This article collects the best date ideas and romantic things to do in Salem for couples based on major travel, blogs, reviews, and social media sites.
There are numerous romantic activities available in Salem. The city’s biggest attractions are listed below, along with ideas for romantic dates. These activities, which range from fine dining to sightseeing throughout the city, are free to attend.
Imagine surprising your loved one with a last-minute trip to Salem?
Imagine what it was like when you two first met.
Bring those emotions to the forefront as you read this article.
Here are 30+ romantic things to do in Salem with your partner.
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Table of Contents
Outdoor / Adventurous Date Ideas in Salem To Have Fun
Adore the stunning historic site at Oregon State Capitol
- Cost: Free
- Location: 900 Court St NE, Salem, OR 97301, United States
- Phone: +1 503-986-1388
“Oregon has a rich history and many wonders. The Oregon Capital is no exception, and its walls are lined with information for history buffs.” -Donna
The Oregon State Capitol is a truly magnificent structure; the interior and exterior were constructed of marble.
The interior of the dome and the four murals that line the Oregon Pioneer at the top of the structure are quite ornate and truly reflect Salem’s history.
To view this beautiful sculpture erected to symbolize the spirit of those who first settled in Oregon in the past, try ascending the 121 spiral steps.
You’ll also adore this stunning national historic site that can be seen outside the Capitol.
The compound also has a lot of fountains, so think about relaxing next to one while you observe the state tree and flower.
Indulge yourself at the E.Z. Orchards Farm Market
- Cost: $0 – $6 (Ticket)
- Location: 5504 Hazelgreen Rd NE, Salem, OR 97305, United States
- Phone: +1 503-393-1506
“Fresh eggs, dairy items, meats, and pies are all stored in a small freezer compartment. But we also like getting delicious donuts and fresh veggies all year round.” -Joshua
One of the top agricultural farms in the Willamette Valley, E.Z. Orchards, is a popular tourist destination near Salem, Oregon. You have to purchase the ticket.
The farm’s success is hardly surprising, given that this region is endowed with very rich soil, ideal weather conditions, and abundant water.
Peaches, pumpkins, corn, pears, hazelnuts, vegetables, and apples are some products offered to the general public directly through the Farm Market.
You can purchase more agricultural goods in the same market where these products are sold, including milk, regional cheese, and preserves.
Browse for some wisdom at Willamette University
- Cost: Free
- Location: 900 State St, Salem, OR 97301, United States
- Phone: +1 503-370-6300
“One of the first colleges west of the Mississippi is this one. The majority of the structures are old-style and made of brick. The campus is peaceful to explore. On campus lies the Hallie Ford Museum of Art.” -Michelle
The Oregon State Capitol is directly across the street from Willamette University.
This great institution of higher learning was the first to open in the Western United States and was founded in 1842.
It is a private university with a stunning campus just a few kilometers from the Oregon State Capitol building.
This university is one of the Salem, Oregon, areas of interest that you should see while you are in Salem, Oregon. A visit will demonstrate how outstanding they are and introduce you to their beauty.
Music, Art, Historic, Cultural Date Ideas in Salem
Hike or Jog at the scenic landscapes of Deepwood Museum and Gardens
- Cost: Free
- Location: 1116 Mission St SE, Salem, OR 97302, United States
- Phone: +1 503-363-1825
“This house is really lovely. Our tour guide gave us a wealth of information about the inhabitants’ daily lives. What a house it was too! Well worth the trip only to learn about its past, the people who once called it home, and how it has been tenderly preserved and cared for those who are fortunate enough to see its interior.” -Kenneth
Approximately 4 acres of this lovely estate’s land are attractively landscaped and have walking trails.
You can jog or hike via these trails, which give a spectacular perspective of Sale’s downtown.
The Deepwood Estate is one of the houses on the National Register of Historic Homes since it has been around for a while.
Here, you may take in the expansive views, the Fry Stein Nature Trail, and the well-designed Victorian-style garden, among other things. You can relax on one of the many benches.
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Delve into the beauty of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Gordon House
- Cost: Free
- Location: 869 W Main St, Silverton, OR 97381, United States
- Phone: +1 503-874-6006
“The tour includes a look at a distinctively designed home as well as the history of the family, the architect, and the extensive renovation of the building and garden. Good work!” -Carol
You can travel a short distance east of Salem to see the historic Gordon House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright if your intended period of stay in Salem hasn’t already passed.
This 1957-built mansion in the Usonian style has the name of the family that originally ordered it.
Take advantage of this chance because this building is the only publicly accessible example of Wright’s work in Oregon and the entire Pacific Northwest.
