If you live or plan to visit the Salem, Oregon area, the Oregon Coast or Central Oregon, here are some of my recommendations of things to do and places to go and eat.
Map
Sections
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Outdoor Activities
Restaurants
Other Food & Drinks
Arts & Entertainment
Local Favorites
Outdoor Activities
This park is a must visit. Walking bridge over the Willamette River, Sternwheeler, playground and carousel!
Riverfront City Park
Bush's Pasture Park has 90 acres with many historical features and recreational amenities. Visit the museum that was once the Bush family home and the art center in the barn.
Bush's Pasture Park
The Salem Community Markets offers handmade and homegrown products. And there are many markets to visit! Check out the 2023 Seasonal Market Schedule for the details
Salem Community Markets
This one is a must! Their fresh donuts and cider are amazing and don't forget to check out the Shortcake Stand!
E.Z. Orchards Farm Market
Well worth the short drive from the state capitol! Silver Falls State Park is called the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system and once you visit, you know why.
Silver Falls State Park
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A great place to play when the weather gets hot! This park offers both a play structure and a waterpark!
Wes Bennett Park
On the Southern Oregon coast, you can find plenty to do at Gold Beach. From Jet Boats, Fishing Charters, Historical Museums and Prehistoric Gardens, there is something for everyone.
Visit Gold Beach, Oregon – Attractions, Lodging, Dining ...
If you are heading to the central Oregon coast, make sure to stop in Newport and check out the lighthouse! And don't forget to visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium!
Newport
Grab a beverage from Pelican Brewing and watch the dory boats head out over the waves to catch some fish! Pacific City is a top pick!
Pacific City
There is no lack of things to do in Seaside! No matter is you are an adventure seeker, just want to relax or anything in between, you can find it here. Have fun at the Adventure Park, Amusement Park, Bicycle Rentals, Aquarium, Carousel Mall and the L...
Visit Seaside, the Oregon Coast's Favorite Vacation Destination
Don't pass this up!! The Oregon Garden has over 80 acres and more than 20 specialty gardens showcasing the botanical beauty of the PNW!
The Oregon Garden
Check out the two short hikes this park has to offer. One to the beautiful Bridal Veil Falls and the other showcasing the views of the Columbia River.
Bridal Veil Falls State Scenic Viewpoint - Oregon State Parks
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One of Central Oregon's best! Beautiful views of the Three Sisters!
Three Sisters Viewpoint
Restaurants
Their rolls and honey butter will keep you coming back time after time! Not to mention everything else on the menu! Highly recommended!
Best Little Roadhouse
Hands down the BEST steak I've had! If you are in the area, this is a MUST!
Sayler's Old Country Kitchen
If you like Taco Pizza, you got to try Padington's Taco Pizza! It's the best!
Padington's Pizza Padington's Pizza
The best Chinese food in the area!
Lum-Yuen Restaurant
A little shop in a little town offers the biggest flavors. From scratch, their famous breadsticks are Heaven! They also have amazing Calzone, Lasagna and Pizza!
PanezaNellie Breadstick Shoppe
The Chicken Taquitos here are a MUST! Food is always delicious and service is wonderful!
La Hacienda Real
Other Food & Drinks
Great wine, beautiful location!
Willamette Valley Vineyards - Sustainably made classic ...
Delicious food, great beer and friendly staff!
Three Creeks Brewing Company
Breads and pastries are AMAZING!
Turner Baking Co.
Choose from a variety of food trucks and enjoy your meal indoors or outdoors. Great atmosphere.
The Yard Food Park
Everytime we are in the area, we are sure to stop here and get a giant scoop of ice cream!
Indulge Sweets
Arts & Entertainment
There are always new exhibits to see here at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. The kids love the touch pools and watching the animal feedings.
Oregon Coast Aquarium
Neat place to check out. And The Great Oregon Steam-up is an event you don't want to miss!
Powerland Heritage Park
Fun for all ages! This is a nice bowling alley and has a small arcade for the kids!
Silver Creek Lanes
My favorite part about this amusement park is the indoor roller-skating rink! And it's been open since 1905 and is one of the country's longest running amusement parks.
Oaks Amusement Park
Local Favorites
I had my first ever facial done here and it was truly a wonderful experience. The staff was very knowledgeable and friendly, and it was a very relaxing environment. Highly recommended.
Simply Blissed
I've been going here for years. From haircuts and coloring, to manis and pedis, they do an amazing job here!
