11 Things to Do in Salem, MA this Spring

Spring has come to Salem. This means it’s time to take in the beauty of the city and explore what it has to offer. Salem might be famous for its Witch Trials, but there’s so much more to see and experience. Attractions that were closed for the winter are opening again, flowers are blooming, and the weather is warming up. It’s time to get out of the house and enjoy what Salem has to offer.

Beautiful Grounds and Gardens

House of Seven Gables

With the weather warming up and nature coming back to life, it’s the perfect time to enjoy some of the outdoor activities and tours of Salem. Purchase a grounds pass for the House of Seven Gables and get access to a 30-minute audio tour of the historic grounds. 

Peabody Essex Museum Garden

If you’re looking for a serene nature experience, the Peabody Essex Museum features a beautiful courtyard garden featuring nearly 300 varieties of shrubs, 60 trees, and 37 species of flowers.

The Ropes Mansion

The Ropes Mansion is one of New England’s most significant and thoroughly documented historic houses. However, the biggest draw in the spring has to be its dazzling garden. The original landscape’s design, which continues to be maintained according to the original notes, was created in the Colonial Revival style by John Robinson in 1912. It calls for nearly 5,000 flowers to be planted each year.

Maritime History

Meanwhile, the Salem Maritime National Historic Site is a fantastic place to visit in the spring. You can step aboard the Friendship of Salem – a replica 1797 tall ship – or take a stroll through the beautiful colonial revival garden which features 150 varieties of heirloom plants. Or you can simply breathe in the ocean air as you walk along Derby Wharf and visit the Derby Light Station.

Take a Trolley Tour

If you’d like to get fresh air but would rather rest your legs, take a ride on the Salem Trolley. You’ll receive a narrated one-hour trolley tour through Salem’s beautiful and historic neighborhoods.

Witch Trials and Museums

Spring showers shouldn’t prevent you from exploring all Salem has to offer. If you want to stay dry, consider a tour of the Witch House, where you can learn about colonial life through guided and self-guided tours. The Witch History Museum opens for the season in April and tells the stories of 1692 through historically accurate live presentations and tours through 15 life-sized dioramas. Another attraction that re-opens in April is the Witch Dungeon Museum where you can see the award-winning reenactment of the Trial of Sarah Good and get a guided tour through the dungeon exhibits.

Something Sweet for Spring Gifts

Spring is the time for sweets. Easter candy in particular. That’s why you should hit Harbor Sweets for all of your Easter basket needs, from milk chocolate bunnies to peanut butter-filled dark chocolate eggs. It’s also a fantastic place to pick up a gift box of assorted chocolates to give Mom for Mother’s Day. She deserves nothing less than the best gourmet goodies.

Seasoned and Seasonal Seafood

If you don’t have a sweet tooth, lucky for you, Salem is a restaurant hub, and many places are opening up their outdoor seating as the weather warms up. Sea Level Oyster Bar offers a raw oyster bar where local oysters are shucked to order. Meanwhile, Finz Seafood & Grill provides beautiful patio seating with a view of the waterfront along with creatively prepared seasonal seafood. You’ll enjoy the fresh taste of spring while enjoying warm weather and sea breezes.

There’s no shortage of fun things to do this spring when you’re visiting Salem, Massachusetts. It’s a city filled with history, food, beauty, and excitement. Visit today and start your next adventure!