Riverfront Park

A Riverside Urban Oasis

Located next to the Willamette River in downtown Salem, Riverfront Park spans 23 peaceful acres where industry once stood. What was formerly Boise Cascade corporation land is now a pleasant green space that locals and visitors enjoy year-round.

Winding paths meander alongside the river and across open grassy areas, meant for your morning jog or afternoon bike ride. As you stroll, you'll catch lovely views of the Willamette and might spot wildlife going about their day in the wetlands across the water on Minto Brown Island.

Amenities and Attractions

Need a spot for lunch? The park's mature oak trees create perfect shady retreats for spreading out a picnic blanket. You'll discover plenty of tables scattered throughout, and there's even a covered pavilion if you're planning something bigger.

The Salem Riverfront Carousel is definitely worth a visit. Housed indoors (smart move in Oregon!), this isn't your average merry-go-round. Completed in 2001, the carousel features hand-carved wooden animals with incredible detail that both kids and adults can appreciate.

Don't miss the Eco-Earth Globe while you're there. This massive 26-foot outdoor sculpture has a fascinating backstory - it was originally an acid ball used in paper production before artists transformed it into a ceramic-tiled globe. The ceramic-tiled globe represents world peace, cultural diversity, and global awareness.

Playground and Recreation

If you're visiting with kids, the large playground area is a guaranteed hit. There's equipment tailored for different age groups, with climbing structures and various swings, all set on safety-conscious padded surfacing.

On hot summer days, the splash pad becomes the park's most popular spot for families. Little ones can cool off while parents relax nearby. You'll also notice skateboarders enjoying the smooth concrete paths, and patient anglers trying their luck along the riverbank.

Events and Performance Venues

The park really comes alive during its many annual events. The colorful World Beat Festival draws crowds, as do the Fourth of July fireworks, various wine festivals, and outdoor movie nights. The newer Gerry Frank | Rotary Amphitheater is a fantastic venue for performances and community gatherings when the weather cooperates.

Connectivity to Salem's Green Spaces

What makes Riverfront Park even more special is how it connects to Salem's other green spaces. Cross the Union Street Railroad Bridge - a converted historic railway trestle - and you'll find yourself in Wallace Marine Park on the west side of the Willamette.

Head south to the Peter Courtney Minto Island Bridge (which locals have nicknamed the "Taco Bridge" for its distinctive shape), opened in 2017, and you'll be connected to Minto-Brown Island Park. Together, these connections create an extensive network of trails for exploring Salem's natural beauty.

Visitor Information

You can visit daily from 7AM to 9PM. The park is well-maintained with clean restrooms near the playground and carousel building. Your four-legged friends are welcome too - just keep them leashed and use the provided waste stations.

One heads-up: parking can fill up quickly during events and busy weekends. If you're staying downtown, consider walking over instead - it's just a short stroll from most downtown locations.