South Central Travel Guide
Salem
Visit South Central
Popular places to visit
Bush's Pasture Park
Bush's Pasture Park is just one of the places to see in Salem, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the area's festivals or attend a sporting event.
Bush House Museum
Step back in time at this original late-19th-century farmstead and art gallery to discover Oregon’s pioneering history and the legacy of one of its founding families.
Bush Barn Art Center
A treasure trove of regional arts and crafts is showcased at this exciting and educational contemporary art center, located on a heritage Oregon farmstead.
Salem Riverfront Park
After visiting Salem Riverfront Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Salem. While you're here, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Willamette Valley Vineyards
You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Willamette Valley Vineyards during your travels to Turner. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Oregon State Capitol
Watch legislative sessions, learn about key moments in Oregon’s history and admire the art deco architecture of one of the most recognizable buildings in the state.
Things to do
Silver Falls Waterfall Hiking Tour from Portland
Amazing Scavenger Hunt: Salem Oregon's Beautiful Capital
Private Wine Excursion Willamette Valley, Oregon - Wine Tour
Willamette Valley Boutique Winery Tour with Lunch
Private Group, Full Day - Willamette Valley Wine Tour
Private - Willamette Valley Wine Tour From Portland (tasting fees included)
Top hotels in South Central
Oregon Garden Resort
This place was pretty. There is a lounge off the lobby and a restaurant with great food. You can access the garden, but we didn't do that.
Reviewed on 8 May 2026
Comfort Suites Salem
The room was clean and free of any odors. The staff was friendly and answered all our questions with a smile lol. The breakfast was pretty good with a decent assortment of options and the staff stayed on top of replenishing items before they were even gone. The hot tube was plenty warm but only one ...
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Best Western Woodburn
Breakfast was good but only 3 main things
Reviewed on 6 May 2026
Best Western Plus Mill Creek Inn
This is a nice property. We had a large room with plenty of space. The person who checked us in did a great job of explaining all of the amenities and the cookies are a nice touch. This hotel gives you a lot of value and extras that you have to pay for other places. They partner with Denny's for ...
Reviewed on 28 Apr 2026
The Independence
We stay frequently at this hotel and they’re always so welcoming. There are little dog and everybody makes a big fuss over her. This is just a nice hotel by the river with a great staff.
Reviewed on 9 May 2026
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Woodburn
Yes
Reviewed on 9 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around South Central
Central Area
If you're spending some time in Central Area, Elsinore Theater and Oregon State Capitol are top sights worth seeing.
Southeast Salem
If you're spending some time in Southeast Salem, Wunderland and Willamette Heritage Center are top sights worth seeing.
Court-Chemeketa Historic District
While there might not be top attractions in Court-Chemeketa Historic District, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Oregon State Capitol and Willamette Heritage Center.
Morningside
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Morningside and surrounding area, you can visit Oregon State Capitol and Elsinore Theater.
Northeast Neighbors
If you're spending some time in Northeast Neighbors, Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion and Salem Armory Auditorium are top sights worth seeing.
Grant
Though Grant may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Willamette Heritage Center and Salem Armory Auditorium.
