The 10 Best Things to do Good for a Rainy Day in Salem, Oregon (OR)

January 21, 2022 Esmeralda Fenner

Named from the anglicized form of the Hebrew word "shalom," meaning peace, Salem provides visitors with exactly that - plus a horde of historic sites to explore and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Oregon's capital, one of the oldest cities in the state, exudes simple, small-town hospitality with just enough politics and culture to keep things interesting. Tour the grand, gold-domed State Capitol to learn about the workings of the government, then head to the observation deck for a fantastic view of Salem and its surrounding area. Although the whole city is a living history lesson, brimming with old buildings and landmarks, the Mill Mission Museum is a definite standout. Art buffs should not miss the impressive Pacific Northwest collection at the Hallie Ford Art Museum. In between sights, take time to people watch or picnic at Bush's Pasture Park, or enjoy wine tasting at some of the local vineyards. Salem's idyllic setting, in the heart of the emerald Willamette Valley, coupled with its historic role as political hub for Oregon make it the perfect choice for a delightful and interesting weekend away.
Restaurants in Salem

1. Salem Cinema

1127 Broadway St NE, Salem, OR 97301-1123 +1 503-378-7676 http://www.salemcinema.com/
Excellent
80%
Good
18%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 51 reviews

Salem Cinema

2. Prestige Wine Tours

Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 27 reviews

Prestige Wine Tours

Private, custom winery tasting tours, waterfall hikes, and truffle hunting excursions. Prestige Wine Tours is excited to share the joy and inspiration of the Willamette Valley with you!

3. The Rock Boxx Climbing Gym

3895 Cascadia Canyon Ave SE, Salem, OR 97302-1377 +1 503-371-3134 [email protected] http://therockboxx.com
Excellent
93%
Good
4%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 27 reviews

The Rock Boxx Climbing Gym

The Rock Boxx is a family friendly rock climbing gym and fitness facility in Salem OR. We have great kids climbing programs and a community room that can be rented out for great birthday parties! We offer fitness only memberships for $15/month that include group fitness classes and unlimited access to our fitness area. Looking for fun things to do in Salem? Check us out!

4. Oregon State Capitol

900 Court St NE, Salem, OR 97301-4042 +1 503-986-1388 http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/citizen_engagement/Pages/Visit-the-Capitol.aspx
Excellent
53%
Good
36%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
2%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 393 reviews

Oregon State Capitol

Architecture and history enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to this white, Greek-style building whose rotunda is topped with a gold leaf statue representing Oregon's first settlers. Inside are murals depicting state history, and outside are sculptures, gardens and grounds for strolling or picnicking.

Reviewed By Josephivimey - Plymouth, United States

Always impressed by the Oregon State Capital building with its gold man standing watch over the Art Deco marble building built in the mid 1930s after the previous capital was destroyed by fire.

5. Gilbert House Children's Museum

116 Marion St NE, Salem, OR 97301-3437 +1 503-371-3631 [email protected] http://www.acgilbert.org/
Excellent
67%
Good
26%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 187 reviews

Gilbert House Children's Museum

Gilbert House Children's Museum (formerly known as A.C. Gilbert's Discovery Village) is a private nonprofit children's museum connected to downtown Salem's Riverfront Park. Founded in 1989, Gilbert House provides innovative and stimulating educational experiences which spark children's natural curiosity. The Museum's mission is to "inspire children to learn through creative play." This is accomplished through fun and challenging exhibits, camps, birthday parties, membership opportunities and outreach programs in the sciences, arts, and humanities. The Museum is composed of three historic houses; the Rockenfield House, Gilbert House and Parrish House.

Reviewed By turkeyred - Los Angeles, United States

As Children museums go, this one is rates 2 thumbs way up! It has so many great features, learning, education and play areas. I will continue to take my Grandchildren back for many years.

6. Salem Public Library

585 Liberty St SE, Salem, OR 97301-3591 +1 503-588-6052 http://www.cityofsalem.net/Departments/Library/Pages/home.aspx
Excellent
70%
Good
24%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 116 reviews

Salem Public Library

7. Capitol City Theater

210 Liberty St SE, Salem, OR 97301-3491 +1 971-599-1871 [email protected] http://capitolcitytheater.com/
Excellent
62%
Good
23%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
8%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 13 reviews

Capitol City Theater

8. Hallie Ford Museum of Art

700 State St, Salem, OR 97301-3849 +1 503-370-6855 [email protected] http://www.willamette.edu/go/hfma
Excellent
66%
Good
24%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
3%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 59 reviews

Hallie Ford Museum of Art

An outstanding collection of Native American baskets is one of the highlights of this Willamette University museum, which specializes in art of the Pacific Northwest and also features European and Asian art.

Reviewed By DarrylL833 - Marana, United States

There was a special exhibit when we toured and it was fascinating. The permanent exhibits also are fine and well worth your time.

9. Willamette Heritage Center

1313 Mill St SE, Salem, OR 97301-6398 +1 503-585-7012 [email protected] http://www.willametteheritage.org
Excellent
57%
Good
34%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
3%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 99 reviews

Willamette Heritage Center

The Willamette Heritage Center, formerly the Mission Mill, is a National Parks-designated American Treasure. Take a trip to the past with a costumed guide-led tour through all stages of the wool production process at the restored 1889 water-powered wool mill. Located on a beautiful 5-acre campus in the heart of Salem, the Willamette Heritage Center is also home to the oldest homes in the state. The Lee House and Methodist Parsonage, both built in 1841, as well as the Boon House (1847) and Pleasant Grove Church (1858), are all available for tours. With a total of 14 historic structures, permanent and changing exhibits, a cafe, shops, art galleries, and event spaces, there's always plenty to see at the Willamette Heritage Center. The site is a paradise for history buffs, explorers, and photographers alike. Stop by Monday through Saturday, 10 to 5, to discover the history of the Mid-Willamette Valley.

Reviewed By IdahoGirl83716 - Boise, United States

Mission Mill Museum is the crown jewel here. I am a weaver, or was a weaver.... anyway I know a bit about looms, wool, carding, dying and spinning, so you can imagine why I found this museum SO awesome! But even my friend, who was NOT a weaver of any sort, loved it. It's like stepping back in time, you can just hear the machines running and see in your minds eye, the looms churning out fabric. The Mill Building is impressive, as are the several historical houses that were moved to the grounds. Watch the introductory movie then you won't have to read every word of the (lengthy) signage. Over-all, very educational and the grounds are lovely.

10. Bush House Museum

600 Mission St SE Bush's Pasture Park, Salem, OR 97302-6203 +1 503-363-4714 http://salemart.org/programs/bush-house-museum/
Excellent
57%
Good
30%
Satisfactory
13%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 46 reviews

Bush House Museum

Located in Bush’s Pasture Park, the Bush House Museum is Salem’s 19th century time capsule. Operated by the Salem Art Association on behalf of the City of Salem, the Museum offers tours to the public and preserves and interprets the heritage of the Bush House and Bush’s Pasture Park to illuminate Oregon history and culture associated with the lives and legacy of Salem’s Bush Family. Featuring many iconic 19th century furnishings, this once technologically advanced home also contains much of its original decor. As the comfortable home of a Bush family member until 1953, the Bush House Museum continues to welcome Salem visitors of all ages throughout the year. While in Bush’s Pasture Park, visitors can also explore the recently restored 1882 Conservatory, the second oldest in the west, and the Bush Barn Art Center. The 90 acre park also features walking trails, a civic rose garden and several children’s play areas.

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