Salem, Massachusetts is one of my very favorite places in the entire state. Upon moving to New England, it was one of my most anticipated places to see and now I’ve been back several times. It just never gets old! Salem is located 16 miles north of Boston, surrounded by the neighboring towns of Beverly, Danvers, Lynn, Marblehead, Peabody, and Swampscott. It’s known as the ultimate Halloween destination in the country as well as “The Witch City” and for good reason.
Aside from the famous Salem Witch Trials, you’ll learn about the rich maritime history, all the historic sites, beautiful architecture, arts and culture scene and amazing restaurants and bars in the area. I’m a huge advocate for visiting Salem, so I created this guide to make sure you get the absolute most out of your trip.
Ultimate Salem Travel Guide
Salem, Ma History
Salem was founded in 1626 by Robert Conant, whose statue still remains right in the downtown area. The word Salem is derived from the Hebrew word for peace, although the history of this town is far from peaceful.
This quirky yet mysterious place has a strong history tying back to the 1693 Witch Trials where over 200 people were accused of being involved with witchcraft. While many were accused, 20 people were executed. Because of the lack of technology and understanding of physical illness and mental health issues, doctors made alternative diagnoses. They insisted that the only explanation is that these girls were possessed by the devil, therefore being classified as witches performing witchcraft. It was only a year later, after the hangings, that the witch trials were deemed as unlawful. A very tragic and unfortunate period of time. It’s no doubt that hundreds of thousands continue to visit Salem to pay their respects and learn about these bizarre circumstances.
The town is now a travel-hub for those seeking a truly unique experience, spooky ghost tours, fascinating history and an overall fun time. Salem has plenty to offer for everyone.
How To Get To Salem Ma
Plane
The closest airport to Salem is Boston Logan Airport and it’s about an hour away. The best time to fly in is the afternoon to beat rush hour traffic in the morning and the evenings! I suggest taking an Uber or renting a car if you plan to see more places other than Salem. Marblehead is another stunning town next to Salem that you’ll want to see! It will be helpful to have a car to see the north shore.
Car
Heading to Salem in a car is a good idea, depending on where you’re coming from. But it’s important to consider the time of year you visit. Salem traffic is pretty awful late September to Early November since many people plan to visit during Halloween season. It would be wise to plan parking ahead of time so you can make a game plan for where you want to be during the day. Getting there as early as possible is best.
Flexcar is an awesome option for renting because you can use it for as little or as long as you’d like and can schedule your pickup for an exact day and time. It’s a no-commitment option, it’s super convenient and affordable. And they have a few locations in the Boston area! Use my code JL100 for 100 free miles!
You can check out this helpful parking guide for guidance.
Train
If you’re looking to skip the car altogether to avoid traffic, you can take the Commuter Rail from North Station in Boston on the Newburyport/Rockport line. It’s definitely a quick and efficient way to get to Salem!
Ferry
Another fun alternative to driving is taking the high-speed ferry from Long Wharf, Boston to Salem, getting you there in about 50 minutes. The ferry offers a relaxing atmosphere, snacks and drinks and amazing views of the Boston skyline and waterfront. Highly recommended for convenience and an authentic experience!
Best Things To Do In Salem Massachusetts
Chestnut Street
Titled “the most beautiful street in Salem,” you’ll want to stop by to see all of it’s magic and beauty, especially if you’re visiting during the fall. Nestled amidst historic neighborhoods, Chestnut Street stands as a living testament to the city’s architectural legacy. Take a stroll through this tree-lined avenue adorned with impeccably preserved Federal and Georgian-style mansions. It’s truly a quintessential gem in the heart of historic Salem.
The Bewitched Statue is a prominent landmark commemorating the famous 1960s television show “Bewitched,” which was set in the fictional town of Westbridge but had strong ties to Salem. The statue features the character Samantha Stephens, played by actress Elizabeth Montgomery, who was a good-natured witch married to a mortal.
