Where to Stay in Salem Oregon

Salem, Oregon is nestled in the heart of Willamette Valley amid picturesque views of lush greenery, orchards, flower fields and vineyards. This capital city has a historic downtown, museums, and plenty of access to nearby hiking.

Whether you’re visiting for practical reasons or for nearby day trips, this post will help you find great Salem accommodations and the best hotels in Salem, Oregon suited for your needs.

I’ve grown up in Salem and returned as an adult to establish a homebase nearby. I’ve written previously about the best places to hang out in Salem, some favorite walking routes, summer harvest spots, coffeeshops, and nearby day trips from Salem.

Now let’s get to finding you the perfect place to stay in Salem, Oregon.

* Get access to our Salem map here *

Where to Stay in Salem Oregon: Best Areas

While Salem may not be a typical travel destination, there are still many reasons to visit Salem.

If you’re visiting for a convention or conference, have business at the State capitol or Willamette University, then staying near downtown Salem will be most convenient. There’s a growing number of cute shops and restaurants downtown, with greenery to enjoy at Riverftont Park and Bush Pasture Park.

Commercial Street heading South; Lancaster Drive, which parallels Interstate 5; and a short section of Wallace Road in West Salem are where you’ll find the highest concentration of businesses, groceries, and strip malls.

While convenient for travelers driving North or South on I5, Lancaster is the least attractive, as it is primarily big box chains. I would avoid Lancaster unless you’re purely stopping overnight in transit.

Otherwise, you’ll mostly find residential areas surrounding these commercial streets. Neighborhoods can vary though it’s rare to find anywhere too sketchy. West Salem and some parts of South Salem tend to have the nicest neighborhoods.

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Best Hotels and Vacation Rentals in Salem Oregon

Top Downtown Salem Hotel

The Grand Hotel – Salem is an excellent accommodation right in the heart of downtown Salem close to lots of dining options. We chose to stay at The Grand during a post-wedding celebration. It’s the most central Salem hotel and probably also the classiest. This hotel is highly rated for its clean and spacious rooms, nice amenities, central location, and friendly staff.

Location: Downtown, next to Salem Convention Center. 9 min walk to Salem Riverfront Park, 12 min walk to Oregon State Capitol.

Cost: $$$

Lodging style: Hotel

Amenities/highlights:

Swimming pool
Breakfast included
Parking included
Onsite restaurant and bar
Free train station pick-up

Guests Say:

“The staff were fantastic. They were very cordial and responsive. By the end of my stay they were almost like friends. I would definitely stay there again.” | “The cleanliness of the room was superb, the comfort of the bed was top-notch. Will definitely return!” | “This is my favorite place to stay in Salem. It’s downtown and close to restaurants and bars.”

Downsides: Some traffic noise

Check rates and availability for The Grand Hotel – Salem >

Newest Downtown Salem Hotel

The Holman Riverfront Park Hotel is part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton. Newly constructed across the street from the Convention Center and a block away from Riverfront Park, it is conveniently located close to downtown shops and dining.

Now in competition with The Grand as the most central Salem hotel, it has received high reviews since opening. For most travelers, I’d say you can’t go wrong with either downtown Salem hotel.

Location: Downtown, across from Salem Convention Center. 4 min walk to Salem Riverfront Park, 13 min walk to Oregon State Capitol.

Cost: $$$

Lodging style: Hotel, King room with kitchenette available

Amenities/highlights:

Pet-friendly
Fitness center
EV charging
Onsite restaurant and bar

Guests Say:

“Staff was very friendly. Room itself was very nice, comfortable bed and clean. Location easy walking distance to park and downtown restaurants.”

Downsides: Some traffic noise, paid parking

Check rates and availability for The Holman Hotel >

Near Downtown home rental

6 guests · 2 bedrooms · 3 beds · 1 bath

This charming and modernized farmhouse is conveniently located minutes from downtown Salem and near numerous wineries and breweries. It is a beautiful property featuring full amenities where guests can enjoy a comfortable stay with complete privacy.

Location: Inner South Salem

Cost: $/$$

Lodging style: House rental

Amenities/highlights:

Well stocked kitchen
Helpful host in town
Washer & Dryer
Fire pit

Guests Say:

“It was beautifully furnished with a great kitchen and nice living area. Would definitely go back there and would recommend to family and friends.” | “The place was quiet. I highly recommend this as a place to stay for a small family visiting Salem.” | “Easy driving access to wherever you need to go.”

