Day Trips into Nature and Old-Timey from Salem Oregon

I haven't been to the equator yet, but I have been half way between the equator and
North Pole thanks to a day trip to Silverton, Oregon.

Not only does Salem have some often overlooked attractions, including historic homes, a woolen mill, and Oregon’s state capitol, it is also a good home base for day trips to Silverton for waterfalls and gardens and Cottage Grove for covered bridges. 

Salem: Oregon’s Often Overlooked Middle Child

Oregon State Capitol in Salem

Salem.  No, not that one, the other one.  The Salem in Oregon.  You know, Oregon’s state capitol. 

Salem is not your typical tourist destination.  Most travelers to Oregon never visit Salem, and if they are driving, just speed on through, heading to Portland or Oregon’s coastal towns.  Even though Salem is Oregon’s state capitol, it still has a small town feel.  Not only does Salem have some not to be missed attractions of its own, it also makes a great base to explore nearby sites, such as the covered bridges of Cottage Grove, the waterfalls and gardensof Silverton, and the wines and other culinary delights of the WillametteValley.  When I researched Salem, it seemed to me like it had plenty to offer travelers and needed some attention, much like an overlooked middle child.