Find a collection of artworks at The Hallie Ford Museum of Art
- Cost: $0 – $6 (Ticket)
- Location: 700 State St, Salem, OR 97301, United States
- Phone: +1 503-370-6855
“When we took the tour, there was a unique display that was very interesting. Additionally, the ongoing displays are excellent and well worth your time.” -Kevin
With the help and funding of Hallie Ford and the Ford Family Foundation, Willamette University created this beautiful museum of art in 1998.
You can find collections of several works of art donated to this respected art museum. You have to pay for the ticket.
Native American baskets from the early 1900s are among these works of art and other creations by regional artists from Oregon.
You will also find Mark Sponenburgh’s collection, which contains approximately 250 Asian and European artworks.
The museum has been used by Willamette University and the surrounding area as a source for intellectual, cultural, and liberal art museums since it first opened, fully fulfilling its intended purpose.
Relish a classical music performance at Elsinore Theater
- Cost: $121 (Ticket)
- Location: 170 High St SE, Salem, OR 97301, United States
- Phone: +1 503-375-3574
“The Elsinore is a stunning historic theater that still exudes the beauty and vitality of the early 20th century. There was hardly a poor seat in the house at this little theater where we saw Colin Hay perform. Excellent location and helpful personnel. They provide wine and beer.” -Amanda
On May 28, 1926, the Historic Elsinore Theater presented its inaugural performance. One of the very few Tudor Gothic theaters is still in existence.
You’ll see a design in the theater that was modeled after a historic Danish castle.
The grand foyer, the ornately decorated ceilings, and the stage framework will leave you in awe. You have to pay for the ticket.
The theater can accommodate 1,300 people and presents Broadway, ballet, rock, and classical music performances.
You might feel compelled to remain longer than planned once you enter the theater because it is so beautiful.
Get into the local culture at Reed Opera House
- Cost: $25 – $30 (Ticket)
- Location: 189 Liberty St NE, Salem, OR 97301, United States
- Phone: +1 503-391-4481
“I enjoy visiting the many different businesses inside Reed Opera House. My spouse and I explored the upper level on a Sunday; it was a beautiful spot!” -Brian
By 1869, Cyrus Adams Reed had completed the Reed Opera House. This opera theater has had a major influence on Salem’s cultural landscape.
The complex has been expanded several times. Many independently owned stores, pubs, bakeries, offices, and restaurants have been added through the remodeling.
You will find everything here. There is a tattoo parlor nearby the Reed Opera House if you want to get inked. You have to purchase the ticket.
Try out the soup shack, which is quite good and enjoyable, and other stores like a soap boutique and a beauty salon. It would take a full day to see this house from top to bottom.
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Learn about the past at The Bush House Museum
- Cost: Free
- Location: 600 Mission St SE, Salem, OR 97302, United States
- Phone: +1 503-363-4714
“Interesting galleries and a lovely park are there. We enjoyed the variety of local artists’ works for an hour in the gallery. Very much worth a trip.” -Dorothy
The Bush House Museum, which Asahel Bush II built in 1877, is among the top things to do in Salem, Oregon.
The Bush family lived in this museum until 1953 when the City of Salem acquired possession of the property.
The Bush House Museum is located in the Bush’s Pasture House and is free to visit from March through the end of the year.
The history of this prominent family’s heritage and lives is one of the many historical details you can learn from this living history museum.
Central heating vents, plumbing fixtures, other recognizable 19th-century furniture, and many other original components are still present in the home.
Turn back into time at The Willamette Heritage Center
- Cost: $0 – $5 (Ticket)
- Location: 1313 Mill St SE, Salem, OR 97301, United States
- Phone: +1 503-585-7012
The Willamette Heritage Center’s mission is to use tales to connect the history of our area with a variety of communities.
The Willamette Heritage Center offers five acres of property, lovely gardens, museums, and pioneer homes. You have to pay the price of the ticket.
A historic Mission Mill Museum and an antique Presbyterian church were also built in 1858.
A mill race, sometimes known as a watercourse that formerly propelled the mill, is still beneath the surface.
Indoor / Relaxing / Foodies Date Ideas in Salem
Have some pies at Willamette Valley Pie Company
- Cost: $1 – $10 (Food)
- Location: 2994 82nd Ave NE, Salem, OR 97305, United States
- Phone: +1 503-362-8857
Don’t forget to visit the Willamette Valley Pie Company, a family-run establishment on your visit to Salem, Oregon. You have to pay for the food.
Owned by the Gerald Roth Family of Salem, Oregon, this outstanding business began as a little Gannett-style operation in a backyard warehouse.
Today, it is a powerful organization and one of Northwest’s top producers of processed goods.
