Need a relaxing day trip or weekend escape in Virginia's Blue Ridge region? Head to Salem! Surrounded by scenic mountains, rich Civil War history, and charming small-town culture, Salem is perfect for outdoor adventures, cultural outings, and cozy downtown experiences.

Salem, VA Highlights:

  • For Adventurous Travelers: Hike at Roanoke College Trail System or explore McAfee Knob – Discover panoramic mountain views and invigorating trails on the Appalachian Trail.
  • For History Buffs: Tour the Salem Museum – Explore Civil War artifacts and learn about local history in a charming historic building.
  • For Shoppers: Browse shops in Downtown Salem – Find antiques, handmade gifts, and Appalachian art in this quaint walkable area.
  • For Couples: Catch a concert or play at the Salem Civic Center – Enjoy live music, comedy shows, and cultural events year-round.
  • For Families: Visit Longwood Park – Let the kids run on playgrounds, enjoy a picnic, or attend a seasonal festival.

Best Time to Visit Salem, VA

The best time to visit Salem is during the spring and fall (April–May, September–October). These seasons bring pleasant weather, colorful foliage, and fun community festivals. Summers are warm and great for outdoor adventures.

How to Get to Salem, VA

  • If you are traveling by car: Salem is located just off I-81, about 10 minutes from Roanoke and 3.5 hours from Washington, D.C.
  • By Air: Fly into Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA), located 10 miles away with rental car options.
  • By Train: Amtrak service is available in nearby Roanoke, just a short drive from Salem.

Where to Stay in Salem, VA

  • Recommended for Families: Hampton Inn Salem – Family-friendly hotel with indoor pool and complimentary breakfast.
  • For Couples: The Inn at Burwell Place – Elegant historic B&B with romantic charm near downtown.
  • For a Boutique Hotel Stay: The Lofts at Downtown Salem – Stylish, modern lofts in a historic building for a unique downtown experience.

Best Things to Do in Salem, VA

Catch a Ballgame and Cheer on the Salem Red Sox

Catch a Ballgame and Cheer on the Salem Red Sox

© Brocreative/stock.adobe.com

The Salem Red Sox is a Minor League Baseball team in Salem, Virginia. It is a member of the Carolina Class A-Advanced League and the Boston Red Sox farm team. From 1995 through 2008 the team was known as the Salem Avalanche. From 2003 to 2008 the team was affiliated with the Houston Astros and from 1995 to 2002 with the Colorado Rockies . Before 1995, Salem Red Sox played under a number of different names and affiliations. They play home games at the Carilion Clinic Field at Salem Memorial Ballpark. The stadium, a 6,300 seat facility, was opened in 1995. In 2006 it hosted the Carolina/California League All Star Game.

Sip Local Craft Beers and Relax at Parkway Brewing Company

Sip Local Craft Beers and Relax at Parkway Brewing Company

© Parkway Brewing Company

Parkway Brewing Company was established in 2012 in Salem, Virginia, with the goal of producing the finest beers possible. It produces 17000 bottles per year and operates a 30bbl 4 vessel brewhouse and a 3.5bbl pilot brewhouse. With those two systems, Parkway produces 22 kinds of beer per year, for the general market distribution and multiple pilot batches that are available only in the on-site tasting room. Their tasting room, attached to the brewery production facility, is a local gathering place where folks come to meet friends, taste fresh beer, listen to some good local music or participate in the trivia night.

739 Kessler Mill Rd, Salem, VA 24153, Phone: 540-404-9810

Attend Concerts, Shows, and Big Events at the Salem Civic Center

Attend Concerts, Shows, and Big Events at the Salem Civic Center

© Salem Civic Center

Built in 1967, the Salem Civic Center is a multi-purpose arena in Salem, Virginia with the capacity of 6,820 seats. It is part of the James E. Taliaferro Sports and Entertainment Complex together with the Salem Football Stadium and the Salem Memorial Baseball Stadium. The Salem Civic Center was originally named the Salem-Roanoke Valley Civic Center, but changed the name in 1980s when the county withdrew its financial support. In the 1970s, the center was home to the Salem Rebels hockey team. It also hosts the NCAA Division III men's college basketball championship, as well as boxing, rodeos, professional wrestling, high school basketball games and more. It also provides space for concerts, circuses, trade shows and conventions.

