Things to do in Salem

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Salem

Types of activities

Where to stay

Salem travel guide

Salem featuring a city, mountains and skyline

Oregon State Capitol showing street scenes

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What to do in Salem

Popular places to visit

Willamette Valley Vineyards

4/5(1 review)

You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Willamette Valley Vineyards during your travels to Turner. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Pedestrian Peter Courtney Minto Island Bridge in the Riverfront city park in Salem, Oregon, over Willamette River

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 savour 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.

Bush's Pasture Park

Bush's Pasture Park is just one of the places to see in Salem, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the area's festivals or attend a sporting event.

Trees at Mount Hood, Oregon; Shutterstock ID 204325651; Purchase Order: -

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 savour 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.

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

If Salem Hospital is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Salem.

Elsinore Theater

Get tickets for a show at Elsinore Theater, a popular theatre in Salem. While you're here, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Areas of Salem

Hiking Trails at Silver Falls State Park in Oregon USA America

Northgate

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

Southeast Salem

If you're spending some time in Southeast Salem, Honeywood Winery and Wunderland are top sights worth seeing.

High-angle view of downtown Salem, showing city streets, buildings, and parking lots. Urban development along a river. Oregon, USA

Central Area

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

Double Arch Bridge at Riverfront Park in Salem

West Salem

When in West Salem, you can plan a visit to Salem Riverfront Carousel and Minto-Brown Island Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

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

Northeast Neighbors

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

Japanese Dolls display. I thought this was kinda pretty

South Central

If you're spending some time in South Central, Bush House Museum and Soap box derby are top sights worth seeing.

Aumsville

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 Centre, 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 Centre, 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 Centre and Honeywood Winery, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Salem's best neighbourhoods, Southeast Salem is 2 kilometres away from downtown, while Central Area is 0.32 kilometres away from the city centre 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 neighbourhoods, 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.

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