Welcome to Salem, Oregon – a city filled with charm and a diverse range of activities to explore. From historic sites to outdoor adventures, Salem has something for everyone. As your Salem travel guide, we have put together a list of the top 10 things to do in Salem (Oregon) that will make your trip unforgettable. Discover must-visit places in Salem, popular landmarks, and top tourist spots that will keep you engaged throughout your stay. Whether you’re looking for the best attractions in Salem or top-rated activities in Salem such as outdoor activities in Salem, this guide has it all. Read on to plan your perfect trip to Salem, Oregon.
Experience Salem’s Rich History
If you’re a history buff, Salem has plenty of historic sites to discover. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich past by visiting some of its best attractions and must-see spots. (historic sites in Salem, best attractions in Salem)
One of the most iconic landmarks in Salem is the Oregon State Capitol, which was built in the 1930s and boasts an impressive interior design featuring artworks and murals. Take a guided tour and learn more about the history and architecture of this magnificent building.
Another popular attraction for history enthusiasts is the Willamette Heritage Center, a living history museum that showcases the city’s past through exhibits and interactive experiences. Discover how early pioneers and settlers lived and worked in the Willamette Valley. (best attractions in Salem)
If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, head over to the Deepwood Estate, a beautifully restored historic home that transports visitors back to the turn of the 20th century. The estate offers guided tours, garden walks, and special events throughout the year. (historic sites in Salem)
Top Historic Sites in Salem
| Name of Historic Site | Description |
|---|---|
| Oregon State Capitol | Constructed in the 1930s, this iconic building features murals and artworks that showcase the state’s rich history and cultural heritage. |
| Willamette Heritage Center | A living history museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of early pioneers and settlers in Salem and the Willamette Valley. |
| Deepwood Estate | A beautifully restored historic home that offers guided tours, garden walks, and special events throughout the year. |
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Salem’s rich history and learn more about its heritage and culture. (best attractions in Salem)
Immerse Yourself in Art and Culture
Salem is not only famous for its historical landmarks and outdoor activities but also for its artistic and cultural offerings.
One of the best-rated activities in Salem is to explore the city’s rich cultural and artistic scene, which has a lot to offer. To get a feel for the place, head over to the Hallie Ford Museum of Art, which displays a range of permanent and rotating exhibits that showcase the variety of the region’s artistic styles.
Catching a show at the Historic Elsinore Theatre is also a great way to experience Salem’s cultural vitality. The theatre offers a range of events throughout the year, including live performances by renowned artists, concerts, and film screenings.
If you want to explore the local arts scene in-depth, then a visit to the Salem Art Association should be on your itinerary. The association operates multiple galleries and hosts art exhibits throughout the year, providing a platform for local artists to showcase their creations.
In conclusion, Salem’s artistic and cultural attractions are some of the best attractions in Salem, and exploring them should be on every visitor’s bucket list.
Discover the Outdoors in Salem
When it comes to outdoor activities in Salem, there’s something for everyone. From hiking to biking, exploring gardens to waterfalls, this city has it all for nature lovers.
One of the best places to visit is the Oregon Garden, a 80-acre botanical garden with over 20 specialty gardens to explore. Enjoy a peaceful walk among the flowers, or take a guided tour to learn about the garden’s history and unique features.
Another must-visit spot is Silver Falls State Park, where you can explore a variety of hiking trails, including a 7.2-mile loop that will take you past ten breathtaking waterfalls. Visitors can also enjoy camping, picnicking, and fishing in the park.
For those who love biking and hiking, the Willamette River offers plenty of opportunities to explore the scenic beauty of Salem. The Eola Hills Wine Cellars Ride is one of the most popular routes, which takes cyclists through rolling hills and vineyards. You can also take advantage of the 2-mile Riverfront Park Loop, which offers stunning views of the river and easy access to Salem’s downtown area.
“Exploring Salem’s outdoor activities was the highlight of my trip. There’s nothing like getting out in nature and experiencing the beauty of Oregon firsthand.” – Emily, Austin, Texas
Explore Salem’s Thriving Food Scene
If you’re a foodie, Salem is the perfect destination for you. With a diverse culinary scene, there are must-visit places in Salem for unforgettable dining experiences.
Visit the Salem Saturday Market for Fresh Produce
The Salem Saturday Market is a popular attraction for locals and visitors alike. Here, you can find fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal crafts, and delicious food trucks serving a variety of cuisines.
