Things to do & places to visit in Salem, Oregon, 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.

Salem city in Oregon, United States. Timezone: America/Los_Angeles, current date and time: Sunday, May 05, 2024, 9:31.

Top things to do (16)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Schreiner's Iris Gardens (243 reviews)
- Stunning Display of Color
Sunday: Spent 1-2 hours Gardens

Iris bloom season is in the month of May. The Iris Display Gardens are scheduled to be open DAILY MAY 5th - MAY 31, 2023 9AM - 6PM. Visit our website for details on bloom season events and to purchase tickets. Iris Display Gardens are closed in summer and winter months. OFFICE remains open year-round, Monday - Friday, 8AM - 4:30PM; office is closed select holidays. See more..
4.5 Enchanted Forest Theme Park (548 reviews)
- We had an amazing day here!!!
Amusement & Theme Parks

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. See more..
4.5 Salem's Riverfront Carousel (486 reviews)
- “Round & Round” Fun
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks

A beautiful handcrafted operational Carousel ride in historic downtown Salem at Riverfront Park. Family-friendly affordable fun for all to enjoy. Wheelchair accessible. Shop our unique gift shop for a variety of Carousel souvenirs, toys, games, home decor and more! Affordable party and event packages available to fit your needs. Salem's Riverfront Carousel is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. The Carousel depends on the generous contributions and donations from our community, as well as the patronage of our visitors and guests from all over the world! For more information on how you can help us Keep the Dream Alive Shop our unique gift shop for a variety of Carousel souvenirs, toys, games, home decor and more! Affordable party and event packages available to fit your needs. Salem's Riverfront Carousel is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. The Carousel depends on the generous contributions and donations from our community, as well as the patronage of our visitors and guests from all over the world! For more information on how you can help us Keep the Dream Alive, visit www.salemcarousel.org > Donte! See more..
4.5 Oregon State Capitol (398 reviews)
- Go!
Sunday: Government Buildings

Please note that due to an ongoing construction project, the central historic portion of the building is closed until January 2025. 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. See more..
4.5 Minto-Brown Island Park (199 reviews)
- Great trails to bike ride and walk on.
Parks

I went yesterday June 12, 2021 and it was a great place. All I saw were family's with kids having picnic's, other's riding bikes and people walking there dogs. There was nothing dangerous about this park. No tents on the trails, no sketchy people, no homeless people hanging around, like someone wrote a few months ago. I was by myself and felt perfectly safe. You don't need to bring a weapon-nothing dangerous. If you can bring your bike, it's a great place to go bike riding lots of trails and the bike trails connect with the riverfront park via a bridge. See more..
4.5 Gilbert House Children's Museum (189 reviews)
- So much fun!
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

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. See more..
4.5 Riverfront Park (170 reviews)
- Beautiful Park
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Parks

My wife and I were visiting the city when we stumbled upon this park. It is large and right along the Willamette River. The only complaint is the grounds had just been cut and there were rows and rows of cut grass. Not good for the allergies. Their maintenance department needs to sharpen their mower blades!! See more..
4.5 Bush's Pasture Park (137 reviews)
- Lovely park
Historic Sites • Parks

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. See more..
4.5 Salem Public Library (116 reviews)
- Love the library-hate the parking
Libraries

This is a great library for our community. Staff is friendly and helpful and there are lots of activities for all ages. However, the parking situation is awful. Very expensive, especially if you want to spend a few hours there. It seems that we should not have to pay for something I already pay taxes for. The parking does keep us from going as often as we would like. See more..
4.5 Willamette Heritage Center (103 reviews)
- Interesting and lots of information. Good value at 8 USD
Sunday: Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

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 Tuesday - Saturday, 10 to 4, to discover the history of the Mid-Willamette Valley. See more..
4.5 Willamette Valley Fruit Company (85 reviews)
- Cottage industry
Sunday: Farms

