To the southwest of Salem, start your outing with lunch at Minto Island Growers—a beloved local farm stand offering organic produce, wood-fired pizzas and sandwiches, fresh-squeezed lemonade, a creative children’s play area, and u-pick flower garden. Right next door, Lively Station provides elevated dining with a standout cocktail menu and a blend of historic and modern design that’s perfect for relaxing indoors or on the cozy outdoor patio. In the City of Independence, experience the Willamette River Water Trail—an 187-mile paddling corridor connecting communities throughout the valley. Enjoy a family-friendly swimming area with complimentary day-use lifejackets, an expansive park, and a playground. For paddling enthusiasts, Oregon Kayak Tours offers kayak rentals and guided river tours. The area also features the popular Gilgamesh Brewing outpost, and the charming MI Trolley that loops through downtown Independence and toward Western Oregon University in Monmouth. Complete your visit with a peaceful walk through the nearby 2,796-acre Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge, known for its migrating waterfowl, serene wetlands, and accessible trails. Just minutes away, Ankeny Vineyard provides a picturesque spot to enjoy wine with a view.