Cranberries, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, and the regional Marino berries are among the berries they process.
Stroll, eat, and drink at Bethel Heights Vineyard
- Cost: $18 – $60 (Wine)
- Location: 6060 Bethel Heights Rd NW, Salem, OR 97304, United States
- Phone: +1 503-581-2262
Visit the magnificent Bethel Heights Vineyard that spans over 100 planted acres. The vineyard produces over 13,000 cases of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Pinot Black, Chardonnay, and Riesling wine. If you have to taste you must have to pay for the wine.
The Bethel Heights Vineyard wants to continue being sustainable. They are a LIVE Certified Sustainable, Salmon-Safe, and Oregon Certified Sustainable Wine because they produce high-quality wine.
The fact that this vineyard offers both private and public tastings in addition to three distinct club memberships is a charming feature.
They also have a restaurant serving delicious seasonal food that pairs perfectly with their wine.
Spend a fun-packed day at Salem Center
- Cost: $10 – $74 (Shopping)
- Location: 401 Center St NE, Salem, OR 97301, United States
- Phone: +1 503-364-0495
In the heart of Salem, an enclosed mall called The Salem Center welcomes dogs.
The mall comprises 80 businesses, a food court, and a five-story sky bridge connecting Center Street’s several structures. Your shopping will decide the expenditures.
Along with its four anchor stores—Nordstrom, JCPenney, Kohl’s, and Macy’s—you can discover additional mall mainstays like American Eagle Outfitters, Bath and Body Works, and Ross.
Smoothies, sushi, sandwiches, pretzels, burgers, and chocolate are a few of the foods they sell in her food court.
Get into the cheesy world at Willamette Valley Cheese Company
- Cost: Free
- Location: 8105 Wallace Rd NW, Salem, OR 97304, United States
- Phone: +1 503-687-3155
The award-winning Willamette Valley Cheese Company takes great satisfaction in producing the finest farmhouse cheeses, such as the well-known Gouda, Mozzarella, Brie, and Cheddar.
The business is also very concerned about not using pesticides and herbicides on the cows that supply its milk.
Ease your stress with a spa treatment
- Cost: $60 – $135 (Massage)
- Location: 4155 Rickey St Se Ste 122, Salem, United States
- Phone: +1 503-990-7570
A spa treatment will put you in a relaxed state of mind if you’re looking to “treat yourself.”
At Pure Massage & Spa, you can have the most efficient massage in Salem. Numerous alternatives for massage, facials, and other body treatments are offered at this spa.
The spa’s techniques will be adapted to meet your inner self, leaving your body and mind at ease and relaxed. You have to pay for the massage.
You’ll instantly relax and release any tension that has accumulated from both work and home.
Buy your favorite wine at Honeywood Winery
- Cost: $14 – $38 (Wine)
- Location: 1350 Hines St SE, Salem, OR 97302, United States
- Phone: +1 503-362-4111
This fascinating winery was established by Rob Honeyman and John Wood in 1934. It is the oldest winery in Oregon and is close to some highly productive vines and orchards.
They create high-quality vinifera wines and a wide variety of specialty and fruit wines at affordable prices because the liberty is so close to their source of raw materials. You have to pay for the wine.
The vineyard, which is very customer-friendly, provides discounts and recipes to clients who sign up for their monthly wine club.
Fun and Entertaining Date Ideas in Salem
Take a tour of Ankeny Vineyard
- Cost: Free Tasting
- Location: 2565 Riverside Dr. S, Salem, OR 97306, United States
- Phone: +1 503-378-1498
Ankeny Vineyard, owned by Joe Olexa, was established in 1980 and has now grown to a 35-acre property that grows Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Marechal Foch grapes.
The fruits in this vineyard ripen unusually early due to their ideal location on the southern slopes of the Salem Hills.
Additionally, this vineyard is renowned for its distinctively tasting grapes. They have received numerous honors and recognitions for their expertly made tiny batches. Don’t forget to enjoy food, including pizza, desserts, and salads.
Complement the carvings at Salem’s Riverfront Carousel
- Cost: $1.5 (per Rind)
- Location: 101 Front St NE, Salem, OR 97301, United States
- Phone: +1 503-540-0374
After visiting the Missoula Montana Carousel, Hazel Patton was inspired to build Salem’s Riverfront Carousel.
One of the entertaining things to do in Salem, Oregon, is to ride the carousel along the riverfront. You have to pay for each ride.
It’s important to note that Salem’s Riverfront Carousel honors the city’s farming background.
Don’t forget to take notice of the expertly carved scenes on the carousel and all the other lovely embellishments on the wagons and horses.
