Best Places to Visit in Salem, OR
Sometimes you just want to get out and explore. We try to strike a good balance of places that you will really enjoy. Finding ideas for family friendly outings, or interesting places to go in Salem, OR with your friends, both are at your fingertips here with America Top 10. We aim to give you plenty of ideas without you having to do all the research. That way you can easily decide if you want to explore Salem, OR sites or check out the sites in another state.
You have also heard how it is becoming a lot more popular to have staycations (where you stay home instead of going to far off places) and discover new and interesting places in the near vicinity. We try to make that easier for you. Check out the sites in Salem, OR that have become local favorites easily with our site.
We hope that we have provided you plenty of choices in Salem, OR whether this is a new area for you or your own back yard. Something a little different from the typical amusement park. If you really loved somewhere but don’t see them on our list let us know, we are always looking to improve our lists and we can only do that with your help.
Enchanted Forest
Turner, OR
Enchanted Forest is a theme park, that opened in 1971 by park creator, Roger Tofte. Enchanted Forest has grown into Oregon’s premier amusement park with over 20 acres of rides, entertainment, shopping, dining, and hands-on attractions.
Hallie Ford Museum of Art
Salem, OR
The museum’s collections reflect the rich Pacific Northwest culture and explore the history of art around the world. Special exhibitions range from classical works to modern masters, while the permanent galleries feature works by Pacific Northwest and Native American artists as well as a diverse collection of Ancient, European, American and Asian art.
Deepwood Museum & Gardens
Salem, OR
Deepwood is a Victorian historic house designed in the Queen Anne style situated in a five acre public park with formal gardens, nature trails, greenhouse, and original carriage house. The property, located near downtown Salem, is owned by the City of Salem and managed by the Friends of Deepwood. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Deepwood offers a variety of experiences including events and programs, and is open to the public year round. As an educational non-profit, Deepwood’s historic house museum offers a glimpse into early Salem history with tours, exhibitions and lecture series.
Gilbert House Children’s Museum
Salem, OR
Founded in 1989, Gilbert House Children’s Museum is named after Salem native, A.C. Gilbert. Gilbert House Children’s Museum 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.”
Oregon Garden
Silverton, OR
A stunning, 80-acre botanical garden, featuring more than 20 specialty gardens showcasing the diverse botanical beauty of the Willamette Valley and the Pacific Northwest. They have educational specialty gardens for everyone, from the Sensory Garden and Rose Garden to the Children’s Garden and Pet-Friendly Garden. They host exciting annual events, offer a complimentary narrated tram tour April – October, and are pet-friendly.
Antique Powerland
Brooks , OR
Antique Powerland has been open to the public since 1970 and is currently showcasing Oregon’s agricultural heritage. The place was built by enthusiasts who were interested in the preservation, restoration and operation of steam powered equipment, antique farm machinery, and implements.
Oregon Coast Aquarium Newport
Newport, OR
Oregon Caost Aquarium Newport is recognized as a world-class marine educational attraction found along Yaquina Bay in Newport, Oregon. The place is also maintaining a commitment for ocean literacy and in conservation and animal rehabilitation efforts.
The Rock Boxx
Salem, OR
The Rock Boxx is an indoor bouldering gym in Salem Oregon. They have 5,400 square feet of professionally designed and built climbing walls for climbers of all different experience levels. They offer fitness and yoga classes, as well as some programs which mentor kids in their climbing skills. They also have some weight training equipment, and a full array of functional-type fitness equipment as well. They have an on-site tap house which serves many delicious craft beers, wines, and ciders. They also have a slack line set up for in between climbs.
Willamette Mission State Park
Gervais, OR
Nestled in the heart of the fertile Willamette Valley, Willamette Mission State Park has more than 1,600 acres of woodlands interspersed with wetlands, rolling meadows and working farmland. Whether your taste leans towards bird watching along the Willamette River, picnicking in shady walnut or filbert grove, wetting a line or enjoying the scenery from horseback or bicycle, this park has it all.
Salem’s Riverfront Carousel
Salem, OR
Salem’s Riverfront Carousel, a nonprofit organization, was handcrafted between 1995-2001 and is distinctly Oregon themed with various State symbols as part of its artistic attraction. All of the items, including the animals were and are ‘adopted’ with sponsorship and support from the local community. They strive to keep the dream alive by embracing the global community, promoting tourism/volunteerism, providing cultural/educational opportunity/events/programming, and continuing business/agency partnering.
Not find what your looking for? Try one of these other cities. Eugene, Gresham, Portland.










