Salem, Massachusetts is a city with a rich history and unique character that draws tourists from all over the world. Best known for the infamous witch trials of 1692, Salem has a lot more to offer visitors than just its spooky past. Today, Salem is a vibrant community with a variety of attractions that cater to all interests. In this post, we’ll explore the best things to do in Salem, from wandering through historical landmarks and museums to embracing the bustling waterfront and dining at local restaurants. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Salem has something to offer everyone. So, let’s dive in and explore the best attractions that this fascinating city has to offer!

The 2 Best Family Activities in Salem

1. Interactive Historical Exhibit
2. Real Pirates Directors Tour

The 2 Best Family Activities in Salem

1. Interactive Historical Exhibit

Discover the fascinating history of pirates off the coast of Cape Cod with a ticket to the interactive historical exhibit in Salem, Massachusetts. This exhibit offers a self-paced exploration of the real-life stories of pirates and their lives. You will have the chance to see actual pirate treasure, such as coins and jewelry retrieved from a shipwreck, while listening to an audio guide. Additionally, the discovery lab allows for a hands-on experience, further immersing you in the world of pirates. The ticket includes an audio track and a digital photo. The exhibit is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and transportation is wheelchair accessible as well. With confirmation received at the time of booking, this exhibit offers a great opportunity to experience the exciting history of pirates.

2. Real Pirates Directors Tour

Take a break from Salem’s witchcraft history and explore the Salem Real Pirates Museum by booking the Real Pirates Directors Tour. This family-friendly experience includes an audio tour and a chance to hear stories about famous historical characters, such as the pirate Sam Bellamy. Plus, you’ll receive a free digital photo experience and a gift-shop gold coin. The museum is conveniently located near public transportation and is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Admission is included with the tour and confirmation will be received at the time of booking. Don’t miss out on exploring Salem’s history beyond witchcraft with this exciting museum tour.

Most Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists About the City Salem

Salem is a popular tourist destination in Massachusetts and attracts visitors from all over the world. Known for its rich history and enchanting beauty, this city has a lot to offer to curious travellers. If you’re planning a trip to Salem, you may have some questions about what to do, where to go, and what to expect. In this article, we will try to answer some of the most frequently asked questions by tourists about the city of Salem.

1. What is the history of Salem?

Salem is known for its history and is most famously associated with the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. However, the city’s history goes back much further than that, as Salem was actually one of the most important seaports in 17th and 18th century America. Founded in 1626, Salem was a center for trade and commerce, and played a significant role in the American Revolution. Today, Salem is a living museum with more than 300 years of history to explore.

2. What are the top attractions in Salem?

Salem has a lot to offer in terms of historical landmarks and tourist attractions. Here are some of the places you shouldn’t miss while visiting Salem:

The Salem Witch Museum:

The Salem Witch Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the history of the city. The museum tells the story of the Salem Witch Trials and the hysteria that swept through the town in 1692.

The House of the Seven Gables:

The House of the Seven Gables is another popular tourist attraction in Salem. Built in 1668, the mansion is famous for its role in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel of the same name.

The Peabody Essex Museum:

The Peabody Essex Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in the country, with a focus on the art and culture of New England.

The Salem Maritime National Historic Site:

The Salem Maritime National Historic Site is a great place to explore and learn about the city’s seafaring history. The site includes several historic buildings and a museum dedicated to Salem’s maritime heritage.

3. Are there any ghost tours in Salem?

Yes, there are many ghost tours available in Salem. As a city with a rich history of witchcraft and spooky legends, ghost tours are a popular attraction for tourists. Some of the best ghost tours in Salem include the Salem Night Tour, the Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour, and the Salem Witch Walk.

4. When is the best time to visit Salem?

The best time to visit Salem depends on what you want to do and see. If you’re interested in the history of the city and the Salem Witch Trials, the best time to visit is in the fall during Halloween season. During this time, Salem is packed with visitors and offers a range of spooky events and celebrations. However, if you’re looking for a quieter experience, it’s best to visit Salem in the spring or summer.

5. What are some other things to do in Salem?

There are plenty of other things to do in Salem besides visiting historical landmarks and taking ghost tours. Here are some of the other activities you can enjoy while in Salem:

Visit the Salem Farmer’s Market:

The Salem Farmer’s Market is a great place to shop for fresh produce and local products. The market runs from June to October and offers a wide variety of vendors.

