Best Day Trips From Salem
From Salem, Oregon
12 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
Salem, Oregon, is a gateway to a wealth of diverse and exciting day trip opportunities. From the rugged coastlines and historic towns to the lush forests and scenic drives, there's something for every family to enjoy. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing day out, these destinations offer a mix of nature, history, and fun within a comfortable driving distance.
1. Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is a charming coastal town known for its iconic Haystack Rock and beautiful sandy beaches. The town offers a variety of shops, art galleries, and dining options. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, explore the tide pools, or enjoy a picnic with stunning ocean views.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Haystack Rock
- ✓Ecola State Park
- ✓Tide pooling
- ✓Art galleries and shops
2. Silver Falls State Park
Silver Falls State Park is a nature lover's paradise, featuring ten stunning waterfalls along the Trail of Ten Falls. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Don't miss the chance to explore the historic Silver Falls Lodge and the beautiful gardens surrounding it.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Trail of Ten Falls
- ✓Silver Falls Lodge
- ✓Hiking trails
- ✓Wildlife viewing
3. Astoria
Astoria is a historic port city with a rich maritime history. Visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum, explore the Astoria Column for panoramic views, or stroll along the Astoria Riverwalk. The city also offers a variety of dining options, from fresh seafood to local craft beers.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Columbia River Maritime Museum
- ✓Astoria Column
- ✓Astoria Riverwalk
- ✓Fresh seafood and craft beers
4. McMinnville
McMinnville is a charming small town known for its wine scene and historic downtown. Visit the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, home to the world's largest wooden airplane, or explore the many wineries and tasting rooms in the area. The town also offers a variety of dining options, from farm-to-table restaurants to cozy cafes.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum
- ✓Wine tasting
- ✓Historic downtown
- ✓Farm-to-table dining
5. Oregon Coast
The Oregon Coast offers a diverse range of experiences, from scenic drives along the coast to exploring tide pools and hiking trails. Visit the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, explore the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, or simply enjoy a relaxing day at the beach. The coast is also home to a variety of seafood restaurants and local shops.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
- ✓Cape Perpetua Scenic Area
- ✓Tide pooling
- ✓Seafood dining
6. Mount Hood
Mount Hood is a majestic volcano and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visit the Mount Hood National Forest for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding, or explore the historic town of Government Camp. The area also offers a variety of dining options, from cozy lodges to outdoor cafes.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Mount Hood National Forest
- ✓Government Camp
- ✓Hiking and skiing
- ✓Outdoor dining
7. Portland
Portland is a vibrant city known for its food scene, craft breweries, and cultural attractions. Visit the Portland Art Museum, explore the International Rose Test Garden, or stroll along the Willamette River. The city also offers a variety of dining options, from food carts to fine dining restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Portland Art Museum
- ✓International Rose Test Garden
- ✓Food carts and craft breweries
- ✓Willamette River
8. Willamette Valley
The Willamette Valley is a beautiful region known for its wine scene and scenic drives. Visit the many wineries and tasting rooms in the area, or explore the historic towns of McMinnville and Newberg. The valley also offers a variety of dining options, from farm-to-table restaurants to cozy cafes.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Wine tasting
- ✓Scenic drives
- ✓Historic towns
- ✓Farm-to-table dining
9. Lincoln City
Lincoln City is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and glass art. Visit the Lincoln City Glass Center, explore the tide pools at Road's End State Recreation Site, or simply enjoy a relaxing day at the beach. The town also offers a variety of dining options, from seafood restaurants to local cafes.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Lincoln City Glass Center
- ✓Road's End State Recreation Site
- ✓Tide pooling
- ✓Seafood dining
10. Oregon Garden
The Oregon Garden is a beautiful botanical garden featuring a variety of plant collections, walking paths, and scenic views. The garden also offers a variety of dining options, from the Garden Cafe to the Garden's Edge Restaurant. Don't miss the chance to explore the historic Silverton area, which offers a variety of shops and dining options.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Botanical gardens
- ✓Walking paths
- ✓Scenic views
- ✓Historic Silverton
11. Bend
Bend is a vibrant city known for its outdoor recreation, craft breweries, and cultural attractions. Visit the High Desert Museum, explore the Deschutes River, or stroll along the Old Bend River Trail. The city also offers a variety of dining options, from food carts to fine dining restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓High Desert Museum
- ✓Deschutes River
- ✓Old Bend River Trail
- ✓Craft breweries
12. Cape Lookout State Park
Cape Lookout State Park is a beautiful coastal park featuring a scenic drive, hiking trails, and stunning ocean views. The park also offers a variety of camping options, from tent sites to yurts. Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby towns of Netarts and Oceanside, which offer a variety of dining options and local shops.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Scenic drive
- ✓Hiking trails
- ✓Ocean views
- ✓Camping
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