Know All About Salem, Oregon

Surrounded by immense greenery, the city of Salem is located right in the heart of Willamette Valley and the river, after which the valley was named, that runs right through the city. Known for its fresh agricultural produce, Salem is a good base for exploring the rest of the valley. Being the capital of the state of Oregon, the city is home to a number of government buildings, including the State Capitol. Other than that, Salem is also famous for its diverse culinary industry.

History of Salem

It is believed that the beautiful Willamette Valley has been inhabited for more than 10,000 years. The Kalapuya People first established camps around this area and would often fish and harvest near the streams. During the 1850’s, the Kalapuya’s and other native tribes were removed by the government, either via bribes or force. The Europeans, who first arrived over here in the year 1812, were mainly food gatherers for fur trading companies or animal trappers.

Jason Lee Methodist mission was the earliest permanent American settlement over here. In the year 1842, several missionaries set up the Oregon Institute over here, which was later dissolved in the year 1844 to establish the city of Salem. The city became the territorial capital in 1851 and in 1857, it was officially incorporated as a city and in 1859, it became the capital of the state.

Important Locations in Salem

Surrounded by lush greenery, the city of Salem is a great city to visit, especially if you love natural beauty. Apart from that, the city is also home to a number of museums, art galleries and other recreational activities for the tourists. Here are some popular places for tourists to explore in Salem:

Oregon State Capitol

Home to the state legislature, secretary of the state, governor office and treasurer of Oregon state, Oregon State Capitol is one of the most important locations in the city. Constructed between the years of 1936 and 1938, this building is third one to house the Oregon state government in the city. The previous two were destroyed by fire in 1855 and 1935 respectively. Designed by Trowbridge & Livingston from New York, the Capitol is made mainly out of marble and dons the classical stripped design. Moreover, the grounds of the Capitol are also home to beautiful artwork, greenery, flora and several fountains. In the year 1988, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. For more information on tours of the Oregon State Capitol, click here.

Address: 900 Court St NE, Salem, OR 97301, United States
Phone: 1 503 986 1388

Cristom Vineyards

If you love wine, then this is the place to be in Salem. Cristom Vineyards is known for its Pinot noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot noir, Syrah and Viognier. Founded in 1992, Cristom is home to eight estate owned vineyards, all collectively spread over 58.4 acres. For more information on how to reach this vineyard, check out their website.

Address: 6905 Spring Valley Rd NW, Salem, OR 97304, United States
Phone: 1 503 375 3068

Salem First United Methodist Church

Salem First United Methodist Church was first established in the year 1841 but because of its large congregation size, the members of the church decided to rebuild a larger church in the year 1870 in the same spot. The construction of the new building was completed in the year 1878 and in 1983, the church was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Designed in a classic Gothic Revival architecture, Salem First United Methodist Church is one of the few churches of this architecture in the state, outside of Portland. It is also the oldest Methodist Church in the western Rocky Mountain region and is a true United Methodist Heritage Landmark. For more information on the church, click here.

Address: 600 State St, Salem, OR 97301, United States
Phone: 1 503 364 6709

People and Culture of Salem

According to the 2010 Census of United States of America, Salem had a population of 154,637. This city is a dwelling for several racial compositions including White (79.0%), Hispanic (20.3%), African American (1.5%), Native American (1.5%), Asians (2.7%), Pacific Islander (0.9%), Other Races (10.1%) and Two or more Races (4.3%).

Time Zone and Phone Codes of Salem

Salem is in the Pacific Time Zone (UTC – 8). The Summer Daylight Saving Time (DST) is Pacific Daylight Time (UTC − 7).

Standard Time Zone: UTC – 8 hours
Daylight Saving Time: UTC – 7 hours
Daylight Saving Time: 1 hour
Time Zone Abbreviation: PST, PDT

Phone Codes of Salem

Salem Area Code: 503, 971
International Country Code: 1

Best Time to Visit Salem

Like all the cities in the country, Salem experiences four distinct seasons – spring, summer, fall and winters. There is no best time to visit the city as it all depends on individual tastes and preferences. Spring is a great time to visit Salem if you are a pure nature lover. The entire city is decorated with fresh foliage and the gardens and parks over here become exceptionally beautiful during spring. Summers are dry and long in Salem and are best for adventurists who love long hikes. The autumn season marks the beginning of rains but also beautiful weather in the city. Winters are mild but are accompanied with rainfall.

Seasonal Events and Festivals in Salem

Oregon Wine & Food Festival (January)
Oregon Wedding Showcase (January)
First Taste Oregon (January)
The Mid-Valley Video Festival (February)
Spring RV Show (February)
The Salem Film Festival (March)
Annual Social Pow Wow (March)
Willamette Valley Wine & Jazz Festival (March)
Salem Saturday Market (April)
World Beat Festival (June)
Annual Salem Local Championship (June)
Deepwood Wine and Jazz Fest (June)
Marion County Fair (July)
Salem Art Fair and Festival (July)
The Bite and Brew of Salem (July)
Capitol Pride (August)
Oregon State Fair (August to September)
Chef's Nite Out (October)
Salem Coin and Stamp Show (December)
Holiday Market (December)
Star Trees Lighting (December)
Magic at the Mill (December)

Salem Map