Things to Do in Salem OR (2025)

Explore 14 historic structures—including the 1890s Thomas Kay Woolen Mill—on a five-acre campus that tells Salem’s industrial and pioneer stories. Frequently highlighted by Travel Oregon and local arts reporters, it’s a quintessential Salem experience with deep community ties.

Willamette University’s museum is known for Northwest art, Native American works, and thoughtful exhibitions of regional artists. Its programs and shows are routinely cited by arts writers and local critics as anchors of Salem’s cultural life.

Step inside the 1878 Italianate home of Asahel Bush within Bush’s Pasture Park. Tours are organized through the Salem Art Association’s Bush Barn Art Center and are praised by local historians for illuminating Salem’s early civic and cultural life.

From March through October, more than 150 vendors gather a block from the Capitol with handmade goods and farm bounty. Recognized by the Willamette Valley Visitors Association and local media, this market is where Salem’s growers, makers, and musicians meet.

A family-owned storybook park since 1971, built by the Tofte family with handmade attractions and forested trails. Its seasonal schedule keeps it fresh each summer, and it’s often referenced by Oregon travel writers as a singular, lovingly crafted local icon.

Ride hand‑carved wooden animals created by local volunteers inside Riverfront Park. Frequently profiled by local outlets for its community craftsmanship and year‑round programs, it’s a joyful stop that also supports arts education and accessibility initiatives.

Operated by the Salem Multicultural Institute, this free gallery hosts community‑curated exhibits year‑round and anchors the acclaimed World Beat Festival each June. Covered by Salem Reporter and regional calendars, it’s a window into Salem’s global communities.

Oregon’s trailblazing Latinx‑owned brewery pairs Mexican‑inspired lagers with a menu shaped by Latin American flavors. Recognized by Eater Portland and Portland Monthly and celebrated by Travel Oregon for its culture‑building events and collaborations, it’s proudly Salem.

By day, a small‑batch roaster; by night, a refined cocktail bar. Featured by Travel Oregon and recommended by Eater, Archive helped energize downtown’s scene with original drinks, house syrups, and a community‑minded calendar of events.

A beloved volunteer‑run playhouse in the woods presenting year‑round productions and new‑work spotlights. Noted by Travel Oregon and regularly covered by Salem Reporter, it remains a cornerstone of Salem’s grassroots performing arts.

This 1926 Tudor‑Gothic landmark hosts touring concerts, comedy, film, and symphonic performances. Its active calendar underscores downtown’s cultural resurgence and is a frequent pick in regional arts coverage and event listings.

One of the few artisanal tea farms in the U.S. offers small‑group tours, tastings, and workshops on Camellia sinensis from field to cup. Featured on regional calendars and beloved by tea professionals, it’s a uniquely Salem agricultural experience.