The InstigatorGo Birding
Salem’s parks, wetlands, and natural areas are home to hundreds of bird species throughout the year and the Salem Audubon Society can help you learn all about them. The local nonprofit helps connect people with the natural world through birding field trips, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities throughout the region. The group offers field trips and maintains the Salem Audubon Nature Reserve, a seven-acre green space featuring walking trails, native plants, and habitats for birds, bees, butterflies, and other wildlife. Keep an eye out for the osprey nest overlooking the property, where a pair returns each year to raise their young. 480 Eola Drive NW. salemaudubon.org
Explore the Gardens
Step into the world of Elizabeth Lord and Edith Schryver during Open Gardens at Gaiety Hollow. The home, garden, and studio of the Northwest’s first all-female landscape architecture firm offers a glimpse into the lives and work of two women whose designs helped shape gardens throughout Oregon and beyond. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays (and on select Saturdays) through Sep. at 545 Mission St SE. lordschryver.org/gaiety-hollow/
Pick Some Lavender
Wander through rows of blooming lavender, gather your own bouquet, sip a lavender-infused drink, and enjoy the sights and scents of the season. Whether you’re filling a basket, browsing the gift shop, or simply wandering among the blooms, it’s a quintessential summer outing. Through the end of July at Arrowhead Lavender Farm, 6373 Sunnyview Rd NE. arrowheadlavender.com
