Salem is an excellent place for kids — from museums and airplanes to thrilling rides and outdoor adventures, there are tons of fun things for kids to do in Salem. Stop the boredom blues with one or more of these great ideas to keep the kiddos occupied.

things for kids to do in Salem
There is so much to do in Salem with the kids! Photo credit: Krysta Carper

Salem’s Riverfront Carousel

101 Front St. NE, Salem

Who doesn’t love the whimsy of a carousel? Salem has a beautiful one. Open seven days a week, Salem’s Riverfront Carousel is a “magical destination for all ages.” For just $2, ride the playful carousel and enjoy the colorful animals as you go around and around.

B-17 Alliance Museum & Restoration Hangar

3278 SE 25th St. Hangar C, Salem

Got a kiddo that loves all things airplane-related? Head over to Historic McNary Field at the Salem Airport to see the B-17 Alliance Museum & Restoration Hangar. What once was used as a service station canopy for over six decades, the WWII B-17G Flying Fortress is undergoing a complete restoration. Watch the volunteers work on the iconic aircraft and check out the museum while you are there.

things for kids to do in Salem
Explore local museums with the kiddos and learn while playing! Photo courtesy: NorthAmericaTalk

Gilbert House Children’s Museum

116 Marion St. NE, Salem

Kids love to get creative, and there’s a place in Salem where they can let their imaginations run wild. Gilbert House Children’s Museum offers many fun exhibits, including some outside, plus camps and educational programs. Find all the fun for children aged two to ten in three unique historical houses.

Get Air

3910 Rickey St. SE, Salem

Got kids who need to get some energy out? Get Air is a great place to be active and have a blast at the same time. There is something for everyone with trampolines, foam pit, dodgeball, slamball, fidget ladder, kiddie court, and massage chairs.

things for kids to do in Salem
Kids love to play outside at one of Salem’s awesome playgrounds. Photo courtesy: NorthAmericaTalk

Let’s All Play Place

650 Church St. SE, Salem

At Let’s All Play Place therapy and community play area, people of all abilities can come together in a safe environment that welcomes everyone. The wheelchair-friendly play area enhances physical, sensory, emotional, behavioral and social skills for children and adults of all abilities.

The Rock Boxx Climbing Gym

3895 Cascadia Canyon Ave. SE Salem
Suite #110

For kids who can’t keep their feet on the ground, don’t miss The Rock Boxx Climbing Gym. With various professionally built indoor climbing walls, they have something for your little daredevil. There are also fun classes, party rooms and youth programs in this 5,400-square-foot facility.

things for kids to do in Salem
Enchanted Forest Theme Park is the perfect place for fun with the kiddos. Photo credit: Crystal Moreno

Enchanted Forest Theme Park

8462 Enchanted Way SE, Turner

With Kiddy Bumper Boats, Tiny Tune Train, Up and Away Ferris Wheel, Kiddy Frog Hopper, Carousel, Haunted House, Challenge of Mondor, Speedway Bumper Cars, Ice Mountain Bobsled Roller Coaster and Big Timber Log Ride, Enchanted Forest Theme Park is the perfect place for fun with the kiddos. It’s just a quick drive from Salem and offers so much fun for the whole family.

things for kids to do in Salem
The Oregon Garden offers over 80 acres filled with stunning botanicals, explore the 20 gardens, including a children’s garden. Photo courtesy: NorthAmericaTalk

The Oregon Garden

879 W Main St., Silverton

Get outside at the beautiful Oregon Garden. With over 80 acres filled with stunning botanicals, explore the 20 gardens, including a children’s garden. There is also a Junior Gardener’s Club, educational activities and fun events all year round. Pack a picnic or grab lunch there and enjoy eating surrounded by nature. Kids under four are free!

Awesome Indoor Playground

3890 Center St. NE, Salem

Regardless of the weather, have fun at Awesome Indoor Playground. This indoor play structure is designed for kids three to 12. There is also a toddler section for the younger kids. Admission is good for all-day play, and adults are always free.

things for kids to do in Salem
Salem Public Library is a great place for kids to learn. Photo credit: Robin Montgomery

Salem Public Library

585 Liberty St. SE, Salem

For fun while learning, check out the Discovery Room at Salem Public Library. Themes rotate throughout the year for kids from birth to age ten to learn with hands-on exploration, early literacy and STEM activities.

What’s your favorite thing to do with the kids in Salem? Send us an email at submit@mariontalk and let us know!

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