Willamette University
- Local Atmosphere

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Despite the complaints of many students, Salem is an interesting town with a fair amount of activities to do. Once students escape the myth of the great "Willamette Bubble," they are able to experience Salem. Just a few blocks from campus, Historic Downtown Salem is full of cute little shops and coffeehouses. Several of the coffeehouses host free events ranging from open mic nights to Latin dance lessons. The Riverfront Carousel, located five blocks from campus, is very fun to ride, and the Willamette Events Board (WEB) rents it out for students every semester. If you are looking for great nightlife, you will be disappointed in Salem. Salem has decent bars, but they close early, and Salem lacks any quality nightclubs.

The beauty of Salem is that it's only an hour from the coast, about an hour from the two big mountains in Oregon for those who like to ski and snowboard, and only 30 minutes from Silver Falls, which is a popular hiking place. Salem is surrounded by natural beauty and state parks. No need to worry about transportation, as student clubs regularly provide low-cost and/or free trips to these locations. Salem is also only 20 minutes away from the Woodburn Company Stores, which are cheaper than outlet stores in other states because Oregon has no sales tax.

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Local Atmosphere at Willamette University

indyswimmer

Anthropology and Archaeology '15

3.1

B-

Safe and Welcoming

Salem isn't the most exciting town in the world. There is a movie theater nearby, within walking distance, as well as a stage theater, though these shows may be pricy. The mall is also within walking distance, and there are *plenty* of coffee shops, both chain and local. Just across the street is a mill museum, and there are a few parks with historical houses. It's a pretty safe city, and most people are welcoming to students.

Jan 19, 2012

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Local Atmosphere at Willamette University

BRICH

Political Science and Government '15

3.5

B

Big City Small Town Feel

Salem is actually much better than I had anticipated it being. There is a lot to do with many services that are provided. The mall is walking distance and has a lot of shops provided. Also, there is no sales tax which is incredibly wonderful.

Jan 19, 2012

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Local Atmosphere at Willamette University

RGM1115

Chemistry '15

2.3

C

Not Much Around

Salem is a nice size and has some stuff to do, but you'll run out of things to do in the city quick. It's close to the campus and most stuff is in walking distance. Some cool old shops and Willamette river is about a 10 minute walk.

Jan 18, 2012

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