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Balanced diets, river biology and the human body? Kids don’t need textbooks
when they can immerse themselves in hands-on exhibits, like those at
the A.C. Gilbert’s Discovery Village in Salem. Stop in at the Little
Gem Candy Store on your way home for that favorite childhood sweet, or continue to
reminisce by taking a turn on an Oregon-themed horse at the Salem
River Front Carousel. This old-world style carousel is enjoyable for all ages;
just close your eyes and become a kid again.
Visit the Wild West, run the river in a log canoe, or take a walk down
storybook lane - all to the sounds of fairy-tale music and children’s laughter
at the Enchanted Forest. Children young and old can visit an authentic English
village or haunted house before taking in a kaleidoscope of lights during
the daily Fantasy Fountain’s Water-Light show. If that’s not enough to satisfy,
check out Thrill-Ville USA, Oregon’s premier “family fun spot.” This park
features two giant waterslides, Go-Karts, Blaster Boats, thrill rides, and
a kiddie section. Great food, strolling costumed characters, and live entertainment
round out the experience.
Take a seat in the Governor’s chair at the Oregon
State Capitol. Parents
can photograph their future lawmakers as they help to draft legislation
in the ceremonial office where bills are signed and press conferences are
held. Guided tours will teach you about the history of Oregon, the Capitol
building and the state’s legislative process. When the legislature is in
session, visitors can sit in the Gallery above the House and Senate floors
to watch proceedings in person. Before you leave, climb to the Golden
Pioneer,
a symbol that sits atop the capitol, honoring the sacrifices made by pioneers
on the Oregon Trail. From here, you can see the city of Salem and catch
a glimpse of the green fields of the valley beyond. Everyone who makes it
to the top will receive a certificate of achievement signed by the Governor.
The historic Mission Mill Museum offers hands-on activities for kids to
experience how life once was. Ever wonder what it was like to be a pioneer?
Take part in traditional crafts and children’s games, or watch reenactments
of Kalapuya Indian activities. With Mill Creek running through the grounds,
the museum is a tranquil park-like destination.
Hear a ball crack against the bat and enjoy a hotdog smothered in mustard
at a Salem-Keizer Volcanoes baseball game. The club was named the “Best
Class A Short Season Franchise” in the nation by Baseball America.
Enjoy a family dinner while taking in a movie at the Northern
Lights Theater Pub. Early shows are open to all ages and the theater serves kid friendly
food along with adult fare. From light comedies to PG-rated action flicks,
this theater has films the whole family can agree on.
Whether you’d like to stay within walking distance of the Capitol, downtown
historic district and shops, or you’d prefer a unique bed and breakfast
beside a scenic vineyard, the Salem area offers diverse lodgings that cater
to every need and many that come complete with fireplaces, Jacuzzis and
pools, as well as restored historic homes and full breakfast fare.
1313 Mill St SE, Salem, OR
503.581.4325
www.travelsalem.com
116 Marion St. NE, Salem, OR
503.371.3631
www.acgilbert.org
101 Front St. NE, Salem, OR
503.540.0374
www.salemcarousel.org
8462 Enchanted Way SE, Turner, OR
503.371.4242
www.enchantedforest.com
8372 Enchanted Way SE, Turner, OR
503.363.4095
www.thrillvilleusa.homestead.com
900 Court St. NE, Salem, OR
503.986.1388
www.leg.state.or.us
1313 Mill St. SE, Salem, OR
503.585.7012
www.missionmill.org
6700 Field of Dreams Way NE, Keizer, OR
503.390.2225
www.volcanoesbaseball.com
3893 Commercial St., Salem, OR
503.304.0280
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