It’s located in Lappin Park on Essex Street in downtown Salem and was unveiled on June 15, 2005, as a tribute to the enduring popularity of the television series and its association with Salem. The bronze statue depicts Samantha Stephens with a twinkle in her nose, a characteristic gesture associated with her magical abilities in the show. The statue captures the whimsical and enchanting essence of the beloved character.
The Bewitched Statue has become a popular tourist attraction in Salem, drawing fans of the show and visitors interested in exploring the city’s connections to witchcraft and the supernatural. “Bewitched” remains a classic television series, and the statue serves as a lighthearted homage to the show’s influence on popular culture and its ties to Salem’s historical and mystical reputation.
The Witch House
The Witch House, owned by Jonathan Corwin, one of the judges of the Salem witch trials, is the only standing building in Salem with direct ties to the witch trials. This architecture is referred to as “first period colonial architecture” which is any structure built between 1620-1720.
The house has undergone various renovations and restorations over the years, but efforts have been made to preserve its historical integrity. Visitors can experience the architecture and ambiance of the 17th century, today. The Witch House operates as a museum, offering guided tours and showcases a collection of period furniture, tools, and artifacts, providing visitors with a glimpse into daily life in colonial Salem.
This museum is one of my personal favorites. While the outside is intriguing and beautiful, the inside is where you really learn the full story and can see all the elements of the home. Tickets are not sold online, so when you get there you can head to the back of the house and purchase tickets there. You’ll be able to explore the entire house on your own.
The Witch House is located at 310 Essex Street in Salem, making it easily accessible to visitors exploring the city’s historic district.
Ropes Mansion
The Ropes Mansion, also known as Allison’s House in Hocus Pocus, is one of the most architecturally stunning houses in Salem and for obvious reasons. It was built in 1727 by Samuel Barnard, a wealthy merchant. It is a fine example of Georgian architecture and features a gambrel roof, large central chimney, and symmetrical facade. The mansion is best known for its association with the Ropes family. In 1768, Judge Nathaniel Ropes, a prominent figure in Salem, purchased the house. The Ropes family occupied the mansion for several generations.
Today, the Ropes Mansion is operated by the Peabody Essex Museum. Guided tours are available to the public, providing insight into the mansion’s history, architecture, and the lives of the families who called it home. With a gorgeous property, 5,000 flowers planted in the garden and a fascinating yet dark story, it will make for one of the most interesting stops in Salem. The exterior is spooky, but the story behind the history of the home is even spookier. This is where a self-guided or group tour will come in handy!
House of the 7 Gables
Made famous by the American author Nathanial Hawthorne who wrote the novel “The House of the 7 Gables” inspired by this beloved 1600s historical home. It was built in 1668 by Captain John Turner, a successful merchant. The mansion is a well-known example of Colonial New England architecture, featuring a combination of gables and chimneys. The house originally had only two gables, but during the 18th century, three more were added. While it doesn’t actually have seven gables, the name has become synonymous with the historic mansion.
Today, the House of the Seven Gables is a museum open to the public. Visitors can explore the historic house, its gardens, and neighboring structures, such as the Nathaniel Hawthorne Birthplace. The mansion is celebrated for its well-preserved gabled architecture, with narrow, steep-roofed projections giving the house a distinctive and memorable appearance.
The House of the Seven Gables is located at 115 Derby Street in Salem, situated along the scenic waterfront and close to other historic sites. You can purchase your tickets to visit here. It’s a stunning property with several places to explore, with a waterfront view.
Salem Common
Salem Common is one of the oldest public parks in the United States, established in 1667 as a common pasture for livestock. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a central green space for various civic and recreational activities. The Common has played a significant role in Salem’s history, serving as a training ground for the town militia during the 17th and 18th centuries. It was also the site of public punishments, including witch trial-related events.
