Salem
Rooted in Community, Growing Together.
Salem Overview
Salem, Oregon is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley, surrounded by scenic rivers, fertile farmland, and the picturesque beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Known for its rich history, thriving arts scene, and welcoming community, Salem offers the perfect blend of city amenities and small-town charm. From the stunning Oregon State Capitol and beautiful Riverfront Park to eclectic downtown shops, cozy cafés, and local wineries, there’s plenty to see and do here. Below are some highlights—favorite coffee spots, top restaurants, and must-visit local attractions—that showcase what makes Salem such a wonderful place to live, work, and explore.
Broadway Coffeehouse
Bright, roomy, and welcoming — good for working or meeting friends. They serve Stumptown coffee and have a friendly atmosphere.
Archive Coffee & Bar
By day, Archive serves specialty coffee; by night, it transforms into a cocktail bar offering spirits, wine, and beer. They also serve full breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner daily.
Urban Grange Coffee
Urban Grange is praised for its great lattes and cozy atmosphere. A local favorite, it’s known for its friendly service and quality brews.
Isaac's Downtown
Isaac’s Downtown is part of a nonprofit organization that trains and employs young people. They offer a variety of coffee drinks and baked goods in a welcoming environment.
The Governor's Cup
A long-standing establishment in Salem, The Governor’s Cup is known for its classic coffee offerings and comfortable setting, making it a great spot for both locals and visitors.
Amadeus
A contemporary American restaurant located downtown. Their menu is diverse (think brisket, risotto, thin-crust pizzas) and they offer a lively yet refined dining atmosphere.
The Cozy Taberna
Tucked in downtown Salem, this spot is praised for its warm ambiance, tapas/small plates, and craft cocktails.
Wild Pear Restaurant & Catering
Focused on Pacific Northwest cuisine, this restaurant emphasizes seasonal & locally sourced ingredients. It’s in a historic building in the heart of Salem.
Ritter’s Housemade Foods
A popular family-owned spot known for its housemade menu, pizzas, and a good selection of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
The Easy Otter
A smaller, neighborhood gem getting buzz. On Yelp’s Top 10 list for Salem, it’s praised for great food, good service, and charm.
Riverfront Park
This downtown park along the Willamette River offers walking trails, the Eco-Earth Globe sculpture, an amphitheater, and more.
Oregon State Capitol
The Capitol building is impressive architecturally, and the Capitol Mall and gardens make for a pleasant stroll.
Enchanted Forest
A beloved local amusement park nestled in the woods, Enchanted Forest features Storybook Lane, Western Town, and the English Village. It’s a magical experience for all ages.
Schreiner's Iris Gardens
Renowned for its stunning iris displays, Schreiner’s Gardens is a must-visit, especially during bloom season in May. The vibrant colors and variety of flowers make it a photographer’s paradise.
Minto-Brown Island Park
As Salem’s largest park, Minto-Brown Island Park offers over 1,200 acres of trails for walking, biking, and birdwatching. It’s a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility away from the city’s hustle.
Willamette Town Center
The largest indoor mall in Salem, featuring major retailers like Target, Kohl’s, and Best Buy, plus smaller shops and a food court.
Salem Center
Located downtown, this shopping area includes various stores and eateries. It’s undergoing revitalization but remains a convenient spot for shopping.
Keizer Station
Just north of Salem in Keizer, this open-air shopping center has big-box stores like Costco, Target, and HomeGoods, plus restaurants and service shops.
Downtown Salem
A mix of local boutiques, artisan shops, and cafes. Perfect for unique finds, strolling, and supporting local businesses.
Oak Hills Shopping Center
Oak Hills Shopping Center is a vibrant retail hub offering a mix of popular stores, dining options, and services, all conveniently located with ample parking and easy access for shoppers.