Downsides: Pets not allowed

Check rates and availability for Near Downtown home rental >

South Salem Hotel

Phoenix Inn Suites Salem is highly rated by guests for its clean rooms, comfortable beds, and friendly staff. It’s location is great for exploring top sights in Salem as well as nearby day trips. It’s a block from Trader Joe’s in case you need snacks!

*This property is temporarily closed for renovations in 2023

Location: Commercial St., South Salem

Cost: $$

Lodging style: Hotel

Amenities/highlights:

Free private parking
Pet friendly
Continental Breakfast
Swimming pool

Guests Say:

“The beds were so comfortable and the rooms were spacious. The staff was beyond friendly and very warm and welcoming.” | “My stay was comfortable in every way. I got a great night’s sleep and will stay again.” | “I loved staying here! It was really nice and cozy. Very clean and inviting as well. “

Downsides: Some facilities may be closed due to the pandemic

Check rates and availability for Phoenix Inn Suites Salem >

South Salem large group house rental

9 guests · 5 bedrooms · 7 beds · 3 baths

This Neo-Victorian Home features a well appointed kitchen, large bedrooms with comfortable beds, a fireplace, and lots of spaces for relaxation or work. Located in a peaceful neighborhood and just a few blocks away from numerous dining options, this property is a home away from home, perfect for large groups or family.

Location: Inner South Salem neighborhood

Cost: $$/$$$

Lodging style: House rental

Amenities/highlights:

Patio and nice lawn
Washer & Dryer
Foosball table
Short walk to restaurants

Guests Say:

“Such a beautiful, comfortable and fun home! The owner is quick to communicate and reliable. ” | “Delightful and very homey. Mathew the owner was very respectful of our privacy, but also very attentive to any questions we had.” | “Nice comfortable home close to downtown Salem. We will definitely return.”

Check rates and availability for Neo-Victorian Home rental >

West Salem rental

6 guests · 3 bedrooms · 4 beds · 2 baths

This cozy and inviting cottage style home is located in West Salem Hills near Willamette Valley wine country, just three miles from downtown Salem. This private property is in a quiet neighborhood, complete with all the necessities and close to shopping areas.

Location: West Salem Hills

Cost: $$

Lodging style: House rental

Amenities/highlights:

Well stocked with necessities
Washer & Dryer
Backyard in a quiet neighborhood

Guests Say:

“A cozy stay in Salem area, super comfortable and clean, and has everything you would need….” | “Owner has great communication and very responsive.” | ” A wonderful place with lots of space to hang out. So many interesting things to look at and enjoy.”

Downsides: Pets not allowed

Check rates and availability for West Salem home rental >

New riverside hotel in Independence, OR

The Independence Hotel features excellent facilities, sleek and modern furnishings, friendly staff, and great location. Though just outside of Salem, this is my favorite location of the hotels we’ve covered. Beautiful views of the park and river can be seen from the hotel’s rooftop patio. Delicious dining options and cute shops are a short walk away.

Location: Charming town of Independence, 12 miles from Salem.

Cost: $$/$$$

Lodging style: Hotel

Amenities/highlights:

Restaurant and bar on site
Fitness center
Hot tub
Park/River views

Guests Say:

“Excellent facility! Very nice staff. Rooms were great.” | “The staff is superb. The views, roof top balcony and hot tub are stellar.” | “It is a fun and swanky hotel in a quaint town. Everything is new, clean, and up-to-date.”

Check rates and availability for The Independence Hotel >

Keizer Hotel near Interstate 5

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Salem North is highly rated for its convenient location near Interstate 5, numerous stores, and awesome restaurants. This 3-star IHG hotel offers affordable accommodation with clean and modern rooms where guests can get a comfortable stay after a long day on the road.

Location: Near Interstate 5

Cost: $$/$$$

Lodging style: Hotel

Amenities/highlights:

Buffet breakfast
Fitness center
Free private parking

Guests Say:

“Great location, clean facility, fair price and friendly staff.” | “Location was perfect, easy off/on the freeway. Breakfast was very good.” | “Everything was very clean and very comfortable. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay and will stay here again!”

Downsides: Some road noise

Check rates and availability for Keizer Hotel >