Top Things to Do in Salem, MA

Salem, Massachusetts, has fascinating attractions, a deep historical legacy, delicious seafood, and gorgeous views of the harbor. While the city is extremely popular to visit in October, you’ll find many exciting things to do in Salem in every season. If you’re interested in exploring Salem for one day or maybe even more, we can help you plan your trip. No matter what you like, you’ll find something to do in the witch city. 

Uncover Salem’s History with Museums & Attractions 

Salem is rooted in all kinds of history, from colonial and Early American history, maritime history, literary history, and so much more. Discover more about the city’s great legacy.   

Salem Witch Museum 

1692 marked the year of the famous Witch Trials that would haunt Salem forever. At the Salem Witch Museum, you’ll find artifacts and archival information on the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. The museum includes two exhibits. The first is an immersive look into the events of 1692 through life-size stage sets, figures, lighting, and narration. The second, called “Witches: Evolving Perceptions,” explores the meaning of the word witch and how it evolved over time. 

The Salem Witch Museum is open year round every day from 10 am to 5 pm. In July and August, the museum is open from 10 am to 7 pm. Discover more about extended hours in October and on Halloween. 

The House of the Seven Gables

The House of Seven Gables is a National Historic Landmark and the setting of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s 1851 novel of the same name. Purchase a ticket for the Mansion Tour and get a 45-minute tour of the grounds with a professional interpreter, access to a 30-minute audio tour, exploration time in the Nathaniel Hawthorn Birthplace, Counting House, and Museum store, and a unique map of the historic site. A Grounds Pass provides the same experience except entry into the actual mansion. The historical site is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.   

Real Pirates

Did you know that along with witches, Salem also has an extensive pirate history? Explore Real Pirates Salem, a family-friendly pirate experience that shares the true tale of the youngest and richest pirate of all time, “Black Sam” Bellamy. Here, you can find the world’s only fully authenticated pirate treasure, which includes coins, jewelry, and weapons.  

Witch Dungeon Museum

Witness a live reenactment of the 1692 Salem Witch Trials at the Witch Dungeon Museum. After the reenactment, a tour guide will lead you through the dungeon so you can learn more about the grim prison where accused prisoners were kept.  

Tours

Salem offers many walking and trolley tours for you to discover more about the city’s ancient history. From taking a spooky ghost tour, a Salem Witch Tour, or a Salem Trolley tour, you can uncover even more hidden secrets about the witch city. 

Find more places to get in touch with history North of Boston.

Art Meets the Past in Salem 

Salem has a knack for combining history with the arts. See a show or immerse yourself in an art museum. 

History Alive

History Alive is an immersive, historically-themed theater company that shares the stories of Salem’s past. Starting in the Visitors Center, this interactive play travels all the way to the Old Town Hall. Audience members can ask questions, and the actors will stay in character until the very end of the performance.   

Peabody Essex Museum

The Peabody Essex Museum is one of the oldest art museums in the United States. Here, you’ll find large collections of Asian art, American art, African Art, and maritime art that explores the world’s great history. Explore the museum’s special properties, like the Yin Yu Tang, a 200-year-old Chinese house.

Artists’ Row

Right along Derby Street is Artists Row, a marketplace where you’ll find uniquely crafted products by local artisans within gallery spaces. These spaces include the seafood restaurant The Lobster Shanty, pop culture store Shindig!, art studio and gallery ChagallPAC, and more.

Find out more about art all around North of Boston.

Savor the Local Flavors With Restaurants in Salem

All that walking and exploring can make any person hungry! You’re in luck, as Salem offers many tasty food options.  

Rockafellas

Enjoy a variety of fine dishes like seafood, Black Angus steaks, salads, and gourmet pizza at Rockafellas. Plus, for those 21 and over, try out the expansive full-service bar, where you can find beer, wine, and specialty drinks. 

Village Tavern

The Village Tavern is a Gastropub restaurant in downtown Salem that includes 3 different bars, a huge game room, and nightly entertainment. Order their popular burgers or try a classic chipotle chicken wrap. 

Finz Seafood and Grille

Finz Seafood & Grille is located on Pickering Wharf and offers an innovative menu that includes a raw and sushi bar, a paired wine list, and other delicious seafood options. The restaurant works directly with local fishermen and fishing communities that are committed to sustainability.   

Whimsy’s

Get a sweet treat at Whismy’s, a shop located near the Old Town Hall that sells chocolate, ice cream, and homemade gifts. Find one-of-a-kind products, delicious candy, and rich ice cream.  

