Top things to do in Salem, Oregon

Located at the heart of the Willamette Valley, Northern Oregon, the capital city of Salem is home to about 150,000 people -- making one of the largest cities in the state of Oregon. Boasting a perfect location, Salem offers scenic beauty as it is just an hour away from the ocean and an hour away too from the Cascade Mountains. 

Salem features many unique tourist attractions, such as public gardens, riverfront carousels, enchanted theme parks, children’s museums, some of the most prestigious universities and the infamous Willamette Heritage Center. Outdoor and other free things to explore in Salem include leisurely commutes through natural areas like Minto-Brown Island Park, where the setting sun often touches down in a sea of color.

If you or your family are looking for a place to visit on your next holiday, Salem is a great choice because it covers almost all activities and/or tourist spots you can explore with your kids or even when you are traveling with your special someone, and even when you are planning to go on a solo trip. Read on as we unravel some of the must-see attractions in Salem, Oregon that you and your loved ones can surely enjoy! 

1. Oregon State Capitol

Built from 1936 to 1938 and expanded in 1977, Oregon State Capitol is a monumental architectural site in Salem. What really is captivating about this Modernist Art Deco design is its gilded Oregon Pioneer perched at the top of the central tower. Surrounding the government structure is the well-polished Oregon State Capitol State Park complete with statues and interpretive information. 

Visitors, both citizens, and foreigners alike are advised to take advantage of the self-guided tour of the capitol during normal operating hours, as well as the guided tours which are available, on the other hand, on weekdays from 10.30am and 2.30pm. Some of the best spots are the Senate history room, the Capitol Rotunda, and the Governor’s portrait hallway. The Oregon State Capitol likewise features history, information, and artifacts within the State Capitol which portrays a picture of Oregon’s storied statehood, as well as works within the esteemed Capitol Art Collection. For travelers planning to visit between July and September, an additional “Tower Tour” is also open which allows visitors to take up a long set of stairs to visit the Oregon Pioneer and share the view. 

Location: 900 Court Street Northeast, Salem, Oregon

2. Gilbert House Children's Museum

Adjacent to the north end of Riverfront City Park lies the Gilbert House Children’s Museum. The tourist spot is perfect if you are traveling with your kids as it features children's museum and play space-- allowing your kids to experience a true immersion into a creative world. Featuring a wide array of interactive and educational playscapes and exhibits, this renowned children's museum is designed for kids aged two to 10 years old, although adults accompanying their children will definitely have some fun, too. Different areas at the Children's Museum include a Discovery Campground; a build-your-own Fortopia; and an epic Outdoor Discovery Area featuring a giant, climbable Erector Set Tower. Special events at the museum include Summer Block Parties, Science Night for Adults, and various classes and workshops.

Location: 116 Marion Street Northeast, Salem, Oregon

3. Riverfront City Park

Home to Salem's Riverfront Carouse and considered to be one of the most popular public spaces in Salem, Oregon, the Riverfront City Park is a 26-acre urban park that connects the city to the unnatural world. Formerly a mill and industrial site, Riverfront City Park is now a wonderful open space filled with a playground, boat dock, walking and hiking trails and a stunning view of the Willamette River. Near the aesthetically pleasing pedestrian bridge spanning the water to connect with Minto-Brown Island Park, the Eco-Earth Globe sculpture is another eye-catching tourist spot of this popular downtown public space. Riverfront City Park is home to some of Salem's largest festivities throughout the year, including the infamous annual 4th of July celebration and a culturally expanding World Beat Festival.

Location: 200 Water Street Northeast, Salem, Oregon

4. Cascades Gateway Park

The Cascades Gateway Park is a good place to beat the summer heat or enjoy the changing seasons. The Cascades Gateway is a 100-acre park on the southeast side of the city. The park features accessible walking, running, hiking trails; an 18-hole disc golf course; and the inviting Walter L. Wirth Lake, which is great for fishing or paddle sports. 

With all these recreational spaces, the parking lots at Cascades Gateway are infrequently empty. Recently installed playground equipment is becoming popular for children, too, and canine companions enjoy the off-leash, fenced-in dog area within the park. Cascades Gateway Park also features shelters and picnic pavilions that are available to rent, ready to accommodate up to 160 people.

Location: 2100 Turner Road Southeast, Salem, Oregon

5. Deepwood Museum and Gardens

Providing an aesthetic look in Salem, Oregon for more than 120 years, the Deepwood Museum and Gardens and surrounding gardens have been truly a must-see attraction spot in Oregon. Serving a long legacy and many different residents, this Queen Anne-style Victorian home is now owned by the city government and available for public visits and event rentals. 

Travelers wanting to visit this exquisite beaut would be glad to know that guided tours of the home museum are available from Wednesday through Saturday and this package tour includes detailed information about the history and artifacts discovered along the way. Special events at the Deepwood Estate are being held throughout the year, including Easter egg hunts, jazz festivals, and holiday open houses. 

Address: 1116 Mission Street Southeast, Salem, Oregon

6. Bush's Pasture Park

Covering about 100 acres of wooded space at the heart of the city, Bush's Pasture Park is a great spot for organized sporting events and unplanned afternoons in nature. Athletics within this urban natural space include four lighted tennis courts and a softball field with bleachers available for rent. Bush’s Pasture Park likewise features several paved and unpaved hiking trails stretch throughout the park, connecting other fun areas, including the Rhododendron and Rose Gardens and the Crooked House Playground. The Bush House Museum within the park is also worthy of your time as it houses many 19th-century antiques.

Location: 890 Mission Street Southeast, Salem, Oregon