Fun Things to Do in Salem, Oregon with Kids
Are you trying to find some fun things to do in Salem, Oregon? If are are specifically looking for things to do with kids, I feel your pain. I have 3 kids and it seems like I am always trying to find things to do with them to keep them entertained. If you are just visiting or new to the city, you are probably feeling a little lost. Last year, took them to Phoenix and was at a complete loss as to what to do with kids in the city since the city itself was unfamiliar to me.
If you are already in town, and at a loss for what to do you might be feeling like I did on my trip to Phoenix. If you are wanting to figure out some fun things to do with your kids in Salem before you head here, have no fear. I am here to help! I may not live in Salem, but I do live just 30 minutes away. This is our nearest “large” city and I have worked in Salem, shopped in Salem, and socialized in Salem for most of my life. I’ve got the ideas you need for Salem, Oregon kid-friendly activities.
Fun Things to Do in Salem, Oregon with Kids
There are several places that are awesome to take your kids when you are in Salem. Some of these depend on the age of your children, but most of these are actually great for kids of any age.
Gilbert House Children’s Museum
The Gilbert House Children’s Museum is awesome. Most of the exhibits and activities are geared for kids under 8, but I’ve taken much older kids here and they still love it. Outside of the museum they have an awesome climbing playground that is tons of fun for kids of all ages.
Gilbert House Children’s Museum
116 Marion St NE
Salem, OR, 97301
(503) 371-3631
Riverfront Park
Right off of Front street, you will find Salem’s Riverfront Park. This popular park is 23-acre and is the location of many fun festivals throughout the year. There is also a splash pad for the hot summer months, lots of walking trails, a super cool EcoEarth Globe, and the relatively newly built Peter Courtney Minto Island Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge which connects Riverfront park to Minto-Brown Island Park.
Riverfront Park
Riverfront Carousel
Okay, this is technically in the Riverfront Park, but I feel as though it deserves a mention of its own! The artistry of the carved carousel creatures, the music that plays, and the smiles of kids who are riding on the carousel are the many reasons why the Riverfront Carousel is such a fun thing for kids to do in Salem, Oregon. Plus, it’s easy for those on a budget too! It’s just $1.50 per ride!
Riverfront Carousel
101 Front St NE
Salem OR 97301
503-540-0374
Enchanted Forest
If you are looking for something for the kids to do during the summer months in Salem, Oregon, you definitely have to take a trip to Enchanted Forest. Enchanted Forest is one of very few theme parks in all of Oregon and it is a lot of fun for the entire family. There are 9 rides available in addition to other attractions such as Storybook Lane, live theatre, an old western town and more.
Enchanted Forest 8462 Enchanted Way SE Turner, OR 97392 503-371-4242
Kroc Center
The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center is awesome for a day of fun with the kids in Salem! Not only does it have a fitness center, a gym, an art studio and a media center/library, but there is an entire waterpark here! The waterpark features include a water slide, a splash pad, a lazy river, and a Jr. Olympic competition pool! You will also find a performing arts center and so much more. The Kroc Center is awesome for a day filled with family fun.
Kroc Center 1865 Bill Frey Drive NE Salem, OR 97301 503-566-5762
Tour the Capitol Building
Learning can be fun! Take your kids on a tour of the Oregon State Capitol building and learn about Oregon’s government, plus see the beautiful building and maybe even the gold man (Oregon Pioneer Statue) while you are at it! Tours of the capitol building can be either self-led or you can take a guided tour. If you want to tour the tower and see the gold man, you need to set up a tour from June through September, so be sure to call in advance. Also note that the tower tours are weather permitting and require that you climb over 100 stairs.
Oregon State Capitol Building 900 Court St NE Salem, OR 97301 503-986-1388
Awesome Indoor Playground
A few weeks ago I took my toddler to the Awesome Indoor Playground and oh my goodness it was awesome! It was a little on the pricey side ($8 for my 3 year old), but I feel like it was well worth it. The price is good for the entire day as long as you keep your wristband on. The have a great toddler play area, or a larger play area for the bigger kids. Lots of climbing toys and slides and even a giant jumping pillow.
Oh, and they have a great coffee bar too for us moms and dads that are there to wait!
Awesome Indoor Playground 3890 Center St. NE Salem OR United States 97301
What places would add you to this things to do in Salem with kids list? I know I am missing some and I plan to come back and add them as I remember, but I’m sure I don’t know every awesome place out there! Share your favorite kid places in Salem with me so I can share them with my readers!