Curator’s statement
Even though Salem is best known for its witches and spooky haunts, it holds a deeper kind of magic for me. The historic charm and centuries-old architecture make every street feel like a step back in time. Beyond the ghost stories, it’s a vibrant coastal town full of seaside restaurants, rich museums, and cultural attractions. Its quaint New England ambiance always leaves me feeling enchanted—no broomstick required.
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Where to stay in Salem
Things to do in Salem
One of the many psychic shops in Salem
The Witch House: I love visiting this historic home, built in the 1600s, because it is one of the only buildings in town with a direct tie to the infamous Salem witch trials of 1692 and is full of 17th century ambiance.
Stroll the historic streets: Aside from pedestrianized Essex Street, visitors can soak up the historic architecture around Salem Common, Federal Street, Chestnut Street, and the many side streets.
Peabody Essex Museum: This eclectic museum is a must-visit for its world-class art, global culture, and the remarkable 200-year-old Yin Yu Tang Chinese house.
Explore Pickering Wharf: Check out the stunning harbor views, grab a coffee or wine at a café, and wander the eclectic shops along the historic waterfront.
Get a tarot reading: Come on, you’re in Salem! Try a reading at one of the many cool spots, like Hex or Omen.
The Salem Witch Museum: This somewhat touristy hotspot is still educational and you can’t beat an animatronic witch trial.
Salem Witch Trials Memorial and Old Burying Point Cemetery: Reflect on the fate of the victims of the horrific 1692 witch trials and wander the historic graves of some of Salem’s earliest residents.
Explore historic houses: Check out the Pickering House, Salem’s Oldest home, or the famous House of the Seven Gables, the inspiration for Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel.
Go on a ghost tour: check out one of the many ghost tours around town, some even include holding candles throughout the tour!
Places to eat & drink in Salem
View of the harbor and lighthouse from Pickering Wharf
Ledger: This restaurant, located in a historic bank, is full of atmospheric charm, craft cocktails, and incredible food.
Settler: This hot spot, described as “rustic-chic,” is sure to be a good choice.
The Roof at the Hotel Salem: A trendy rooftop option for craft cocktails, tacos, and other options.
Gulu Gulu: A popular sandwich shop also doubling as a craft beer bar overlooking the famous Bewitched Statue.
Finz: A great seafood spot located right on Salem Harbor.
Sea Level Oyster Bar: Another popular seafood spot with stunning views.
Dire Wolf Tavern: A cozy spot with fantastic cocktails and food options.
Turner’s Seafood at Lyceum Hall: This cozy restaurant is in a historic building with a haunting past.
Kakawa Chocolate House: An amazing spot for a truffle or even to sit an enjoy an inventive melted chocolate drink.
Notch Brewery & Tap Room: A hip spot to grab a craft beer.
Need to know
Salem is easy to get to from Boston. Just take the commuter rail train from North Station to Salem in about 30 minutes. It is on the Newburyport/Rockport line and is located in Zone 3. You get off right in downtown Salem and can walk straight down Washington Street to all the sights, including the waterfront.
Another, and even more fun option, is to take the Salem Ferry! The ferry runs from late May through Halloween and departs Long Wharf in Boston straight to Salem Harbor, which takes about an hour. The trip is gorgeous and there is even a bar on board!
Salem is a larger town than many visitors realize. Stick to the historic center to make sure you’re maximizing the charm.
While Halloween is the most popular time to visit, I recommend Salem in every season. Halloween has its charms, however visitors should note that throughout October, bars often charge covers, there are enormous lines at every restaurant and attraction, and traffic is paralyzing (never drive here in October). If you do visit in October, be sure to book everything far in advance, as over a million visitors flocked to Salem in October alone last year. Visiting during the summer will maximize the oceanfront charm and weather, while winter is much quieter and includes the fun So Sweet Chocolate and Ice Sculpture festival.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Salem page.