Visitors often ask, “How is it that a city of 25,000 people has so much to offer?” Well, to find the answer to that question you only need to spend a short time in Downtown Salem, at our historic Farmers Market or at one of the city’s many sporting events. What you will find at all of these places is an amazing amount of community pride. Nestled between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, Salem offers its residents and visitors just the right mix of modern facilities and natural beauty. Founded in 1802, Salem achieved city status in 1968 and to this day owns and operates its own electric, water and sewer departments. Salem also possesses some of the most versatile entertainment and sports facilities in Virginia. Located on 65 acres of land, the James E. Taliaferro Complex is home to the Salem Civic Center, Salem Football Stadium and Salem Memorial Ballpark. The city also has a four-diamond softball facility that was voted the nation’s best by the American Softball Association. These venues have helped elevate Salem’s national profile to new heights. The city has played host to more 90 NCAA national championships since 1993 crowning champions in six different sports. That commitment has earned Salem the title of “Virginia’s Championship City.” Many of the fans and players, who have participated in those championship events, have later returned to vacation in Salem and experience Virginia’s largest free gate fair, the Boston Red Sox Advanced Class A baseball team, the city’s ever-expanding network of scenic Greenway trails, its community Dog Park or the Salem Museum. So, whether you’re making your home here, establishing a business or simply enjoying a meal on Main Street - we trust that you’ll find Salem city to be the perfect mix of small town values and big city ambition.