Salem brings together a museum in the Williams-Brown House, named trails, a historic Main Street, and a farmers market downtown. This gives you several ways to plan your trip: history, outdoor activity, local vendors, or sports and entertainment. Consider which of these you want to prioritize for your trip rather than treating all the offerings as a set itinerary.

Museum and local history

The Salem Museum has been housed in the Williams-Brown House since 1992. The house was built in 1845. In 2010, a modern, environmentally conscious addition expanded the site. The two phases of construction bring together a 19th-century house and a later addition. A new gallery presents sixteen significant events dating back to 1671 that shaped Salem and the Roanoke Valley. Those interested in local and regional history can consider the building’s history and the history of events as two distinct topics. The gallery’s content may continue to evolve.

Named trails in Salem

Salem is home to the Mason Creek Greenway and the Hanging Rock Battlefield Trail. In addition, the section of the Roanoke River Greenway around the Moyer Sports Complex is called the David Smith Trail. When navigating, it helps to distinguish between the different names: David Smith Trail refers to a specific section of the Roanoke River Greenway, while Mason Creek Greenway and Hanging Rock Battlefield Trail are separate named trails. If you include trails in your plans, you can search for each one by its specific name.

Main Street and the farmers market

Historic Main Street has antique shops, restaurants, breweries, and historic landmarks, all within a short walk of one another. This part of Salem brings dining options together with historic points of interest. Businesses and offerings may change, so it’s worth checking what’s available before your visit.

The Salem Farmers Market is downtown, at the corner of Broad Street and Main Street. The City of Salem established it in 1992. Vendors selling produce and local artisans are there each week; the mix of vendors may change. During the summer months, the market is also used several times as a concert venue. The program may vary from year to year. If you plan to attend a concert, check the dates for the relevant year.

Golf course and Salem Fair

Another option with clearly defined figures is the Salem Municipal Golf Course. It was established in 1919 on a 46-acre site a few blocks from downtown. The course has nine holes, a par of 34, and measures 2,400 yards. These details give you concrete points of reference when deciding whether a 9-hole course suits your trip.

The Salem Fair offers something different: classic fair food, thrilling rides, and entertainment. Offerings vary each year. If the fair is a reason for your trip, check the dates and program for that year. Salem therefore offers a range of possible trip highlights—from a museum visit to trails and downtown attractions, as well as golf or the fair.

For the broader travel overview: Salem.