1001 Roanoke Blvd, Salem, VA 24153, Phone: 540-375-3004

Step Into Salem’s Rich Local History at the Salem Museum

Step Into Salem’s Rich Local History at the Salem Museum

© Salem Museum

Salem Museum is located in the historic William-Brown House of Longwood Park, Salem, Virginia. The Museum was established in order to "preserve the past and inform the future." It is managed by the Salem Historical Society. It offers a range of exhibits, programs and special events. William-Brown House was built in 1845 by a merchant and hotelier William C. Williams to serve as a store and residence. The brick structure, built at the eastern end of downtown Salem, Va. was unique for its time. The house stayed in the family for more than a century. It became a Roanoke College fraternity house for a while, then served as an office, and later apartments. It is the first Salem house listed on the national Register of Historic Places. The Salem Historic Society saved it from being demolished, relocated it to a new lot and opened it as a museum.

801 E Main St, Salem, VA 24153, Phone: 540-389-6760

Where to Eat:

Feast on Classic American Favorites at Mac and Bob’s Restaurant

Feast on Classic American Favorites at Mac and Bob’s Restaurant

© Mac and Bob's Restaurant

Located just across the street from Roanoke College in Salem, Virginia, Mac and Bob's Restaurant is a popular local eatery famous for a wide range of American favorites including wings, steaks, salads, burgers, seafood, sandwiches, and pasta. The star of the menu is their huge, juicy, great-tasting calzones. There are more than 40 craft beers on tap and many local Virginia beers. The atmosphere is lively, spacious and relaxed, with exposed brick walls, space for 330 guests and a cozy patio. The students of Roanoke College have made Mac and Bob’s their favorite hangout. It is the common venue for high school and college reunions, sporting events, victory celebrations, family gatherings, and everyday get togethers.

316 E Main St, Salem, VA 24153, Phone: 540-389-5999

Savor Fresh and Flavorful Dishes at Alejandro’s Mexican Grill

Savor Fresh and Flavorful Dishes at Alejandro’s Mexican Grill

© Alejandro's Mexican Grill

Alejandro's Mexican Grill is a mini-local chain that offers classic Mexican dishes, a popular salsa bar and award-winning margaritas. Their Salem restaurant is located in the Mill Lane Commons Shopping center. It is a no-frills counter-serve eatery with extensive menu of everyone’s favorite tacos, fajitas, enchiladas and tortas. Their Salsa Bar has freshly made salsas, chips, sliced jalapenos, onions, lemon wedges and other bits that make meals more interesting. There are a few authentic Mexican dishes that use classic family recipes, such flautas, sopas and enchiladas. One of the most popular dishes is Alejandro’s skewers with two pieces of chicken and one shrimp marinated in a house seasoning sauce, skewered and grilled and served over grilled veggies.

1304 W Main St, Salem, VA 24153, Phone: 540-387-1420

If You Love Sweet Treats, Then Indulge at Corbin’s Confections

If You Love Sweet Treats, Then Indulge at Corbin’s Confections

© Corbin’s Confections

Having peanut or other nut allergy can make life pretty difficult for those who love sweets. How do you know for sure that what you are buying is truly without any trace of peanuts, which can cause a life-threatening reaction in you? At Corbin’s Confections, you can be sure, since the owner and head baker is also allergic to nuts. To help other folks with the same problem, she opened the Salem’s and area’s first and only completely gluten-free, peanut-free, and tree nut-free bakery. The bakery specializes in freshly baked goods such as breads, buns, cinnamon rolls, cupcakes, scones, pies, cookies, or brownies. And if you request it, they can also make their dairy-free, egg-free and soy-free.

