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Outdoor pool at Great Wolf Lodge Arizona
 

THINGS TO DO IN
  GRAND MOUND


Thinking about making a trip up north?

Make sure to check out Grand Mound, WA! The area is home to a small community of just over 2,000 residents with plenty of things to do. You’ll find a number of historical markers around town depicting townswomen’s successful attempt to vote and the iconic Oregon Trail. Of course, it’s also home to Great Wolf Lodge!

Our 56,000-square-feet indoor water park contains dining and shopping options, themed suites and attractions for the kids. The community is also conveniently located near more major cities like Tumwater and Centralia, WA. Check out the list below if you want to explore the town during your stay. We’re bringing you the best things to do in Grand Mound, WA and the surrounding area.



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BEST THINGS TO DO


Things To Do In Grand Mound, Washington This Weekend

 

Looking for fun things to do near Centralia,  WA or exploring things to do in Thurston County , WA? Grand Mound is perfectly situated between Seattle and Portland, making it a great weekend getaway. From family-friendly attractions to outdoor adventures and local history, you’ll find plenty of options just minutes from Great Wolf Lodge Grand Mound.

 

Indoor Adventure, Entertainment, & Family Fun Near Grand Mound

Rain or shine, you’ll find endless activities indoors around Grand Mound. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just looking for unique entertainment, the area offers arcades, immersive experiences, and all-ages attractions perfect for a day of fun.

Great Wolf Lodge Grand Mound is the ultimate family getaway in the Pacific Northwest. This popular indoor water park resort offers year-round fun with slides, pools, interactive games, and dining all under one roof. Whether you’re looking for things to do near Great Wolf Lodge Washington  [HB3] or planning to spend the entire trip on-site, there’s no shortage of entertainment for kids and adults alike.

Conveniently located between Seattle and Portland, Great Wolf Lodge WA is perfect for weekend trips, birthdays, or just a splash-filled escape. Discover why families from across the region make Great Wolf Lodge Grand Mound their go-to destination for adventure and relaxation.

Capital Playhouse is a 20+-year-old, private non-profit, performing arts, education, and performance organization in Olympia.

Enjoy some family fun at Washington State’s oldest Roller Skating Rink and one of the oldest in the nation. The attraction even has some history behind it, having been built back in 1904.

Check out some amazing blown glass created by local artists at Central Glass Works. You can also take a class to learn how to twist, cut and shape molten glass. Kids classes are also available. Master the craft and walk away with your own piece of artwork!

 

Outdoor Activities, Recreation, & Nature Near Grand Mound

For those who love the outdoors, the Grand Mound area is surrounded by parks, hiking trails, and nature preserves. Whether you’re biking, fishing, or just looking for a scenic stroll, the region’s natural beauty is never far.

Airport Golf and Batting Cages caters to the sports enthusiast. Their facilities are home to a great nine hole golf course, a well-stocked pro shop, an amazing 32 stall driving range (with covered and heated stalls), a chipping area, as well as batting cages and bullpens. Golf lessons and club rentals are also available.

Strap in for this next activity! Spend the day cruising along the track at the Rusty Wallace Racing Experience. Find out what it’s like to get behind the wheel of a NASCAR stock car. Ride along experiences are also available. Strap into the front passenger seat as a professional driver shows you what a 3-lap qualifying run is really like!

The marina is located in the historic community of Boston Harbor. It’s a quaint northwest establishment offering waterfront access and general marine related services. It's a great place to view the sights, access the water or just have a dockside picnic while enjoying the beauty of the South Sound.

Bring the family to one of the most famous parks in the Grand Mound area. Millersylvania State Park contains two swimming beaches, miles of forested hiking and biking trails, watercraft launches, non-motorized watercraft rentals like kayaks and paddleboards and tons of places to fish!

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument was established, in part, to promote environmental and science education. Each year, thousands of Mount St. Helens Nationguests travel to Mount St. Helens to see the dramatic effects of the 1980 volcanic eruption.

Just a short drive from Grand Mound, Lael’s Moon Garden features the culmination of 40+ years of gardening experimentation. Witness how flat, open ground can be transformed by building mounds, creative stone work and plantings of oaks, sequoias, beeches, conifers and maples with smaller trees, shrubs and perennials. You can also tour the extensive display gardens with gravel pathways and a picnic area. Before you call it a day, take some time to contemplate the redwoods and search around for local birds.

