If you’ve ever wondered what life was like for the pioneers who arrived via the Oregon Trail or the Kalapuya people who lived in the area for thousands of years, now’s your chance to find out. May is National Historic Preservation Month and the Salem region has loads of museums and historical places of interest that celebrate the area's diverse heritage.
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If you find it impossible to walk by a blooming pink peony, purple iris or yellow rose without stopping to give it some love, you’re in the right place. April is National Garden Month and the Salem region is home to 17 spectacular display gardens where you can spend the entire afternoon wandering through fragrant and colorful blooms, gleaning inspiration for your own garden.
Traveling with your fuzzy buddy? Salem and the Mid-Willamette Valley roll out the welcome mats —and water bowls — for your four-legged family. From pooch-friendly wineries to comfy outdoor patios and wooded hiking trails, here’s a quick roundup of places to enjoy good times with your pup, and maybe even score a few treats along the way.
Calling all lovebirds — it’s the month for romance and the Salem region is definitely feeling the mood. Whether you’re looking to treat your sweet to artisan chocolates, passionfruit boba tea, sugar-free cupcakes, or a giant glazed doughnut for two, this roundup of sinfully delicious goodies will make their knees buckle.
January through March is Cellar Season in the Willamette Valley, when over 700 vintners take a breath between the holiday craze and the first bud break in spring. Tasting rooms are usually less crowded this time of year, inviting wine connoisseurs to linger fireside with close friends — usually while enjoying just-released vintages and chatting up the winemakers themselves.
If you’re looking for a gift that reflects the bounty of Salem and the Mid-Willamette Valley, a gourmet gift basket is a five-star pick. Everybody loves artisanal treats that both taste incredible and support local makers, right?
Our region has a long and spectacular history when it comes to all of the transportation industries. If you have any train- or plane-obsessed kiddos in your crew — or gearheads of any age — you’ll definitely want to spend an afternoon geeking out at these fascinating hands-on attractions found throughout the region.
Early fall is a standout time to visit Salem and the surrounding area. Whether you want to take a leaf-peeping hike through a magical state park, explore local history and Indigenous art, or if you just want to sip cider, ogle giant pumpkins and wander through a corn maze with the kiddos, the Mid-Willamette Valley is the place to be for unforgettable fall activities.
September 15 through October 15 is National Hispanic Heritage Month and the Salem area’s celebratory lineup is something everyone will want to get in on.
If you’re looking to squeeze every last drop out of summer with kids in tow, look no further. These Salem-area attractions are a huge hit for all ages, including the adults that escort them there! So round up the crew and get ready to have a few more summer hurrahs as a family at these unique locations and attractions.
It’s not officially summer in Oregon until your lips—and fingers—are stained red with strawberries and purple from marionberries, or you’re eagerly sticking your fork into a from-scratch peach cobbler made with fruit you picked yourself.
Stop and smell the roses—and admire the goldenrods, dahlias and geraniums while you’re at it.
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