Welcome to Salem

State Capitol State Park

A lesser-known state park, the grounds of the Oregon State Capitol offer a beautifully landscaped respite in the heart of Salem.

Oregon State Capitol in late summer

Yes, the Capitol Grounds Are a State Park!

State parks centennial banner

When we think of Oregon’s state park system, most of us will envision places of stunning natural scenery, miles of hiking trails, and landscapes that sweep toward the horizon. And while we’re blessed with an abundance of such locations, Oregon State Parks include more than the iconic waterfalls, beaches and deserts that make Oregon special. One of our lesser-known state parks actually comprises the grounds of our state capitol building in Salem: State Capitol State Park.

So Much to See

State parks plaque in pavement

While much smaller and more manicured than many of its “wilder” siblings, State Capitol State Park offers a place of tranquility and beauty just as a state park should. It includes the Capitol Mall that lies in front of the capitol building itself, with cherry-lined walkways flanking either side. Willson Park, to the side of the capitol building, is also included in State Capitol State Park. Toured together, Willson Park and the Mall offer views of statuary and memorials, fountains, hundreds of native trees, and even columns salvaged from the previous Oregon State Capitol Building (which burned to the ground in 1935).

As Oregon State Parks celebrates its centennial year, we are pleased to continue to help support them with Oregon Lottery proceeds. When you play lottery games, your dollars help support all of the unique parks in our state park system!

Oregon State Capitol grounds in spring

Our Capitol Buidling

Completed in 1938, the present Oregon State Capitol Building is actually our third. Both earlier versions were lost to fire. The white marble building features a flat-topped dome, thought to be almost too modern at the time. It provides the perfect pedestal, however, for the bronze statue on top. Formally known as “Oregon Pioneer,” the statue is better known locally as the Gold Man because of his dazzling, gold-leaf finish.

When you come to Salem, consider touring the State Capitol. The tower tour will take you to the observation deck where you can fully appreciate the massive scale our 23-foot-tall Oregon Pioneer.

Tour Information

Japanese Connections

It’s not just the historic Cherry Fair that’s been consigned to the past. Today, even many of the orchards in the Salem vicinity are gone, having given way to vineyards and wineries. But that doesn’t mean Salem has fully ceded the title of “Cherry City.” Today’s celebrations, however, are less about agriculture and more about the city’s ties with Japan, another culture that celebrates the significance of its cherry trees. These ties include Salem’s Japanese sister city Kawagoe and, at home, the Tokyo International University (hosted at Salem’s Willamette University). The cherry trees endure on the Oregon State Capitol grounds, tying Salem’s local history to a more international and inclusive future.

LOTTERY DOLLARS DOING GOOD THINGS IN YOUR COMMUNITY