Enjoy Local Wines at the Willamette Valley Vineyards
Salem is located in the heart of Willamette Valley wine country, making it an excellent place to indulge in local wines. The Willamette Valley Vineyards offer tastings and tours, allowing you to experience the beauty of the vineyard while enjoying award-winning wines.
Indulge in Delicious Farm-to-Table Dishes at Top-Rated Restaurants
Salem’s culinary scene features some of the best farm-to-table dining in the region. From classic burgers to creative vegan dishes, there’s something for everyone at the city’s top-rated restaurants. Check out Wild Pear, Rafns’ Restaurant, or Bentley’s Grill for unforgettable dining experiences.
Family Fun in Salem
If you’re looking for family-friendly activities in Salem, you won’t be disappointed. The city has plenty of top-rated activities that are sure to keep everyone entertained. Here are some of the best attractions in Salem that your whole family will enjoy:
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Enchanted Forest Theme Park | If you have kids, the Enchanted Forest Theme Park is a must-visit attraction. This outdoor amusement park is filled with rides, shows, and attractions that are perfect for children of all ages. Let your imagination run wild as you explore the park’s fantasy-themed areas. |
| Gilbert House Children’s Museum | The Gilbert House Children’s Museum is another great attraction for kids. The museum features a variety of hands-on exhibits that teach children about science, technology, and the arts. There’s even an outdoor playground where kids can burn off some energy. |
| Salem Riverfront Park | The Salem Riverfront Park is a beautiful park located along the Willamette River. The park features a playground, a splash fountain, and an amphitheater that hosts concerts and events throughout the year. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day enjoying the great outdoors. |
With these top-rated activities in Salem, your family is sure to have a fun and memorable trip to this charming city.
Explore Salem’s Vibrant Downtown
Take a break from nature and immerse yourself in the lively downtown area in Salem. With several popular landmarks and attractions, there’s plenty to explore.
Salem Riverfront Carousel
Take a ride on the Salem Riverfront Carousel, a historic wooden carousel with intricately carved animals, including horses, a dragon, and a phoenix. It’s a must-see attraction for families and kids of all ages. Admire the detailed craftsmanship while enjoying a magical ride.
Reed Opera House
Take a walk through history at the historic Reed Opera House, where you’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. The building dates back to 1869 and was once the original home of the Salem Post Office. Today, it’s a must-visit destination in Salem for shopping and dining.
Riverfront Park
Take a leisurely stroll through the stunning Riverfront Park, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. You can enjoy a picnic or take a bike ride along the Willamette River.
Overall, downtown Salem is the perfect place to spend a day exploring, with its vibrant energy and great attractions. Don’t miss out on these best attractions in Salem!
Unwind in Salem’s Parks and Gardens
If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to one of Salem’s many parks and gardens. From manicured lawns to scenic trails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Bush’s Pasture Park
Spend a relaxing day at Bush’s Pasture Park, a 90-acre wooded park located just south of downtown Salem. You’ll find over a dozen gardens to explore, including the stunning Rose Garden and the tranquil Japanese Garden. Take a stroll around the park’s walking trails or bring a picnic and enjoy a meal in the shade of one of the many trees.
Deepwood Estate
One of Salem’s most beautiful gardens can be found at the historic Deepwood Estate. The gardens feature rare and unique plants, including the famous Deepwood Rhododendron, as well as a stunning glass conservatory. Take a guided tour of the estate and learn about its fascinating history and architecture.
Minto-Brown Island Park
For a more rugged outdoor experience, head to Minto-Brown Island Park, Salem’s largest park. This 1,200-acre natural area is home to over 30 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as several picnic areas and fishing spots. Don’t miss the park’s wetlands, which offer an incredible opportunity for birdwatching.
Explore Salem’s Vineyards and Wineries
When it comes to top-rated activities in Salem, visiting the vineyards and wineries is a must-try. The city is blessed with some of the finest wineries in the country, with a wide range of local wines to taste and enjoy. Take a tour of the local wineries in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA, where you can witness the winemaking process and enjoy tastings of world-class wines.
The Ankeny Vineyard is one of the most renowned wineries in Salem, known for its crisp white wines and rich reds. You can experience the beauty of their property and enchanting vineyards while tasting some of the best wines in the region.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable tasting experience, look no further than the Willamette Valley Vineyards. As one of the most popular must-visit places in Salem, this winery offers an extensive list of wines from multiple grape varieties and impressive vineyard views.
