Things to do in Salem

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Salem Travel Guide

Photo provided by Ron Cooper/Travel Salem

Oregon State Capitol showing street scenes

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What to do in Salem

Discover the most popular places to visit in Salem

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.

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.

Orchard Heights Winery

You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Orchard Heights Winery during your travels to Salem. While you're here, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion

Catch an event at Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion during your trip to Salem. Wander the area's picturesque gardens or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

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.

Salem Hospital

Though Salem Hospital might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Salem while you are here.

Chemeketa Community College

Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit Chemeketa Community College, during your trip to Hayesville. Wander the area's picturesque gardens or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Salem

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 Wunderland.

Central Area

If you're spending some time in Central Area, Elsinore Theater and Oregon State Capitol are top sights worth seeing.

Northgate

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

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.

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!

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.

Popular day trips from Salem

Silverton

Frequently asked questions

Is Salem worth visiting?

Whether you're here to enjoy the local charm and cultural hotspots or try regional foods and explore the outdoors, there's no shortage of things to do in Salem.

How do I spend a day in Salem?

After you've checked off top attractions like Enchanted Forest Theme Park and Willamette Heritage Center, spend the rest of your day enjoying Salem's retail and food scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in Salem?

Don't go home without exploring Enchanted Forest Theme Park, rated the top tourist attraction in Salem.

Is three days enough to stay in Salem?

Three days will give you time to tick off many city highlights, such as Willamette Heritage Center, Honeywood Winery and A.C. Gilbert's Discovery Village. The average stay in Salem is two days. If you have the urge to extend your trip, Corvallis isn't far away.

Is Salem a walkable city?

It all comes down to what you plan to do and see in Salem. Several top attractions, like Willamette Heritage Center and Honeywood Winery, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Salem's best neighborhoods, Southeast Salem is 2 kilometers away from downtown, while Central Area is 0.32 kilometers away from the city center and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Salem with kids?

If you're searching for attractions and activities for all the family, here are some fabulous ideas for what to do in Salem with kids.

What to do in Salem for adults?

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or fan of nature, there are loads of things to do in Salem for adults including Honeywood Winery and Witness Tree Vineyard.

Are there free things to do in Salem?

One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Salem is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on interesting neighborhoods, parks and other hotspots you can enjoy without opening your wallet. State Capitol State Park is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.