Take a stroll through the Salem Willows:

Salem Willows is a beautiful park on the coast of Salem that offers stunning views of the ocean. The park has a wide range of attractions, including a vintage arcade, a pier with a carousel, and plenty of picnic spots.

Explore the natural beauty of Salem:

Salem is home to a number of beautiful parks and trails that are perfect for hiking, jogging, or just enjoying the outdoors. Some of the best places to explore include the Salem Woods and the Salem Common.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Salem

If you’re planning a visit to Salem, Massachusetts, you’re in for a treat! This historic city is known for its witch trials and colonial history, but there’s so much more to explore. In this guide, we’ll give you a comprehensive look at the top things to see and do in Salem, from museums and tours to restaurants and shops.

1. Visit the Salem Witch Museum

No visit to Salem is complete without a trip to the Salem Witch Museum. This museum offers a captivating look at the infamous witch trials that took place in the late 1600s. Through interactive exhibits and presentations, you’ll learn about the historical context of the trials, the lives of the accused, and the impact of the trials on modern society.

Admission to the museum is $13 for adults and $11 for seniors and children. They’re open daily from 10am to 5pm from March to November and 10am to 4pm from December to February.

2. Walk the Witch Trials Memorial

After your visit to the Salem Witch Museum, take a walk over to the Witch Trials Memorial. This somber memorial is a tribute to the 20 people who were executed for witchcraft in 1692. The memorial features a semi-circle of granite benches, each engraved with the name of one of the victims and the date of their execution.

Visiting the Witch Trials Memorial is free and it’s open year-round. It’s the perfect place to reflect on the tragic events that took place in Salem over 300 years ago.

3. Explore the Peabody Essex Museum

The Peabody Essex Museum is one of the oldest and most prestigious art museums in the country. It features a collection of over 1.8 million objects, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from around the world.

Some of the highlights of the museum include the Yin Yu Tang House, a 200-year-old Chinese house that was disassembled and reassembled in the museum, and the Native American collection, which features artifacts and artworks from indigenous tribes of North America.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 5pm. Admission is $20 for adults and $18 for seniors and students.

4. Take a Ghost Tour

No trip to Salem would be complete without a ghost tour. With its rich history of witchcraft and murders, Salem is said to be one of the most haunted cities in the country. There are plenty of ghost tours to choose from, ranging from walking tours to trolley tours.

One popular option is the Salem Night Tour, which takes you through some of the city’s most haunted sites, including the Witch House and the Old Burying Point Cemetery. The tour is $18 per person and runs nightly at 8pm.

5. Shop at the Salem Farmers Market

If you’re a foodie, you’ll want to check out the Salem Farmers Market. This outdoor market takes place every Thursday from 3pm to 7pm from June through October. Here, you’ll find fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, local honey, and much more.

The farmers market is located on Derby Square, right in the heart of downtown Salem. It’s the perfect place to stock up on snacks for a picnic or to grab ingredients for a homemade meal.

6. Visit the Salem Maritime National Historic Site

The Salem Maritime National Historic Site offers a fascinating look at the city’s maritime history. This site includes several historic buildings and attractions, including the Custom House, the Derby Wharf Light Station, and the Friendship of Salem, a replica of an 18th-century trading ship.

Visiting the Salem Maritime National Historic Site is free, although there is a small fee to board the Friendship of Salem. The site is open daily from 9am to 5pm.

7. Dine at a Local Restaurant

Salem is home to some fantastic restaurants, from casual cafes to upscale fine dining establishments. If you’re in the mood for seafood, head to Turner’s Seafood, which offers fresh catches of the day and classic New England dishes. If you’re looking for something a little more exotic, check out Gulu-Gulu Cafe, which serves up international cuisine and has a great beer selection.

Other popular restaurants in Salem include Howling Wolf Taqueria for Mexican food, Bambolina for artisanal pizza, and A&B Burger for delicious burgers and milkshakes.

Final Thoughts

Salem may be best known for its witch trials, but there’s so much more to this historic city. From museums and tours to restaurants and shops, there’s something for everyone in Salem. We hope this guide has given you some ideas for how to spend your time in this fascinating city. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a ghost enthusiast, Salem is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.