3 Best Public Parks in Salem, OR

“Riverfront City Park has over 23 acres of parkland with a separate children's playground. The park includes a kid-friendly playground with swings, slides, and other play equipment. The park hosts Salem's annual events, including the 4th of July celebration, the World Beat Festival, holiday tree lighting, and summer movies in the park. The park continues to be a well-loved and vibrant community gathering place for many years to come. There is a lovely grassland full of squirrels and sports areas, and the park has public restrooms and parking facilities for visitors. Riverfront City Park has handicap-accessible areas. The park includes paved paths suitable for walking and biking.”

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“Bush's Pasture Park spans a lush 90.5 acres of running trails, wooded areas, and open meadows. This scenic park blends natural beauty with historical charm and offers a variety of recreational amenities for visitors of all ages. The park features two expansive grassy fields perfect for picnics, casual gatherings, or a game of frisbee, as well as three distinct playgrounds for children to enjoy. Bush's Pasture Park also boasts green meadows, tranquil water features, unique bridges, educational facilities, and classical architecture. Additional amenities include a baseball/softball field, footpaths, picnic areas, a large horseshoe area, four lit tennis courts, and an amphitheater. With plenty of shaded spaces, it’s an ideal spot to relax and unwind, especially in the evening.”

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“Minto-Brown Island Park spans over 1,200 acres of lush open spaces and wooded areas, offering a well-maintained and scenic environment perfect for picnics, outdoor recreation, and family outings. The park features a wide range of amenities, including a playground, a reservable shelter, picnic areas, a dog park, and numerous walking, jogging, and biking trails. Visitors can also enjoy fishing spots and a designated paddle boat area, making it a versatile destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With fun play equipment for children and plenty of open space, it's an ideal place for kids to run, explore, and play. The park also supports social and physically engaging activities, providing a great setting for skill development through sports like baseball—especially in the peaceful atmosphere of an evening game.”

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