Welcome to Salem

The Most Oregon Part of Oregon

If you're looking for the authentic Oregon experience, look no further - your journey's just begun.

Things to Do

As Oregon’s capital city, Salem is has no shortage of unique things to see and do — from hands-on museums and historic landmarks to local art, wine, and outdoor adventures. Explore the places and people that make this region the Most Oregon Part of Oregon.

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Eat & Drink

It’s no secret that Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley is home to a thriving food-and-drink scene. The area is bursting with quirky eateries, intimate wineries and craft breweries – along with an eclectic mix of food trucks, bakeries and more – all featuring ingredients that come straight from local farms.

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Places to Stay

From full-service hotels and vineyard retreats to cozy B&Bs and family-friendly stays, Salem offers the perfect place to rest and recharge. Whether you're sipping Pinot or exploring the outdoors with the whole family, you'll find a stay that fits your style in the heart of Oregon.

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Yes, Keep your calendar open.
The latest events and things to do throughout the Mid-Willamette Valley.
See our Event Calendar

upcoming events

Polk County Fair

August 5 — 8

Celebrate all that is Polk County - 4-H/FFA, Livestock, Jr. Chef, Arts & Crafts, Textiles, Baking, Flower Arranging, Beautiful Baby Contest, String Bands, Dance Performances, King of the Cook Stove, Queen of…

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Aumsville’s 58th Annual Corn Festival

August 11 — 15

Join the annual tradition with a kick-off parade, free hot corn for all guests, family games, classic cars, a corn-eating contenst, Saturday pancake breakfast, garage sales, and live music.

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Woodburn Fiesta Mexicana

August 21 — 23

Woodburn's three-day Fiesta Mexicana celebrates Latino culture with artisan crafts, authentic food, Lucha Libre wrestling, mariachi music, and a vibrant Saturday parade. Rooted in a 1964 harvest festival, it's now a designated…

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Grand Ronde Annual Contest Powwow

August 14 — 16

The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde's three-day Competition Powwow brings together dancers, drummers, and artisans in a vibrant celebration of Native American heritage. Visitors of all ages can enjoy traditional regalia, storytelling…

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Oregon State Fair

August 28 — September 7

Celebrate America's 250th anniversary with carnival rides, live concerts, 4-H exhibits and the new AMERICA 250 LIVE show, along with the fair's usual food, competitions, and family entertainment.

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2026–27 Visitor Guide
start planning your trip
Get the new Visitor Guide and find information on lodging, attractions, events, and more.
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travel inspiration from the most oregon part of oregon

Pictured: Salem's Riverfront Carousel
blog

WHY AUGUST IS A GREAT TIME FOR A FAMILY GETAWAY TO THE SALEM REGION

The Salem area really bursts to life in August. The skies are blue, the days are long and the theme parks, farms, children’s museum and ice cream shops are filled with families enjoying everything the region has to offer.

Want to hike through an old-growth forest to a waterfall or watch your kids bounce around on a wall-to-wall trampoline? Maybe your kiddos want to pet friendly goats, visit the Seven Dwarves house or shoot down a lighthouse slide into a pool. No matter what your crew is into, the Salem area delivers big on family fun. Here’s a sample four-day itinerary that’s sure to make lasting family memories. Start planning your August getaway today.

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