Hotels in Salem

Blooming Wonders: Unveiling Salem's Garden of Culture and Discovery

Discover Salem, Oregon, a charming blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Stroll through the enchanting gardens of the Oregon State Capitol and the serene landscapes of the Salem Willows, where stunning views abound. Explore the vibrant downtown, home to local boutiques, cafes, and the intriguing Salem Museum, showcasing the city’s rich heritage. Don’t miss the picturesque Salem Commons, perfect for a leisurely picnic. Whether you’re drawn by floral displays or captivating history, Salem invites you to unwind and savor the unique experiences that make it a hidden gem in the heart of the Willamette Valley. For the best hotel rates in Salem and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Salem

Some of the best places to stay in Salem are West Salem, South Central and Sherwood - Tualatin North. Salem, Oregon, offers diverse neighborhoods for travelers. West Salem features scenic parks and river views, ideal for nature lovers. South Central boasts vibrant local shops and dining, perfect for exploring Salem's culture. Sherwood - Tualatin North is great for those seeking a suburban vibe with family-friendly activities. For accommodations, expect a range of options, from comfortable guest rooms to spacious suite accommodations. For first-time visitors, South Central is the best choice for its accessibility to attractions and amenities. Here are some of the best hotels in Salem that our travelers love:

1. West SalemOpens in a new window: West Salem is a charming area with a focus on outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions. It's home to Willamette University, Salem Riverfront Park, and the Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion, making it an ideal spot for visitors looking to enjoy the outdoors and local culture. For accommodations, consider Bella Collina Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star Bed & Breakfast that caters to business and romantic travelers, featuring amenities like a conference center and spa services. Atticus HotelOpens in a new window is another great option, offering a romantic atmosphere with pet-friendly policies and easy access to local wineries. Additionally, Youngberg HillOpens in a new window focuses on winery themes and provides a cozy atmosphere for wine enthusiasts.
2. South CentralOpens in a new window: South Central Salem is perfect for those interested in a blend of culture, family activities, and outdoor fun. Notable attractions include Willamette University and the historic Elsinore Theater. Doubletree by Hilton SalemOpens in a new window stands out with its business amenities and family-friendly services, including free cribs. For a romantic getaway, The Grand Hotel - SalemOpens in a new window offers a blend of business and leisure with a hot tub and nearby winery tours, while Holman Riverfront Park Hotel Salem, Tapestry by HiltonOpens in a new window provides a comfortable stay with essential services for families and pets.
3. Sherwood - Tualatin NorthOpens in a new window: This area is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, with attractions like Washington Square Mall and the Oregon Convention Center. Kimpton Riverplace Hotel, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a boutique hotel perfect for adventure seekers, featuring business amenities and nearby outdoor activities. For luxury, Sentinel HotelOpens in a new window is housed in a historic building and offers a family-friendly environment along with various adventure sports. Lastly, The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel, PortlandOpens in a new window features natural hot springs and is excellent for both relaxation and business, making it a versatile choice for travelers.

Things to do in Salem for first time

Three days in Salem offers travelers a chance to explore its beautiful gardens, lush parks, and serene waterfronts. Enjoy activities like hiking through scenic trails, boating on tranquil waters, and immersing yourself in local festivals and art scenes, making it a delightful destination for nature and culture enthusiasts alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Salem:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at the Enchanted Forest Theme Park, where you can enjoy whimsical rides and attractions that bring fairy tales to life. After a morning of fun, head over to Shimanek Bridge, a picturesque spot perfect for photos and a leisurely stroll across the bridge, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Conclude your day with a peaceful visit to the Santiam River, where you can relax by the water, take in the scenic beauty, and perhaps even have a picnic as the sun sets.
• Day 2: Your day begins at the Oregon Garden, where you can explore the diverse flora and beautifully landscaped gardens, ideal for nature lovers. Next, make your way to Gallon House Bridge, an iconic covered bridge that showcases the charming architecture and history of the region. Finally, visit Mount Angel Abbey, where you can take a serene walk around the grounds and admire the stunning views of the Willamette Valley, making for a reflective end to your day.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Staats Lake, a lovely spot for outdoor activities like fishing or simply enjoying nature. Then, visit The Gordon House, an architectural gem and the only Frank Lloyd Wright house in Oregon, where you can admire its unique design and history. Wrap up your itinerary at Bob Newton Park, a great place to unwind and enjoy some recreational activities, whether it’s a walk, a game, or just relaxing in the park’s tranquil environment.

5 tips to find a great Salem hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Salem is in January, November, and December, when hotel rates are significantly lower. For international travelers, it’s wise to book your flight at least 7 months in advance to secure better prices. To fully experience the key attractions, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days. Salem offers great value for money with its beautiful gardens and interesting museums, making it a perfect destination for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Salem, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com. Here, you could find great savings on accommodations as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of snagging a fantastic hotel deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you'll stay informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, helping you save on your trip to Salem.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Salem.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Salem is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations farther away, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car or bus to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Salem and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Salem

Here are a few popular dishes in Salem, Oregon, United States of America:

• Clam Chowder: A quintessential dish in Oregon, clam chowder is a creamy soup made with fresh clams, potatoes, onions, and sometimes bacon. This hearty dish is often enjoyed in cozy seaside restaurants and is perfect for warming up after a day of exploring. Many local establishments offer their unique spin, incorporating regional ingredients that enhance its flavor.
• Lobster: While not as commonly associated with Oregon as clam chowder, fresh lobster can still be found on some menus. Prepared simply, often steamed or grilled, it showcases the sweet, delicate flavor of the meat. Enjoying lobster at a local seafood joint, paired with locally sourced sides, offers a delightful taste of the Pacific Northwest’s bounty.

Best time to go to Salem

Salem experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 40.1°F (4.5°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 69.6°F (20.9°C). December is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Salem, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with dry rainfall. On the other hand, January, November, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.