We've all heard someone complain about how boring Salem, Oregon is. Heck, I complain about Salem all the time. Despite our feelings, between the hikes, parks, the ocean, the mountains and restaurants, Salem is actually a pretty cool city.
Yet, there are still 6 places in Salem that don't get the attention they deserve.
1. The Happy Bibimbap House
If you're looking for a cozy and accurate taste of Korea, The Happy Bibimbap House needs to be on your radar.
With authentic Korean food and fair prices, it's easy to see why The Happy Bibimbap House boasts a 4.5/5 rating on Yelp. A staple of the restaurant is Dol Sot Bibimbap. Served in a piping hot stone bowl, this traditional Korean dish consists of a mix of seasoned vegetables and meat served over rice, with an egg placed on top. My personal favorite is Bulgogi, a Korean BBQ meal featuring thinly sliced pieces of marinated beef.
The best part about Bibimbap House isn't the food, however, it's the employees that really set this restaurant apart. The owners and staff will greet you warmly and, if you get to know them well enough, will probably pray over you, too. The owners also close down Mondays at 2:30 so they can spend their afternoon cooking for Salem's homeless population.
2.Rock Boxx
Probably one of my favorite spots on this list, the Rock Boxx is a new climbing gym that offers professionally designed bouldering, slack-lining, yoga, fitness equipment and a lounge area.
Bouldering is amazing because all body types and fitness levels can be successful at it. The feeling of accomplishment after sending a tough bouldering rout is like no other feeling. The lounge area is a great spot to relax with friends or grind out homework in between climbs, and the slack line and fitness areas offer their own array of new challenges.
The employees are some of the coolest, most helpful people I've met. They're always willing to chat, help with a route, or lend you some climbing chalk.
3. Wunderland
Wunderland is easily one of the gems of Salem. The nickel arcade is a cheap way to spend a few hours with your friends. Packed to the brim with classic arcade games, Wunderland is going to make you feel like a kid again while entertaining your competitive side. Of course, turning your tickets in for prizes isn't bad either.
My one tip with Wunderland is to try to go around 9 or 10 PM. Any earlier and you risk being swarmed by ankle biting children at their friends' 12th birthday party.
For a 21+ alternative, check out The Coin Jam.
4. Capitol City Theater
Captiol City Theater has to be the most underrated spot on this entire list.
A hole-in-the-wall theater in downtown Salem, CCT offers stand-up and improv. comedy 2-3 times a week. Their brand of intelligent, clean, and witty humor will have you bursting out in laughter.
The Capitol City Theater doesn't seat a large crowd, which will make you feel like a VIP since there isn't a bad seat in the house. However, make sure to book your tickets in advance to ensure you get a spot.
5. Oregon School Of Massage
Who doesn't love a good massage? Sadly, if you're like me, the hefty price for a professional massage makes this relaxing experience a pipe dream. Your solution can be found at the Oregon School of Massage.
For $35, you get your choice of a 1 hour Swedish massage or 75 minutes of a Shiatsu massage by a student at the school. If the idea of a masseuse-in-training kneading your muscles is scary, don't worry: their instructors are there the entire time to monitor the session.
Plus, for $35, I think it's worth it.
6. Salem Indoor
The beautiful game is alive and well in Salem, Oregon. But, if running around a 100 yard field for 90 minutes doesn't sound appealing to you, check out the two indoor soccer complexes in Salem, Shootout Soccer, and Oregon Indoor. Both locations offer league play and one-day tournaments, all you have to do is get your friends together and sign up.
My suggestion is to join a co-ed tournament. Co-ed games tend to be a little more laid-back, whereas men's league games can get physical from time to time.
