When the sun is shining and the breeze is warm, there's nothing quite like getting out on the water. There are some amazing places to kayak, paddleboard, or enjoy a relaxing float in the Salem, Oregon area. Getting outside is a great way to stay active, connect with nature, and enjoy the beauty of our city. Here are a few places where you can make a splash this summer season. Wallace Marine Park (Riverfront Park) Situated along the Willamette River in West Salem, Wallace Marine Park is one of the city’s most popular launch points. With a boat ramp, floating dock, and proximity to downtown, it’s a convenient and scenic place to begin your adventure. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Oregon State M…

Get ready for a festive 4th of July weekend in Salem packed with music, fireworks, food, and family fun! 4th of July Cornhole Tournament Creekside Rotary is bringing back its annual Cornhole Tournament, and it’s bigger than ever! This year’s event features a double-elimination bracket for extended gameplay across 16 matching courts with tournament decks and bags. Participants can bring their own bags if they have a lucky set. Prize payouts are $200 for 1st place, $100 for 2nd, and $50 for 3rd. Teams can pre-register at the pro shop and pay the day of the tournament. Day-of registration will also be open as space allows. Date: July 4, 2025Time: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Tournament begins at 2:30 PM)Location: Creekside Rotary…

Updated June 2025 When the summer heat hits Salem, Oregon, there's one thing that can bring immediate relief and joy: a delicious scoop of ice cream. Salem has no shortage of local ice cream shops that are perfect for "chilling out" and beating the heat. Here are some must-visit spots when you have ice cream cravings. On Any Sundae When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth, On Any Sundae has you covered. This shop offers a delicious variety of desserts, from sundaes and banana splits to massive ice cream sandwiches. Their menu is a treasure trove of treats that also features Dole Whip, choco tacos, and shave ice to beat the heat. They even serve something called "Ice Cream Lasagna!" View this post on Instagram …

Summer events are ramping up in Salem! Here's a few of the great local events happening this weekend. 2025 World Beat Festival Hosted by the Salem Multicultural Institute at Riverfront Park, the 2025 World Beat Festival returns June 27–29. This year's celebration honors Turtle Island—the indigenous cultures of North and South America. This lively, family-friendly festival represents 70+ cultures through over 125 performances, international cuisine, cultural demonstrations, artisan vendors, and activities. Don’t miss “Friday Night at the Beat” on June 27, with live music, food, and fire dancing in the Amphitheater. Saturday officially kicks off with the Children’s Parade at 9:45 AM, and the popular Dragon Boat Rac…

If you're hoping to get your kids involved in local sports, Salem, Oregon has a great lineup of leagues, skill camps, and training programs to choose from. From soccer to basketball, volleyball, and football, here's a few great places where kids can stay active, gain confidence, learn new skills, and be part of something special. Note: Many sports are seasonal and may not be active at the time of publication or reading. City of Salem Recreation Is your child showing interest in multiple sports? City of Salem’s Recreation Services can be a great way for them to explore. With everything from basketball and soccer to cheer, kickball, track and field, and pickleball, it's an easy way to try something new. Visit website …

A visit to Sonja John Esthetics is more than a beauty appointment. It's a moment to unwind, feel seen and valued, and walk out feeling rejuvenated. Sonja John Esthetics offers services like facials, laser hair removal, waxing, and chemical peels, in addition to a wide array of other services, all delivered with genuine care and a personal touch. Sonja's unique journey into esthetics came from a desire to support others in a calm, welcoming environment, something she now brings to every session with her clients. Before launching her esthetics career, Sonja worked for seven years at the Red Cross, where she supported people through life-altering events like 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. “I was ready for something… calmer,” Sonja …

The first weekend of summer is packed with live music, outdoor fun, and local events around Salem! Open Skate 90s Night Head to the CCDG Mad House for a nostalgic night of roller skating fun, featuring all your favorite hits from the '90s. Bring your own skates or rent a pair on-site for $5. Date: June 20, 2025Time: 7:30 PM - 10:00 PMLocation: CCDG Mad House // 1335 Madison St NE, Salem, OR 97301Cost: $10 admission / $5 skate rental (view ticket information) Learn More Flea at The Fair – Largest Indoor Garage Sale Explore Oregon’s largest indoor garage sale at the Oregon State Fairgrounds! Shop thousands of unique items under one roof. Who knows what new-to-you treasures you might find? Date: June 21, 2025…

Looking for family-friendly things to do around Salem, Oregon? There are plenty of places in and around Salem that offer fun, creativity, and connection for kids of all ages. We've rounded up some of the top local spots where families can laugh, learn, and make memories together. Gilbert House Children’s Museum Since 1989, Gilbert House Children’s Museum has been sparking hands-on learning and imaginative play. Located in Salem's Riverfront Park and housed in beautifully restored historic homes, the museum features 16 engaging STEAM exhibits indoors (including a vet clinic, green-screen theater, and engineering studio) and a massive 20,000-square-foot Outdoor Discovery Area with climbing structures, slides, and the world’s tal…

