Salem, Oregon

The Oregon State Capitol is the third building housing the government, as the previous two were destroyed by fire. This building is finished in marble on the exterior and interior. Admire the four murals that line the interior of the rotunda and the Oregon Pioneer on top of the building. Visitors can climb up 121 spiral steps to admire this figure that represents the spirit of Oregon’s early settlers.

The grounds outside the capitol have breathtaking artwork. Sit beside one of the many fountains, and admire the state tree and the state flower that add charm to this space.

900 Court St. NE, Salem, OR 97301, 503-986-1388

Salem's Riverfront Carousel was inspired by a visit to Missoula Montana carousel by its creator Hazel Patton. Looking out over the Riverfront Park to the waterway, this is a perfect location for the whole family. This carousel celebrates the farming heritage of Salem.

Notice the intricately carved scenes on the carousel and the beautiful decorations on the horses and wagons in which local woodcarvers and artists have illustrated the history of this region. This is an exhilarating experience as the organ music begins and the carousel starts its magical journey.

101 front st ne, Salem, OR 97301, 503-540-0374

The vision of Roger Tofte, Enchanted Forest Theme Park was inaugurated in 1971. This park covers over 20 acres of rides, and offers entertainment for the whole family, including dining and shopping.

Children will enjoy a stroll through Storybook Lane as they see their favorite characters come to life, including Alice in Wonderland and Humpty Dumpty. The comedy theater offers hilarious shows, and visitors will be fascinated by the Ice Mountain Bobsledge Roller Coaster, Haunted House, the Kiddie Ferris Wheel, and the Tiny Tune Train.

8462 Enchanted Way SE, Turner, OR 97392, 503-371-4242

Activities and Attractions for Couples:

Deepwood Museum & Gardens is a charming Queen Anne Victorian Home that was built in 1894. The estate stands on about 4 acres of beautifully manicured gardens and nature trails that offer breathtaking views of downtown Salem.

Deepwood Estate is on the National Register of Historic Homes. Visitors will enjoy the panoramic scenery, the well-laid out Victorian style garden, and the Fry Stein Nature Trail. Explore the grounds and take a demonstration at the compost recycling area, or just relax on the numerous benches on this property.

1116 Mission St SE, Salem, OR 97302, 503-363-1825

E.Z. Orchards is one of the most productive agricultural farms in Willamette Valley. This region is blessed with rich soil, abundant water, and perfect climatic conditions. Peaches, apples, pears, hazelnuts, and vegetables are sold directly to the public through the Farm Market, while the rest is sent to packing houses and processors.

The market also displays different local agricultural products, local cheese, milk, and preserves. Visitors visiting in October can celebrate the annual Harvestfest. Pick a pumpkin, visit the petting zoo, go horse riding, or enter the corn maze.

5504 Hazel Green Rd. NE, Salem, OR 97305, 503-393-1506

The Hallie Ford Museum of Art was opened by Willamette University with the support of Hallie Ford and The Ford Family Foundation in 1998. The museum’s collection contains a wide variety of donated art including early 1900’s Native American Baskets, Mark Sponenburgh’s collection of approximately 250 European and Asian pieces, as well as works from local Oregon artists.

Since its opening, the museum has become a highly valued intellectual and cultural resource for Willamette University’s liberal arts program as well as the City of Salem and the surrounding region. Visitors can participate in educational tours, gallery talks, and adult only docent-guided tours.

700 State Street, Salem OR 97301, 503-370-6855

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

The Willamette Heritage Center at Salem aims to connect the history of this region’s diverse communities through stories. Take a journey back in time to Oregon’s early pioneers. This scenic center covers 5 acres; admire the beautiful gardens, pioneer buildings, and museums.

The Methodist Parsonage (1841), the Jason Lee House (1841), an old Presbyterian church (1858), and the Mission Mill Museum have all been restored and maintained. Visitors will enjoy seeing the Thomas Kay Woolen Mill that was built in 1889 and was powered by a mill race or a water way and it still runs through the grounds.

1313 Mill St SE, Salem, OR 97301, 503-585-7012

Minto-Brown Island Park is a park that borders the east bank of the Willamette River in Salem; it has more than 1,200 acres of lush forest and open area.

Visitors will enjoy the 19 miles of trails that are open for walking and biking through grassy meadows and native trees.

The observation platforms let visitors get a glimpse of birds such as waterfowls and other wetland creatures.

This park has paved bikeways, a paddle boat zone, and a number of fishing spots.

2200 Minto Island Rd SW, Salem, OR 97302, 503-588-6336

Gilbert House Children's Museum is located in downtown Salem’s Riverfront Park. This non-profit children’s museum was founded in 1989 to help ignite children’s natural curiosity through simulative and innovative educational experiences. The motto of this museum is to make children learn through a creative manner.

Visitors can join the different camps that are scheduled throughout the year, explore the exhibits, and other outreach programs in arts, humanities, and sciences. This museum maintains three historic houses; do visit the Gilbert House, Rockenfield House, and Parrish House.

116 Marion St NE Salem, OR 97301, 503-371-3631