Melinda & Daniel
Things To Do
Close by: Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum
Go see the "Spruce Goose" and more than fifty other military and civilian aircraft, drones, and spacecraft, or catch a movie at the IMAX theater.
Close by: Wings & Waves Waterpark
Massive indoor water park & wave pool. With a hot tub, wading pool, circular pool, slides of every height, length, and thrill, and play areas.
Melinda's Hometown Pick: Salem Riverfront Carousel
Every element of the Carousel's animals, fixtures and decorations are handcrafted and uniquely designed to represent either the sponsors who funded that portion of the carousel, or to tell stories of the local and historical environment here in Salem, Oregon. Located in Salem's beautiful Riverfront Park, this was one of Melinda's favorite places to go as a little girl.
Daniel's Hometown Pick: Minto-Brown Island Park
Running along the Willamette River and connecting to downtown Salem and the River Front Park this natural oasis has wooded and open areas. The winding paved pathways of this park are where both Daniel and Melinda spent much of their childhoods, riding bikes, walking, running, and picking blackberries.
Melinda's Hidden Gem of Oregon: Opal Creek Trail
UPDATE THIS TRAIL IS CLOSED DUE TO 2020 WILDFIRE DAMAGE This trail features a waterfall and there are several little trail junctions that veer off the main trail which lead to swimming holes. Melinda has spent many summers jumping in and out of this part of the North Santiam River with its beautiful turquoise-colored pools, the result of mining activities a century ago. Hike Type: Out and back Distance: 6.9 miles Elevation gain: 652 feet Difficulty: Moderate Seasons: Best May - October Family Friendly: Yes Dogs Allowed: On Leash
Daniel's Hidden Gem of Oregon: Bob's Beach Books
Head out to the Oregon Coast and stop by this family-owned, independent bookstore. Explore the winding aisles and hidden rooms full of great reads for your day at the beach. A Frizzell family favorite.
Don't Miss: Silver Falls State Park
Located near Silverton, about 20 miles east-southeast of Salem. This state park includes more than 24 miles of walking trails. A favorite hiking spot for Melinda and Daniel, each trail features lush forest and truly spectacular plunging or cascading falls. Recommended Trail: Trail of Ten Falls - Walk around and BEHIND the 177-foot curtain of water from the South Falls. Hike Type: Loop Distance: 7.2 miles, although there are many branches to make this trail shorter or longer. Elevation gain: 800 feet Difficulty: Moderate Seasons: Year Round Family Friendly: Yes Dogs Allowed: On Leash
Salem Staple: The Governor's Cup Coffee Roasters
This cute coffee shop and roastery is tucked into a corner of downtown Salem. Owned and operated by Alyssa and her husband Evan Delgado, this shop was Melinda's first job right out of high school and continues to be an enclave for coffee snobs and live music enthusiasts.
Melinda's PDX Foodie Pick: Fire on the Mountain
Best Vegan faken-wings ever!!! Soooo Portland, this deadhead-themed eatery offers free-range chicken wings, beers, burgers & deep-fried desserts. Locations Burnside, Freemont, and Interstate
Daniel's PDX Foodie Pick: Gravy
Classic American breakfasts & hearty comfort-food lunches served up in standard too-large American portions. Daniel's go-to: Sausage gravy + add an egg on top. Melinda's go-to: Veggie gravy + add an egg on top