Most of these woodcuts and illustrations by painters and carvers depict local history.
Something special is created by the ride and the organ music performed as the carousel begins its magical trip.
Sip some beer at Santiam Brewing
- Cost: $10 – $60 (Drink)
- Location: 2544 19th St SE, Salem, OR 97302, United States
- Phone: +1 503-689-1260
Every day of the week, the 10-barrel Santiam brewery, housed in a corner industrial building, is open for business.
They maintain their collection on their cask bar at a temperature ideal for collecting, and you will adore it. You have to pay for the drink.
The historical method used to produce the beers sets them apart from contemporary brews and makes them unique.
For instance, after the beer has finished fermenting, the yeast is removed during the manufacturing of modern beer.
Enjoy a show at Pentacle Theater
- Cost: $25 – $30 (Ticket)
- Location: 324 52nd Ave NW, Salem, OR 97304, United States
- Phone: +1 503-485-4300
Are you looking for entertainment and fun in Salem, Oregon?
The Pentacle Theater, situated amid a Douglas and Oak Fir stand, is a popular attraction in Salem, Oregon.
The Pentacle Theater has been performing live theater of the highest caliber for more than 60 years. You have to pay for the ticket.
The theater is a non-profit community organization of volunteers who have produced more than 560 plays and musicals.
This playhouse is charming, warm, and welcoming. Pentacle Theater is open every day of the year and shows one play at a time.
They provide acting lessons and scholarships to students who want to pursue higher education in the arts out of a sense of altruism.
Purchase your next anniversary present at Salem Saturday Market
- Cost: $6 – $60 (Shopping)
- Location: 1320 Waller St SE, Salem, OR 97302, United States
- Phone: +1 503-585-8264
When you travel to Salem, do you intend to purchase anything? If you decide to purchase them, I advise going to The Salem Saturday Market.
Most people in the Willamette Valley sell and buy goods at the Salem Saturday Market, which is just one of the numerous things to do in Salem, Oregon, while on vacation.
You will find both product sellers and local growers in this market. Your expenditures will depend on your shopping.
Learn the art of winemaking at Cristom Vineyards
- Cost: Free
- Location: 6905 Spring Valley Rd NW, Salem, OR 97304, United States
- Phone: +1 503-375-3068
Cristom Vineyards, a well-known vineyard in Salem, Oregon, has used farming, engineering, and biochemistry to develop an incredibly distinctive winemaking style.
It is hardly unexpected that this vineyard is LIVE Certified Sustainable, given the innovative nature of this unique winemaking process.
Native yeasts are present at Custom Vineyard and are used to ferment whole bunches of grapes.
Four separate pinot vineyards produce the most intense tastes, thanks to the planting method. These vineyards are dedicated to each respective family matriarch.
The vineyard mostly makes Pinot Noirs, but they also make three Cuvee Blends with Viognier and Syrah.
Nature-Inspired Date Ideas in Salem
Dive into the wild world at Enchanted Forest Theme Park
- Cost: $10 – $15 (Ticket)
- Location: 8462 Enchanted Way SE, Turner, OR 97392, United States
- Phone: +1 503-371-4242
What to do in Salem, Oregon, for some exploration time is the Forest Theme Park, which was founded in 1971 and was Roger Tofte’s idea.
Over 20 acres of land make up this park, which offers a wide range of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy, including dining and shopping.
In addition, the park contains a comedy theater where visitors can enjoy funny performances. You have to purchase the ticket.
The Haunted House, the Kiddie Ferris Wheel, the Tiny Tune Forest, and the Mountain Bobsled Roller Coaster are additional attractions in this park.
Calm your senses at Riverfront City Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 200 Water St NE, Salem, OR 97301, United States
- Phone: +1 503-588-6336
One of the places in Salem you will love to visit is Riverfront City Park, the home of Salem’s Riverfront Carousel.
The park was initially an industrial and mill site; today, it is a wonderful site with open space, boat docks, trails, and a playground.
It is also where the largest festivities in Salem are held all year. Examples of the festivities are the 4th of July Celebration and the World Beat Festival.
Spend a relaxed day Wilson Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 9730 Salem, United States
- Phone: +1 503 485-3895
Wilson Park, one of several Salem, Oregon attractions, is located right in the city and features a wide variety of trees, flowers, shrubs, and sculptures.
Additionally, there are three fountains and the 33-foot-tall, 15-ton Obelisk of the New Oregon World War II Memorial.
You can explore the surroundings after having a tour of the Capitol Building because it is situated on the building grounds.
It makes it one of the attractions in Salem, Oregon, that you ought to think about seeing while you’re here.
