Photo of AI-Magellan
07 Apr 2025
Edit Trip Edit
Bookmark TripSave

10 Best Places for Day Trips From Salem, OR

Day Trips from Salem, OR: An Exciting Journey Through Nature and Culture

Embark on a memorable adventure with our curated day trips from Salem, Oregon, offering a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. Begin your journey at Silver Falls State Park, where the mesmerizing 'Trail of Ten Falls' promises an awe-inspiring nature walk. Continue your adventure along the picturesque Oregon Coast, renowned for its dramatic ocean vistas, charming towns, and opportunities for beachcombing and wildlife viewing.

Head towards Portland, where art enthusiasts and food lovers will find a bustling scene filled with creativity and diverse culinary delights. For outdoor adventurers, Mt. Hood National Forest offers thrilling experiences with hiking and skiing against a backdrop of majestic landscapes. Witness the magnificent Columbia River Gorge, famous for its stunning waterfalls and exhilarating trails.

Explore the serene beauty of Cascade Head, a UNESCO biosphere reserve, where you can trek through meadows and old-growth forests while taking in panoramic coastal views. Discover the quaint town of McMinnville, where history and viticulture collide, offering visits to the renowned Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum and award-winning wineries.

Need more nature? Santiam State Forest and Marys Peak offer idyllic retreats for hiking and nature appreciation, with diverse ecosystems and breathtaking vantage points. Wrap up your adventure at Lincoln City, where sandy beaches, a vibrant arts scene, and unique attractions like beach glass hunting provide the perfect end to your day trip escapade from Salem, OR.


Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Silver Falls State Park

    Silver Falls State Park offers breathtaking waterfalls, lush hiking trails, and the famous 'Trail of Ten Falls,' making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin2

    Oregon Coast

    The Oregon Coast provides stunning ocean views, charming coastal towns, and a variety of outdoor activities like beachcombing, hiking, and wildlife viewing, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin3

    Portland, OR

    Portland, OR is known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse food culture, beautiful gardens, and iconic landmarks like Powell's City of Books and the International Rose Test Garden, offering a mix of cultural and recreational attractions.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin4

    Mt. Hood National Forest

    Mt. Hood National Forest is ideal for adventurers with year-round recreational opportunities like hiking, skiing, and mountain biking amidst scenic vistas and diverse wildlife.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin5

    Columbia River Gorge

    Columbia River Gorge offers breathtaking landscapes, dramatic waterfalls like Multnomah Falls, and numerous trails for hiking and exploring, making it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin6

    Cascade Head

    Cascade Head is a UNESCO biosphere reserve with stunning coastal views, unique ecological habitats, and trails leading through meadows and old-growth forests, perfect for nature observation and photography.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin7

    McMinnville, OR

    McMinnville, OR is renowned for its charming downtown area, award-winning wineries, and the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, making it a delightful destination for wine lovers and history buffs alike.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin8

    Santiam State Forest

    Santiam State Forest offers beautiful landscapes and an array of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping, providing a serene escape into nature and ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Marys Peak is the highest point in the Oregon Coast Range with breathtaking panoramic views, diverse ecosystems, and numerous trails, making it a fantastic spot for hiking and nature appreciation.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin10

    Lincoln City, OR

    Lincoln City, OR is known for its beautiful coastline, sandy beaches, and unique attractions like beach glass hunting, art galleries, and the annual kite festival, offering fun for families and beachgoers.
    Open Google Maps Button

Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    The Gallon House

    4.2
    $$$$

    The Gallon House

    Located in Silverton, this historic restaurant is famous for its speakeasy vibe and a diverse selection of locally-sourced food and craft cocktails.
    4.2
    $$$$
    Picture for The Gallon House
  • Restaurant Icon

    Seafood & Wine Bar 45th Parallel

    Seafood & Wine Bar 45th Parallel

    In Lincoln City, this unique location offers fresh seafood with oceanfront views, making it perfect for a meal with a scenic backdrop.
    Picture for Seafood & Wine Bar 45th Parallel
  • Restaurant Icon

