Where to stay

Book a room in a Downtown hotel to explore Salem's rich history. This is where most of the town's old buildings are located, including the Ladd and Bush Bank Building, constructed in 1869, and the Reed Opera House, which opened in 1869. On the banks of Silver Creek, Silverton is another historic place to stay. Founded in 1854, it was originally a railroad town that prospered from shipping timber and flour. The town still has many buildings dating from the late 1800s, as well as a quaint century-old covered bridge.

Salem is a fantastic destination for food lovers, with a variety of cuisines to savor. Stay in the Downtown area to be within reach of the city's best dining spots, including farm-to-table restaurants championing seasonal ingredients sourced from the Willamette Valley. There are also modern American bistros, traditional steakhouses, smokehouses, and authentic Mexican joints. For an alternative food experience, stay in the town of Mt Angel, founded by German immigrants, to sample Bavarian-inspired food. One of the best experiences to enjoy in Salem is touring the many wineries, cider farms, and breweries in the Willamette Valley. Book accommodations south of the city in Monmouth or Independence to find at least 20 wineries within a short driving distance.

Those who love getting out into nature have numerous options for staying in or near Salem. Choose a hotel in South Salem for easy access to Minto-Brown Island Park, a fantastic green space adored by locals, with bike paths, picnic areas, and paved trails for running. Hikers should consider accommodations in Silverton. From here it is about a 20-minute drive to Silver Falls State Park, a beautiful area with spectacular waterfall hikes. Slightly farther away, birdwatchers should find a hotel in Dallas, about a 5-mile drive from the Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge and a haven for birds from hundreds of species.