Oregon Tails

Despite being Oregon’s capital city, Salem often gets overlooked compared to some of the larger or better-known cities like Portland or Eugene, but there are tons of fun things to do both in downtown Salem and in the Willamette Valley.

Not all of the activities we’ll discuss are specifically not kid-friendly, but in this post, we’ll focus on fun things to do in Salem, Oregon for adults both in the summer months and year-round activities.

1. Wrecking Ballers Rage Room

Did you know Salem has a rage room? This one is a blast! Literally. Discover the ultimate stress-relief experience: the Wreck Room! Whether you call it a break room, anger room, or rage room, the concept remains the same: come in, gear up, choose your weapon, and unleash your pent-up frustrations by smashing and thrashing to your heart’s content.

It’s an exhilarating and unique activity where you can let loose without worrying about the mess. Whether you’re looking to blow off steam, release anxiety, or simply have a blast, everyone agrees that breaking things is downright enjoyable!

• Located in: Fork Forty Food Hall

• Address: 440 State St, Salem, OR 97301

• Hours: 4PM-9PM weekdays, 12PM-9PM weekends

• Phone: (971) 599-3948

2. Axe Throwing

Oregon Axe Throwing let’s you unleash your inner lumberjack or viking (dealer’s choice) as you take aim at wooden targets with real axes. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, the expert instructors will guide you through the techniques and safety protocols to ensure a fun and unforgettable experience.

Gather your friends, unleash your competitive spirit, and see who can reign supreme in this thrilling activity that’s perfect for group outings, date nights, or team-building events.

• Address: 700 High St. NE

• Phone: 971-332-5680

3. The Coin Jam in Downtown Salem

If you live in Salem you may already know about the Coin Jam bar and arcade. The Coin Jam is a haven for gamers and nostalgia enthusiasts alike. Step into this retro arcade bar and be transported back in time to the golden age of video games. With rows of classic arcade cabinets lining the walls and a wide selection of craft beers on tap, The Coin Jam offers the perfect blend of old-school entertainment and modern indulgence.

• Address: 439 Court St NE, Salem, OR 97301

• Hours: 2PM-1AM

• Happy Hour: 3PM-6PM

• Phone: (503) 363-8209

4. Salem’s Bag Inn Hobbit Hole

This West Salem Airbnb is relatively new but without a doubt it’s worth going if you ever wanted to experience a Lord of the Rings hobbit hole but you don’t want to travel up to the pricy one in Washington or go to New Zealand. Inspired by the charming dwellings of Middle-earth, this cozy accommodation immerses guests in a world of fantasy and enchantment.

Step through the round door and into a cozy living space adorned with rustic furnishings and intricate details reminiscent of Bilbo Baggins’ abode including swords and the full collection of extended edition movies.

PS: I already checked, and the property is up for sale for the small price of 1 million dollars.

• Airbnb Listing

• Cost: $200 a night (Airbnb uses dynamic pricing so double check)

• Bedrooms: 1

• Bathrooms: 1

5. Silver Falls State Park Tree Climbing

I know, I know! Everyone already knows about the trail of ten falls and the unusual things to do at Silver Falls State Park. Silver Falls State Park offers a myriad of recreational activities, including hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, and camping. But did you know they let you climb the trees? I don’t mean like when you were a kid. You can climb and even camp up in the 200-300ft giant old-growth trees in Silver Falls State Park.

This is a perfect activity for adventure seekers. You can do a sunset climb into the canopy to watch the sun go down over the forest or join the exclusive ranks of the 0.001% of the population who have ventured into the treetops with the half-day tree climb. For tree camping, you can opt for a personal hammock or a two-person tree tent.

If you are looking for a more leisurely stroll and you are unfamiliar with Silver Falls you should definitely check out our guide to the trail of ten falls.

6. Salem Art Fair & Festival

The Salem Art Fair & Festival is a vibrant celebration of creativity and community held annually in Salem, Oregon. Drawing artists and art enthusiasts from across the region, this event showcases a diverse array of artistic talent through exhibitions, live demonstrations, and interactive activities. Visitors can explore booths featuring works of art in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography, and more. Live music fills the air as attendees stroll through the fairgrounds, sampling delicious food from local vendors and participating in hands-on art activities for all ages.

With its lively atmosphere and eclectic mix of artistic expression, the Salem Art Fair & Festival is a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar, fostering connections between artists and audiences and celebrating the transformative power of art.

