Location: Salem
Top Things to do in Salem
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What to do and see in Salem, Massachusetts (MA): The Best Sights & Landmarks
Best known for the witch trials that took place in 1692, Salem is sure to bewitch you with its seaside charm, its maritime history and spellbinding beauty. Follow the Red Line along the sidewalks to navigate your journey through historic sites, including the Witch Trial Memorial, the Old Burying Point Cemetery and more. Discover serenity by the sea on the beaches of Salem Willows. The Bewitched statue, the Witch Museum and the Witch Dungeon conjure up diverse takes on witchery through history.
Restaurants in Salem
1. Phillips House
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 141 reviews
Phillips House is the only home on historic Chestnut Street open to the public, and it provides a glimpse into the private world of the Phillips family during the early decades of the twentieth century. The kitchen, pantry, and a domestic staff bedroom, present a rarely seen picture of how the great houses functioned as new technologies were being introduced.
Reviewed By F3351UYpamelac
This is a beautiful example of a wealthy family's home in the early 1900s. It is full of interesting artifacts and great stories. There are stunning carpets, dishware, paintings and furniture. The carriage house has the family's old cars and some carriages.
2. Salem Athenaeum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 5 reviews
A membership library in the historic McIntyre District of Salem, MA, the Athenaeum is full of history and a keeper of fine and historic literature.
3. Herb Mackey's Metal Sculpture Yard
4. Old Burying Point Cemetery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,488 reviews
Salem’s oldest cemetery, founded in 1637, and final resting place for several notable Salem residents. Located directly behind this cemetery is the Witch Trials Memorial. The cemetery is currently closed for restoration work.
Reviewed By jewels48162 - Monroe, United States
Salem never disappoints those who seek history, and those who seek merriment in celebrating the fashions of Halloween. The four of us went off to find the cemetery I’ll be a real hill and we did although it was closed at the time you can still see the entire cemetery because the Stonewall around it is just a little ways above my waist,The cemetery is brightly lit I am sure to prevent vandalism more than to show it off but it does show it off nicely. Being as I’ve been there several times in the last two years I know roundabout we are some of the significant tombstones are, so I was able to show my friends the backside of the important markers. Whether you’re there during visiting hours or after it is closed it is always worth it walk up the hill to see the burial ground
5. Salem Maritime National Historic Site
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 335 reviews
Salem Maritime, the National Park in Salem, is a nine-acre historic site located on Salem’s waterfront that tells the history of Salem’s international trade and the sailors and merchants who built the economy of the young United States. National Park Rangers present guided tours of historic buildings and replica tall ship Friendship, and are ready help you navigate Salem at the Visitor Center, conveniently located on New Liberty Street across from the city parking garage.
Reviewed By lou1776 - Long Island, United States
Alright, so you've come to Salem and exhausted yourself with the witch trials, what next? Aside from the great food all over town, Salem boasts the very fist national historic site in the country, all dedicated to its maritime history. You can begin your visit here at the old armory in the middle of town. Note, due to Covid, the bathrooms here are closed but the gift shop is open. The nearest public restrooms are located a few blocks away in the heart of the park near the Waite and Pierce gift shop. Here, you'll find the old custom's house, the second visitor center/gift shop, the Derby Wharf lighthouse, and the Friendship of Salem. Again, unfortunately because of the pandemic most of these usually available places are closed but you can still get a great overview and day of walking around the city by following the maps here.
6. The House of the Seven Gables
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,913 reviews
The Gables is open Friday – Monday 10 AM – 4PM. We require staff and visitors to follow our mask and social distance policies even if you have had a COVID-19 vaccination. Tickets are sold online ONLY. Visitors will have the option to enjoy a grounds pass or a semi-private guided tour. Advance reservations are required for both of these experiences. PLEASE NOTE: The grounds pass does not include access to any historic interiors. Capacity is limited at our historic site. Online reservations will be available on a rolling basis in 2021. We expect to release tickets mid-month for the upcoming month (i.e. May tickets will be available around April 15). The Museum Store will be open during operating days and hours. Due to staff resources, we have limited time to answer phone calls and emails. Our website has the most up-to-date information to plan your visit.
Reviewed By tedkirby - Lexington, United States
We took a tour of this house on a weekend. There were about ten people in the tour. It was a great tour, we got to see the House of Seven Gables, and the house where Nathanial Hawthorne was born. Our tour guide Alex was very good, she was enthusiastic and shared a lot of interesting knowledge about the house, and also how it relates to Salem's history. The inside of the House of Seven Gables is very nice, and so is the garden in front of it. I imagine the garden looks very pretty in the spring and summer.
7. Pickering House
8. Wicked Good Books
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 49 reviews
We are Salem's Indie bookstore located on the Pedestrian Mall, across from CVS. We stock both new and used books, children’s books and toys, and literary-themed gifts. Used books are always 50% off (except for our collection of rare / collectible titles) and we usually have bargain book carts and $5.00 hardcover selections. We’re particularly proud of our selection of local history and local authors. We also special-order books for our customers. *We support local authors, and local shopping and dining. Come in and browse!
Reviewed By 777kaseym
Everywhere I go, I always try and visit a local bookshop and purchase one book, this place did not dissapoint! I loved the currated section for Salem history as well brand new releases and the used book section. If I would have had the opportunity to be in there for hours, I gladly would have. Hoping to spend more time in here when the pandemic ends.
9. Ropes Mansion
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 97 reviews
Reviewed By Workmiles - Memphis, United States
I went to Salem to sightsee while on a business trip to Boston. It is worth the short drive along 1A beachfront Highway. The home is beautiful and was the home used in the movie. My kids were thrilled that is was real and that I got pics. The tour of the home is free and worth doing
10. Grace Episcopal Church
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