Buying furniture is one of those things that’s a lot easier when you can actually sit on the sofa, open the drawers, feel the fabric, and see how a piece looks outside a perfectly staged product photo. Around Salem, you’ve got quite a few ways to shop small. Some of these locally-owned businesses have been furnishing homes here for generations! You'll find local stores that focus on solid wood, custom pieces, budget-friendly finds, or ways to help you pull an entire room together. If you’re replacing a worn-out recliner, furnishing a new house, or finally looking for the dining table you plan to keep for the next 20 years, these Salem-area furniture stores are worth knowing. Salem Furniture Stores at a Glance StoreBest Fit ForWhat Stands Ou…

Back-to-school preparation looked a little different for hundreds of Salem-Keizer elementary teachers this summer. Before students returned to classrooms, educators spent time learning a new districtwide reading curriculum designed to bring better consistency to how children develop foundational literacy skills. The new program, Into Reading from Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, is being introduced across Salem-Keizer Public Schools for the 2026–27 school year. For local families, the change means elementary students throughout the district will be learning from the same core reading program, with materials available in both English and Spanish. Building Stronger Reading Foundations Young students build literacy through skills such as understandi…

This weekend in Salem is looking busy in the best way. Art fairs, live music, races, workshops, and plenty more are filling the calendar. 77th Annual Salem Art Fair and Festival Bush’s Pasture Park will come alive with art, music, food, and creativity during the 77th Annual Salem Art Fair and Festival. Presented by the Salem Art Association, the three-day event features more than 200 juried artists from around the country, live performances, artisan demonstrations, food carts, regional drinks, and hands-on activities for all ages. Meet the artists, browse and purchase original work, and enjoy one of Salem’s longest-running traditions. Date: September 11 - 13, 2026Time: Friday & Saturday 10 AM - 7 PM (Entertainment until 9 PM) | Sunday 1…

Watching the game at home has its advantages; you control the remote, nobody’s blocking the TV, and the snacks are exactly where you left them. But some games are just more fun when you're watching them at a sports bar. Around Salem, you won't run out of places to grab a drink, order something yummy, and settle in for a few hours of football, basketball, baseball, soccer, UFC, or whatever else has everyone locked in that day. Some of these spots are sports bars through and through, while others are neighborhood hangouts where the sports are only part of the overall experience. When you want to catch a match, here are some Salem sports bars and game-day spots worth knowing. Salem Sports Bars at a Glance BarAreaBest Fit ForHalf Court Sports B…

Sometimes building a stronger community starts with something simple: sharing a meal, playing a board game, swapping a favorite recipe, or sitting down for a conversation. This summer, four local high school students took that idea into Salem neighborhoods through the Teen Summer Internship program at Center 50+. Students from Sprague, West Salem, McNary, and Silvias River Charter schools each created a community event designed to bring neighbors of different ages together and encourage meaningful connections. Bringing Neighbors Together The Center 50+ Teen Summer Internship program focuses on making the most of neighborhood resources, creating opportunities for social connection, and helping people feel like they belong. As the culmination…

Salem is sending summer out on a high note. Check out what events are happening this Labor Day weekend. Oregon State Fair The Oregon State Fair heads into its second weekend at the Oregon State Fairgrounds, giving everyone a few more days to enjoy this annual end-of-summer tradition. Along with carnival rides, games, fair food, livestock and agricultural exhibits, 4-H and FFA competitions, creative displays, and roaming entertainment, this weekend’s concert lineup includes Jo Dee Messina, Uncle Kracker, Twisted Sister, and “Weird Al” Yankovic. Date: August 28 – September 7, 2026Time: Fair opens at 10:00 AM daily; carnival rides begin at 11:00 AMLocation: Oregon State Fairgrounds // 2330 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301Cost: Varies (view admissio…

There's something about browsing a local bookstore that online shopping can't replace. You can take your time and wander through every section, come with a plan or take time to browse, and sometimes leave with something you didn't expect to find. In Salem, Oregon, there are several local places to do exactly that. You can browse new releases, dig through used shelves, hunt for genre favorites, and even support library programs. Here are some local bookstores to explore in and around Salem. Salem Bookstores at a Glance BookstoreAreaBest Fit ForThe Book BinDowntown SalemAll-around browsing, new and used books, rare booksReader’s GuideWest SalemUsed-book hunting and trade creditEscape Fiction BooksSouth SalemSci-fi, fantasy, manga and genre re…

