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Things to Do in Salem, OR

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The capitol of Oregon has so many wonderful things to do and places to eat. A city with a small town feel, there's something for everyone.
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Outdoor Activities

Whether in Salem or surrounding areas, these places are beautiful settings for hiking or simply spending time in nature.

 
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A truly beautiful park located in downtown Salem, there is a carousel, playground, tons of biking/walking paths, a splash pad, and a recently built amphitheater. Many events are held here, such as The Bite, The Beat, and a Family Fun Fest. This park ... has paths that connect to Minto Brown Island park and Wallace Marine park in West Salem.
Riverfront City Park
 
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This park is located about 20 minutes outside of Salem and is well worth the trip. There is camping, day use areas, and countless trails with tons of waterfalls for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders alike.
Silver Falls State Park
 
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This park boasts 29 miles of trail that make up 9 loops perfect for running, walking, or biking. Let your dog have some fun in the 30-acre designated off-leash area. There is also a playground with picnic tables for a nice family outing, and access t...
Minto-Brown Island Park
 
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This farm stand and nursery is located off of River Road near Minto Brown Island Park and offers u-pick opportunities, plant starts, fresh and local produce, and music events. There is also a food truck with delicious pizza and wine options, and a sa...
Minto Island Growers
 
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A local favorite, EZ Orchards is complete with a farm store, shortcake stand in the summer, and a playground. In the summer, enjoy sitting outside with your strawberry, peach, or mixed berry shortcake or pick up some fresh berries and produce in the ...
E.Z. Orchards
 
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Bush’s Pasture Park is a lush 90.5 acres of walking/running paths, wooded areas, and open meadows near downtown Salem. The park has many historical features and recreational amenities. Originally belonging to the Asahel Bush family before becoming a ... your time walking along the many paths or gather your friends and family for a picnic or a game of frisbee. There are also two playgrounds, one in the upper Bush area and another in the lower Bush park area.
Bush's Pasture Park - Find a Park | Salem, Oregon
 
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If you love pie, you'll have to make a stop at the Willamette Valley Pie Company. Come into the store and browse the gifts, buy whole pies to take home, or just grab some lunch and a slice of pie.
Willamette Valley Pie Co.

Restaurants

Salem is smack-dab in the Willamette Valley, home to lush farmland perfect for growing delicious produce. Restaurants in town have a bounty of options to choose from when creating their menus, and the food reflects that in these picks.

 
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This tapas inspired restaurant is perfect for date night or a larger gathering, where the dishes are encouraged to be shared. The menu is extensive with delicious starters and mouthwatering entrees. If you love a good cocktail (or mocktail), there ar...
The Cozy Taberna
 
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Another great option for date night or an event, this restaurant also has their own butcher shop across the street where you can buy individual cuts to prepare yourself at home. The atmosphere is elegant and warm, with a heated, covered patio complet...
Rudy's Steakhouse
 
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This restaurant and catering company has been a local favorite for over 20 years. Their menu is full of Northwest cuisine using local ingredients and seasonal flavors, and is a favorite lunch spot among the many downtown employees as well as caterer ...
Wild Pear
 
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Another downtown favorite, this restaurant partners with some of the best local companies in order to source the best seasonal and organic ingredients in their recipes. It's a great place for lunch or dinner and has a stunning bar. My favorite items ...
Ritter's Housemade Foods
 
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This restaurant was opened by people actually from Louisiana and the menu reflects that. They have a daily menu Mon-Sat and an all day brunch menu on Sunday. Standout items include fried alligator, chicken and sausage gumbo, poboys, and King Cake bre...
Noble Wave | Louisiana Kitchen
 
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My absolute favorite breakfast spot of all time, even over any Portland restaurants. This cozy little restaurant almost closed permanently during the pandemic, but thankfully it's still going strong today. It has since changed ownership, but they hav... bar waiting for my food - the kitchen had a view of me and made me something haha) or if it's your birthday. Standout menu items are the flying biscuit, cinnamon roll pancakes, creme brulee french toast, and corned beef hash. Can't decide whether you...
Word Of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro
 
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By day they roast and serve specialty coffee, by night they are a cocktail bar with innovative and fun drinks. Full breakfast, lunch, an ddinner is served daily. The atmosphere is that of a cozy and cool library and they even occasionally host fun ev...
Archive Coffee & Bar