I have lived here all my life, seen most all there is to see. Still haven't found everything I'm looking for, but as a social butterfly, I try to patronize all local events. So here goes my reviews of what to do in Salem, and what should be defined "Best":
1. Dancing carries so many different meanings. To each his own. If you want swing, ballroom, or latin try RJ Dance Studio. They offer dance instruction as well as social dancing on Tuesdays. If you're more of a honky-tonker hit the floor at the Silver Spur Saloon. Most of the lower floor is dedicated to space for line dancing. In the vein of country, Swingin Stars offers up some great square dancing. Want to dance Sean-Nos? Then the Ceili of the Valley Society is calling! On weekends, check out the Six Ultra Lounge or Copper John's for some clubbing.
2. Karaoke brings out the best and worst of Salem. As long as there's no name calling, try Frank-N-Stein's in Mt. Angel, or Iggy's Bar & Grill in Brooks. Keeping close to home? Try Liberty Spirit Bar & Grill.
3. To hear some of the best NW bands, check out Boon's Treasury. Most music is blues/folk/alternative rock, but it's some of the best I've heard. Richard Day Reynolds & Garry Meziere are a great blues duo. Also check out the Ty Curtis Band at The Roxxy. For more rock/electronic/hardcore The Space is the place. Coffee House Cafe hosts some music events. There's live jazz at Alessandro's and Grand Vines.
4. For the best in family entertainment, pack up the kids for a short ride to Enchanted Forest. Yes, it's aging. No, it's not Disneyland. But it holds dear childhood memories, and there's something about the simplicity that sparks the imagination. A.C. Gilbert Discovery Village is another great option. It's like OMSI but closer, and more hands on. Salem Carousel will bring delight to young and young at heart. During the summer, Willamette Humane Society offers Camp Paw Paw - a great education in animal care. The World Beat Festival in June melds cultures together, providing a great way for kids to learn and accept diversity.
5. For free activities, look no further than your own neighborhood. Parks are everywhere in Salem. The Library is open 5 days a week. The Wednesday and Saturday Markets are excellent places to peruse. First Wednesday's in Salem bring the city to life during the evenings with music, shopping, and food.
6. Salem Cinema is an independent filmmaker's dream. Today is the last day of the Salem Film Festival showcasing Megan Mylan for her inspiring film Smile Pinki. The festival is a 10 day event giving local and nationwide independent artists to show off their best films. Tickets are just $8, which is less than what you'll pay at Regal Cinemas. If you can wait a couple weeks to see a current film, then you'll find yourself saving money at Northern Lights Theatre Pub. Current shows include Coraline, Gran Torino, and Hotel for Dogs. Tickets are just $3 for movies. Events, like live comedy and UFC showings cost a little more, but are worth it for the food, friends, and beer. On Saturday's a double play is offered for children - a play and a movie. What a great idea!
7. Beaver's, Ducks, every other sports team's gear line the walls of Magoo's Sports Bar. When they say sports bar, they mean it. Did I mention they have shuffleboard? Very cool. The Ram Restaurant and Brewery also has 6 or 7 tv's, wonderful microbrews, and 3 pool tables in the back.
8. I am struggling with best annual event. The Saturday and Wednesday Markets show off Salem's goods. First Wednesday's bring out the nightlife. The Salem Art Fair draws the largest crowd. Oktoberfest in Mt. Angel will have you wearing lederhosen. The World Beat Festival shows our diversity. Sometimes the Bite of Salem is good, although why Pizza Hut has a booth, I don't know. The Oregon State Fair is overrated. Try 'em all and tell me which is best!
9. Once again, to each his own. Bars are for everyone and anyone. I can usually be found at Jake's Bar & Grill. It's a dive, and 3/4 of the bar is pool tables, but if you wanna see the best APA tournament, it's Jakes. Ask for a "lite black opal" from Tod. Another great place for pool is Big Shots. They have nice tables, and a split room where you can bowl on the Wii. The Garth Brooks clientele will love the Silver Spur. Clubbers will go to The Six Ultra Lounge and South Liberty Bar & Grill (I've never seen much food though). The Brick and the Ram attract the Willamette University crowd. If you wanna get in a fight The Can Can is the rowdiest bar. Iggy's in Brooks is best for karaoke, as well as Liberty Spirit Bar & Grill. A new haunt is Brownstowne Lounge. Live music, Wii rentals, Ninkasi brews, and pinball machines are the highlights. For the GLBT crowd, we have the Southside Speakeasy. A great place to dance and let loose, even if you are straight.
10. Salem Repertory Theater is a great group who call the Reed Opera House home. If you have a chance, run out to Pentacle Theatre. Set in the woods, this inviting theatre combines romance and mystery. Just don't audition. The group is very snobby and cliquish. The Historic Elsinore Theatre is regal. It brings much needed musicals, orchestral and cultural events to Salem.
11. While I'm no art critic, I will say I like the Mary Lou Zeek Gallery's variety and style. Also try Elsinore Gallery or Hallie Ford Musem. Both good choices!
12. Wanna get hitched? During the summer I recommend Deepwood Estate or Silver Falls Park. If you can swing it, a beatiful wedding at St. Mary's in Mt. Angel is worth the drive.
13. AMF Firebird Lanes, Town & Country Lanes, or for cheap games, Northgate Bowl. I always enjoy glow in the dark bowling!
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