Things To Do
in Salem
Salem is the capital of Oregon, nestled in the Willamette Valley along the Willamette River. The city blends historic architecture with modern galleries, parks, and a lively farmers' market scene. It serves as a gateway to nearby vineyards, outdoor trails, and cultural attractions like the Elsinore Theatre and the Hallie Ford Museum of Art.
Visitors will find a walkable downtown, family-friendly parks, and easy day trips to the surrounding countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets of Salem's Historic District. Visit the Salem Witch Museum to learn about the city's infamous witch trials and their impact on American history. Afterward, stop by a local café for a warm cup of coffee and a freshly baked pastry to fuel your exploration.
In the afternoon, head to the House of the Seven Gables, where you can explore the historic home and its beautiful gardens. Take a guided tour to delve into the life of Nathaniel Hawthorne and the architectural features of this stunning seaside mansion. Following your visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring fresh, local seafood.
As night falls, enjoy a ghost tour that will take you through Salem's eerie past and haunted locations. Listen to chilling tales while wandering past historic buildings illuminated by lantern light. Conclude your evening with dinner at a cozy bistro, where you can savor regional dishes accompanied by a glass of local wine.
Start your day at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, where you can explore the rich maritime history of the area. Visit the Custom House and the historic Derby Wharf, and learn about the trade that shaped Salem's economy. Enjoy the beautiful waterfront views as you take in the salty sea air.
After your morning adventure, visit the nearby Peabody Essex Museum, home to an impressive collection of American and Asian art. Spend a few hours immersing yourself in the diverse exhibits, including maritime artifacts and contemporary installations. Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at the museum café, offering seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
For dinner, head to one of Salem's waterfront restaurants for a meal with a view. Try the clam chowder or lobster roll as you watch the sunset over the harbor. After dinner, stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as the stars begin to twinkle above.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🛒Groceries (basic weekly) | $40-70 |
| 🚇Public transit pass | $40-60/month |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel | $100-180/night |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction ticket | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed, walkable downtown with parks and river views
- Access to Willamette Valley wine country and outdoor recreation nearby
- Nightlife is more low-key compared to bigger cities
- Weather can be variable with frequent rain, especially in off-season
Places to Visit in Salem
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic domed building with classical architecture; great for daytime exterior shots and sunset silhouettes.
Wide river views, pedestrian bridges, and green lawns ideal for skyline and reflection shots.
Historic grounds with mature trees, open lawns, and scenic paths—great for portraits and golden-hour photos.
Gothic-inspired architecture and quad scenes that capture a collegiate ambiance.
Food in Salem
Salem Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tart-sweet pie made with Oregon’s prized Marionberries; widely available at bakeries such as Sparrow Bakery and local diners.
Must-Try!
Creamy chowder featuring locally caught salmon, a staple at waterfront eateries around Salem.
Roasted Oregon hazelnuts and nut mixes often found as snacks or confections in markets and cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, prepared foods, live music, and crafts in downtown Salem.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello with basic politeness goes a long way; maintain casual yet courteous conversation in social settings.
Being on time is appreciated for meetings, tours, and reservations; plan travel accordingly in the city traffic.
Safety
Tipping in Salem
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, a tip of 15–20% of the bill is customary for good service in restaurants; tips for bartenders and delivery staff are common as well.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is still used by some small venues, and ATMs are readily available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days and dry trails; great for outdoor markets, river strolls, and long evenings. Stay hydrated and use sun protection; evenings can still be cool near the river.
Harvest time with colorful foliage, comfortable temperatures, and wine-tasting opportunities nearby. Pack a light jacket for cool mornings and evenings.
Cool and wet with frequent rain; plan for layers and a waterproof jacket. Snow is possible in surrounding hills and higher elevations.
Mild temperatures with frequent showers and blooming gardens; ideal for outdoor strolls and farmers markets, but carry a rain layer.
Salem at Night
Hiking in Salem
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A classic waterfall hike with multiple cascades, boardwalks, and forest scenery, a short drive from Salem.
Extensive urban park trails with river views and wooded paths suitable for day hikes and strolls.
Airports
How to reach Salem by plane.
Major international gateway about 47 miles north of Salem, accessible by car, bus, or rail connections.
Small regional airport serving general aviation and some charter flights, convenient for quick trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families with park-friendly neighborhoods and good school options.
Willamette University and nearby colleges contribute a student presence and youthful energy.
A portion of the population enjoys a slower pace and access to healthcare and cultural activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Community leagues and college-level play are popular in the Willamette Valley.
Local schools and clubs foster a lively basketball scene year-round.
Amateur leagues and nearby collegiate games draw local interest in warm months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Salem.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Salem restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for veggie burgers, salads, grain bowls, and pasta dishes. When dining out, ask about veg-friendly specials or farms-to-table plates featuring seasonal produce.