Hot summer days can feel very different depending on where you are in Salem. A shady park or tree-lined neighborhood can offer some relief, while areas surrounded by pavement, buildings, and limited tree cover can become much warmer. This summer, Willamette University students, faculty, and staff partnered with the City of Salem and Marion County to better understand those differences and help our community prepare for extreme heat. Through hands-on research, public education, and heat mapping, the project is helping local leaders gather information that could guide future decisions about trees, cooling resources, and other ways to keep Salem residents safer during hot weather. Understanding Heat Across Salem and Marion County Extreme heat…

Make the most of the last weekend of August with free live music, the Oregon State Fair, dancing, family fun, and more happening around Salem. Concert in the Park Live music takes over Riverfront Park as Haley Johnsen and opening act Erin Adkisson perform at the Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater. Johnsen brings a soulful blend of Alt Pop and Americana inspired by artists like Brandi Carlile and Bonnie Raitt, while Adkisson delivers a powerful, expressive performance style all her own. Bring a low-back chair or blanket, grab some food, and enjoy a summer evening outdoors. Date: August 28, 2026Time: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PMLocation: Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater // 200 Water St NE, Salem, OR 97301Cost: FREE Learn More Open Mic Night…

You don’t have to leave Salem to find a quiet trail, a wooded walking path, or a place where the city starts to feel a little farther away. Salem’s outdoor spaces range from the sprawling wetlands and forests of Minto-Brown Island Park to short neighborhood trails tucked into West and South Salem. There are creekside paths, natural areas, open meadows, paved walking loops, and wooded trails that work just as well for a quick evening walk as they do for a longer weekend outing. Salem Nature Trails and Walking Paths at a Glance LocationAreaTrail CharacterMinto-Brown Island ParkSouth SalemWetlands, woods, paved and unpaved trailsJoryville ParkSouth Salem areaWooded hillside trails and creekCroisan TrailSouth SalemNeighborhood connector trailSk…

Downtown Salem has a new cleanup crew. Twice a week, guests and staff from Union Gospel Mission of Salem's Men's Mission head into downtown with trash bags and cleanup supplies to help keep local streets and sidewalks looking their best. The Clean Team gives men staying at the Mission an opportunity to serve the neighborhood around them while contributing to a place that's part of their everyday lives. It's a simple gesture with a meaningful message: people experiencing homelessness aren't separate from the Salem community. They're neighbors, residents, customers, pedestrians, volunteers, and people who want opportunities to give back. Taking an Active Role in Downtown Salem Union Gospel Mission's Men's Mission is located on Commercial Stre…

Need weekend plans? We've got you covered. Salem has live music, comedy, tasty food, movies, games, and more happening August 21-23. Night Show Ft. Young Dre Rhythm & Flow presents a high-energy night of Hip-Hop and Rap at The BAD Space, featuring Young Dre, live performances, and sounds by Inferno & Friends. All ages are welcome to enjoy a concert-meets-party atmosphere. First performance kicks off at 7:15 PM. Date: August 21, 2026Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PMLocation: The BAD Space // 2572 19th St SE, Salem, OR 97302Cost: Starting at $15 (view ticket information) Learn More National Park Radio with Rich McCloud Indie-folk duo National Park Radio is taking the stage at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre for an evening of soaring harmonies,…

As pet owners, there are many big box companies to choose from when shopping for our furry family members. But when it comes to high-quality products, unmatched customer service, and a personalized experience, local pet supply stores stand out from the crowd. In Salem, Oregon, there are several pet stores that make it easy to shop closer to home while supporting local, independent, and Pacific Northwest businesses. Here are four pet supply stores worth knowing about. Salem Pet Supply Stores at a Glance StoreAreaBest ForWhat Stands OutSalem Pet SupplyNorth and South SalemDog and cat food, treats, and everyday suppliesFamily-owned operation serving Oregon pet owners since 2003Pet Etc.West SalemBirds, small animals, dogs, cats, and neighborhoo…

Sumpter Elementary School in South Salem is working toward a big community goal: building a playground designed to give children of all abilities more opportunities to play together. The school is one of only two elementary schools in Oregon recognized as a National Banner Unified Champion School, a designation that reflects its commitment to inclusion among students with and without disabilities. Now, the Sumpter community is working to bring that same sense of belonging to recess with plans for a new inclusive playground. A Small Fundraiser Sparks a Bigger Project The movement started when 7-year-old Sumpter student Aspen Nelson noticed that her friend—6-year-old Juniper Adkisson, who uses a wheelchair—wasn't able to use the school's exis…

