Central Area Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Central Area
Popular places to visit
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.
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 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.
Willamette University
Explore the campus of Willamette University during your trip to Salem. While you're in the area, wander around picturesque gardens.
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.
Activities
Private Wine Excursion Willamette Valley, Oregon - Wine Tour
Silver Falls Waterfall Hiking Tour from Portland
Willamette Valley Boutique Winery Tour with Lunch
Private - Willamette Valley Wine Tour From Portland (tasting fees included)
Our pick of the best Central Area Hotel Deals
Holman Riverfront Park Hotel Salem, Tapestry by Hilton
Clean room. Staff was courteous and professional. Bartender was excellent(day time).
Reviewed on 30 Nov 2025
The Grand Hotel - Salem
Lovely hotel, which is truly grand in its common spaces. They had decorated the amazing lobby with the 12 days of Christmas birds, maids a-milking, and other things from the song. The room was comfortable and clean.
Reviewed on 2 Dec 2025
The Hotel Salem
Yes. Comfortable. Very pleasant staff.
Reviewed on 2 Dec 2025
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Salem OR
Great service. Clean rooms and great hospitality.
Reviewed on 1 Dec 2025
Best Western Plus Mill Creek Inn
Property and accommodations were great but needed to eat at Denny's for food or drive elsewhere
Reviewed on 30 Nov 2025
Comfort Suites Salem
Wonderful stay! All amenities were in order and working. The front desk were absolute sweethearts. Great breakfast, comfy beds and a nice suite attachment. Will definitely stay again as well as recommend to others.
Reviewed on 3 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Central Area
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.
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.
Northeast Neighbors
If you're spending some time in Northeast Neighbors, Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion and Salem Armory Auditorium are top sights worth seeing.
South Central
If you're spending some time in South Central, Bush House Museum and Soap box derby 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.
Highland
While Highland isn't home to many top sights, Salem Armory Auditorium and L. B. Day Amphitheater are some notable places to visit nearby.
