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.
Union Street Railroad Bridge
You can find out about the history of Salem with a stop at Union Street Railroad Bridge. While you're here, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Willamette University
Explore the campus of Willamette University during your trip to Salem. While you're in the area, wander around picturesque gardens.
Activities
Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Salem Oregon's Beautiful Capital
Private Wine Excursion Willamette Valley, Oregon - Wine Tour
Silver Falls Waterfall Hiking Tour from Portland
Sunset Tree Climb at Silver Falls State Park
Our pick of the best Central Area Hotel Deals
Holman Riverfront Park Hotel Salem, Tapestry by Hilton
The lady at check in was amazing. I cant remembered her name. 😢😢 The valet people were very courteous and amazing too.
Reviewed on 21 Dec 2025
The Grand Hotel - Salem
We’ve been staying Xmas Eve for at least 5 years now @The Grand Hotel & love it…especially the nice staff & the delicious breakfast. We’d definitely recommend it!
Reviewed on 25 Dec 2025
Stylish Salem Speakeasy Downtown
Great place. Thanks for everything
Reviewed on 19 Sept 2025
Best Western Plus Mill Creek Inn
The room was clean! The front desk staff were all friendly. Merry was especially helpful and friendly. She coordinated a battery jump with maintenance to get is on our way. The maintenance gentleman was extremely helpful and patient! They made all the difference that day.
Reviewed on 26 Dec 2025
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Salem OR
The breakfast is one of the best we have had over years of travelling. The breakfast area is exceptionally clean and the food is fresh.
Reviewed on 29 Dec 2025
The Hotel Salem
Spacious and comfortable room. Loved the shower- great water pressure and so much hot water. Breakfast was delicious. Staff was friendly and helpful. What more could you want?
Reviewed on 24 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 Elsinore Theater.
Grant
Though Grant may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Salem Armory Auditorium and Oregon State Capitol.
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.
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, Willamette Heritage Center and Honeywood Winery are top sights worth seeing.
