Willamette Valley Visitors Association tktkkt Joshua Rainey Joshua Rainey tktktkkt Willamette Heritage Center Perryhill Farm Magic at the Mill Aurora Cellars APRIL Spring is the season to stroll the boardwalks and trails at Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge. Birdwatching peaks during April migration, so keep your eyes peeled for warblers and Virginia rails, then wind down with delectable flights at nearby Ankeny Vineyard, Cória Estates and St. Innocent Winery. MAY Bring the family to the Willamette Heritage Center’s Sheep to Shawl Festival and see firsthand how wool is processed, from the shearing of sheep to the spinning of wool. Then visit more animals, plus flowers galore, by touring the farms and nurseries along the Marion Farm Loop, including Pedersens Nursery, Minto Island Growers and Godfrey Nursery. JUNE It’s time to camp, hike, play disc golf and browse the museums at the historic Champoeg State Heritage Area, located along the scenic Willamette River. Next fuel up on made-to-order sandwiches and hand-scooped ice cream at the Historic Butteville Store, and pop into the tasting rooms of Lady Hill Winery and Champoeg Wine Cellars to top it off. OCTOBER It’s ripe time to reap the bounty along the Great Oaks Food Trail. Begin your day immersed in nature at Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge, and then fill your basket with fresh U-pick fruit at Perryhill Farm. Next head to the Polk County Museum to learn about the area’s early pioneer heritage. NOVEMBER Ring in the holiday season in the Mid-Willamette Valley, as over 60 wineries offer seasonal tastings, food pairings, live music and more as part of Oregon’s annual Wine Country Thanksgiving event. Each winery celebrates the weekend with its own flair, so visit as many as you can. You’ll be thankful you did. DECEMBER Visit the festive Salem Holiday Market to shop from over 250 vendors selling handcrafted or homegrown products. Experience Magic at the Mill at the Willamette Heritage Center with live music, museum tours and Santa. Drive through Powerland Heritage Park or Magic of Lights at the Oregon State Fair and Expo Center for dazzling light displays. 33 TravelSalem.com
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