In Salem, Keizer, Silverton and beyond, find fun activities, fantastic food, rich history, and so much more. Here are 26 things to do in Marion County in 2026.
1. Explore the vibrant colors of Salem’s Thriving Art Scene. Salem’s artistic landscape is a mosaic of creativity, connection and community. Marvel at historic murals, explore dynamic galleries, or engage in hands-on art at local studios.
2. Enjoy a Delicious Breakfast or Brunch in Salem. Try a classic corned beef hash at White’s or a tofu scramble at Patty’s. These locations are kid-friendly, with smaller options or children’s menus to help you bring the whole family for breakfast together.
3. Learn where to explore fun Art Classes in Marion County. Whatever your interest level and budget, you’ll find a class or workshop that speaks to you among the many art classes offered in the area.
4. Find where to find delicious Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Salem. Even if you’re not a vegetarian, these foods can be a great way to eat a healthier meal or try something you’ve never had before.
5. Play Dungeons and Dragons, Pokémon Cards and Warhammer at Game Stores in Salem and Keizer. From buying your first set to learning the game, or being advanced enough to join a tournament, there is something for anyone at any level.
6. Meet Jesus Escobar. As an artist and advocate for the arts in Marion County, this artist, through his numerous exhibits, advocacy and community connections, strives to make art enjoyable and accessible to everyone.
7. Catch a game with Marion Berries Baseball. In the West Coast League, the Marion Berries play in Willamette University’s newly renovated John Lewis Field at Bush’s Pasture Park in downtown Salem.
8. Explore Mount Angel Abbey. This monastery, modernist library and brewery are an excellent stop. The abbey even provides a walking tour of the lovely grounds, perfect for wandering in any season.
9. Whether you’re looking for a traditional glazed, a plant-based gluten-free donut hole or a Korean-style mochi donut, enjoy something sweet at Salem Donut Shops.
10. Discover Salem’s Coffee Culture and catch up with friends over coffee or get some reading or writing done at one of the many types of coffee shops in Salem, from cozy to funky to sophisticated.
11. With plenty of determination and the help of Kao at Bank of the Pacific, Cherry City Chiropractic’s Ryan and Amy have been able to both expand their clinic and start a business that fills an essential need for families and the community with Salem Swim School.
12. Discover fun and fitness for all ages and Sign Up for Recreational Sports in Marion County. Across Marion County, organizations like the Marion & Polk Family YMCA, the Boys and Girls Club of Salem, and the City of Salem’s Parks and Recreation Department offer a wide range of programs for everyone, from toddlers to adults.
13. Go beyond the backyard and try Birdwatching in Marion County. Interested in a birding loop? The Oregon Birding Group has created a Willamette Loop Map that covers much of Marion County.
14. Get out with dinner, drinks and entertainment and have a Date Night in Salem. Stroll through downtown and along the riverfront and enjoy everything from dive bars to fancier hotel cocktail bars.
15. Help Punx With a Purpose, Stormie’s Place and Rainbow Youth fill the gap in Salem by connecting teens to resources.
16. Enjoy Endless Autumn Adventures in Salem and Marion County that are playful, scenic, and historic with orchards, waterfalls, festivals and family traditions
17. The Newmans are eager to provide a fun and educational farm experience for visitors while enjoying a meet and mingle with Suri alpacas with the Suri Alpaca Experience at Briarwood Acres in Salem.
18. Explore immigrant stories and labor with Illustrator and Muralist Alex Zarate, who is committed to amplifying the voices and experiences of the Mexicans and Mexican-Americans he knows.
19. Whether you’re looking to start your child with ballet or have a kid who wants to learn hip hop, Salem offers plenty of choices at Dance Studios and Classes in Salem.
20. Beat the bad weather with 6 Salem Area Indoor Activities for the whole family to enjoy.
21. Learn more about preserving and celebrating tribal life with Chachalu Tribal Museum and Cultural Center. On the Oregon Coast range, this place is well worth a drive from wherever you might live in Western Oregon.
22. Walk in nature with 3 Easy Day Hikes Near Salem. Get restored at one of the area’s wonderful outdoor habitats, within a 30-minute drive of downtown Salem.
23. Explore beyond Salem With Polk County’s Small Towns. Independence, Dallas, and Monmouth are excellent choices for a quick day trip or even a weekend away.
24. Discover where your food is grown with Marion County Farm Loops. Salem’s proximity to hundreds of local farms offers a unique opportunity to discover where local produce, gardening plants, and wine come from.
25. Read MarionTalk’s history section, where positive stories showcase the rich history of Salem, Keizer, Silverton and throughout Marion County.
26. Find a new read with Bookstores in Salem and Around Marion County. The Willamette Valley features several hometown bookstores in Salem, Silverton, and Independence. When you’re looking for something new, a bargain, or maybe a copy of a classic you’ve never read, these bookstores will be the places to go.
