Every autumn, as leaves change color, visitors head to New England for chowder, charming scenery, and vibrant foliage. But some travelers make a special trip to Salem, Massachusetts—a town with a past so intriguingly eerie that it can captivate even the most seasoned visitor.
In colonial times, Salem was far from the picturesque coastal town it is today. To its early settlers, it represented the harsh, uncertain frontier of the known world. Belief in spirits, the supernatural, and witches was as common as the changing seasons. Then came the hysteria: between 1692 and 1693, more than 200 people were accused of witchcraft. Many faced trials, 19 were executed, and Salem secured its place in one of the darker chapters of American history. To this day, the exact cause of the frenzy remains a mystery, which only deepens the town’s allure.
By 2025, Salem has transformed dramatically. Today, it blends colonial-Gothic charm with seaside appeal. Witch-themed tours and museums still draw crowds, but they’re now complemented by cozy restaurants, unique shops, and inviting hotels—ideal whether you’re a first-timer or a local looking for a magical day trip or weekend getaway.
Peabody Essex Museum
Photo: Getty Images
New England has no shortage of museums, but the Peabody Essex Museum stands out. It’s one of the nation’s oldest continuously operating museums, tracing its roots back to the East India Marine Society of 1799. Inside, you’ll find an eclectic mix of curiosities and fine art, with notable collections of American, Asian, and Oceanic works. The museum delights in surprising visitors, featuring everything from a full-sized 18th-century Chinese house to immersive contemporary art installations. Fashion enthusiasts will appreciate the current special exhibit, “Andrew Gn: Fashioning the World,” a retrospective of the Singaporean designer based in Paris.
Punto Urban Art Museum
To see the vibrant, diverse side of Salem, walk two blocks south from the downtown tourist area to the Point neighborhood. There, within a three-block radius, the Punto Urban Art Museum showcases 75 large-scale murals by artists from around the world and close to home. It reveals a creative side of Salem that often surprises even residents.
Salem Witch Museum
Photo: Getty Images
No Massachusetts childhood is complete without a school trip to the Salem Witch Museum. While it may feel a bit kitschy, this classic animated exhibit is a Salem staple, plunging you into the drama of the infamous witch trials.
WKND
Cross the bridge to nearby Beverly and visit WKND, a thoughtfully curated shop offering “small batch vintage” and “mindful goods.” From cozy knits and clean skincare to lovely candles and baskets, you’re sure to find a unique souvenir to take home.
The Hotel Salem
Courtesy of Lark Hotels
Many visitors explore Salem on a day trip from Boston or nearby suburbs, but staying overnight at the charming 44-room Hotel Salem makes for a more relaxed visit. “The Roof,” the town’s only rooftop bar and restaurant, offers sweeping views of the harbor and cobblestone streets. On a pleasant autumn evening, it’s the perfect spot to unwind.
Ledger Restaurant & Bar
Courtesy of Ledger Restaurant & Bar
Who can resist a restaurant in a former bank? Ledger is a popular spot for brunch, cocktails, or dinner, serving refined American dishes that range from classics like grilled miso salmon to inventive options such as grilled beets with labneh and spiced pomegranate molasses.
Take a Hike
Salem offers two main spots to escape the crowds, stretch your legs, and enjoy fresh air—both just a short walk from theIn the heart of town, you’ll find the Salem Woods, a peaceful area of woodland that was once shared common land for grazing livestock. Nearby is Winter Island Park, which is actually more of a peninsula extending from the edge of town. Its rocky shore, waves, and picturesque lighthouse capture the essence of the New England coast.
For a unique weekend activity, consider a walk through The Old Burying Point Cemetery, also called the Charter Street Cemetery. Dating back to 1637, it’s one of the oldest cemeteries in the U.S. and holds the graves of notable figures like John Hathorne, a judge from the Witch Trials.