Salem Common is also home to the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, dedicated in 1992. The memorial honors the memory of those who were wrongly accused and executed during the witch trials of 1692
The park covers about nine acres and is characterized by a large open field surrounded by pathways, historic trees, and various monuments. The layout has changed over the years, adapting to the evolving needs of the community. Today, Salem Common is a popular spot for both residents and visitors. It features playgrounds, sports fields, and walking paths, making it a hub for recreational activities and community events.Salem Common is centrally located in downtown Salem, making it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike. It is bordered by Washington Square, Essex Street, North Street, and Summer Street.
Pioneer Village
Pioneer Village is considered America’s first living history museum and was established in 1930 as part of the city’s tercentenary celebrations. It was created to showcase and interpret the daily life of the early English colonists in the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
I like how interactive and in-control you are of your experience here. You can walk the grounds and go inside the houses to get a feel for the era. Tickets are $5 at the entrance and you can stay as long as you’d like!
Pioneer Village is located at 98 West Avenue, Salem, Massachusetts, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the challenges and triumphs of the early settlers.
Old Burying Point Cemetery
Old Burying Point Cemetery, located in Salem, Massachusetts, is one of the oldest cemeteries in the United States and holds historical significance, dating back to 1637. The cemetery contains the graves of many notable individuals from Salem’s early history, including Mayflower passengers, military figures, and prominent residents from the colonial and Revolutionary War eras. It’s also the final resting place of several notable figures, including Judge John Hathorne, a key figure in the Salem Witch Trials; Jonathan Corwin, a judge during the witch trials; and Mary Corey, the wife of Giles Corey, who was pressed to death during the trials.
Old Burying Point features a wide variety of gravestones, ranging from simple fieldstone markers to elaborate slate and sandstone monuments. The styles of the gravestones reflect the changing trends in funerary art over the centuries. Due to its proximity to the events of the Salem Witch Trials in 1692, Old Burying Point has a connection to that dark period in history. The cemetery is often visited by those interested in the historical context of the trials. The cemetery has undergone restoration and preservation efforts to maintain its historical integrity. Efforts have been made to repair and preserve the older gravestones and monuments.
Old Burying Point is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its historic grounds and pay respects to those interred there. The cemetery is also a popular stop for history enthusiasts, genealogists, and tourists interested in Salem’s past. It’s located at 51 Charter Street in Salem, making it easily accessible for those exploring the city’s historic district.
Max & Dani’s House from Hocus Pocus
An iconic and must-see house in Salem located at 4 Ocean Avenue. The famous home of Max and Dani from Hocus Pocus with that classic watch tower that every kid wanted for themselves. Something to keep in mind is that the streets surrounding this house are blocked off to tourists in October, so unless you’re a resident, you need to park a few blocks over and walk. It’s one of the most beautiful neighborhoods to walk through in the fall, so you’ll find it quite enjoyable.
Old Town Hall
Old Town Hall was built in 1816-1817 and was designed by Charles Bulfinch, a prominent architect who also worked on the Massachusetts State House in Boston. It features a red-brick facade with white trim, a clock tower, and a cupola. The design is elegant and symmetrical, characteristic of the Federalist style popular in the early 19th century.
The building reflects Federalist architecture and is an excellent example of Bulfinch’s work.The building served as Salem’s municipal headquarters for over a century and housed various city offices, including the mayor’s office, council chambers, and the police department.
In 1991, the city of Salem transformed Old Town Hall into a cultural center. Today, it is known as the “Old Town Hall Cultural Center” and serves as a venue for various events, including concerts, performances, art exhibitions, and community gatherings.
Old Town Hall is situated at 32 Derby Square in the heart of Salem, making it a central and easily accessible location for residents and visitors alike.
It’s also the filming location where Max and Dani from Hocus Pocus ran up the steps of the Hall at the Halloween party to warn their parents about the Sanderson Sisters. Although the actual filming of “I Put a Spell on You” was filmed on a stage elsewhere, several shots were also filmed here.