Drive through the scenic track of Minto-Brown Island Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 2200 Minto Island Rd SW SE, Salem, OR 97302, United States
- Phone: +1 503-588-6336
Minto-Brown Island Park is situated along the borders of the east bank of the Willamette River in Salem.
This park sits on more than 1,200 acres of open area and lush forest that showcases nature’s true beauty.
The park has 19 miles of trail open for you to bike, walk or jog through. You will love the native trees and grassy meadows which beautify this place.
Minto-Brown Island Park also has observation platforms where you can glimpse birds like the waterfowl and other creatures you find in wetlands.
Other places you enjoy in this park include a paddle boat zone, numerous fishing spots, and paved bikeways.
Praise the beauty of Willamette Mission State Park
- Cost: $3 – $5 (Ticket)
- Location: Willamette Mission State Park, Gervais, OR 97026, United States
- Phone: +1 800-551-6949
The location of the first mission for those Native Americans in the West was this wonderful area called the Willamette Mission State Park.
The park’s ghost buildings are replicas of the Methodist Mission’s original structures, which were built in 1834 by Reverend Jason Lee.
The park also has the country’s largest black cottonwood tree, roughly 250 years old.
Sixteen miles of multipurpose trails, Mission Lake, and the Willamette River are other features of the Willamette Mission State Park.
In this park, you may go horseback riding, boating, hiking, fishing, and jogging, all of which are enjoyable activities. You have to pay for the ticket.
You can make reservations for them if you wish to play volleyball, horseshoes, or soccer.
Reconnect with nature at Bush Pasture Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 890 Mission St SE, Salem, OR 97302, United States
- Phone: +1 503-588-6336
This park is located in the city’s center and spans over 91 acres of wooded areas.
Bush’s Pasture Park is a well-liked location for planned sporting activities and spontaneous afternoons in the great outdoors.
Four illuminated tennis courts and a softball field are available for rental in this park.
Try hiking along one of the park’s many paved or unpaved hiking routes.
Other entertaining locations include the Rose and Rhododendron Gardens and the Crooked House Playground.
Re-energize yourself at Cascades Gateway Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 100 Turner Rd SE, Salem, OR 97302, United States
- Phone: +1 503-588-6261
Another great park right in Salem is Cascades Gateway Park. If you seek a place to beat the summer heat, get down to this park.
Cascades Gateway Park is a 100-acre park with accessible hiking trails and an 18-hole disc golf course.
You can engage in fishing and paddle sports at Walter L. Wirth Lake.
Unforgettable Date Experiences in Salem
Touch the sky
- Cost: $50 – $54 (Ticket)
- Location: 2315 Pringle Rd SE, Salem, OR 97302, United States
- Phone: +1 503-363-9799
Do you want to know things to do for fun in Salem, Oregon?
Fly in a hot air balloon above the cities of Salem and Keizer.
The Balloon Flying Services of Oregon have offered this opportunity to take a balloon ride since 1989.
The air balloon is the first form of air travel humans have ever used; therefore, you will adore this unforgettable experience. You have to pay for the ride.
You can pick between the conventional flight, which has four people, including the pilot, and the romance flight, which is much more private, throughout the hour-long journey.
In-flight weddings are one of the additional services provided by the Balloon Flying Services of Oregon.
Sail the Willamette river
- Cost: Free
- Location: 200 Water St NE, Salem, OR 97301, United States
- Phone: N/A
The Willamette Queen Sternwheeler, an 87-foot, 86-ton twin paddle wheeler, was built as a scale replica of the old Mississippi and Yukon Territory Rivervoara.
Up to 90 people can board the Sternwheeler, which departs from Riverfront Park in the heart of Salem every day of the year and is quite noticeable.
The Willamette Queen Sternwheeler has a gorgeous oak dance floor and a full-service bar.
There is no need for you to be concerned because Richard Chesbrough, the captain, and owner of the Sternwheeler, is watching over you.
Best Things to Do in Salem, Oregon
Final Thoughts
Salem, the capital of Oregon, is a beautiful city. The city’s attractions are museums, old structures, historic sites, historic buildings, romantic getaways, hiking trails, city tours, boat tours, amusement parks, food tours, and renowned eateries.
You may have fun in Salem whether you want to stay a while or are just passing through.
| I like to travel but also be smart with money. Below are the places where I start my planning with. – ✈️Flights, Hotel, Tours – I seek out Flash Sales to guide my planning 👉 Find good deals – 🛡️Travel Insurance – I like to go to the source like Travelex instead of paying a broker 👉Here – 🚗Car Rental – Rental will save you lots of headaches. Search, compare, and save first up to 30-50% on Discover Cars. 👉 Save Now |
