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…

Looking for things to do this weekend in Salem? There's some great live entertainment, plant sales, family-friendly activities, and more to check out around town. Native Tree Planting for Arbor Day Celebrate Arbor Day by helping plant native trees at Minto-Brown Island Park alongside Salem Parks staff. This volunteer event supports the park’s parking lot upgrades, funded by the 2022 Safety and Livability Bond. Participants can sign in online or at the picnic shelter by parking lot #3. Date: April 25, 2025Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMLocation: Minto-Brown Island Park // 2200 Minto Island Rd SW, Salem, OR 97302Cost: FREE (View sign-up information) Learn More 2025 Spring Plant Sale Kickstart your spring gardening at…

Information updated 4/21/25. It's market season in Salem, Oregon, which means there are plenty of opportunities to shop local produce and goods. Between locally-grown produce, artisan foods and baked goods, fresh-cut flowers, and one-of-a-kind handmade items, these community markets and farm stands showcase Salem's best makers. Salem Saturday Market As the flagship event of Salem Community Markets, the Salem Saturday Market is a beloved weekend staple. Held downtown near the Oregon State Capitol, this bustling open-air market brings together over 100 vendors each week! Locals and visitors (and their friendly dogs) can browse seasonal produce, baked goods, handcrafted items, artisan foods, fresh flowers, plants and starts, and so …

Ready for the weekend, Salem? There’s a great new lineup of community events to enjoy. Plus, don’t miss the special section in the second half of this article dedicated entirely to Easter events! Featured Events 68th River of Gems Rock, Gem, and Mineral Show Hosted by the Willamette Agate & Mineral Society, this long-running rock, gem, and mineral show is back for its 68th year at the Polk County Fairgrounds. Guests can explore 26 vendors, see stunning display cases, enjoy demonstrations, and experience a glowing fluorescent show. There will be kids’ games, a silent auction, and food available on-site. On Saturday at 1 PM, children 11 and under can join in a special treasure hunt featuring eggs filled with polish…

When it comes to clothes, the right fit can make all the difference in your confidence. If you have a pair of pants that need to be taken in, a wedding gown to be tailored, or a favorite jacket that needs mending, Salem, Oregon has several skilled local tailors who are ready to help. Pavlov Alterations Pavlov Alterations is known for quality craftsmanship, fair pricing, and quick turnarounds. Owner Lyuda brings over 10 years of experience from Nordstrom and holds a master’s degree in fashion, making her a true professional in the art of tailoring. Services are available by appointment only. With a 4.7-star rating and glowing reviews about her skill and efficiency, Pavlov Alterations is a trusted name for all your alteration needs. …

Like the spring flowers coming up from the ground, Salem is bursting with local events this weekend! Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival The Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival, a beloved spring tradition in the Willamette Valley, offers a breathtaking experience with over 40 acres of blooming tulip fields. Guests can enjoy hot air balloon rides (weather permitting), wine tastings, a specialty gift shop, food and craft vendors, a children's play area, and countless photo opportunities. Tickets are available online only. Children 12 and under are free with a ticketed adult. Date: Festival runs March 21 – April 27Time: Friday 9 AM - 7 PM | Saturday 8 AM - 7 PM | Sunday 8 AM - 6 PMLocation: Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm // 33814 S Meridian Rd, Woodburn…

When it comes to youth baseball in Salem, few names are as dedicated to the game and the kids as Dan Hughes. As the owner and general manager of Pacific Rim baseball Academy now doing business under the name of USA Prime Willamette Valley. Dan has spent years coaching, mentoring, and building something that goes far beyond the baseball field. “Baseball has always been a passion of mine,” Dan said. “Since I was five or six years old, it became the only sport that I ever played or really wanted to pay.” That passion carried through his childhood and eventually into parenthood, where he found himself coaching his youngest son’s Little League and Junior Baseball Organization (JBO) teams. What started as a dad helping out on the si…

Updated April 2025 Coffee culture in the Pacific Northwest is more of a lifestyle than a trend. The convenience of drive-thru coffee makes it easier than ever to get your caffeine fix, whether you're rushing to work, out running errands, or just craving a fun little drink. Here are a few of Salem, Oregon's best local drive-thru coffee spots, where you can pick up a tasty drink without leaving your car. Java Crew Known for their fast service and friendly baristas, Java Crew has become a drive-thru coffee staple in Salem. Their commitment to serving quality coffee with a cheer is obvious in every interaction. They also frequently hold fundraisers for local organizations and non-profits, giving back to the Salem-Keizer community. St…