Salem, Oregon‘s captivating capital, seamlessly blends rich history, charming architecture, and the vibrancy of a modern city. For younger travelers eager to delve into its tapestry of experiences, securing the right accommodation is crucial.
Yet, the age restrictions at many hotels can often dampen the excitement for those under 21.
Thankfully, a select group of Salem hotels recognizes the needs of the 18 to 20 age demographic, offering them a welcoming stay.
In this blog post, we’ll spotlight these accommodating establishments in Salem, ensuring that young explorers have a fitting base to discover all that this beautiful city presents.
Get ready to uncover the best spots in Salem where age is just a number!
Note: Please remember that hotel policies can change, so always confirm the minimum check-in age before finalizing your reservation.
Salem Hotels Check in Age 18
Navigating the hotel scene as an 18-year-old can sometimes feel like an uphill battle, especially when many places set age limits for check-in. But in Salem, there are welcoming doors aplenty!
We’ve curated a list of prime hotels in this vibrant city that greet young travelers with open arms. With several situated in the heart of all the action, you’re never far from the best attractions. Dive in as we detail essential information on location, top-tier amenities, and standout features for each recommended stay.
Your perfect Salem adventure awaits!
Note: You’ll need to present an I.D. and a credit card upon check-in.
1. Home2 Suites By Hilton Salem
Location:
- 2425 McGilchrist St SE, Salem, OR 97302
- Situated in a convenient part of Salem, close to the commercial and industrial districts.
- A short drive away from the Oregon State Capitol and other downtown attractions.
- Around 10 minutes’ drive from Salem Municipal Airport.
Amenities:
- Fitness center
- Indoor pool
- Business center
- Free breakfast
- Pet-friendly
- Laundry facilities
Pet Policy: Pets are allowed with a non-refundable fee.
Highly rated for:
- Value
- Cleanliness
Price: Nightly rates starting at $100-$150
Tripadvisor: 4.5 out of 5 stars
2. DoubleTree by Hilton North Salem
Location:
- 1590 Weston Ct NE, Salem, OR 97301
- Located in a quiet neighborhood, with easy access to downtown Salem and area businesses.
- Approximately 10 minutes’ drive from Oregon State Fair and Expo Center.
- Around 15 minutes’ drive from Salem Municipal Airport.
Amenities:
- Fitness center
- Indoor pool
- Business center
- Restaurant
- Bar
Pet Policy: Pets are allowed with a non-refundable fee.
Highly rated for:
- Service
- Comfort
Price: Nightly rates starting at $120-$170
Tripadvisor: 4 out of 5 stars
3. Hampton Inn and Suites Salem
Location:
- 510 Hawthorne Ave SE, Salem, OR 97301
- Centrally located in Salem, close to Oregon State Capitol and downtown attractions.
- Around 10 minutes’ drive from Oregon State Fair and Expo Center.
- Approximately 15 minutes’ drive from Salem Municipal Airport.
Amenities:
- Fitness center
- Indoor pool
- Business center
- Free breakfast
- Laundry facilities
Pet Policy: Pets not allowed
Highly rated for:
- Location
- Cleanliness
Price: Nightly rates starting at $110-$160
Tripadvisor: 4.5 out of 5 stars
4. Residence Inn Salem
Location:
- 640 Hawthorne Ave SE, Salem, OR 97301
- Centrally located with easy access to downtown Salem, government offices, and local colleges.
- Approximately 10 minutes’ drive from the Oregon State Fair and Expo Center.
- Around 15 minutes’ drive from Salem Municipal Airport.
Amenities:
- Fitness center
- Indoor pool
- Business center
- Free breakfast
- Pet-friendly
- Laundry facilities
Pet Policy: Pets are allowed with a non-refundable fee.
Highly rated for:
- Spacious rooms
- Comfort
Price: Nightly rates starting at $130-$180
Tripadvisor: 4 out of 5 stars
5. La Quinta by Wyndham Salem OR
Location:
- 890 Hawthorne Ave SE, Salem, OR 97301
- Well-situated with a short drive to downtown Salem, historic sites, and various dining options.
- Approximately 10 minutes’ drive from the Oregon State Fair and Expo Center.
- Around 15 minutes’ drive from Salem Municipal Airport.
Amenities:
- Fitness center
- Indoor pool
- Business center
- Free breakfast
- Pet-friendly
Pet Policy: Pets are allowed at no extra charge.
Highly rated for:
- Value
- Cleanliness
Price: Nightly rates starting at $90-$140
Tripadvisor: 4 out of 5 stars
6. Motel 6-Salem, OR – Expo Center
Location:
- 3195 Portland Rd NE, Salem, OR 97301
- Located near the Oregon State Fair and Expo Center, with easy access to Interstate 5.
- Around 10 minutes’ drive from downtown Salem.
- Approximately 20 minutes’ drive from Salem Municipal Airport.
Amenities:
- Free WiFi
- Free parking
- Pet-friendly
- Laundry facilities
Pet Policy: Pets are allowed at no extra charge.
