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spring and summer in the salem area
SPRING n What to do n What to wear
Every March dozens of cherry-blossom trees bloom around the Capitol, a nod to the area’s ties to Japanese heritage. Stroll through 40 acres of tulips at the colorful Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival or take a guided tour of the historic Deepwood Gardens. In May Schreiner’s Iris Gardens are simply magical. The parks in and around Salem are a cornucopia of blooms as well; the rose gardens at Bush’s Pasture Park are particularly divine. The Gilbert House Children’s Museum is a must for families during spring break and throughout the year. The hands-on exhibits focused on learning and playing, along with the outdoor discovery area, are an adventure, and Fir Point Farms in Aurora has a petting zoo for kids. In late spring, wineries, farm stands and other spots along the Great Oaks Food Trail open, enticing visitors with succulent berries, hazelnuts, cheeses and honeys.
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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 n What to wear
Summertime is when families flock to local parks, campgrounds, and hiking and biking trails. Kayakers and stand-up paddlers hit the Willamette River, and cyclists pedal for miles along the scenic trails throughout Polk County. Fishers and boaters head to the Willamette River Water Trail to cool off, with nearly 50 miles of river between St. Paul at the north and Millersburg at the south. Salem sits in one of the richest agricultural areas in the country, so a summer farm visit is called for. Ballyntyne Learning Farm is especially fun for kids, or take a scenic drive through the Marion Farm Loop and nibble along the way. Music lovers can catch a live show at an award-winning Willamette Valley winery, and sports lovers can catch a baseball game at Volcanoes Stadium.
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.