Get ready for a packed weekend in Salem! WVRR Salem Summer Solstice 5/10k Welcome summer with an evening run through Minto-Brown Island Park! The Willamette Valley Road Runners' annual Salem Summer Solstice 5k & 10k is a community-friendly race that features scenic views, walking options, and a sweet reward at the finish line—a build-your-own ice cream sundae under the pavilion. Races begin at 7:00 PM (10k) and 7:10 PM (5k), with day-of registration between 6 PM - 6:50 PM. All proceeds benefit the McKay High School Cross-Country Team. Date: June 13, 2025Time: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PMLocation: Minto-Brown Island Park // 2200 Minto Island Rd SW, Salem, OR 97302Cost: $25–$30 day-of registration (view registration informa…

When it comes to protecting your home, a reliable roof is one of the first lines of defense. Whether you're dealing with an unexpected leak, looking for maintenance, or planning a full roof replacement, it's important to choose a roofing contractor you can count on. Thankfully, homeowners in Salem, Oregon have access to a strong lineup of experienced, professional, and community-rooted roofing companies. Let's take a look at some of the local roofing contractors you can trust with your next roofing project. Bonn Roof Care Since 1982, Bonn Roof Care has been helping local homeowners keep their roofs in top shape. Originally focused on cleaning and maintenance, they’ve grown into a full-service roofing contractor offering repai…

Looking for things to do this weekend? Check out these 11 fun events happening around Salem! Fiction, Mystery, and Audiovisual Sale Browse a wide selection of affordable fiction, mystery, and audiovisual items at the Friends of Salem Public Library's June book sale. The sale supports library programs and special projects with all proceeds going back to the Salem Public Library. Date: June 5–7, 2025Time: Thursday 10 AM – 5:30 PM | Friday 10 AM – 4:30 PM | Saturday 10 AM – 4:30 PMLocation: Salem Public Library // 585 Liberty St SE, Salem, OR 97301Cost: FREE to attend; items for purchase Learn More Make Music Salem Countdown Dance Party Get your groove on at the final Countdown Event for Make Music Salem, ho…

The Willamette Valley is celebrated for its diverse agriculture, including many local farms with bountiful U-Pick produce! Summers in Salem, Oregon are a perfect time to U-Pick delicious seasonal berries. In June, you can often find strawberries, raspberries, and cherries, and July starts to bring blueberries and blackberries. Some of these farms also have peaches, apples, and various vegetables available for U-Pick! Here's a guide to some fantastic farms in the Salem area where you can enjoy the freshest berries straight from the vine (plus a few fruit stands that pick them fresh for you). Fordyce Farm Inc. Fordyce Farm is a local favorite for U-Pick fruit as they offer a wide variety of produce throughout the season. Visitors c…

Searching for something fun to do in Salem this weekend? Check out this roundup of local events happening May 30 through June 1. LIVE MUSIC at The Gov Cup – Outer Orbit The Gov Cup is bringing live music back with a FREE show featuring Outer Orbit, a funk and soul collective led by Galen Clark and fronted by powerhouse vocalist Sarah Clarke. This all-star band delivers original soul and groove-heavy funk inspired by legends like Sly Stone and Aretha Franklin. Ages 21+ only. Date: May 30, 2025Time: 8:00 PMLocation: The Gov Cup // 471 Court St NE, Salem, OR 97301Cost: FREE Learn More Improv-aganza: A Big, Super Fun Improv Show Infinity Room is turning up the laughs with Improv-aganza, a high-energy improv show fea…

There’s something special about a well-kept yard or a thoughtfully designed garden. In addition to looking nice, it also brings character to a home and joy to those who live there. Here in Salem, Oregon, we’re lucky to have a strong network of local landscaping and garden professionals who are passionate about helping neighbors create beautiful outdoor spaces. From detailed landscape design to routine maintenance, these trusted local landscaping companies are ready to bring your vision to life. Green Acres Landscape, Inc. Established in 1992, Green Acres Landscape, Inc. has come a long way from their original two-person operation. Now a full-service landscape company with over 100 employees, they provide residential, commerci…

Memorial Day weekend is bringing a full lineup of events to the Salem area, including live performances, local food and wine, outdoor gatherings, and family fun. Hike Oregon Book Signing and Meet & Greet Join local hiking guidebook author Franziska Weinheimer of Hike Oregon for an evening of community and conversation at Gilgamesh Brewing. Attendees can purchase or get books signed, enjoy food and drinks, and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Bring gear, maps, or trail plans to get tips and insight from Franziska herself! Date: May 23, 2025Time: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PMLocation: Gilgamesh Brewing – The Campus and Brewery // 2065 Madrona Ave SE, Salem, OR 97302Cost: FREE Learn More State of Oregon Night – Sale…