Onsite Events and Wine Tours
Many of the vineyards in and around Salem offer unique experiences like wine tastings, vineyard tours, and special events. Some of the events include live music, wine pairing dinners, vineyard games, and educational vineyard tours lead by the winery’s resident wine expert.
At Willamette Valley Vineyards, they have ‘Wine Country Experience’, which is an immersive and informative tour of the vineyard that highlights everything from the harvest to the bottling process. You can also take guided tours that involve wine tastings at the end of each vineyard tour.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Salem during harvest season, many of the vineyards offer grape-stomping activities, where visitors can get in on the traditional winemaking process.
The Best Wineries in Salem – A Summary
| Winery | Address | Top Wines |
|---|---|---|
| Ankeny Vineyard | 2565 Riverside Drive S, Salem, OR 97306 | Piont Noir, White Pinot Noir, Chancellor |
| Willamette Valley Vineyards | 8800 Enchanted Way SE, Turner, OR 97392 | Piont Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay |
| Brooks Winery | 21101 SE Cherry Blossom Lane, Amity, OR 97101 | Riesling, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay |
If you’re a wine lover, there’s no better place to be than Salem, Oregon. With its rich wine history, picturesque vineyards, and impressive wine tours, Salem is a top-rated destination for wine enthusiasts from around the world. So, plan your trip now, and indulge in some of the world’s finest wines at these must-visit places in Salem.
Dive into Salem’s Festivals and Events
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Salem’s festivals and events. From cultural celebrations to seasonal events, Salem offers a wide range of activities that will entertain people of all ages. Attending events in Salem is also a great way to experience popular landmarks and top tourist spots in Salem. Here are some of the top festivals and events to add to your list:
| Festival/Event | Description |
|---|---|
| Oregon State Fair | The Oregon State Fair is a 10-day event that celebrates Oregon’s culture, agriculture, and industry. The fair features live music, carnival rides, food vendors, and animal shows like the livestock exhibition. |
| Salem Art Fair & Festival | The Salem Art Fair & Festival is an annual event held in July that attracts artists and visitors from all over the Pacific Northwest. The fair features over 200 artists, live music, food vendors, and art activities for children. |
| Christmas in the Garden | Celebrate the holiday season with the Christmas in the Garden event at the Oregon Garden. The event features an ice skating rink, a Christmas market, holiday lights, and visits with Santa and his reindeer. |
Don’t miss out on Salem’s festive spirit and make sure to add one of these events to your itinerary.
Unforgettable Day Trips from Salem
If you have some extra time to spare, Salem can be an exceptionally convenient base for some amazing day trips. Here are three fantastic nearby attractions you can explore:
Silverton and Oregon Garden Resort
Drive about 15 miles from Salem to Silverton, which is known for its downtown shopping area and the fantastic Oregon Garden Resort. The resort features beautiful gardens with numerous flora and fauna species, along with a wide range of events, activities, and amenities for visitors of all ages. Take a walk through the stunning gardens, enjoy some tea in one of the outdoor seating areas, or dine at the resort restaurant while overlooking the gardens.
Silver Falls State Park
Around 25 miles from Salem, Silver Falls State Park is a breathtaking natural area that is known for its stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and camping facilities. Visit the park to take in the beauty of cascading waterfalls, enjoy a hike through old growth forests, and take in some fresh air. Make sure to complete the Trail of Ten Falls, a moderate seven-mile hike that takes you to 10 magnificent waterfalls.
Independence Historic District
Travel approximately 10 miles from Salem to Independence, a charming small town that offers a glimpse into life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Discover this historic district, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and explore the vintage architecture, the quaint shops, and the local museums. Don’t miss visiting the Independence Heritage Museum, which houses collections of local artifacts, including photos, documents, and objects that date back to the town’s early days.
With all these incredible day trip options to choose from, your visit to Salem, Oregon is sure to be unforgettable. Plan your itinerary, pack your bags, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories.
Conclusion
Congratulations on discovering the top 10 things to do in Salem, Oregon! This charming city is packed with activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. From exploring Salem’s rich history to immersing yourself in art and culture, discovering the outdoors, and indulging in the local food scene, Salem has something for everyone.
Make sure to explore Salem’s vibrant downtown, experience the festivals and events, and take unforgettable day trips to nearby attractions. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or nature lover, Salem has plenty to offer. Get ready to create unforgettable memories and explore this beautiful city!