History and Hauntings of Salem Tour
One of the highest rated tours in Salem is none other than The History and Hauntings of Salem Tour. This tour taught me most of what I know about Salem history. The tour takes you to all the best spots and shares the most interesting stories and ghost sitings.
Salem Maritime National Historic Site
Salem Maritime National Historic Site was designated in 1938, making it the first National Historic Site in the United States. The site was established to interpret and preserve the maritime history of Salem. The historic site encompasses about nine acres and includes a series of historic structures and wharves located along the Salem waterfront. The visitor center is located in the historic Custom House, which itself has significant maritime history.
The site features preserved 18th and 19th-century wharves, including Derby Wharf, which extends into Salem Harbor. These wharves were once bustling with maritime activity, including the export of goods such as spices, tea, and silks. The Derby House, located near Derby Wharf, is a historic home associated with Elias Hasket Derby, a prominent Salem merchant. It is one of the oldest brick homes in Salem.
The tall ship “Friendship of Salem” is a full-scale replica of a 1797 East Indiaman, and it is docked at Derby Wharf. Visitors can explore the ship to learn about Salem’s maritime trade and the life of sailors during that era.
Salem Maritime National Historic Site is located in downtown Salem, Massachusetts, and is easily accessible for visitors exploring the city’s historic district.
What to Wear in Salem
Plan your wardrobe for the ever-changing weather in Salem, ensuring you’re perfectly styled for every season’s unique atmosphere and activities. Salem is a pretty casual town, so I typically wear something chic and comfortable. Outfits I recommend include Flannels, button ups, t-shits, cardigans, sweaters, jeans and boots. You can shop my Salem styles and all my other looks here!
Shop My Salem Looks
Best Places To Eat In Salem Massachusetts
Indulge your senses in the culinary enchantment of Salem, Massachusetts, a thriving foodie haven waiting to be discovered. From historic eateries serving up traditional New England fare to trendy, eclectic restaurants with diverse global influences, Salem’s dining scene is a feast for every palate. There’s a ton of culinary hotspots, hidden gems, and must-try dishes, ensuring you savor every moment in this delectable city.
Below you’ll find a list of my favorite restaurants in Salem with links included to check them out. Salem is an awesome town for foodies!
Gulu-Gulu Cafe
Immerse yourself in the eclectic vibe of Salem at Gulu-Gulu Cafe. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, artisanal coffee, and delectable pastries, this cafe is a local favorite. Experience the perfect blend of creativity and comfort in a setting that reflects Salem’s unique spirit.
It’s Located at 247 Essex Street, Gulu-Gulu Cafe offers a diverse menu featuring coffee drinks, craft beers, savory bites, and live entertainment. The cafe provides a cozy atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Step into a timeless culinary experience at Red’s Sandwich Shop, a Salem institution since 1957. Delight in classic American breakfast and lunch staples served with a side of nostalgia. A cherished eatery where generations gather to savor the simple joy of a well-crafted sandwich.
Situated at 15 Central Street, Red’s Sandwich Shop is renowned for its hearty breakfast options, delicious sandwiches, and friendly ambiance. The vintage diner-style setting adds to the charm of this beloved establishment.
The Derby Restaurant & Bar
The Derby Restaurant & Bar is a hip, industrial-style bistro serving snacks & mains, plus brunch & cereal-based cocktails. I absolutely love the experience I have every time I come here and the food is so delicious! They have themed events and brunches, including their annual Harry Potter brunch that I attended in February.
Embark on a flavor-packed journey at Howling Wolf Taqueria, where Mexican street food meets contemporary flair. Savor the vibrant colors and bold tastes of Salem’s favorite taqueria, offering a diverse menu of tacos, burritos, and handcrafted margaritas.
Located at 76 Lafayette Street, Howling Wolf Taqueria is known for its creative approach to Mexican cuisine. The restaurant boasts a lively atmosphere, an extensive tequila selection, and a menu featuring tacos, burritos, and more.
