Rainier is a rural town in Thurston County, Washington, located thirteen miles east of Olympia in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. It’s a scenic and peaceful area, with an abundance of wildlife and nature reserves. It’s a great place for outdoor activities, with two golf courses, Rainbow Falls State Park and a number of trails that can be explored.
1. Rainier Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
A perfect way to get to know someone better on your first date could be to take a leisurely stroll in one of Rainier’s many parks. Rainbow Falls State Park is a great place to start, being a 168-acre park located right in the heart of Rainier. Here you’ll find plenty of trails to explore, a waterfall, as well as camping and picnic sites. There’s also Len Boushee Park, an 81-acre park with a beautiful lake and many pathways to explore. For more outdoor activities, try the Jarrell Cove State Park, which offers numerous trails, boat access and swimming during the warmer months.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Rainier
If you’d rather spend your first date indoors sipping on a cup of coffee, then why not try one of Rainier’s many specialty coffee shops? The local favorite is for sure the Rainier Coffee Company, located on Yelm Highway. They serve up delicious coffee, as well as pastries and other snacks. Another great spot for a coffee date is Firebird Cafe, located off of the Yelm Highway. Not only does Firebird serve mouth-watering coffee, but it also has a great selection of teas and pastries.
3. Rainier Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
If you and your date enjoy learning more about the history and culture of the area, why not check out some of the galleries, museums, and exhibitions in Rainier? The Rainier Historical Museum offers an interactive walking tour of the many historic sites around the town. Another great spot for exploring is the Coho Gallery, showcasing art from local artists. The gallery hosts a number of events throughout the year, from live music to art classes and more.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Rainier
Rainier is home to a thriving live music scene, and there are plenty of events to attend with your date. The Rainier Music Festival is a great way to sample a variety of local acts and genres, ranging from jazz to folk music. Another fantastic option is the Rainier Blues Festival – an electric night of live music, food, and drinks. For more intimate experiences, check out the open mic nights at Skate Park Cafe, or local gigs at The Governor’s Hall.
5. Rainier Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Rainier is home to many great restaurants, pubs, and bars. For a casual date night, why not try the Rainier Brewery, one of the oldest breweries in the Pacific Northwest. The brewery offers delicious food and handcrafted beer, perfect for sharing with your date. For something fancier, try the Oysters and More, a seafood restaurant and bar with a great atmosphere and a wide selection of wine and beer.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Rainier
Rainier also offers many other activities for a perfect first date. Board games, mini-golf and bowling can be enjoyed at the Rainier Family Fun Center, a great spot for a more laid-back evening. If you’re looking for something more action-packed, then the Rainier Go-Kart Racing Center is a great option. Finally, explore the night sky together at the Rainier Astronomical Society, where you’ll have access to a state-of-the-art planetarium.
