Salem : Capital of Oregon

The capital of Oregon, Salem is the third largest city in the state. Salem is known as the “Cherry city” with a booming wine industry in the Willamette Valley. It is also famous for the capitol building and Willamette University. Salem is the processing and transportation center for the surrounding area. High quality of life in Salem is mixed with natural beauty, healthy and clean environment and recreational activities. In addition, careful planning and intelligent zoning have made the city attractive to new business and industry.

Salem is located about 60 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean in the Willamette Valley and about halfway between Portland and Eugene. The city is surrounded by the Coast Range of mountains on the west and the Cascade Range on the east.

Moist Pacific air is the dominant weather feature, influencing temperatures year round. The city and especially the nearby mountains receive a large amount of rainfall more than 70 percent occurring between November and March and only about 6 percent during the summer.

Area: 46.37 square miles (2000)

Elevation: 171 feet above sea level at State Capitol

Latitude: 44.93 N,

Longitude: 123.03 W

Average Temperatures: January, 40.3° F; August, 67.0° F; annual average, 52.6° F

Average Annual Precipitation: 39.2 inches of rain, 6.4 inches of snow

Population: 148,751 as on 2005

Attractions

    * State Capitol building
    * Willson Park
    * Bush's Pasture Park
    * Deepwood House and Gardens
    * Bush Barn Art Center
    * Bush Conservatory
    * A.C. Gilbert Discovery Village
    * Riverfront Park
    * Reed Opera House
    * Enchanted Forest

Festivals

    * Oregon Wine and Food Festival
    * Salem World Beat Festival
    * Salem Art Fair and Festival
    * Oktoberfest