Discover the flavors of the sea at Finz, Salem’s premier seafood destination. With a waterfront setting and a menu highlighting fresh, locally sourced seafood, Finz provides a culinary journey that captures the essence of coastal dining. Savor the best in seafood cuisine against the backdrop of scenic views. Located at 76 Wharf Street, Salem, MA, Finz is renowned for its seafood offerings and panoramic waterfront views. The restaurant’s commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients has made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Indulge in coastal charm at Sea Level Oyster Bar, where the finest oysters and seafood take center stage. Nestled along Pickering Wharf, this waterfront gem offers a relaxed atmosphere, craft cocktails, and a menu celebrating the bounty of the ocean. Immerse yourself in the flavors of the sea at Sea Level Oyster Bar.
Sea Level Oyster Bar is located at 94 Wharf Street, Salem, MA. With a focus on fresh seafood and a welcoming ambiance, the restaurant provides a casual yet refined dining experience with scenic views of Pickering Wharf.
Elevate your dining experience at The Roof, Salem’s rooftop oasis. Perched atop a historic building, The Roof offers panoramic views of the city skyline and a sophisticated menu featuring creative cocktails and delectable small plates. Enjoy a chic and memorable evening under the stars at The Roof. The Roof is situated at 281 Essex Street in Salem, MA. Known for its rooftop setting and upscale atmosphere, The Roof is a stylish destination for those seeking a unique and elevated dining experience in the heart of Salem.
Experience the craft beer renaissance at East Regiment Beer Company. Located in Salem, this brewery embraces tradition and innovation, offering a rotating selection of handcrafted beers in a welcoming, community-focused setting. Immerse yourself in the flavors of locally brewed excellence at East Regiment Beer Company.
East Regiment Beer Company is a craft brewery located at 30 Church Street, Salem, MA. With a focus on small-batch brewing and a communal atmosphere, it’s a go-to spot for beer enthusiasts seeking a taste of local craftsmanship.
All Souls Lounge
Unwind in the welcoming ambiance of All Souls Lounge, a chic and comfortable gathering place in Salem. Known for its craft cocktails, extensive spirits selection, and laid-back atmosphere, All Souls Lounge invites you to relax and savor expertly crafted libations in the heart of the city. All Souls Lounge is located at 29 Congress Street in Salem, MA. As a popular lounge spot, it offers a diverse selection of cocktails and spirits in a stylish setting, making it a favorite destination for those seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed environment.
Sweeten your Salem experience with a visit to Goodnight Fatty. This late-night dessert destination serves up indulgent, freshly baked cookies in a variety of tempting flavors. From classic favorites to inventive combinations, Goodnight Fatty is your go-to spot for satisfying sweet cravings after dark. Goodnight Fatty operates at various locations in Salem, MA, offering a rotating menu of freshly baked cookies in unique and delicious flavors. Known for its late-night hours, it provides a delightful treat for those seeking a sweet and comforting end to the evening.
Best Places To Stay In Salem Massachusetts
Salem Waterfront Hotel
Salem Waterfront Hotel is located at 225 Derby Street, Salem, MA. This boutique hotel boasts a prime waterfront location, providing guests with easy access to Salem’s historic attractions and vibrant waterfront. With well-appointed rooms, on-site dining at Regatta Pub, and versatile event spaces, the Salem Waterfront Hotel is a popular choice for both leisure and business travelers.
Hawthorne Hotel
The Hawthorne Hotel is centrally located at 18 Washington Square West, Salem, MA. Established in 1925, this historic hotel is an iconic presence in Salem, offering a range of well-appointed rooms and suites designed to provide guests with a comfortable and memorable stay.
The Coach House
Harbor Light Inn
Located in Marblehead, just a town over from Salem, Harbor Light Inn resides in the cutest downtown area surrounded by stunning colonial-style buildings. Giving you a charming New England experience, this 18th century architectural boutique bed and breakfast offers the most romantic and cozy atmosphere for your stay.
Upgrade Your Stay
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