Salem takes pride in preserving its historic homes. The House of the Seven Gables, New England’s oldest wooden mansion, gained fame from Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel. Across town, the Jonathan Corwin House, known as the Witch House, is the only museum directly linked to the Witch Trials, as Judge Corwin oversaw many of them.
For thrills, Gallows Hill recreates a witch trial where visitors are accused of witchcraft. If that’s not eerie enough, The Lost Museum offers ghost-hunting sessions with tools like EMF detectors and audio recorders for a 90-minute paranormal investigation.
To explore the mystical side, visit Crow Haven Corner, Salem’s original witch shop. Owned by psychic Miss Lorelei, it provides readings and love spells, though appointments are needed. Walk-ins can still shop for crystals, herbs, and occult books, with pink quartz recommended for love guidance.
When returning to Boston, choose the Commuter Rail or the scenic Salem Ferry, which takes less than an hour and offers beautiful views.
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Ye Olde Pepper Candy Companie, where the cozy, sweet-smelling interior feels like a grandmother’s kitchen, complete with historic candy stories.
For a nautical adventure, board the Schooner Fame, a replica of a War of 1812 privateer. It sails Salem Sound from Memorial Day to Halloween, with daily and sunset trips available.
For dining, try Maitland Farm, Kitchen and Spirits, a new restaurant that uses fresh, local ingredients. Their grilled cheese on a toasted baguette is a comforting choice on a chilly day.
Enjoy your visit!Night Fatty
Yes, the name catches you off guard, but in a cheeky, carefree way that grabs your attention. This bakery, open only on weekends, has earned a devoted following for its star offering: an outrageously thick cookie, loaded—or rather, crammed—with extravagant toppings like marshmallows or Oreos, served warm from the oven. It’s the kind of treat that makes you abandon all thoughts of healthy cleanses. In this town, much like a visit to the P.E.M. or the Salem Witch Museum, grabbing a “fatty” has become a must-do experience.
Bernadette
Launched in late 2024 by local couple Aaron and Shanna Chambers, Bernadette is the kind of restaurant that tempts you to stretch a day trip into dinner. The menu is French-inspired, featuring dishes like tartes flambées, ratatouille, and poulet rôti, yet it thoughtfully incorporates local ingredients from nearby suppliers whenever possible. The interior strikes a balance—elegant without being flashy, and welcoming without feeling ordinary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a helpful and clear list of FAQs about discovering the top activities and attractions in Salem Massachusetts
General Planning Questions
Q What is Salem Massachusetts most famous for
A Salem is most famous for the 1692 Salem Witch Trials This history is a major focus of the citys museums and attractions
Q Whats the best time of year to visit Salem
A October is the most popular month due to Halloween For smaller crowds and pleasant weather late spring or early fall are excellent choices
Q How many days do I need to see Salem
A You can see the main highlights in one very full day but a 23 day trip allows you to explore at a more relaxed pace and visit more museums
Q Is Salem a walkable city
A Yes the downtown core with most major attractions shops and restaurants is very compact and easily walkable
Attractions Activities
Q What are the mustsee attractions for a firsttime visitor
A Top picks include the Peabody Essex Museum the Salem Witch Museum the House of the Seven Gables and a stroll through the historic McIntire District
Q Besides witchrelated history what else is there to do
A Plenty You can explore maritime history at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site see beautiful historic homes visit the Peabody Essex Museum for art and culture and enjoy the local shops and waterfront
Q Are the witch trial sites and museums appropriate for children
A It depends on the child and the museum Some like the Salem Witch Museum use dramatic narration and lighting that might scare young children Always check the museums website for age recommendations
Q Is the House of the Seven Gables the same building from the book
A Yes Its the inspiration for Nathaniel Hawthornes famous novel You can tour the historic house and even go inside the secret staircase
Q What can I do in Salem if it rains
A Salem has many great indoor activities including the Peabody Essex Museum the Salem Witch Museum various psychic readings and witchcraft shops and the New England Pirate Museum
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