SALEM
Salem is scenically set in the heart of the Willamette Valley, one of the most fertile and agriculturally productive regions in the world. Conveniently located between Portland and Eugene at the crossroads of I-5 and Highway 22, Salem is Oregon's state capital with a population of approximately 180,000 residents. The Willamette River winds through the Salem area forming the boundary between Marion and Polk counties with Salem proper on the Marion County side and much of West Salem on the Polk County side.
Impressive state government buildings border the city’s historic downtown business area, including the Oregon State Capitol Building. The state's oldest university, Willamette University, is situated at the edge of downtown, providing residents not only educational opportunity but also sports events and cultural amenities. Featuring mountains and the majestic Oregon coastline to the west, mountains and lakes to the east plus an abundance of rivers surrounding it, Salem offers outdoor recreation opportunities for all ages and abilities.
Market Insights
$485K
Median Listing Home Price
$268
Median Price Per Square Foot
$425K
Median Sold Home Price
Top Neighborhoods: Croisan Mountain, Fairmount Hills, Ilahae Hills, West Salem
Exploring Salem
A LOCAL'S GUIDE
Top Places to Explore in Salem
Hit a New Trail and Walk Behind a Waterfall
Sitting 25 miles east of Salem is Silver Falls State Park. Oregon's largest state park boasts four waterfalls and more than 35 miles of backcountry trails great for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Check out the famous South Falls and see what a 177-foot curtain of water looks like from behind. It’s part of the Trail of Ten Falls, a spectacular, nationally recognized hiking trail that weaves through a dense forested landscape. The trail passes a series of breathtaking waterfalls along a rocky canyon, and descends to a winding creek at the forest floor. This 7.2 mile loop is considered to be a moderate hike, with an overall elevation change of 800 feet. Don’t forget to pack a picnic — there are plenty of shady spots along the creek, nearby the historic Silver Falls Lodge, to soak up the vibes.
Get Close to the State Legislature
Take a tour of the Oregon State Capitol, a classic example of modern Greek architecture built in 1938 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The rotunda incorporates a series of murals and polished marble. The Capitol is open year-round with free building tours and activities and shopping at the Capitol Store. In summer, climb 121 stairs to get up close and personal with the Oregon Pioneer. Be amazed by history of the past and history in the making.
Stroll through the Salem's Natural Park
The soaring Peter Courtney Minto Island Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge connects downtown Salem to the 1,200 acres of lush natural space at Minto-Brown Island Park, the city’s largest park. Bring the family and the pups — this park boasts a playground, picnic tables, fishing area and a 30-acre off-leash dog area, as well as nine loops (2 miles to 10 kilometers) for exploration. Don’t forget the binoculars — the observation platforms along the slough provide excellent bird watching as blue herons and osprey fly overhead.
Sip Beer and Cider
Pace yourself as you explore a dozen breweries and cideries along the recently created Salem Ale & Cider Trail. Collect a stamp in your passport at each spot and redeem it for a free pint glass when you’re done. Most of the locations are around the bustling city core, so it’s easy to get around by foot or bike. Taste the wide range of sessions, porters, IPAs and everything in between at Salem Ale Works, Gilgamesh Brewing, Santiam Brewing and Vagabond Brewing; and the refreshingly crisp libations from Wandering Aengus Ciderworks, Anthem Cider and 1859 Cider Co. Or venture about 20 minutes south to the trail’s Rogue Farms Chatoe Tasting Room in Independence, where you can see how their hops and orchard fruit are grown on the estate.
Stop and Smell the Flowers
Salem has an abundance of gardens to explore and enjoy throughout the year. In the spring, rose, iris, tulip, peony and other specialty gardens can be found within the area. The 40-acre Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm is home to the increasingly popular Annual Tulip Fest featuring acres of tulip beauty! Go during the farm's annual festival, which runs daily March-May, and celebrate the blooming period of the tulips. The Schreiner's Iris Gardens are filled with the spectacular vista of irises in the spring and the variety of flowers and special events and sales offered throughout the year. Adelman Peony Gardens has more than 25 acres of peonies, featuring nearly 500 varieties. Visitors can check out the free display garden of peonies in a landscape setting and walk the fields during spring bloom, usually May and June.