Widely known for the infamous Witch Trials, Salem is a spellbinding city with plenty of New England charm and culture. From the historic harbourside to the vibrant downtown, you can discover a treasure trove of post-medieval, Georgian and Victorian architecture.
Things to do in Salem
Uncover the haunted history of Salem on a witchcraft night walking tour. Wander the cobblestone streets after dark and visit the Old Burying Point Cemetery to learn the truth about the infamous events. If you’d like to delve deeper into the city’s past, visit the Salem Witch Museum to see fascinating narratives and exhibits depicting the Witch Trials.
Stimulate your senses with a visit to the Peabody Essex Museum, home to New England’s most extensive art collection. Discover an array of permanent and changing exhibits spanning modern art to photography and culture. Highlights include the bright and airy atrium and beautiful examples of Chinese vernacular architecture.
Interested in Salem’s rich maritime heritage? Discover the age of sailing at Salem Maritime National Historic Site, home to Pickering Wharf and the “Friendship of Salem”, a reconstructed tall shop from 1797. Wander along the historic harbour lined with red-brick colonial architecture and stop for a seafood feast at one of the many waterfront restaurants, such as Sea Level Oyster Bar.
Tour the House of the Seven Gables, a 17th-century mansion made famous by the American author Nathaniel Hawthorne. Wander through the Colonial Revival gardens and visit the birthplace of Nathaniel. For more family fun, spend a day riding roller coasters at Canobie Lake Park.
Getting around Salem
Salem is 40 kilometres north-east of Boston and 160 kilometres south of Portland, with buses, ferries and rental cars available for transport. Salem is a pedestrian-friendly town, with most sites within a 20-minute walk, although the hop-on-hop-off Salem Trolley is a great way to get around.