The 10 Best Things to do Good for a Rainy Day in Salem, Oregon (OR)

Private, custom winery tasting tours, waterfall hikes, and truffle hunting excursions. Prestige Wine Tours is excited to share the joy and inspiration of the Willamette Valley with you!

The Rock Boxx is a family friendly rock climbing gym and fitness facility in Salem OR. We have great kids climbing programs and a community room that can be rented out for great birthday parties! We offer fitness only memberships for $15/month that include group fitness classes and unlimited access to our fitness area. Looking for fun things to do in Salem? Check us out!

Architecture and history enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to this white, Greek-style building whose rotunda is topped with a gold leaf statue representing Oregon's first settlers. Inside are murals depicting state history, and outside are sculptures, gardens and grounds for strolling or picnicking.

Gilbert House Children's Museum (formerly known as A.C. Gilbert's Discovery Village) is a private nonprofit children's museum connected to downtown Salem's Riverfront Park. Founded in 1989, Gilbert House provides innovative and stimulating educational experiences which spark children's natural curiosity. The Museum's mission is to "inspire children to learn through creative play." This is accomplished through fun and challenging exhibits, camps, birthday parties, membership opportunities and outreach programs in the sciences, arts, and humanities. The Museum is composed of three historic houses; the Rockenfield House, Gilbert House and Parrish House.

An outstanding collection of Native American baskets is one of the highlights of this Willamette University museum, which specializes in art of the Pacific Northwest and also features European and Asian art.

The Willamette Heritage Center, formerly the Mission Mill, is a National Parks-designated American Treasure. Take a trip to the past with a costumed guide-led tour through all stages of the wool production process at the restored 1889 water-powered wool mill. Located on a beautiful 5-acre campus in the heart of Salem, the Willamette Heritage Center is also home to the oldest homes in the state. The Lee House and Methodist Parsonage, both built in 1841, as well as the Boon House (1847) and Pleasant Grove Church (1858), are all available for tours. With a total of 14 historic structures, permanent and changing exhibits, a cafe, shops, art galleries, and event spaces, there's always plenty to see at the Willamette Heritage Center. The site is a paradise for history buffs, explorers, and photographers alike. Stop by Monday through Saturday, 10 to 5, to discover the history of the Mid-Willamette Valley.

Located in Bush’s Pasture Park, the Bush House Museum is Salem’s 19th century time capsule. Operated by the Salem Art Association on behalf of the City of Salem, the Museum offers tours to the public and preserves and interprets the heritage of the Bush House and Bush’s Pasture Park to illuminate Oregon history and culture associated with the lives and legacy of Salem’s Bush Family. Featuring many iconic 19th century furnishings, this once technologically advanced home also contains much of its original decor. As the comfortable home of a Bush family member until 1953, the Bush House Museum continues to welcome Salem visitors of all ages throughout the year. While in Bush’s Pasture Park, visitors can also explore the recently restored 1882 Conservatory, the second oldest in the west, and the Bush Barn Art Center. The 90 acre park also features walking trails, a civic rose garden and several children’s play areas.