• Dates: September 13-15

• Location: Bush’s Pasture Park

• Cost: $30 ticket includes dinner, a drink ticket, and a concert

5. Salem Saturday Market

Every Saturday, downtown Salem comes alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of this beloved community gathering. From farm-fresh produce to handcrafted goods and artisanal treats, there’s something for everyone at this lively market. Wander through the rows of colorful stalls, chat with friendly vendors, and sample delicious bites from food trucks offering everything from gourmet tacos to mouthwatering pastries.

• Address: 800 Union St NE, Salem, OR 97301

• Dates: March 2nd – October 26th, 2024 (Saturdays)

• Hours: 9AM-2PM

6. The Oregon Garden

The Oregon Garden is a lush oasis of natural beauty and tranquility. It’s a massive botanic garden at 80 acres, this paradise boasts a stunning array of themed gardens, each showcasing the diverse flora of Oregon and beyond. Wander through the serene Water Garden, where tranquil ponds and cascading waterfalls create a peaceful retreat, or explore the whimsical Children’s Garden, where little ones can let their imaginations run wild amidst interactive exhibits and play areas.

• Address: 879 W Main St, Silverton, OR 97381

• Hours: 10AM-4PM

• Cost: $12

7. Salem’s Tasting Rooms

The Chemeketa Cellars Tasting room located at Chemeketa Community College in Salem, this inviting space offers wine enthusiasts the opportunity to sample a selection of handcrafted wines produced by the college’s renowned winemaking program.

Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious novice, the knowledgeable staff is on hand to guide you through a tasting experience tailored to your palate preferences. Sip and savor a variety of varietals, from crisp whites to bold reds, each showcasing the unique terroir of the Willamette Valley.

• Address: 215 Doaks Ferry Rd NW, Salem, OR 97304

• Hours: 4PM-9PM weekdays, 12PM-5PM Weekends

8. Minto Brown Island Park and The Willamette Riverfront Park

Minto Brown Island Park and the adjacent Willamette Riverfront Park offer a delightful escape into nature right in the heart of Salem, Oregon. Spanning over 1,200 acres along the scenic Willamette River, Minto Brown Island Park boasts miles of picturesque trails for walking, running, and biking, winding through lush forests, wetlands, and open meadows.

Willamette Riverfront Park provides access to the river for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, as well as picnic areas and scenic viewpoints perfect for taking in the stunning river vistas or listening to concerts. You can also take the Willamette Queen Stream boat down the Willamette river or have dinner there.

9. Tour the Oregon State Capitol

The Oregon state capitol is actually a very scenic area, especially in spring when the cherry blossoms came out. The State Capital also a popular place to take pictures for the gram. The iconic Capitol building and the statue across from it has picturesque surroundings. But, the capital also has an art collection, featuring murals, sculptures, and stained glass windows.

For history buffs there’s the World War II Memorial Built in 1938. You can also take a guided tour of the Capitol building to learn about Oregon’s political history and architecture. If you are interested in history you should also check out the nearby Willamette Heritage Center or Deepwood Museum & gardens.

10. Exitus Escape Rooms

At Exitus Escape Rooms, adventure and excitement await as participants are immersed in immersive and challenging puzzle experiences. Located in Salem, Oregon, Exitus offers a variety of themed rooms, each with its own unique storyline and puzzles to solve. Whether you’re unraveling the mysteries of a haunted house, embarking on a daring heist, or solving a scientific experiment gone wrong, every room promises an adrenaline-fueled race against the clock.

Teamwork, communication, and quick thinking are key as participants work together to uncover clues, solve puzzles, and ultimately, escape before time runs out. With thrilling scenarios and intricate puzzles, Exitus Escape Rooms offers an unforgettable experience for friends, families, and co-workers alike.

• Located in: Fork Forty Food Hall

• Address: 440 State St, Salem, OR 97301

• Hours: 4PM-9PM weekdays, 12PM-9PM weekends

Even More Fun Things To Do in Oregon’s Capital City

We barely scratched the surface – there’s plenty more interesting things to do, attractions, festivals, and outdoor activities in Salem and the surrounding area. Some honorable mentions that are more kid friendly include Gilbert House Children’s Museum, the Enchanted Forest, and there’s also a host of nature trails, wine tours, and restaurants worth checking out.