Begin your morning with a fresh cup of coffee and one of Salem’s many downtown coffee shops. Be sure to order one of Cafe Capri Reed’s espresso shot to fuel up quickly for your exploration.

Every explorer deserves a breakfast of champions to prepare them for the day. Start the morning off right at Word of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro; known for their creative breakfast options such as their Flying Biscuit or Creme Brulé French Toast.

After breakfast, head over to the Willamette Heritage Center and tour the museum exhibits and shops. You can learn a lot about Salem’s pioneers and one of the first major industries of the region – The Thomas Kay Woolen Mill. Browse the newest store addition Pendleton Woolen Mills, and enjoy the 5-acre complex including ducks who love to be fed.

Pro Tip: Enjoy a snack at Taproot The Old Mill Cafe.

Looking for adventure in the afternoon? Minto-Brown Island Park is the place to walk, bike, or run any of the 29 miles of trails that make up the park's nine loops. Minto-Brown offers 1,200 acres of lush, open, and wooded areas as well as an off-leash dog area. This park also serves as a waterfowl and wildlife sanctuary, which you can enjoy from the observation platforms along the sloughs. Blue herons, ospreys, squirrels, and rabbits are among the many different wetland creatures that call this park home.

Cool off in the afternoon with ice cream or a shake from Slick Licks, located in Fork Forty Food Hall in downtown Salem. Beat the heat with ice cream made from all-natural ingredients. The owners like to say, “if we can’t pronounce an ingredient it doesn’t go into Slick Licks ice cream!” Add your favorite toppings and take your cone to go.

Pro tip: Explore Salem’s Walking Art Tour while enjoying your treat. Salem is known for its public art. You can find everything from a 5-foot grasshopper perched on a wall, to vibrant murals, and historic statues.

Finish your day at the Best Little Roadhouse with a round of mini-golf. Enjoy dining on the patio with the garden golf course or sit fireside and cozy up with your favorite nightcap.