Salem OregonATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Salem, Oregon.
1. Enchanted Forest Theme Park
WHIMSICAL FOREST ADVENTURE
Enchanted Forest Theme Park offers a magical experience nestled in the beautiful lush forests of Oregon with hands-on adventures for all ages. Visitors can stroll through Storybook Lane, the Western Town, and the English Village while enjoying various attractions. This family-friendly destination combines natural beauty with fantasy elements to create a unique theme park experience.
2. Schreiner's Iris Gardens
SPECTACULAR SEASONAL BLOOMS
Schreiner's Iris Gardens showcases a spectacular display of iris blooms during their peak season in May. The gardens are typically open daily from May 12th to May 31st, offering visitors a chance to experience the colorful floral displays. This horticultural attraction has become a must-visit destination for flower enthusiasts and photographers alike.
3. Salem's Riverfront Carousel
HISTORIC HANDCRAFTED RIDE
Salem's Riverfront Carousel features a beautiful handcrafted operational carousel ride in historic downtown Salem at Riverfront Park. Local volunteers carved more than 40 horses by hand for this indoor carousel, which opened in 2001, adding to its rich history and charm. This family-friendly attraction offers affordable fun for all ages and is wheelchair accessible.
4. Riverfront Park
DOWNTOWN RIVERSIDE RECREATION
Riverfront Park serves as Salem's premier outdoor recreational space located along the Willamette River in the heart of downtown. The park features walking paths, open green spaces, and hosts the city's famous carousel. Visitors can enjoy riverside views, picnic areas, and various community events held throughout the year.
5. Oregon State Capitol
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Oregon State Capitol stands as the centerpiece of Salem's government district and serves as the home of the state legislature. The building features distinctive architecture topped with a gold pioneer statue and offers free tours of its marble interior and historical exhibits. Visitors can explore the surrounding grounds which include gardens, monuments, and impressive views of the city.
6. Willamette Valley Fruit Company
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
Willamette Valley Fruit Company offers visitors a taste of Oregon's agricultural bounty with their farm-fresh produce and specialty foods. The company specializes in berries and other locally grown fruits that can be purchased fresh or in prepared foods like pies and preserves. Their farm store provides a genuine farm-to-table experience that showcases the rich agricultural heritage of the Willamette Valley.
7. Gilbert House Children's Museum
INTERACTIVE EDUCATIONAL FUN
Gilbert House Children's Museum occupies a historic 1887 Queen Anne home that symbolizes the prosperity of Oregon Trail pioneers' descendants. Named after Salem native A.C. Gilbert, a renowned toy manufacturer and Olympic athlete, the museum opened in 1989 and offers 15 hands-on exhibits. Children and families can enjoy the interactive displays, outdoor discovery area, and educational programs designed to inspire learning through play.
8. Minto-Brown Island Park
VAST NATURAL PRESERVE
Minto-Brown Island Park spans over 1,200 acres, making it Salem's largest park and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features miles of walking and biking trails, wetlands, and wildlife viewing opportunities along the Willamette River. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, an off-leash dog park, and seasonal fishing while exploring this natural urban oasis.
9. Santiam Brewing
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Santiam Brewing offers a welcoming atmosphere for beer enthusiasts to sample a range of craft beers in their tasting room with shared tables and a dedicated cocktail bar. The brewery specializes in Classic British, American, and European beers, all brewed on-site with opportunities for visitors to tour the brewing facilities. This popular weekend gathering spot serves as a social hub where locals and visitors can meet new friends while learning about the brewing process.
10. Salem Saturday Market
VIBRANT LOCAL CULTURE
Salem Saturday Market has been a flourishing hub of local culture and community since 1998, featuring over 150 vendors selling fresh produce, handmade goods, and unique crafts. Visitors can enjoy live music, sample local cuisine, and engage with artisans in this bustling gathering place. The market offers a perfect opportunity to immerse oneself in Oregon's rich agricultural and artistic heritage while supporting local businesses.
11. Willamette University
HISTORIC ACADEMIC INSTITUTION
Willamette University, established in 1842, holds the distinction of being the oldest university in the Western United States. The campus features historic architecture, beautiful grounds, and cultural attractions that are open to visitors. Beyond its academic significance, the university contributes to Salem's cultural landscape with art exhibits, performances, and lecture series open to the public.
12. Bush's Pasture Park
HISTORIC GARDENS RETREAT
Bush's Pasture Park encompasses 90 acres of historic gardens, walking paths, and recreational areas in the heart of Salem. The park includes the Bush House Museum, which preserves the Victorian-era home of one of Salem's founding families. Visitors can enjoy rose gardens, open meadows, tennis courts, and seasonal events throughout this verdant urban sanctuary.
13. Elsinore Theatre
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Elsinore Theatre stands as a beautifully preserved historic venue in downtown Salem that has been entertaining audiences since 1926. The theater's Tudor Gothic architecture and ornate interior transport visitors to another era while enjoying concerts, films, and live performances. This cultural landmark continues to serve as a centerpiece of Salem's arts community with its diverse programming and architectural significance.
14. Silver Falls State Park
MAJESTIC WATERFALL TRAILS
Silver Falls State Park, located near Salem, features the renowned Trail of Ten Falls, a moderate hiking loop that passes behind several cascading waterfalls. As Oregon's largest state park, it offers over 9,000 acres of temperate rainforest, campgrounds, and day-use areas for visitors to enjoy. The park's unique combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and accessibility makes it one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the region.
15. The Oregon Garden
BOTANICAL WONDERLAND
The Oregon Garden showcases 80 acres of botanical beauty with over 20 specialty gardens designed to demonstrate the diverse plant palette that thrives in the Willamette Valley. Visitors can explore themed areas including a children's garden, conifer garden, and the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Gordon House on the property. The garden hosts seasonal events, educational programs, and offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers throughout the year.