Learn about glaciers. Discover life in a rainforest. Hike the Wonderland Trail. Explore subalpine ecology. Watch clouds shroud the mountain and disappear. Visit a rustic historic building. Dream about climbing to the summit. Study geology. Experience a mountain meadow. Listen to a glacier crack. Observe the wildlife.

The Mima Mounds span over several hundred acres and are filled with bulging mounds, covered in grass. To this day, no one has gotten to the bottom of what caused these unique formations. The early explorers first assumed it was a Native American burial site, though no skeletons were ever found. Some scientists suspect it's the result of gophers in the area, though some remain suspicious that the mounds exceed the size typically created by such small creatures.

The 25-foot waterfall can be reached through a number of different hiking paths. Named after the nearby Mima Mounds, this area offers wildlife viewing, flowers, and shady hiking trails. It’s not uncommon to see bikers or horseback riders along the way!

Travel just ten minutes south of Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound and you’ll find Borst Park. The area features 121 acres of natural and recreational attractions. The well developed park is located by the Skookumchuck rivers and is the home to the historic Borst homestead, schoolhouse, arboretum and Fort Borst Blockhouse. You’ll also find a number of amenities including cessions stands, baseball fields, tennis courts and more.

Riverside enjoys a mature landscape, defined fairways and true putting greens that will impress any player. Come and enjoy the "new" on-site ownership, remodel, course improvements, hospitality, pro, and commitment to customers. It all adds up to an engaging golfing experience at Riverside.

Since 1982, Wolf Haven International, a nonprofit organization, has been protecting wild wolves; providing sanctuary for captive-born wolves; promoting wolf restoration in historic ranges; and educating the public on the value of all wildlife. Take a tour of the sanctuary or check out all of their special events.

History & Heritage Near Grand Mound


Discover the pioneer roots and local landmarks of Southwest Washington. From Oregon Trail markers to restored historic districts, the region offers a glimpse into its storied past.

Presently one of only a few steam powered standard gauge tourist railroads in the State of Washington. Their trains operate over a nine mile section of track that extends southwest from Chehalis. The line winds through scenic hills, farmland and over several wooden trestles.

The Hands on Children's Museum stimulates curiosity, creativity and learning through fun, interactive exhibits and programs for children, families and school groups.

The Tenino Train Depot Museum contains tons of local artifacts, including the original press used to make "wood money," logging tools, quarry tools, and railroad memorabilia.

Just a short drive from Grand Mound, the Olympic Flight Museum is an active flying museum. It is a place where aviation history is alive and honored. Get a first-hand look at a wide variety of planes and helicopters, perfect for the aspiring pilot in your family.

 
Community, Local Flavors, & Events Near Grand Mound

Grand Mound and nearby towns offer charming dining spots, craft breweries, shopping, and community events year-round. Whether you’re tasting local flavors or browsing small-town shops, you’ll find plenty of local color.
 

The Northwest’s original outlet shopping destination, located in Centralia, WA (about halfway between Seattle and Portland). Get a store directory, coupons and events.

Stop by Visiting Nurses Thrift Shop for a fun and unique shopping experience. Proceeds benefit home health and hospice patients. Discover recycled treasures, collectibles, vintage clothing, books, furniture and costumes!


Just an hour north of Grand Mound, Tacoma blends art, culture, and waterfront fun. The city’s museums, restaurants, and parks make it a great side trip during your Pacific Northwest visit.
 

Watch live glassblowing demonstrations, explore contemporary exhibitions, and even create your own glass art at this dynamic Tacoma institution.

The only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest, this jewel of Point Defiance Park features hundreds of species alongside beautiful botanical gardens.

One of the largest automotive museums in the world, with over 300 vehicles and rotating exhibits that celebrate America’s passion for cars.

A beautiful two-mile shoreline trail perfect for walking, jogging, rollerblading, or simply taking in panoramic views of Commencement Bay.

Showcasing the art and artists of the Pacific Northwest, this downtown museum features rotating exhibitions and creative educational programming.