Corbin’s Confections, 18 E Main St, Salem, VA 24153, Phone: 540-404-0300

For Couples:

Explore Underground Wonders and Unique Shops at Dixie Caverns

Explore Underground Wonders and Unique Shops at Dixie Caverns

© Dixie Caverns

The western region of Virginia is home to a number of beautiful caverns, many of which are sadly closed to the public. But where other caverns may fail, the Dixie Cavern delivers as it’s been welcoming guests to explore its awe-inspiring interiors since 1923. Much like snowflakes are unique and display individual beauty, so do each of the Dixie Caverns. See for yourself just how incredible and beautiful the natural world can be, with magnificent formations to behold within the cavern’s walls. While exploring the Dixie Caverns on your own is more than welcome, the best way to get the most of your trip is through their guided tours which can be booked ahead of time and last an average of fifty minutes. Meanwhile, the caverns are also home to a 44-dealer antique mall, and a full hook-up campground for those who want to spend the night at Dixie.

5753 West Main Street, Salem, Virginia 24153, Phone: 540-380-2085, (website )

Jump, Bounce, and Play at Launching Pad Trampoline Park

Jump, Bounce, and Play at Launching Pad Trampoline Park

© v74/stock.adobe.com

Jump into an incredible day of fun at the Launching Pad Trampoline Park and Family Center, the one and only trampoline park in all of Roanoke Valley. When Launching Pad says that they’ve got enough attractions to keep your family busy for the entire day, they mean it. The park has more than 10 activities to try out in addition to its thousands of square feet of trampolines. Get competitive at the Dodgeball Court, get some major air while testing your aim at the Dunk Lanes, or test your power and balance at the Jousting Pit or Rope Ladder. Launching Pad also has a Flight Training Wall for climbing enthusiasts, a Launch Tower for adrenaline junkies, and bumper cars for those who just want to have a bumping good time. Don’t miss out on the Real American Ninja Warrior Course either, which is a true test of strength.

Launching Pad Trampoline Park and Family Center, 1300 Intervale Drive, Salem, Virginia 24153, Phone: 540-404-9235

If you are interested in local events:

  • For Music Fans: Salem After Five Concert Series (Spring–Fall) – Monthly outdoor concerts with food trucks and family fun at the Farmers Market.
  • For Sports Fans: Salem Red Sox Games (April–September) – Minor league baseball with a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
  • For Holiday Lovers: Olde Salem Days (September) – Huge annual arts and crafts festival with food, vendors, and live music downtown.

Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Salem, VA:

  • For Nature Lovers: McAfee Knob (30 min) – One of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail with epic views.
  • For Art Enthusiasts: Roanoke (15–20 min) – Explore the Taubman Museum of Art, City Market, and unique eateries.
  • For Scenic Drives: Blue Ridge Parkway (20–30 min) – Take in sweeping mountain vistas and colorful fall foliage.
  • For Hikers: Carvins Cove Natural Reserve (25 min) – Over 12,000 acres of trails, mountain biking, and reservoir views.
  • For History Buffs: Explore Mill Mountain Park & Star (25 min) – See the iconic Roanoke Star and enjoy panoramic overlooks.
  • For Craft Beer Fans: Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room (Roanoke) (20 min) – Sample local brews in a friendly tasting space.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What is Salem, Virginia known for?
    • Salem is a charming small town in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is home to Roanoke College.
  • Why is Salem called "Virginia’s Championship City"?
    • Salem is famous for hosting first-class sporting events, many of which take place at the Salem Civic Center.
  • What historic sites can be found in Salem?
    • Salem’s lively downtown features beautiful historic buildings, including the 1845 William-Brown House, which now serves as the Salem Museum.

At a Glance:

Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and great for outdoor activities. Hampton Inn Salem – Comfortable accommodations with easy access to hiking trails. Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway – Enjoy scenic drives and hiking opportunities.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, ideal for festivals and outdoor adventures. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Salem – Convenient stay near downtown and local events. Visit the Salem Fair – Enjoy rides, live entertainment, and delicious fair food.
Fall (September-November) – Cool temperatures, vibrant foliage, and seasonal events. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Salem – A cozy stay near the fall foliage trails. Hike McAfee Knob – Experience one of the most iconic views on the Appalachian Trail.
Winter (December-February) – Chilly temperatures, great for indoor attractions and cozy stays. The Inn at Burwell Place – A charming historic bed & breakfast. Visit the Salem Museum – Learn about local history and culture.

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