Salem Farmer’s Market

From early June to mid-October, every Thursday, catch the Salem Farmers’ Market. Here, you’ll find fresh veggies, breads, pastries, and bath and body items produced by local businesses and farms around Massachusetts. 

Find more places to enjoy delicious food North of Boston

Find Spooky Souvenirs and Stylish Items in Salem

You can’t come to Salem without visiting all the amazing shops! You’ll find all kinds of treasures here, from little knickknacks to your next outfit. 

Witch and Occult Shops

Salem is home to many different shops where the city’s history and magic blend together seamlessly. Find crystals, candles, books, and even spell kits at stores like Crow Haven Corner, Hex: Old World Witchery, and HausWitch Home & Healing.  

Clothing Shops

Explore local boutiques and clothing stores where you can find new, designer, locally made, and consignment clothing. Discover t-shirts and other accessories at District Trading Company, fun printed dresses at Modern Millie, and goth attire at Die With Your Boots On.

Gift Shops

Find a special gift for you or a loved one at Salem’s many gift shops. Find an antique record at the Record Exchange, buy new home decor and houseplants at Oak + Moss, or choose from a large collection of artist-made jewelry at Emporium 32. 

Find more shopping opportunities North of Boston.

Dive Into An Outdoor Adventure in Salem

Salem offers many chances to experience the great outdoors. Whether you love to wander through parks or relax on the beach, you’ll get to experience the crispness of the fresh air.

Beaches

Dead Horse Beach

Located right at Salem Willows, Dead Horse Beach is one of Salem’s larger sandy beaches that you can access year-round. Go kayaking, sunbathe, or take a dip in the ocean. Parking is free for all.  

Waikiki Beach at Winter Island Park

Waikiki Beach at Winter Island is the perfect spot to swim, tan, fish, camp, and boat. For non-residents, parking costs $10 on weekdays and $15 on weekends. 

Parks 

Pickering Wharf

Pickering Wharf is a waterfront shopping, dining, and lodging destination on the Salem Harbor. From May through November, hop on a Mahi Harbor Cruise and breathe in the fresh air as you travel along Salem, Beverly, Marblehead, Manchester-by-the-Sea, and the secluded Misery Islands.  

Salem Woods

Hike, picnic, bird watch, or bike along the many trails in the 129-acre forest and wetland conservation Salem Woods. You can even take a 1-mile Forest Lore Tour and explore the science, history, and folklore of Salem Woods with the Mushroom Witch.

Salem Willows

This scenic, seaside public park is one of Salem’s best treasures. You can stroll along the endless park paths, have a nice outdoor picnic, get a bite to eat at many of the restaurants around, and even spend the day at the arcade. Plus, take in the beautiful views of Salem Harbor and the South Shore coast. 

Find more places for outdoor adventure North of Boston.

Stay in the Heart of Salem with Inns and Hotels  

Spend a couple of days in Salem and rest your head at one of Salem’s inns or hotels. 

Hawthorne Hotel

The Hawthorne Hotel is located right in the heart of Salem, overlooking the Salem Common and The Witch Museum. Hotel rooms are filled with updated furnishings and carpeting, gold details, and comfortable amenities. At night, the hotel transforms into a lounge with a full menu, wine list, and live music. 

The Hotel Salem 

This 44-room boutique hotel offers a stylish mid-century vibe. Here, you’ll find rooms and suites that have private baths, free WIFI, and other amenities. Plus, the hotel is minutes away from boutiques and novelty shops. The hotel’s seasonal rooftop bar, The Roof, offers you the chance to unwind after a long day of exploring.

The Merchant 

Located in Salem’s Central Historic District, The Merchant is a newly renovated hotel that is only three blocks from the Salem Harbor, a 10-minute walk to attractions like the House of Seven Gables, The Salem Witch Museum, and the Peabody Essex Museum.

Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites

This award-winning hotel is the stay of your dreams, offering an indoor heated pool, marina, onsite dining, and free parking. Enjoy all the benefits of a metropolitan hotel while being a short walking distance from all of Salem’s popular attractions.

Hampton Inn Salem

The Hampton Inn has planted its roots in Salem! This hotel has 113 guest rooms, a complimentary hot breakfast buffet, a fitness room, and an indoor heated pool. 

Find more places to stay North of Boston.

There are so many fun things to do in Salem and other cities and towns North of Boston. If you want to explore more areas North of Boston, check out things to do in Newburyport, Haverhill, and Cape Ann.