Seattle is a vibrant city full of iconic sights, great food, and family attractions. Whether you love art, music, or outdoor markets, there’s always something new to see.
 

Seattle’s original and most beloved farmers market, where you’ll find fresh produce, local crafts, specialty foods, and vibrant street culture.

An iconic observation tower offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and beyond—plus a thrilling rotating glass floor.

Dive into the world of pop culture with immersive exhibits on music, film, and gaming, plus iconic collections from legendary artists.

Explore extraordinary glass sculptures in indoor galleries and a lush garden setting, all created by renowned artist Dale Chihuly.

Discover Pacific Northwest marine life through interactive exhibits, touch pools, and the mesmerizing Underwater Dome.

Experience the excitement of Major League Baseball at T-Mobile Park while enjoying stunning views of downtown Seattle and Mount Rainier.


About 90 minutes south of Grand Mound, Portland, Oregon, is known for its eclectic vibe, food culture, and outdoor spaces. It’s perfect for a day trip filled with local flavor.
 

Start in the world’s largest independent bookstore, famed for its endless rooms of new and used books—and save space for browsing.

A peaceful green oasis featuring beautifully landscaped gardens, perfect for a quiet morning stroll or a picnic.

Engage with hands-on exhibits, an OMNIMAX theater, and rotating science displays perfect for families and curious minds.

This lively open-air market bursts with handmade crafts, food vendors, and local artists—running every weekend from spring to fall.

Experience Portland’s famed food cart culture, where clustered pods offer diverse global cuisine in a casual, community-focused environment.

 

That’s it for our list of things to do around Grand Mound! Remember, the Great Wolf Lodge indoor water park is kept at a comfortable 84-degrees, all year round. That means you can come visit us any time of the year! We also have plenty to do on dry land. Grab a wand and battle a dragon in MagiQuest, our live-action adventure game. Let the kids face new challenges on our ropes course from the safety of a climbing harness, or win prizes at our Northern lights arcade! Head over to our official site to learn more about what you can expect to find at the lodge!


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is Grand Mound, Washington known for?

There are so many things to do in Grand Mound, Washington, and it starts with one of the most famous paths in American history: The Oregon Trail. Passing directly nearby, it’s a must-see experience for families. And while the town itself is quite small, there’s so much more to discover: Nearby cities like Tumwater and Centralia offer a host of iconic tourist destinations. And with the seemingly endless natural beauty of its forests and mountains, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Washington state.

Why should my family make a visit to Grand Mound, WA?

Any list of “Grand Mound, WA Things To Do” will contain many sights and experiences that can only be found in a visit to the Pacific Northwest. Nearby cities like Tumwater and Centralia contain a host of appealing activities, while landmarks like Mt. Rainier are vital sightseeing destinations. Plus, the natural wonders of the coastline offers beautiful outdoor adventures. Of course, any visit should include a stay at our Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound—click here to learn more.

Where can I take my kids in Washington?

There are many things to do with kids in Washington state outside of Great Wolf Lodge. These include popular attractions, historical landmarks, famous tourist stops, and more. See our list of the “Things To Do In Washington State” for a longer list of options.

What are the top attractions and things to do in Washington?

A number of the most fun things to do in Grand Mound, WA can be found on our list above. From a visit to the Oregon Trail, to the natural beauty of the forests and mountains, to the numerous museums, parks, and other travel destinations, Washington state contains many popular attractions for tourists and families.

How far is Great Wolf Lodge Grand Mound from Seattle, Tacoma, and Portland?
Grand Mound is centrally located—about 1.5 hours from Seattle, under an hour from Tacoma, and roughly 2 hours from Portland—making it an easy family getaway for visitors from three major cities.
What are the best outdoor activities near Grand Mound, WA?
You’ll find scenic hiking trails, beautiful state parks, and quick access to the Oregon Trail’s historic routes. Nature lovers can explore Thurston County’s forests and rivers or take a day trip to Mount Rainier National Park.
Are there seasonal events near Great Wolf Lodge Washington?
Yes! Throughout the year, Thurston County and nearby Centralia and Olympia host farmers markets, cultural festivals, and holiday celebrations—perfect to pair with a stay at Great Wolf Lodge Grand Mound.