We recently had the opportunity to ask our guests their favorite things to do while traveling to Salem, Oregon.  These were some of the responses that I got- enjoy!

Stroll through Salem River Front Park
Salem Riverfront Park is known to be one of the “crown jewels” in Salem’s public park system. Locacted in the heart of downtown Salem, the park features 23 acres of stunnng views of the Willamette River, a carousel, open green space, paved walkways , a picnic pavillian and an 87-foot sternwheeler called the Willamette Queen. As an added bonus there is no charge for parking. There is nowhere better to take in a sunny summer afternoon than Salem Riverfront Park.

Ride the Salem Carousel
This exquisit old-world style carousel features 42 hand-carved, hand-painted horses, 2 “Oregon Trail” wagons, and the music of a classic carousel organ. This unique gem found in Salem’s Riverfront Park was created by local artists who volunteerd their time and talents carving, sanding, and painting the majestic creatures. The Salem Carousel is ranked among the nation’s best carousels and appeals to all ages.

Take the kids to A.C Gilbert’s Discovery Village
116 Marion St., NE, Salem, OR 97301, 503-371-3631
The A.C. Gilbert’s Discovery Village is a hands on interactive childrens museum where kids can build and play using their imaginations. The Village consists of three distinct and colorful Victorian homes featuring a bubble room, frozen shadow room, and a giant anthill among other exhibits. The musuem is located in Riverfront Park and was founded in 1989 by toy maker and an Olympic pole vaulting champion, A.C. Gilbert.

Visit the eclectic shops and restaurants at the historic Reed Opera House
The recently renovated Reed Opera House is located at the center of downtown Salem Oregon. It was originally built in 1869 and has great historical significance in Salem, Oregon’s history. The building houses numerous offices, retail, and dining establishments. However, the highlight is experiencing a live theatrical production by the Salem Repertory Theatre.

Visit the renowned Mission Mill Museum
1313 Mill St, Salem, OR 97301, 503-585-4059
The Mission Mill Museum has been designated an American Treasure by the National Park Service. It is dedicated to preserving the history of the Thomas Kay Woolen Mill – - which produced wool products from 1889 to 1962 and Jason Lee’s Methodist Mission to Oregon. The mill and the mission brought jobs, education, and agriculture to the region- and are significant cornerstones of Oregon’s history. The museum offers individual and group tours, speakers, historical programs and exhibits, and outreach events activities for tourists of all ages.

Unwind in the Gardens of Historic Deepwood EstateHistoric Deepwood
1116 Mission St SE, Salem, OR 97302
Historic Deepwood Estate is on the National Register of Historic Homes and is a popular destination for tourists and special events. The 1894 Queen Anne Victorian Home is located on 4 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens in the heart of Salem. The lush gardens are open daily and free of charge.

Enjoy the cultural offerings at the Historic Bush House and Bush’s Pasture Park
600 Mission Street SE , Salem, Oregon 97302, 503-363-4714
The Bush House is the home of Asahel Bush, one of Salem’s most predominant citizens and founder of the Oregon Statesman newspaper and Ladd & Bush Bank. The charming Victorian estate was built in 1878 and is centered in Salem’s historic district on 100-acres of public park known as Bush’s Pasture Park. The Bush House is operated by the Salem Art Association and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This beautiful park is loved by Salem locals and is home to numerous festivals and cultural events through out the year.