Breakfast is a big deal in Salem, and local restaurants know how to do it right. This guide features a handful of locally loved spots where you can grab everything from fluffy pancakes to savory scrambles and fresh-baked pastries. Jump to a specific restaurant: Word of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro Sassy Onion White's Restaurant Patty's Off-Center Cafe Sybil's Omelettes Honey&Co Cafe 22 West Acme Cafe Josey's Restaurant Ritz Diner French Press Coffee & Crepes Toast & Jam Taproot Lounge and Cafe Taproot Old Mill Cafe Annette's Westgate Elmer's Restaurant Black Sheep Cafe & Catering Original Pancake House Route 99 Noble Wave Lively Station Word of Mouth Neig…

Looking for fun plans this weekend? Check out this lineup of local events happening around the Salem area. Baby’s Bottom Dollar Spring 2025 Consignment Sale Shop big and save even bigger at the Baby’s Bottom Dollar Spring Consignment Sale. Over 150 families will be offering gently used clothing, toys, home goods, and summer gear (everything from swimsuits to sports equipment) at 60-90% off retail prices. Date: May 15–17, 2025Time: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PMLocation: Oregon State Fairgrounds, Columbia Hall // 2508 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301Cost: FREE to attend; items for purchase Learn More KeizerFEST Carnival, Vendors, and Food Trucks KeizerFEST 2025 is back at Keizer Rapids Park with four days of family fun! Yo…

When it comes to caring for your child's smile, choosing the right pediatric dentist can be a big decision. Fortunately, for families in Salem, Oregon, there are many local dental offices dedicated to providing high-quality, kid-friendly dental care. From playful environments and gentle techniques to holistic approaches and state-of-the-art technology, these pediatric dental providers are committed to helping children build healthy teeth habits from an early age. Acorn Dentistry for Kids With three locations in Salem-Keizer, Acorn Dentistry for Kids offers family-focused dental care in a welcoming, child-friendly atmosphere. Their board-certified pediatric dentists specialize in individualized care, using expert techniques to meet e…

It’s shaping up to be a lively weekend in Salem! Check out what’s going on around town and support local events. Salem-Keizer Volcanoes Opening Weekend The Salem-Keizer Volcanoes and Mavericks League return for another exciting season of summer baseball! Opening Weekend is filled with themed nights, including Opening Day on Wednesday, 50¢ Beer Night on Thursday, Educator Appreciation Night on Friday (with $5 admission for school district staff), Kids Day on Saturday (kids 12 and under get in free), and a special Mother’s Day celebration on Sunday. Date: May 7–11, 2025Time: Times varyLocation: Volcanoes Stadium // 6700 Field of Dreams Way NE, Keizer, OR 97303Cost: Ticket prices vary (view ticket information) Learn M…

Pets are family—and when it comes to their health, pet owners want compassionate, reliable care they can trust. Whether you're looking for routine wellness exams, dental cleanings, surgery, or specialty services, Salem, Oregon is home to a variety of veterinary clinics committed to helping pets live healthy, happy lives. We've rounded up 12 local veterinary clinics that are known for their dedication to pets and the people who love them. Animal Care Center Veterinary Clinic Located in South Salem, Animal Care Center Veterinary Clinic offers comprehensive care for dogs and cats, emphasizing preventive health and compassionate service. Their experienced team is equipped to provide a range of services, including wellness exams, dental…

It’s a busy weekend in Salem! Here's just a few of the great events happening in the area this weekend. 100th Anniversary & Bloom Season Event Schreiner's Iris Gardens invites visitors to celebrate 100 years of iris beauty during their 2025 Bloom Season, which runs May 2 through June 1. Explore vibrant iris fields, 10-acre display gardens, and over 1,000 named iris varieties alongside other blooming perennials. The centennial celebration includes special edition irises, workshops, commemorative items, and exclusive early bird and sunset events. Date: May 2 – June 1, 2025Time: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PMLocation: Schreiner's Iris Gardens // 3625 Quinaby Rd NE, Salem, OR 97303Cost: Weekday tickets $6 online / $8 at the door | …

When the weather warms up, there's no better time to enjoy a meal outside! If you're looking for a place to eat downtown in Salem, Oregon, there's a long list of restaurants with outdoor seating options. Note: Some outdoor seating arrangements are seasonal, so be sure to call ahead depending on the time of year. Table of Contents: Ritter's EateryVenti's Cafe & Beer VaultWild Pear Restaurant & CateringArchive Coffee & BarThe Cozy TabernaTaproot Lounge & CafeMykie's Bar & LoungeNoble WaveCascadia Pizza Co.Fork Forty Food HallAzul's Taco House & La Familia CiderMasonry GrillW. WallaceAmadeus RestaurantGamberetti's Italian RestaurantHappy Bibimbap HouseThe Easy OtterValiant the SandwichPrecious PizzaLa Vida Ca…