There are many orchards in the Willamette Valley area that have turned themselves into destinations with markets, play areas for the kids, activities for families etc. They are fun. This one has made a niche from turning their produce into product. The variety and quality of the pies they sell is excellent. Available in local stores, and often utilized for group fundraisers, the pies are available elsewhere, but a trip to their location is one of the few ways to get them fresh rather than frozen. Not a lot extra to do, but a nice little excursion for buying pies. See more..
4.5 Elsinore Theatre (80 reviews)
- This palace is a MUST for you Salem visit list
Theaters

It is totally restored and is absolutely gorgeous. Staffed for every occasion by the sweetest volunteers. Seating on the main floor is just OK - but the mezzanine seats are to die for! We attend performances and old time movies here several times a year. It is spectacular!!! See more..
4.5 Oregon State Hospital - Museum of Mental Health (74 reviews)
- Very interesting.
Sunday: Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • History Museums

Located in the historic Kirkbride building built in 1883, the Oregon State Hospital is the oldest working psychiatric facility on the west coast. The OSH Museum is a non-profit, volunteer-run business that provides a fascinating look into the past practices and history of mental health in Oregon. As a self-guided tour, you will be able to explore 2500 Square Feet of exhibits at your own pace and engage in interactive displays. The museum is open: Tuesdays 12pm -4pm, Wednesdays 12pm-4pm, Thursdays 12pm-4pm, Fridays 12pm - 4pm and Saturdays 12pm - 4pm Admission: General: $5.00 Seniors(65 ): $4.00 and Students:$4.00, children under 10 are free with an adult) See more..
4.5 Deepwood Museum & Gardens (73 reviews)
- The best of Salem past and present.
Sunday: Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites

We are so much more than a historic house museum! While you are visiting Deepwood take a museum home tour (9, 10, 11 and Noon Wed thru Saturday) and learn about early Salem history, enjoy a picnic, walk the nature trails, take pleasure in the beautiful flowers and native plants, explore the formal gardens designed by Lord & Schryver, see the exotic plants in our greenhouse, take family photos, or simply enjoy the quiet of this oasis within the city. Throughout the year Deepwood hosts a variety of popular community events and programs. There is something for everyone at Deepwood! See more..
4.5 Willamette University (69 reviews)
- College Trip
Educational sites

The oldest Liberal Arts college west of the Rockies. See more..
4.5 Hallie Ford Museum of Art (60 reviews)
- Always Interesting
Sunday: Art Museums

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. See more..
4.5 Honeywood Winery (56 reviews)
- Amazing Wines
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards

Honeywood Winery is Oregon's Oldest Winery. Starting the day after prohibition in 1933, it is home to Oregon's first tasting room, and many historic fruit wines. Honeywood specializes in making superb wines for every palate; from Pinot Noir & Pinot Gris to Marionberry & Pear! This is a must stop for everyone who likes good wine, good people, and rich history. See more..
4.5 Cristom Vineyards (52 reviews)
- Superb Wine tasting and EcoTour
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wineries & Vineyards

Set in the scenic Eola Hills, the winery at Cristom Vineyards offers Chardonnay, Pinot and a rare Viognier wine. See more..
4.5 Bethel Heights Vineyard (50 reviews)
- Fabulous Wines with Valley Views to Match!
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards

We believe our vineyard tells a story and is a living history of just one of many pioneering families who have chosen to raise wine grapes in Oregon. We started small as two families: in-laws, brothers, sisters, cousins, and we are proud that Bethel Heights has stayed in the Casteel-Dudley-Webb family since our beginning in 1977. We have now welcomed grandchildren, spouses, and non-family employees to Bethel Heights. Some of us have changed roles. And some of us are stepping up in the business, taking over where our family began. Through it all, we have strived to allow our wines to show their sense of place, speak to the history of our vineyard, and tell the story of our family. See more..
4.5 Bush House Museum (47 reviews)
- Authentically Maintained
Sunday: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • History Museums

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. See more..
4.5 Adelman Peony Gardens (36 reviews)
- Behemoth Blooms
Temporarily closed - Closed until Apr 29, 2023 Gardens

We are open May 1st - June 15th, 9 am to 6 pm, 7 days a week. See more..
4.5 Salem Saturday Market (33 reviews)
- Salem Saturday Market
Sunday: Flea & Street Markets

