Location: Salem
Top Things to do in Salem
The 10 Best Things to Do in Salem, United States
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. Schreiner's Iris Gardens
Overall Ratings
5 based on 182 reviews
In the month of May, we invite you to stroll through our 10-acre display gardens. View hundreds of Iris in bloom. Order Iris to ship to plant at your home. Shop our gift boutique, plant sale, and cut Iris by the stem or by the dozen. Gardens open daily 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during the month of May. Parking $5/car. Season parking pass, $10. Gardens closed in summer and winter months. Office remains open year-round, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Reviewed By Pam C - Salem, Oregon
Beautiful gardens with well marked varieties of Iris and other flowers. Catalogs are available. Cut flowers, plants and a gift shop are on site, as are food vendors.Thank you for visiting the gardens in May, and thank you for taking the time to share your positive review of your experience. Best regards!
2. Salem's Riverfront Carousel
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 397 reviews
Reviewed By Marianne H
I took my neice and nephews. The loved it one more time Auntie one more time. I had to bribe them to leave. It was a nasty day or we would have taken advantage of the playground and the rest of the waterfront.
3. Minto-Brown Island Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 147 reviews
Reviewed By Duane W - Salem
Minto Brown is great place to walk or ride a bike, lots of shade so its cooler and tons of wild life to see if you are out early. With access to downtown so much easier I don't recommend going by yourself at dusk or night but this is still an untapped resource for Salem
4. Riverfront Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 119 reviews
Reviewed By Linda C - Moorpark, California
Lovely park along the river for walking or picnicking. Be sure to go inside to see and perhaps ride the famous, really adorable carousel (a community volunteer endeavor) with some of the nicest animals I've ever seen (love the colt!) Each has a name. Go into the gift shop for a sheet with pictures and names if you're a scrapbooker like I am.
5. Oregon State Capitol
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 327 reviews
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 Kirstie N - Olathe, Kansas
Though I don't think this is the prettiest State Capitol Building, it is different and therefore deserves a drive by if you happen to be in the area. With that being said I wouldn't make any special trip for it. There is a nice little gift shop just beyond the dome with some reasonably priced souvenirs.
6. Gilbert House Children's Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 164 reviews
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 Becca S - Sarasota, Florida
This place is a must see for young or young at heart. Set in beautiful downtown Salem directly next to the park and bridge you could not ask for a better location. You can rent the space for birthday parties or overnight adventures.We're glad you enjoyed your visit, Becca!
7. Enchanted Forest Theme Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 468 reviews
A theme park nestled in the beautiful lush forests of Oregon with lots of hands on see and do adventure. Stroll through Storybook Lane, the Western Town. and the English Village, home of the Fantasy Fountains water-light show. Rides include the Ice Mountain Bobsled Roller Coaster, the Big Timber Log Ride, indoor target shooting Challenge of Mondor, bumper cars plus several kiddy rides and a walk-through Haunted House. The outdoor comedy theatre presents farces on fairy tales during the summer months. Picnicking, gift shops, food and more.
Reviewed By magnunes - Salem, Oregon
Magical fun for the entire family! Take a woodsy hike into nursery rhymes and fairy tales as a great way to spend the day. Little ones will love the many interactive displays and fun kiddie rides. This themed attraction is interesting and entertaining. Put on your walking shoes!
8. Salem Public Library
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 104 reviews
Reviewed By Kelly C
I used to LOVE libraries. I loved roaming the aisles looking for books and new stories. Now I have Netflix. So... I got lazy. I'll admit it. Here's what I like about this library:
It's not just a library.
See, it appears that someone over there recognized that you can get books on line and read them on a tablet. They also recognized the rapid decline of the people to want to actually put forth effort in... well... anything really. SO they are more of a community resource center and local art center.
They do concerts here - not the sappy ponytail guy with his guitar and harmonica singing about the decline of the red panda, but really good music. Blues, jazz, etc.
There are small art exhibits there too. Again - this isn't your kid's painting of a happy little tree, it's real stuff.
Anyway - it's worth an afternoon, or go on their website and plan an evening of free music.
9. Bush's Pasture Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 112 reviews
Smack in the middle of the city sits the 90-acre Bush's Pasture Park, with trails for jogging, walking or biking, picnic areas and playgrounds, Oregon's oldest greenhouse conservatory and the historic Bush House Museum, a Victorian home with original wallpaper and furnishings.
Reviewed By Sunshinejim7 - Salem, Oregon
I spend much time in Bush's Pasture Park. It is a great place just to walk, to see the rose garden, the late1800's Bush Mansion, the trees and happy people having picnics. If you are in Salem, this park is a must see. Many special...MoreThank you so much for your review. If you ever have a concern about Bush's Pasture Park or any other Salem Park, please contact our park office at 503-588-6336. Have a wonderful day! Toni Whitler Parks Operations and Planning City of Salem, Public Works 503-588-6336
10. Willamette Valley Fruit Company
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 62 reviews
Reviewed By KrisV1 - Salem, Oregon
Willamette Valley Fruit Company has frozen fruits and pies as well as baked goods, jams, jellies and many other delicious items to buy for oneself or as gifts. They have pie and coffee deals on Tues am and I in particular love their strawberry shortcake which is huge!
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