Central Area Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
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.
Willamette University
Explore the campus of Willamette University during your trip to Salem. While you're in the area, wander around picturesque gardens.
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.
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
Excellent hotel, great location.
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
The Grand Hotel - Salem
great restaurant on site, great free breakfast setup, very friendly staff, free safe parking on site. Top notch all the way around!
Reviewed on 30 Apr 2026
Stylish Salem Speakeasy Downtown
What an amazing area and home full of great bones and character. If you’re looking for a place that truly captures the essence of Oregon, this is it. A huge bonus is waking up to the sound of Mill creek right beside you—and being able to enjoy the view from the upstairs bedroom. The host was excellent ...
Reviewed on 6 May 2026
The Heart of living Downtown! City Center Salem in a lovely historical building
Fun to be downtown Salem. Clean, second floor unit. Lots in walking distance.
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
Oregon Garden Resort
This place was pretty. There is a lounge off the lobby and a restaurant with great food. You can access the garden, but we didn't do that.
Reviewed on 8 May 2026
Comfort Suites Salem
The rooms were clean, updated and well appointed. The beds were very comfy. The bathroom was a bit cramped but probably due to the extra space in the room for the couch. The gym was small but adequate and it was located in the pool area. The pool facility was large and clean with a nice hot tub. ...
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
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 Barn Art Center and Bush House Museum 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.
Southeast Salem
If you're spending some time in Southeast Salem, Wunderland and Willamette Heritage Center are top sights worth seeing.
