is that absolutely anything can be festive. Popsicles in a sprinkler? Instant party! Grilled supper followed by melty s’mores? The best! Day trip to the beach? Count me in! Activities don’t have to involve long distances, luggage, or sticker shock. There’s fun to be had wherever you look.

23 Kitchens: Pickleball is just the start

Pickleball is hotter than I-5 in July. The fastest-growing sport for the third year in a row, organizers think of it as a blend between ping pong, tennis, and badminton. There are more than 36 million players in the United States alone and 10,000+ locations. One of the newest is Hawks Prairie's 23 Kitchens whose 11 courts are open and ready for play.

At 23 Kitchens, the Backyard is full of games (cornhole, Giant Jenga, axe throwing) and fire pits, five outdoor pickleball courts, and a stage for live music. Indoors, you'll find six more courts, a pro shop, restaurant (opening late summer), rooftop bar, and open-air patio. There's even a self-serve beer, wine and cider wall for the 21+ crowd. Memberships are open now call 360.615.2323 or email info@23kitchens.com to sign up.

South Sound Speedway 50+ Years Behind the Wheel

Nothing gets adrenaline flowing more than the revving of a racecar engine. For more than 50 years, South Sound Speedway has hosted races galore for families and motorheads of all ages. The Speedway’s Stormy Townsend says that the action takes place every Saturday night from April through the end of September and welcomes first-timers and grease monkeys alike.

Townsend agrees that the fast action of the cars is a huge draw for even the littlest racing fans. She suggests coming early to stake out the very best place to sit and watch practice laps. Just ask at the gate to let you pay by 4:45 p.m. before things really kick off. Races include pretty much anything with wheels and a willingness to go really, REALLY fast. Vintage Modifieds, Baby Grands, Hobby Stocks, Tuners, Bandos, Big Rigs, and so much more. Head to SouthSoundSpeedway.com for schedules, current point totals, driver info, and Kids Club details.

Deschutes Rugby Club Not Your Daddy’s Rugby Club

Rugby, which unsurprisingly began in Rugby, England, started in the early 1800’s. It became international when England and Scotland went head-to-head (and scrum to scrum) in 1881 and is even the national sport of Papua New Guinea. Locally, the Deschutes Rugby Crows are based in Lacey and compete in the Pacific Northwest Rugby Union (PNRFU) Division II. They train in the Crow’s Nest twice a week and play games almost weekly.

Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for up-tothe-minute match details and locations, newly added tournaments, fundraisers, and ways to help spread the word. Or go a little crazy and sign up to Join the Murder and become a Deschutes Rugby Club Crow yourself! Contact media@deschutesrugby.com

1889 Prime Steakhouse Offering A Taste of Luxury

Few things are more decadent than a luxurious steak on a balmy summer evening. At 1889 Prime Steakhouse, they’ll blend that with gorgeous downtown Olympia vistas, high quality wines, and local Washington State beef. Co-owner Drew MacEwen says they’ll be open by early July and are already planning plenty of activities and tasting menus.

“This has been one heck of a journey from when we put our investor group together a year ago,” says MacEwen. “There have been delays along the way, but it will all be worth the wait! There’s lots of excitement for our outdoor seating, private dining room, and featured wine tastings. We look forward to welcoming you in.” Follow the restaurant on Facebook for menu additions, soft openings, and updates.

"Olympia a catalyst for connecting individuals, promoting environmental consciousness, and enabling more people to enjoy the region's remarkable outdoor offerings.”

Olympia Gear Exchange Ready, Set, Gear!

Activities require stuff, and unless you’re made of money—with a dedicated storage unit for shoes, helmets, skis, tents, beach towels, kayaks, portable grills, and warm little dog shoes—the Olympia Gear Exchange has got you covered. Owner Jared Lambing says they “welcome outdoor enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners to hardcore adventurers. We’re designed to be inclusive and accessible, providing a platform for anyone interested in buying, selling, or trading outdoor gear, regardless of their skill level or experience.”

Items are taken on consignment or resale, but they also have a selection of new items. Lambing focuses on “sustainability, community engagement, accessibility, thriftiness, and outdoor education. The store serves as a catalyst for connecting individuals, promoting environmental consciousness, and enabling more people to enjoy the region's remarkable outdoor offerings.” They don’t sell online so stop in today and start your next adventure in style. Located at 108 4th Ave W, Olympia, WA.

Lakeside Taphouse at Millersylvania State Park Just Plain Yummy

Millersylvania State Park is 900+ acres of freshwater shoreline, swimming beaches, hiking and biking trails, boat launches, fishing, and rental fun. But you know what makes all that better? The Lakeside Taphouse across from kitchen #2. The only taphouse inside a state park, it has PNW beers on tap, wine, cider, food, and always kiddo and pup friendly.

Until 7:30 p.m., order hot wings or a hotdog, fried pickle chips or popcorn chicken. Then pair it with juices, coffee, iced tea, sodas, or an array of adult beverages guaranteed to make you forget about summer’s sunburn. There are also non-alcoholic beers, sangria floats with vanilla ice cream, and fruity hard seltzers.