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Salem

The Atlas Obscura Guide To Salem

3 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Salem, Oregon

Updated October 26, 2025

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Unusual Attractions in Salem

The Museum of Mental Health

Salem, Oregon

Oregon State Hospital Museum of Mental Health

An institution that preserves the history of institutionalization.

Docked. Note the upper cable to which the ferryboat is tethered.

Salem, Oregon

Wheatland Ferry

This incongruous small ferry across the Willamette River north of Salem, Oregon has been operating continuously since the 1850s.

The park is centered around a giant sequoia tree planted in 1872.

Salem, Oregon

Waldo Park

One of the world's smallest city parks is only 12 by 20 feet.

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The Ice Mountain bobsled roller coaster.

Turner, Oregon

Enchanted Forest

This charmingly homemade amusement park has been growing for 40 years.

7 miles from Salem

The Slough in late afternoon.

Dallas, Oregon

Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge

A haven for wildlife amid the farmlands and development of the Willamette River Valley.

10 miles from Salem

The Gordon House by Frank Lloyd Wright

Silverton, Oregon

The Gordon House

The only house in Oregon designed by the famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright.

12 miles from Salem

Interior of Mount Angel Abbey Library

Benedict, Oregon

Mount Angel Abbey Library

The only building in the western U.S. designed by the Finnish architect Alvar Aalto.

14 miles from Salem

In partnership with GetYourGuide

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Explore Salem, Oregon

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