Highly rated for:
- Budget-friendly
- Accessibility
Price: Nightly rates starting at $60-$100
Tripadvisor: 3 out of 5 stars
7. Motel 6-Salem, OR
Location:
1401 Hawthorne Ave NE, Salem, OR 97301
Located near popular local attractions including the Oregon State Capitol.
Approximately 10 minutes’ drive from the Oregon State Fair and Expo Center.
Around 20 minutes’ drive from Salem Municipal Airport.
Amenities:
- Free WiFi
- Free Parking
- Pet-friendly
- Laundry facilities
Pet Policy: Pets are allowed at no extra charge.
Highly rated for:
- Budget-friendly
- Accessibility
Price: Nightly rates starting at $60-$100
Tripadvisor: 3 out of 5 stars
Things for 18-Year-Olds to Do in Salem, Oregon
Salem, the capital city of Oregon, offers a variety of activities and attractions suitable for 18-year-olds. Whether you are interested in exploring the outdoors, delving into the city’s rich history, or enjoying some cultural experiences, Salem has something to offer.
- Explore Oregon State Capitol:
- Discover Oregon’s history by visiting the State Capitol. Climb up to the observation deck of the Capitol Tower for a panoramic view of the city.
- Salem’s Riverfront Carousel:
- Enjoy a nostalgic ride on the handcrafted carousel located at Riverfront Park, overlooking the scenic Willamette River.
- Visit The Oregon Garden:
- Wander through the beautiful landscapes of The Oregon Garden, which features themed gardens, water features, and a children’s garden.
- Outdoor Activities in Minto-Brown Island Park:
- Venture into the great outdoors at Minto-Brown Island Park. The park offers walking, biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities amidst lush greenery.
- Take a Ghost Tour:
- For those who enjoy a thrill, taking a guided ghost tour through Salem’s historic and haunted spots can be an eerie yet exciting experience.
- Enjoy Live Performances:
- Catch a live performance at the Elsinore Theatre or one of the local music venues in downtown Salem.
- Discover Local Art:
- Explore the Hallie Ford Museum of Art to see a range of art exhibits, from historic to contemporary.
- Shopping at Salem Saturday Market:
- Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Salem Saturday Market, where you can shop for fresh local produce, crafts, and enjoy live music.
- Educational Visit to Willamette Heritage Center:
- Delve into the area’s history at the Willamette Heritage Center, featuring 14 historic structures, and learn about the lives of early settlers.
- Attend a Local Event or Festival:
- Check out local event listings for festivals, fairs, and other community events that might be happening during your visit. Salem hosts a variety of events year-round that can provide a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.
Salem, with its mix of historical, cultural, and outdoor activities, ensures a fulfilling experience for 18-year-olds, making it a worthwhile destination to explore.
Alternatives to Hotels for 18-Year-Olds:
Navigating the world of accommodations as an 18-year-old can be challenging, especially with age restrictions at certain hotels. However, Birmingham offers a plethora of other welcoming options to make your stay comfortable and memorable. Here are some alternatives to traditional hotels:
Hostels: A popular choice among younger travelers, hostels are not only budget-friendly but also provide a social atmosphere. You’ll find shared dormitory-style rooms or sometimes private ones, and they often come with communal spaces to meet fellow travelers.
Vacation Rentals: Websites like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com feature a variety of properties, from apartments to entire homes, that can be rented directly from owners. These platforms allow for flexibility in terms of age requirements—just be sure to communicate with the host in advance.
Bed & Breakfasts: These intimate accommodations can offer a unique and local experience. While some may have age restrictions, many are independently owned and may provide more flexibility.
University Accommodations: Especially during off-peak times like summer vacations, some universities and colleges rent out their dorm rooms to travelers. Given the proximity to student-aged individuals, these accommodations might have more lenient age policies.
Camping & Glamping: If you’re more of the adventurous type, consider embracing the outdoors. Birmingham and its surrounding areas might have campsites or even “glamping” (glamorous camping) locations which can be a unique experience altogether.
Extended Stay Hotels: While they’re still technically hotels, extended stay options are designed for longer-term stays. They often come with kitchen facilities, making them a good choice for those wanting more of a home-like atmosphere. Plus, their policies might be more favorable for younger guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some hotels have a 21+ age requirement for check-in?
Various reasons include concerns about underage drinking, the potential for room damage, and some insurance policies.
Can I book a hotel room for someone else?
Yes, many hotels allow you to book a room for someone else, but it’s crucial to inform the hotel ahead of time, and the person checking in will typically still need to provide their I.D. and credit card.
What if I’m refused a room because of my age after booking?
Always double-check age policies before booking. If a mistake happens, most hotels will refund your money, but it’s essential to sort this out immediately upon check-in.
Are there any other requirements or fees I should be aware of when booking a hotel at 18?
Some hotels may require an additional deposit from younger guests. Always check with the hotel ahead of time and be prepared for potential extra charges.

Jerry Sloan
Hey, I'm Jerry Sloan, an impassioned globetrotter who has journeyed through countless cities and landscapes. Every hotel I stay in becomes a story, and through my detailed reviews, I strive to guide fellow travelers toward accommodations that resonate with comfort, culture, and the promise of unforgettable memories.