    McMenamins Kennedy School

    7.4

    McMenamins Kennedy School

    A converted schoolhouse in Portland turned into a restaurant and brewery, known for its whimsical décor and eclectic menu.
    7.4
    Picture for McMenamins Kennedy School
  • Restaurant Icon

    Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum Café

    5

    Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum Café

    Located in McMinnville, dine among aviation artifacts and enjoy a unique culinary experience alongside historic planes.
    5
    Picture for Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum Café
  • Restaurant Icon

    Cascade Grill

    4.2
    $$$$

    Cascade Grill

    Near Santiam State Forest, this local favorite offers comfort food and a cozy atmosphere, perfect after a day of exploring the forest.
    4.2
    $$$$
    Picture for Cascade Grill

Hotels

  • Hotel Icon

    The Vintages Trailer Resort

    4.5

    The Vintages Trailer Resort

    Located in Dayton near McMinnville, this retro trailer resort offers a nostalgic stay in classic restored RVs with modern amenities.
    4.5
    Picture for The Vintages Trailer Resort
  • Hotel Icon

    McMenamins Edgefield

    9

    McMenamins Edgefield

    In Troutdale, this historic hotel is a former poor farm converted into a unique accommodation with on-site brewery, winery, and spa.
    9
    Picture for McMenamins Edgefield
  • Hotel Icon

    Sylvia Beach Hotel

    7

    Sylvia Beach Hotel

    Situated in Newport on the Oregon Coast, this literary-themed hotel offers rooms dedicated to famous authors and a cozy book-focused atmosphere.
    7
    Picture for Sylvia Beach Hotel
  • Hotel Icon

    Astoria Column Guest Lodge

    4.8

    Astoria Column Guest Lodge

    Located in Astoria, this charming lodge offers proximity to the historic Astoria Column and scenic views of the Columbia River.
    4.8
    Picture for Astoria Column Guest Lodge
  • Hotel Icon

    Kennedy School Hotel

    7.4

    Kennedy School Hotel

    In Portland, this converted school offers a whimsical stay with themed rooms, on-site theater, soaking pools, and bars.
    7.4
    Picture for Kennedy School Hotel

Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    An Evening With Phil Rosenthal Of "Somebody Feed Phil"

    An Evening With Phil Rosenthal Of "Somebody Feed Phil"

    The event will take place at Elsinore Theatre in Salem.
    Map IconElsinore Theatre in Salem (7.67 mi)
    Calendar Icon20 Sep 2025
    Picture for An Evening With Phil Rosenthal Of "Somebody Feed Phil"
  • Event Icon

    Stayin' Alive - A Tribute To The Bee Gees

    Stayin' Alive - A Tribute To The Bee Gees

    The event will take place at Elsinore Theatre in Salem.
    Map IconElsinore Theatre in Salem (7.67 mi)
    Calendar Icon19 Oct 2025
    Picture for Stayin' Alive - A Tribute To The Bee Gees
  • Event Icon

    Leonid & Friends- Tribute to the Music of Chicago: 2025 or 6 to 4 Tour

    Leonid & Friends- Tribute to the Music of Chicago: 2025 or 6 to 4 Tour

    The event will take place at Elsinore Theatre in Salem.
    Map IconElsinore Theatre in Salem (7.67 mi)
    Calendar Icon27 Oct 2025
    Picture for Leonid & Friends- Tribute to the Music of Chicago: 2025 or 6 to 4 Tour
  • Event Icon

    The Black Jacket Symphony Presents AC/DC's 'Back In Black'

    The Black Jacket Symphony Presents AC/DC's 'Back In Black'

    The event will take place at Elsinore Theatre in Salem.
    Map IconElsinore Theatre in Salem (7.67 mi)
    Calendar Icon1 Nov 2025
    Picture for The Black Jacket Symphony Presents AC/DC's 'Back In Black'
  • Event Icon

    Straight No Chaser: Holiday Road Tour

    Straight No Chaser: Holiday Road Tour

    The event will take place at Elsinore Theatre in Salem.
    Map IconElsinore Theatre in Salem (7.67 mi)
    Calendar Icon23 Nov 2025
    Picture for Straight No Chaser: Holiday Road Tour
  • Event Icon