Salem’s weekend calendar is looking pretty full (in the best way)! Take a look at what's happening August 14–16. Capital City Retro Fest Three nights of tribute-band favorites are coming to Gerry Frank Amphitheater during Capital City Retro Fest, presented by HAREFEST. The all-ages celebration will feature music inspired by Def Leppard, Fleetwood Mac, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Foo Fighters, Duran Duran, Tom Petty, U2, Alanis Morissette, The Doobie Brothers, and Hall & Oates. Food carts and a central bar (for attendees 21+) will also be available throughout the weekend. Date: August 14–16, 2026Time: Friday & Saturday: Gates at 6 PM, Music at 7 PM | Sunday: Gates at 4 PM, Music at 5 PMLocation: Gerry Frank Amphitheater // 200 Water S…

Choosing a restaurant can become surprisingly complicated when everyone in your group has different tastes. One person might be craving tacos, another could want sushi, and someone else may need vegetarian options. Salem’s food cart pods and food halls make those decisions easier by gathering multiple independent food businesses in one place. Instead of asking everyone to agree on a single menu, each person can choose what sounds good and meet back at a shared table. These popular destinations also provide something beyond convenient dining. Many were intentionally developed as gathering places where people could spend time together, attend events, and support local small businesses. When it comes to food cart pods and food halls, Salem off…

Finding the right resources for your family can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why having a welcoming place where families can connect with support, guidance, and community services can make such a meaningful difference. Built from a vision of creating a place where neighbors feel welcomed and supported, the Family Resource Advocacy Network (FRAN) has opened a new community center on Lancaster Drive NE. This new family resource center brings together support services, educational opportunities, and local partnerships under one roof. Let’s take a closer look at how this new space is helping families in NE Salem. Family Resource Advocacy Network Community Center The new Family Resource Advocacy Network (FRAN) community center was designe…

Salem is packed with creative workshops, live music, family festivals, community fundraisers, theater, dancing, and more this weekend. Start planning your local adventures! Mushroom Growing Workshop Dig into the fascinating world of fungi during this hands-on workshop at Pringle Creek Sustainable Living Center. Participants will learn about mycelium and explore practical ways to grow mushrooms at home, with kid-friendly activities included. All ages, learning abilities, and identities are welcome. Date: August 7, 2026Time: 5:30 PM–7:30 PMLocation: Pringle Creek Sustainable Living Center // 3911 Village Center Dr SE, Salem, OR 97302Cost: FREE (view registration information) Learn More Date-Night Dinner/Cruise Paint Party Turn date night into…

Salem’s local coffee scene has something for nearly every kind of visit. You’ll find specialty roasters focused on the details of each cup, spacious coffeehouses where groups can gather, neighborhood cafes for a relaxed morning, and downtown shops that stay open well beyond the usual afternoon closing time. The best coffee shop for you might depend on more than the coffee itself. Seating, food, parking, noise, hours, location, and the overall atmosphere can shape the experience just as much as what’s in your mug. Note: Hours, menus, events, and seating arrangements can change. Check with each business directly before making a special trip or planning a large gathering. Who This Guide Is For This guide isn’t a ranked list. Each coffee shop s…

Finding stable housing can be a life-changing step for a veteran experiencing homelessness or financial hardship. But moving into a home is only the beginning. Gathering everyday necessities like soap, bedding, cookware, food, and cleaning supplies can quickly strain a limited budget. Courtney Place Veterans Housing is hoping to fill that gap through their new Essential Goods Pantry in southeast Salem. Open to veterans throughout the community, the pantry provides free household items, hygiene products, food, furniture, and other practical resources. Just as importantly, it creates a welcoming place where veterans can connect with people who understand their experiences and are ready to help. Meeting Everyday Needs with Dignity Many program…

This weekend, Salem is offering plenty of reasons to step away from the usual routine and see what’s unfolding around the city. NW MiniTruckin Nationals The first-ever Northwest MiniTruckin Nationals is rolling into the Oregon State Fairgrounds for a full weekend of custom trucks, judging, games, awards, raffles, cruising, and community fun. Vehicle registration and camping are sold out, but spectator admission will be available at the gate. Date: July 31 - August 2, 2026Time: Friday 9 AM - 8 PM | Saturday 9 AM - 8 PM or after awards | Sunday 9 AM - 2 PMLocation: Oregon State Fairgrounds // 2330 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301Cost: $20 for spectators at the gate Learn More Salem Photo Expo The Shutterbug is transforming its Salem Superstore int…

Finding a restaurant that works for the whole family is not always easy. Parents are often looking for familiar choices for younger eaters, dietary flexibility, room for a group, quick counter service, or something entertaining to keep children engaged. Salem offers options for many different kinds of family outings. You can start the morning with pancakes, watch airplanes near the Salem airport, choose from several food carts, play a board game, or add a round of miniature golf to your dinner. Restaurant hours, menus, food-cart lineups, fees, and activities can change. Make sure you check directly with the restaurant before heading out. Who Should Read This? The businesses below are presented as editorial selections rather than a strict ra…