Central Area, OR
Salem
Visit Central Area
Popular places to visit
Elsinore Theater
Enjoy a performance at Elsinore Theater, a storied theater in Salem. While you're here, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.
Oregon State Capitol
Watch legislative sessions, learn about key moments in Oregon’s history and admire the art deco architecture of one of the most recognizable buildings in the state.
Willamette Valley Vineyards
You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Willamette Valley Vineyards during your travels to Turner. While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.
Bush House Museum
Step back in time at this original late-19th-century farmstead and art gallery to discover Oregon’s pioneering history and the legacy of one of its founding families.
Salem Riverfront Park
After visiting Salem Riverfront Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Salem. While you're here, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.
Willamette University
Explore the campus of Willamette University, during your trip to Salem. While you're in the area, wander around picturesque gardens.
Things to do
Private Wine Excursion Willamette Valley, Oregon - Wine Tour
Silver Falls Waterfall Hiking Tour from Portland
Willamette Valley Boutique Winery Tour with Lunch
Private - Willamette Valley Wine Tour From Portland (tasting fees included)
Central Area Hotel Deals
Holman Riverfront Park Hotel Salem, Tapestry by Hilton
new hotel, big lobby with nice seating area. best hotel I've found in downtown Salem.
Reviewed on Nov 23, 2025
The Grand Hotel - Salem
Staff couldn’t be friendlier. Love the warm cookies at check in. Room was large and comfortable and clean. The lobby I’d large and comfortable and invites you to come sit and rest. Love this hotel!
Reviewed on Nov 21, 2025
The Hotel Salem
Room was very nice. Breakfast was a little sparse. With the addition of just a few things it could have been much better. Overall I would stay there again. Also the fitness room would have been great if it had a water cooler in there.
Reviewed on Nov 23, 2025
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Salem OR
Liked the assortment of snacks Staff was nice , breakfast was good enough Rooms were clean , but lighting could be upgraded / that’s rooms were dark even with lights on
Reviewed on Nov 24, 2025
Best Western Plus Mill Creek Inn
Stay was great. Staff was so nice and very helpful
Reviewed on Nov 23, 2025
Comfort Suites Salem
Bed was super comfortable and it was quiet. Everything was super clean. I wanted to use the hot tub, but there were too many children having a great time (good for them - I was just not feeling it), so I can't speak for the pool area.
Reviewed on Nov 25, 2025
Other neighborhoods around Central Area
Court-Chemeketa Historic District
Court-Chemeketa Historic District might not have many top sights, but Oregon State Capitol and Willamette Heritage Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Grant
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Grant and surrounding area, you can visit Willamette Heritage Center and Salem Armory Auditorium.
Northeast Neighbors
If you're spending some time in Northeast Neighbors, Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion and Salem Armory Auditorium are top sights worth seeing.
South Central
Just south of downtown Salem, discover Bush's Pasture Park, Asahel Bush House and Museum, and Deepwood Estate, all nestled within the Gaiety Hill-Bush's Pasture Park Historic District. Enjoy a mix of history and green spaces!
Southeast Salem
While visiting Southeast Salem, you might make a stop by sights like Regal Santiam and Honeywood Winery.
Highland
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Highland and surrounding area, you can visit Salem Armory Auditorium and L. B. Day Amphitheater.