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Salem, Massachusetts is a must-visit town in New England if you’re interested in its spooky past. It gained fame as the site of the 1692 Salem witch trials, a time when people went into panic and 25 individuals lost their lives. This place has become renowned for being both haunted and historic, making it one of the top destinations in the United States. Tourists are drawn to Salem for its captivating history, lively Halloween celebrations, and the chance to experience iconic moments from beloved movies and TV series like “Hocus Pocus” and “Bewitched.”
Salem is not only known for its spooky attractions like the Witch House and Old Burying Point Cemetery, but it also offers much more. This charming coastal town, located about 20 miles northeast of Boston, has a vibrant arts scene, picturesque parks, unique restaurants, and impressive Colonial architecture. Make sure to visit the Peabody Essex Museum and the House of the Seven Gables, and before you leave, take some time to explore the shops in Essex Street Pedestrian Mall. If you’re short on time, consider joining one of the excellent Salem tours. Led by local experts, these tours provide a detailed history lesson and cover the city’s top sights.
Salem is a great place to visit during different times of the year. The best time, however, is from September to November. During this period, you’ll get to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Witch City and enjoy the stunning fall foliage. Halloween is a particularly exciting time to be in Salem, with plenty of events and spooky decorations to immerse yourself in. If you prefer warmer weather, visiting in the summer is also a good option. With temperatures ranging from the 70s to 80s, you can explore outdoor attractions like Winter Island and Salem Willows Park. Winter brings colder temperatures, so be prepared with extra layers. On the bright side, this is when you can find good deals on airfare and hotels. If you want to avoid the crowds but still enjoy the reopening of tours and attractions, plan your visit between March and May.
Here are some of our recommended things to do while visiting Salem. Choose your favorite!
Right in the heart of downtown Salem is the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall, a charming and historic road made of brick and cobblestone. This bustling street is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, galleries, and museums. The best part? Vehicles …
Salem’s oldest maintained cemetery is called Old Burying Point Cemetery. It has been around since 1637 and is often visited during ghost tours in Salem. The cemetery is the final resting place of several well-known individuals from Salem’s history, …
In Salem, there is a big art museum called the Peabody Essex Museum. It has been around since 1799 and was recently renovated in 2019. This museum is the oldest continuously operating museum in the United States. You can see many different types of …
Salem Maritime National Historic Site is the oldest National Historic Site in the United States. It consists of 12 historic buildings located along Salem Harbor. The site was established in 1938 to protect and showcase the significance of one of …
If you have limited time in Salem or want to rest your feet, the Salem Trolley is a great option to discover this fascinating town. You can choose to stay on the trolley for the entire tour, which takes about an hour, or you can hop on and off as …
Salem Willows Park, covering 35 acres, is a well-liked spot during the summer months. This public park, situated at the tip of Salem Neck, includes three beaches for swimming, a spacious band shell for performances, basketball and tennis courts, …
If you’re a first-time visitor to Salem, the Salem Witch Museum is a must-visit. Established in 1972, this museum offers two types of presentations. The first one provides an immersive experience of the 1692 Salem witch trials. It includes …
When you’re in Salem, make sure to visit the Salem Witch Trials Memorial. This memorial was built to honor the victims who lost their lives during the witchcraft hysteria in 1692. It consists of three four-foot-high granite walls that enclose a …
In Salem, there’s a famous statue known as the Statue of Elizabeth Montgomery. It can be found in Lappin Park at the end of Essex Street Pedestrian Mall. This bronze statue is six feet tall and portrays Samantha Stephens, the character played by …
In 1668, Capt. John Turner I had this beautiful mansion built by the waterfront. It remained in the Turner family for three generations until it was sold to Capt. Samuel Ingersoll in 1782. When Capt. Ingersoll passed away, his daughter Susanna …
Salem, despite being situated along the Salem Harbor, is not famous for its beaches. But if you’re willing to explore beyond the usual, you’ll discover the picturesque Winter Island Park. This hidden treasure is located on a peninsula called Salem …
Although the name might confuse you, it’s important to note that this popular Salem attraction was never actually inhabited by witches. Despite that, it is definitely worth visiting. The Witch House, once the home of the infamous Judge Jonathan …