Salem is a lively city with a proud sporting legacy. It’s known as the “Championship City” and hosts year-round baseball, basketball and football competitions. Students at Roanoke College keep the downtown district upbeat and youthful. Salem is a gateway to Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, where you can discover iconic American landscapes.
Things to do in Salem
Stroll around the historic downtown district and admire beautifully restored buildings. Many of the buildings house charming cafes, boutiques and antique shops. Shop for local produce at the Salem Farmers Market and sip small-batch ale at the craft brewery.
Salem Museum occupies a handsome 19th-century brick house and charts the unique history and heritage of the city. Exhibits spotlight everything from local artists and authors to sporting legends. You’ll also see exhibits on Native American culture and the role Salem played in the Civil War.
Salem is a launchpad to the legendary Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Drive along the breathtakingly scenic Blue Ridge Parkway and hike sections of the famous Appalachian Trail. Boutique wineries dot the Roanoke Valley and pour full-bodied reds and fruit-forward whites.
Attend a game at the Salem Memorial Ballpark and experience the city’s sporting talent firsthand. The field is home to the celebrated Salem Red Sox, an affiliate of the major league Boston Red Sox. Fill up on ballpark classics like hot dogs, pretzels and beer. Cheer on local football teams at Salem Stadium and head to the college campus to watch the Salem Tigers shoot hoops.
Getting around Salem
Downtown Salem is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The city is a 15-minute drive from Roanoke, three hours from Richmond and four hours from Washington, D.C. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Salem and explore the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia at your own pace. Richmond International Airport is a three-hour drive away.