    MANIA: The ABBA Tribute

    MANIA: The ABBA Tribute

    The event will take place at Elsinore Theatre in Salem.
    Map IconElsinore Theatre in Salem (7.67 mi)
    Calendar Icon4 Feb 2026
    Picture for MANIA: The ABBA Tribute
  • Event Icon

    Tommy Emmanuel, CGP

    Tommy Emmanuel, CGP

    The event will take place at Elsinore Theatre in Salem.
    Map IconElsinore Theatre in Salem (7.67 mi)
    Calendar Icon19 Apr 2026
    Picture for Tommy Emmanuel, CGP

Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    Native Oregonians know NOTHING of their Outback. You pretty much have to be an immigrant or own a motorcycle to know about The Outback. You'll go by Fort Rock on the way ...

    How far away is a reasonable day trip from Salem?

    Native Oregonians know NOTHING of their Outback. You pretty much have to be an immigrant or own a motorcycle to know about The Outback. You'll go by Fort Rock on the way ...

    /r/SALEM
  • Reddit Icon

    14 votes, 16 comments. Im considering visiting Salem, OR via day trip, likely for ca. 5 hours, either next year or the following year. The one

    Attractions for a day trip to Salem, OR

    14 votes, 16 comments. Im considering visiting Salem, OR via day trip, likely for ca. 5 hours, either next year or the following year. The one

    /r/SALEM
  • Reddit Icon

    Im planning a summer backpacking trip through Oregon and want to stop in Salem for 1-2 days. I am looking for recommendations for hotels, things to

    Visitor Recommendations

    Im planning a summer backpacking trip through Oregon and want to stop in Salem for 1-2 days. I am looking for recommendations for hotels, things to

    /r/SALEM
  • Reddit Icon

    I'm currently in Salem (well, Keizer) and I have a day to kill before I have a job interview tomorrow. Having trouble coming up with something to do

    Things to do in Salem for a day?

    I'm currently in Salem (well, Keizer) and I have a day to kill before I have a job interview tomorrow. Having trouble coming up with something to do

    /r/SALEM
  • Reddit Icon

    28 votes, 72 comments. Hey! I am about to be your new neighbor, I bought a house in South Salem. I grew up in Lincoln City, went away to the

    Places to go, things to see in Salem?

    28 votes, 72 comments. Hey! I am about to be your new neighbor, I bought a house in South Salem. I grew up in Lincoln City, went away to the

    /r/SALEM

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    This classic rock song by the Eagles perfectly captures the carefree and adventurous spirit of a road trip.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster
  • Music Icon

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Tom Cochrane's hit is an energetic anthem for road trippers, symbolizing the journey and enjoyment of life.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway
  • Music Icon

    Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run

    Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run

    Bruce Springsteen's iconic song about freedom and escape makes it a perfect accompaniment for travels.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run
  • Music Icon

    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    A classic travel tune that celebrates the journey along one of America's most famous highways.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Chuck Berry - Route 66
  • Music Icon

    Rihanna - Shut Up And Drive

    Rihanna - Shut Up And Drive

    Rihanna's upbeat track combines a catchy beat with themes of adventure and exploration.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Rihanna - Shut Up And Drive
  • Music Icon

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson's country classic celebrates the joy of traveling and experiencing new adventures.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live
  • Music Icon

    Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster

    Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster

    Fleetwood Mac's timeless song about independence and self-discovery is great for any road trip.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster
  • Music Icon

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Rusted Root's upbeat song is perfect for creating a lighthearted and adventurous road trip vibe.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way
  • Music Icon

    The Beach Boys - Good Vibrations - Remastered 2001

    The Beach Boys - Good Vibrations - Remastered 2001

    The Beach Boys’ classic tune brings positive energy and sunshine, ideal for cruising the coast.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for The Beach Boys - Good Vibrations - Remastered 2001
  • Music Icon

    Tracy Chapman - Fast Car

    Tracy Chapman - Fast Car

    Tracy Chapman's folk-rock ballad captures the themes of escape, dreams, and the open road.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Tracy Chapman - Fast Car