Salem
May 2019
Salem
This was out first visit to Salem. While traveling around the United States since 2007, we have visited many state capitols.
We love the history and uniqueness of each building. We enjoy to see the building itself, but also the well-maintained parks, the art, and the memorials. And we always perform the same ritual. We park not that far from the building and walk around it while reading placards to find facts that make the building, the capital and the state unique.
Facts about Salem and its Capitol building
Oregon State Capitol building is a remarkable, unique landmark with an art deco architecture. The previous building was destroyed by a fire more than 80 years ago. The Gold Man on top of the building is the Oregon Pioneer, a bronze 22 ft sculpture with a golf leaf finish weighing 8.5 tons. Solar panels generate the lights to fully illuminate the statue.
River Front Park
We enjoyed the walk to the The River Front Park, it is a must see in Salem. We didn’t expect such a beautiful park in the heart of Salem near the River. We always enjoy big and small rivers, old and new bridges, city and forest parks and nature in general. And here downtown Salem, you can find all of that! We have seen these kind of relatively new developments quite a few times now in this area (Portland, Vancouver, and now Salem).
The locations near the rivers formerly used for industry are torn down, and developed into welcoming areas with luxury apartments close to parks or walking trails.
Date
Tuesday, May 21, 2019
Distance
3.00 miles
Moving Time
0:50:48 hours
Weather
64 °F, gentle breeze