Riverfront Park

A Riverside Urban Oasis

Riverfront Park is a 23-acre urban park located along the Willamette River in downtown Salem, Oregon. Established on former industrial land owned by the Boise Cascade corporation, the park has become a central gathering place for the community since its development.

The park features wide, undulating paths that follow the river and criss-cross through open lawns, providing ample opportunities for walking, jogging, and cycling. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Willamette River and wildlife in the wetland areas across the water on Minto Brown Island.

Amenities and Attractions

The park's layout includes shaded areas with mature oak trees, perfect for picnicking or relaxing. One of the park's most notable attractions is the Salem Riverfront Carousel, housed indoors to protect it from the elements.

This hand-crafted carousel, featuring intricately carved wooden animals, was completed in 2001 and has become a popular destination for families. The Eco-Earth Globe, an outdoor sculpture and community art project completed in 2003, stands as another prominent feature.

This 26-foot diameter globe, originally an acid ball used in paper production, was transformed into a ceramic-tiled representation of Earth, symbolizing world peace, cultural diversity, and global awareness.

Events and Performance Venues

Riverfront Park hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the World Beat Festival, Fourth of July fireworks, wine festivals, and outdoor movie screenings. The Gerry Frank | Rotary Amphitheater, added in recent years, provides a venue for performances and community gatherings.

Connectivity to Salem's Green Spaces

The park is connected to other green spaces in Salem via pedestrian bridges. The Union Street Railroad Bridge, a converted historic railway trestle, links Riverfront Park to Wallace Marine Park on the west side of the Willamette.

To the south, the Peter Courtney Minto Island Bridge, opened in 2017, connects the park to Minto-Brown Island Park, creating an extensive network of trails and natural areas.