Lacey Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see and eat in Lacey, Washington. Plan your trip with our comprehensive guide that covers hotels, transportation, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Lacey

Located in the heart of Washington State, Lacey is a charming city in South Sound, Puget Sound that offers visitors a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, and cultural attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, Lacey has something for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, must-try dishes, and everything else that you need to plan the perfect trip to Lacey.

List of Places to Visit in Lacey

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lacey is home to several museums and historical places that reflect the region’s rich history and culture.

  • Lacey Museum - Discover the unique history of Lacey and Thurston County through various exhibits, artifacts, and photographs.
  • Smithsonian-affiliated DuPont Historical Museum - Take a trip back in time and learn about the region’s early settlers, the railway boom, and the industrial revolution.
  • Lacey Veterans Services Hub - Honors the military history and contributions of local veterans.

Natural Attractions of Lacey: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Escape to nature and experience the beauty and serenity of Lacey’s outdoor attractions.

  • Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge - Catch a glimpse of rare wildlife species and avian species at this Nisqually Delta Estuary situated in the south Puget Sound basin’s southernmost end.
  • Saint Martin’s University Nature Conservancy - Explore a 300-acre wildlife sanctuary that is home to oak savannas, prairies, and forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lacey

Lacey is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in and around Lacey.

  • Chehalis Western Trail - This scenic trail winds its way through forests, farmland and through urban areas of Lacey to the small town of Rainier.
  • Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area - Unwind with a beautiful hike through this conservation area, featuring several trails, including a half-mile boardwalk path.

Best Things to Do in Lacey: Activities and Tours

There is something for everyone in Lacey, from family-friendly activities to adventurous excursions.

  • Huntamer Park - Take the kids to this well-maintained park, perfect for picnics, playgrounds, and splash pad.
  • Painted Plate - Release your inner artist and bond over pottery-painting with friends and family.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lacey

Planning a week-long trip to Lacey? Here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time.

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Lacey Museum and walk around the quaint downtown area
Day 2 Hike and bike the Chehalis Western Trail
Day 3 Take a day trip to the nearby city of Olympia and visit the State Capitol, State Museum, and Tumwater Falls
Day 4 Spend the day exploring the Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area
Day 5 Visit the Smithsonian-affiliated DuPont Historical Museum and the Lacey Veterans Services Hub
Day 6 Take a free tour and explore the Saint Martin’s University Nature Conservancy
Day 7 Unwind at the Huntamer Park or go pottery painting at Painted Plate

Food and Drink Scene of Lacey

Must-Try Dishes

Lacey showcases an array of food and drinks that will tantalize your taste buds.

  • Spaghetti Factory – Tucked in the Lacey Mall, they serve handmade pasta with a choice of unique sauces.
  • Ricardo’s Kitchen + Bar - Savor their signature dish of “Alaskan Rockfish and Chips,” lightly battered and fried to perfection.

Local Beverages

Craft beer lovers rejoice - Lacey is home to several world-renowned breweries.

  • Top Rung Brewing Company - Don’t miss their flagship beer, the “I.P.A” - crisp and refreshing with a hint of citrus.
  • Odd Otter Brewing Company - Relax with a classic German-style “Alt Bier,” or go exotic with their “Huckleberry Hibiscus Wheat.”

Where to Stay in Lacey: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lacey offers visitors a range of options for accommodations to suit all budgets.

  • La Quinta by Wyndham Lacey - Delight in an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center at this budget-friendly hotel.
  • Hotel RL Olympia by Red Lion - Experience the best of luxury at this 3-star hotel with premium amenities.

What to Buy in Lacey: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take a piece of Lacey with you when you leave by picking up some local souvenirs and products.

  • Lacey Doll House and Collectibles - Browse a wide array of dolls, collectibles, and stuffed animals at this one-of-a-kind store.
  • Hawks Prairie Home Furnishings - Spruce up your home décor with unique pieces handpicked by local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Lacey

Lacey boasts a warm community welcoming visitors from all over the world. Be sure to respect local customs and practices during your stay.

Best Time to Visit Lacey

The best time to visit Lacey is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lacey

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and community.
  • Dress appropriately for the local weather and game light layers to accommodate temperature changes.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities of Lacey if you can.

Don’t:

  • Litter. Maintaining the cleanliness of Lacey and preserving its natural beauty is essential.
  • Smoke in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lacey

Crime rates in Lacey are relatively low, making it a safe place to travel to alone or with family.

Health in Lacey

Public healthcare facilities are available in Lacey in case of any unforeseen medical emergencies. It’s always best to travel with medical insurance.

Getting to Lacey: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lacey is well-connected to major cities in the USA by air, rail, and road.

Airports Near Lacey

  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport - Located about 45 minutes north of Lacey, the airport is well-connected to domestic and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Lacey

  • Greyhound Lacey Station - The bus station is conveniently located in downtown Lacey, making it easily accessible for tourists.

Other Options

  • Amtrak Station Tukwila – Located about 40 miles from Lacey, Amtrak is an excellent option for travelers coming in from the north or east.

How to Get Around in Lacey

Public transportation options include buses and taxis which are readily available for commuting. However, renting a car also provides travelers with more flexibility to explore attractions at their leisure.

Where to Go Next from Lacey: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lacey connects visitors to several nearby attractions and cities.

  • Seattle - Explore the cosmopolitan city, including world-famous Pike Place Market, the Museum of Pop Culture, Space Needle, and more.
  • Tacoma - Home to several museums and galleries, including the Museum of Glass, The Chihuly Bridge of Glass, and the LeMay-America’s Car Museum.

Conclusion

Lacey offers visitors an unparalleled experience, showcasing the best of the region’s natural beauty, culture, and attractions. This comprehensive guide should be able to help you plan the perfect trip to Lacey, Washington, one that you’ll remember for years to come!