One of my favorite markets....good assortment of local fruit, veggies, artisan breads and flowers. Convenient to Interstate 5 for those traveling thru the state to pick up picnic supplies! See more..
4.5 Bryn Mawr Vineyards (26 reviews)
- Stunning views, interesting, delicious varietals and warm hospitality!
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards

High Hill. High Risk. High Reward. Perched high on the western crest of the Eola-Amity Hills near Salem, Oregon, our 21 acre estate vineyard reflects the marriage of shallow volcanic soils and cool marine winds that pass through the Van Duzer corridor. This builds intensity and dimension in our grapes that inspire us to make great wine. See more..
4.5 Coria Estates (26 reviews)
- Halloween Wine Tasting
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Wineries & Vineyards

Cória Estates is a Mexican-American Family-Owned Vineyard, Winery, and Tasting Room in South Salem, Oregon. The Estate has been growing grapes for over 20 years in the Heart of the Willamette Valley. We aspire to make great wines to be enjoyed with great food around the table. In our family, wine is a symbol of unity, love and hard work. These three elements are threaded throughout the growing of our grapes and into the care of our winemaking. From our family to yours, Disfruta! See more..
4.5 Bjornson Vineyard (18 reviews)
- Enjoy wine at this country estate
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Wineries & Vineyards

Bjornson Vineyard, located in the heart of the Eola-Amity Hills AVA, is surrounded by some of the most acclaimed vineyards and wineries of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Since our founding in 2006, our priorities have been simple: care for the land, make exceptional wine, and enjoy life’s journey. We are committed to generating renewable energy and farming sustainably to promote ecological balance in the vineyard, surrounding creeks, and ultimately our wine. We craft honest, terroir-driven Pinot Noir, Gamay Noir, Rosé, Chardonnay and Auxerrois from fruit grown on our own vineyards. We invite you to visit us and enjoy the fruit of our life’s journey. Dog-friendly (please keep dog on leash at all times) Electric vehicle charging station See more..
4.5 Olson Farms (16 reviews)
- The fruit is always great
Farms

We stopped by on our way home from Redmond and the place was packed. Got some really good blueberries, and peaches. The Marion berries were good and the apricots too. The apricots and the peaches made wonderful jam See more..
4.5 Stangeland Vineyards (9 reviews)
- Love this place.
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Wineries & Vineyards

One of the pioneer winegrowers of the Eola Hills area planted in 1978. After selling grapes to other producers for a few years the winery was established in 1991-1992. While production has always remained small we produce world class Pinot Noir as evidenced by 3 time Gold Medal recipients from the International Pinot Noir judging: "Mondial du Pinot Noir" held annually in Sierre Switzerland. WE have limited distribution currently in 16 States, Montreal Quebec, and occasional exports to Norway. We also produce limited bottlings of Estate Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Tempranillo, Rose of Tempranillo, and an Ice wine made from Gewurztraminer. Cozy eclectic tasting room, picnic areas, fantastic 180 degree panoramic view from Cascade mountains to the beautiful eola hills. Most wines priced from $15 to $35. See more..
4.0 Ankeny Vineyard (44 reviews)
- Nice ambiance and quite surroundings.
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards

Ankeny Vineyard Winery is located in the heart of the Willamette Valley on the southernmost slopes of the Salem Hills, overlooking the Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge. We have estate grown wines made from our Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Early Muscat grapes. See more..
4.0 Willamette Mission State Park (43 reviews)
- Fun at Willamette Mission State Park
Sunday: State Parks

Hiking along Mission Lake, which was completely covered with algae, we saw a log with a couple of large turtles sunning themselves. And we noticed disc golf baskets near where we parked, so we got a little practice in while we waited for the rest of the group to get here. Such a great day! See more..
4.0 Cubanisimo Vineyards (43 reviews)
- Fun, good wines
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wineries & Vineyards

I really enjoyed visiting here. I've lived in Miami for many years, so I had to see what the Cuban guy who does wine built! The wines were really nice, and the employees were lovely. It was a nice way to celebrate returning to some normalcy post-vaccination. See more..