Things to do in Salem

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Photo provided by Travel Salem
Photo provided by Ron Cooper/Travel Salem
Photo provided by Ron Cooper/Travel Salem
Oregon State Capitol showing street scenes
Photo provided by Ron Cooper/Travel Salem

Salem Attractions

Found in the heart of the verdant Willamette Valley, Oregon's capital city of Salem combines a lush setting with an important role in state history. The city's abundant green spaces and location alongside the Willamette River showcase its Pacific Northwest beauty, while its vibrant downtown area beckons with an inviting mix of restaurants, shops, and historic landmarks. Salem has also established itself as a world-class destination for wine lovers, who journey to the city to taste the delicious products of the area's fertile vineyards. As you explore Oregon's third-largest city, discover a wealth of things to see and do right at your fingertips.


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What to do in Salem

Free Things to Do in Salem

Vacationing on a shoestring budget in Salem? Spend time instead of money on great experiences.

Salem Armory Auditorium - Spend a bit of time here and get an insight into the artistic and cultural side of the region.

Salem Riverfront Carousel - Fun, fun and more fun is what's waiting for you at this entertaining attraction.

Chemeketa Community College - Architecture lovers will no doubt enjoy marveling at the impressive modern design of this local landmark.

Union Street Railroad Bridge - If you're curious about times gone by, this is one stop you ought to visit.

Minto-Brown Island Park - There's something calming about being around water, so spend a while here.

Salem Hospital - Well known among local residents, this site is worth a look.

Salem First United Methodist Church - Incorporate a little spirituality into your travels by spending some time at this religious sanctuary.

Salem Riverfront Park - Whether you can separate your cacti from carnations, you'll find beauty in this picturesque display.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Salem

Locals love the outdoors in Salem, and it's easy to see why. Beyond the central downtown area, the city's many serene parks, gardens, and trails offer nearly endless opportunities for recreation amidst the picturesque Willamette Valley scenery.

Downtown

Peppered with sights including the Oregon State Capital and Willamette University, Downtown is the place to begin exploring Salem. Wander among historic buildings that have been converted into buzzing local boutiques and eateries, such as the elegant Reed Opera House.

Bush's Pasture Park

Bush's Pasture Park encompasses 91 acres (36 ha) worth of wooded areas and grassy meadows perfect for walking and jogging. For a stunning look at Victorian architecture, visit the Bush House Museum, or take a house history tour of the Deepwood Museum and Gardens.

Minto-Brown Island Park

For a true retreat to nature, head to Minto-Brown Island Park, Salem's largest green space that sprawls bigger than New York's Central Park. Trek miles of trails alongside the tranquil Willamette River, and check out spots for fishing and paddle boating.

Things to See in Salem

Get to know Salem's scenic beauty and interesting history with a variety of sights to discover in the downtown area. Start by admiring the spectacular architecture and cherry tree-filled grounds of the Oregon State Capitol, where the inner workings of the state government unfold. Across, the street, you can take a stroll around the green lawns of Willamette University—the oldest university in the Western United States. Make your way to the western edge of the campus for a visit to the Hallie Ford Museum of Art. Here, Oregon artists take center stage, including a collection of basketry created by Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest. At the Willamette Heritage Center, take a step back in time to the mid-19th century as you uncover some of Salem's oldest buildings, including a woolen mill converted into a museum.

Sightseeing in Salem

The activities waiting for you in Salem range from outdoorsy to artsy. Soak up the beauty of the Willamette Valley right in Downtown Salem at Riverfront Park, which stretches along the ambling Willamette River. Visitors flock here to attend the World Beat Festival each year, and attractions like the Riverfront Carousel and the Gilbert House Children's Museum deliver on family-friendly fun. If you're seeking more things to do with the kids, step into a magical land at Enchanted Forest Theme Park, where adventurers of all ages can wander down Storybook Lane, explore a medieval European village, and uncover the secrets of an old Western town. For a chance to indulge your taste buds, opt for a winetasting tour and let a guide introduce you to the area's wealth of wineries. After a day among the vineyards, continue your cultural experience with live music or an iconic film at the historic Elsinore Theatre, or immerse yourself in community theater at the Pentacle Theatre. Finally, if you're planning a summer trip to Salem, consider visiting during the month of August to check out the Oregon State Fair, an annual tradition held in the city since 1862.

Things to Do in Salem with Kids

You'll find plenty of fun activities to do with the kids in and around Salem. Keep everyone happy with our family friendly experiences.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Salem? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Salem

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Salem

Salem featuring a garden

Central Area

If you're spending some time in Central Area, Salem First United Methodist Church and Elsinore Theater are top sights worth seeing.

Central Area
Creepy, "Silent Hill" type factory town in center Oregon. Or maybe I just play too many video games.

Southeast Salem

4/5(157 area reviews)

While visiting Southeast Salem, you might make a stop by sights like Honeywood Winery and Willamette Heritage Center.

Southeast Salem
Great place to get your pork belly and truffle shoestring fries with blue cheese fix!

#foodie

West Salem

4.5/5(28 area reviews)

When in West Salem, you can plan a visit to Salem Riverfront Carousel and Union Street Railroad Bridge, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

West Salem
Salem Fairgrounds on a non-fair day

Northgate

While visiting Northgate, you might make a stop by sights like L. B. Day Amphitheater and Oregon State Fair Skychairs.

Northgate
Random old house that looked like it had history and was very classic

Northeast Neighbors

4/5(9 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Northeast Neighbors, Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion and Salem Armory Auditorium are top sights worth seeing.

Northeast Neighbors
Best sushi I've had yet in Oregon.

Morningside

4/5(53 area reviews)

Though Morningside might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Oregon State Capitol and Elsinore Theater.

Morningside

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Salem

Frequently asked questions

Is Salem worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to experience the local charm and cultural highlights or sample regional foods and explore the outdoors, there's no shortage of things to do in Salem.
How do I spend a day in Salem?
Enchanted Forest Theme Park and Willamette Heritage Center are two awesome places to begin your vacation adventures. Remember to explore the dining and retail options in Salem while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Salem?
The top tourist attraction in Salem is Enchanted Forest Theme Park, so make sure to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Salem?
Three days will be plenty of time to check out some popular city attractions, including Willamette Heritage Center, Honeywood Winery and Town and Country Bowling Lanes. The average stay in Salem is two days. If you have the time to extend your break, Corvallis isn't far away.
Is Salem a walkable city?
Some top attractions in Salem, like Willamette Heritage Center and Honeywood Winery, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Just 1 mile from central Salem is Southeast Salem and Central Area is 0.2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Salem with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with fun activities sets the tone for a great escape. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Salem with kids.

What to do in Salem for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Salem, with activities for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Honeywood Winery or Witness Tree Vineyard.
Are there free things to do in Salem?
In Salem, State Capitol State Park is a top spot for anyone looking to see the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a great way to find out about the best free things to do in Salem.