To bring your family to a fun, classic activity, check out the Salem Riverfront Carousel, located in Historic Downtown Salem. This beautifully designed and handcrafted carousel is a Salem favorite and also hosts birthday parties, field trips, and special events for kids and families. Rides are $2 each, and families can save by purchasing tickets in bulk. For kids who want to ride again and again, unlimited all-day wristbands are available for $15.
If you’re visiting Salem in the autumn, E.Z. Orchards Farm & Market is a must-visit attraction. Its popular HarvestFest typically brings families out for pumpkin picking, a corn maze, hayrides, farm animals, games, and other fall activities. While there, you can also stop by the market to browse farm-fresh produce, baked goods, and other local favorites.
If you happen to visit during the warmer months, the Shortcake Stand is another great reason to stop by. Families can enjoy freshly made shortcakes topped with farm-fresh fruit and cream. It’s a sweet seasonal treat and a pretty great excuse to make the drive.
Gilbert House Children’s Museum
The Gilbert House Children’s Museum, once known as the A.C. Gilbert Discovery Village, is where children can learn through hands-on, creative play and exciting activities. There’s always something fun to do at the museum, from interactive exhibits and imaginative play spaces to special events, themed activities, and outdoor exploration. For children in grades 1-4, Gilbert House also offers summer camps, giving kids a full day of play, learning, and discovery.
General admission is $16, with discounts available for seniors, military members, and veterans. Members and infants under 1 receive free admission. Most families spend about one to three hours exploring the museum, though same-day re-entry is available with a wristband.
For a storybook adventure, check out Enchanted Forest, located about seven miles south of Salem. Full of rides, attractions, and wonderfully quirky charm, this wooded theme park has been a favorite Oregon family stop for generations.
Families can explore Storybook Lane, filled with familiar nursery rhyme characters, wander through an old Western town, visit the Old European Village, check out Pinocchio’s Playhouse, enjoy live entertainment, and ride classic attractions throughout the park. Admission is required, with separate ride tickets for some attractions. Families can save by purchasing admission online in advance, and 2026 pricing may vary during refurbishments, so check current rates before visiting.
Enchanted Forest is open seasonally, generally from spring through early fall, with daily summer hours and a weekend schedule later in the season.
If you’re looking for somewhere outdoors to relax with your family, Riverfront Park in Salem is a fantastic place to play, explore, and enjoy views of the Willamette River. Located close to Historic Downtown Salem, the park offers open green space, walking paths, picnic areas, playgrounds, and plenty of room for kids to move around.
Riverfront Park is also close to two other family-friendly attractions on this list. The Salem Riverfront Carousel is located inside the park, and Gilbert House Children’s Museum sits near the north end of the park. That makes it easy to turn one stop into a full day of family fun without spending half the day loading everyone back into the car. Tiny miracle, honestly.
