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Salem day trip ideasEach Spring, Salem bursts with colorful blooms

First published 3 March 2022

Places to Explore within Walking Distance from Amtrak Station

See the Gardens at the State Capitol

One of the best places to see the beauty of the cherry blossoms in March and April is the State Capitol which is two blocks from the Amtrak station. If your travel takes you into May and later, there are always different flowers and beauty in the gardens around the Capitol grounds.

  • The marble building is an example of Modernist Art Deco design.
  • Atop the capitol stands a 23-foot, bronze pioneer statue, which represents the independent spirit of Oregonians. It can be seen from miles away.
  • The grounds surrounding the capitol building have been designated as a state park.
  • The Park features dozens of statues and monuments that commemorate the state’s history. Take a self-guided walking tour of the capitol and grounds or opt for a guided historical tour of the building and tower.

Just west of the Capitol is Willson Park, with a fountain, gazebo, gardens and a variety of native and ornamental trees.

503-986-1388

900 Court St NE
Salem, OR 97301

Willamette Heritage Center

https://www.willametteheritage.org

(across the street from the Amtrak station)

The Willamette Heritage Center connects generations by preserving and interpreting the Mid-Willamette Valley’s history. Fourteen historic structures are located on the Willamette Heritage Center’s five-acre campus. including the Thomas Kay Woolen Mill, a National Park Service Designated Treasure. The buildings have permanent and changing exhibits, learning centers and event spaces. Self-guided tours are available six days a week.

503-585-7012

1313 Mill Street SE
Salem, OR 97301

Deepwood Estate & Gardens

https://deepwoodmuseum.org

(one block from the Amtrak station)

Deepwood was considered one of the most impressive and beautiful homes of its time. The Queen-Anne style home was built in 1894 by Dr. Luke A. Port.

The home sits on a five-acre park and has formal gardens (designed by Lord and Schryver), nature trails, a greenhouse and a carriage house.
Tours of the home are available throughout the year and the grounds are open to the public.

1116 Mission St SE
Salem, OR 97302

Hungry? We have a few foodie options.