THE SALEM AREA COMES ALIVE AFTER FIVE

Forget about staying in, Salem and the surrounding area have a thriving nightlife scene. Whether you want to belly up to a saloon-style bar for a hand-pressed bacon burger and flight of whiskey, catch a live jazz or comedy show, high-score on Star Wars pinball, or try a friendly game of axe-throwing with your pals — these buzzy nightspots keep the good times rolling after the sun goes down.

The spacious Fireside Lounge in Silverton is excellent for groups and offers live music almost every night of the week, plus a brow-raising lineup of Oregon wines and a toasty fire.