South Central Travel Guide
Salem
Visit South Central
Popular places to visit
Bush House Museum
Step back in time at this original late-19th-century farmstead and art gallery to discover Oregon’s pioneering history and the legacy of one of its founding families.
Bush Barn Art Center
A treasure trove of regional arts and crafts is showcased at this exciting and educational contemporary art center, located on a heritage Oregon farmstead.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Things to do
Silver Falls Waterfall Hiking Tour from Portland
Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Salem Oregon's Beautiful Capital
Private Wine Excursion Willamette Valley, Oregon - Wine Tour
Willamette Valley Boutique Winery Tour with Lunch
Sunset Tree Climb at Silver Falls State Park
Top hotels in South Central
The Hotel Salem
Room was very nice. Breakfast was a little sparse. With the addition of just a few things it could have been much better. Overall I would stay there again. Also the fitness room would have been great if it had a water cooler in there.
Reviewed on 23 Nov 2025
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Salem OR
Liked the assortment of snacks Staff was nice , breakfast was good enough Rooms were clean , but lighting could be upgraded / that’s rooms were dark even with lights on
Reviewed on 24 Nov 2025
Holman Riverfront Park Hotel Salem, Tapestry by Hilton
new hotel, big lobby with nice seating area. best hotel I've found in downtown Salem.
Reviewed on 23 Nov 2025
Best Western Plus Mill Creek Inn
The room was spotless and beds comfortable. The staff was very friendly and helpful.
Reviewed on 25 Nov 2025
Comfort Suites Salem
Bed was super comfortable and it was quiet. Everything was super clean. I wanted to use the hot tub, but there were too many children having a great time (good for them - I was just not feeling it), so I can't speak for the pool area.
Reviewed on 25 Nov 2025
HomeTowne Studios by Red Roof Salem, OR
Room was comfortable and exceptionally clean. Staff is friendly and helpful. 👍👍
Reviewed on 9 Nov 2025
Other neighbourhoods around South Central
Southeast Salem
If you're spending some time in Southeast Salem, Regal Santiam and Honeywood Winery are top sights worth seeing.
Central Area
If you're spending some time in Central Area, Elsinore Theater and Oregon State Capitol are top sights worth seeing.
Court-Chemeketa Historic District
While there might not be top attractions in Court-Chemeketa Historic District, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Oregon State Capitol and Willamette Heritage Center.
Morningside
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Morningside and surrounding area, you can visit Bush House Museum and Oregon State Capitol.
Northeast Neighbors
If you're spending some time in Northeast Neighbors, Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion and Salem Armory Auditorium are top sights worth seeing.
Grant
Though Grant may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Willamette Heritage Center and Salem Armory Auditorium.
