SALEM IS MOPO SEASONS spring and summer in the salem area SPRING n What to Do Every March dozens of cherry-blossom trees bloom around the Oregon State Capitol, and it’s a prime season to take a self-guided tour of the grounds. In May, Schreiner’s Gardens are a magical explosion of color, and in late spring, the wineries and farm stands along Polk County’s Great Oaks Food Trail open up, enticing visitors with succulent berries, hazelnuts, cheeses and honeys. At Deepwood Museum & Gardens, plan a mid-spring walk to catch yellow and white lilies at their peak. After exploring the estate’s formal gardens, tour the historic Victorian home that dates back to 1894. Many farms around Aurora also buzz with renewed activity. At the family-friendly Fir Point Farms, you can feed miniature goats, horses and other farm animals. Then check out the Old Aurora Colony Museum set in the state’s first National Historic District, and the town’s renowned antiquing scene. From March through May, sports fans can cheer on the Salem Capitals, the city’s pro basketball team, at the Salem Armory. n What to Wear April and May temperatures can reach the high 60s with sun breaks throughout the day; dress in layers and bring an umbrella. SUMMER n What to Do Summer is an idyllic time to visit wineries in the Willamette Valley. You can enjoy leisurely tastings on patios and walk through leafy, sunlit vineyards. Pair your pinot with wood-fired pizzas at Ankeny Vineyard, or try seasonal wine-paired bites at St. Innocent Winery. For dessert, the shortcake stand at E.Z. Orchards heaps buttery biscuits with seasonal fruit — freshly harvested strawberries, marionberries, raspberries, blueberries and peaches — all summer long. Outdoor adventurers can paddle the 187-mile Willamette River Water Trail with a tour from Independence Kayak Rentals or climb a majestic 300-foot-tall Douglas fir with a guide from Tree Climbing at Silver Falls. More excitement awaits at events like the St. Paul Rodeo and the Oregon State Fair, held in late August. For creative play and fun experiences for kids, head to the Gilbert House Children’s Museum at Salem’s downtown Riverfront Park. n What to Wear Summer runs in the perfect 70s and 80s; shorts and tank tops are the way to go. Nights can cool down, so bring a light jacket. Sunscreen and bug spray are a good idea, too. Cyndi Easterly Oregon State Capitol TravelSalem.com 8
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