Central Area Travel Guide
Salem
Visit Central Area
Popular places to visit
Salem Riverfront Park
After visiting Salem Riverfront Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Salem. While you're here, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Oregon State Capitol
Watch legislative sessions, learn about key moments in Oregon’s history and admire the art deco architecture of one of the most recognizable buildings in the state.
Willamette Valley Vineyards
You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Willamette Valley Vineyards during your travels to Turner. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Bush's Pasture Park
Bush's Pasture Park is just one of the places to see in Salem, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the area's festivals or attend a sporting event.
Union Street Railroad Bridge
You can find out about the history of Salem with a stop at Union Street Railroad Bridge. While you're here, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Elsinore Theater
Get tickets for a show at Elsinore Theater, a popular theatre in Salem. While you're here, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Things to do
Amazing Scavenger Hunt: Salem Oregon's Beautiful Capital
Private Wine Excursion Willamette Valley, Oregon - Wine Tour
Willamette Valley Boutique Winery Tour with Lunch
Private - Willamette Valley Wine Tour From Portland (tasting fees included)
Top hotels in Central Area
The Grand Hotel - Salem
"Wonderful experience 5+"
Reviewed on 22 Jun 2026
Holman Riverfront Park Hotel Salem, Tapestry by Hilton
"For the price, the room is very basic, the beds were as hard as a rock and parking was $32 a day and the car had to be valet or park on the street with meter parking. Not to mention our window would not close all the way and the street noise was loud, and the TV would not work. Highly disappointed ..."
Reviewed on 21 Jun 2026
Best Western Plus Mill Creek Inn
"Loved the stay! Clean room and comfortable bed. The staff was very helpful and polite. The free Dennys breakfast coupons were nice! Location was perfect! The area was quiet and safe. I look forward to staying again."
Reviewed on 22 Jun 2026
The Independence
"This place was clean and convenient area for my dog. There's a park right next door and a nice view of the river. We had dinner at the restaurant but the food was just mediocre but the service was great. The rooftop terrace was nice too. Would definitely come back here !"
Reviewed on 22 Jun 2026
Oregon Garden Resort
"Beautiful, peaceful setting. Nice private rooms. Great food!"
Reviewed on 22 Jun 2026
Comfort Suites Salem
"This place is amazing and staff is great"
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Central Area
South Central
If you're spending some time in South Central, Bush Barn Art Center and Bush House Museum are top sights worth seeing.
Southeast Salem
If you're spending some time in Southeast Salem, Honeywood Winery and Wunderland are top sights worth seeing.
West Salem
When in West Salem, you can plan a visit to Salem Riverfront Carousel and Union Street Railroad Bridge, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Northgate
While visiting Northgate, you might make a stop by sights like Oregon State Fair Skychairs and Salem Armory Auditorium.
North East Salem
When in North East Salem, you can plan a visit to Oregon State Fair Skychairs and Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
