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Salem is a coastal city of about 44,000 people on the North Shore of Massachusetts, 16 miles northeast of Boston. Founded in 1626, it is one of the oldest towns in New England and is best known for the witch trials of 1692, when more than 20 people were executed or died in jail after accusations of witchcraft. Later, Salem became one of America's richest ports, with ships trading with China, India and the East Indies.
Today Salem draws visitors with both stories. The Salem Witch Museum, the Witch House and the Salem Witch Trials Memorial explore 1692, while Salem Maritime National Historical Park preserves the wharves and Custom House of the trading era. The Peabody Essex Museum holds world-class art and a complete Chinese house, and the House of the Seven Gables inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne, who was born here.
The city is especially busy in October during Haunted Happenings. Quieter pleasures include Chestnut Street's Federal-style mansions, Salem Common and the seaside paths of Salem Willows.
A popular museum in a former church facing Salem Common, using life-size dioramas and narration to tell the story of the 1692 witch trials, followed by an exhibit on how witch hunts have repeated through history. The presentation takes about an hour. Buy timed tickets in advance in October.
One of the oldest continuously operating museums in the United States, with superb collections of maritime art, Asian export art, Native American and contemporary works. Its highlight is Yin Yu Tang, a 200-year-old Chinese merchant's house moved from China. Allow half a day; Yin Yu Tang needs a timed ticket.
A 1668 timber mansion by the harbor that inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel, shown on guided tours that include a secret staircase. The grounds also hold Hawthorne's birthplace, moved here, and seaside gardens. Book a tour time in advance, especially on weekends and in fall.
A Federal-style brick building from 1816, the oldest surviving municipal building in Salem, with a market space below and a grand hall upstairs. It hosts performances, events and markets in Derby Square. Look for shows about the witch trials staged here in the warmer months.
The home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, one of the magistrates in the 1692 witch trials, and the only building still standing in Salem with direct ties to the trials. Its dark 17th-century rooms are furnished with period pieces. Self-guided visits take about 30 minutes; it is busiest in October.
A national park site preserving Salem's seafaring era, with Derby Wharf and its lighthouse, the 1819 Custom House where Hawthorne worked, historic homes and a replica of the tall ship Friendship. Walking the wharf is free; check the visitor center for ranger tours and building hours.
A simple, moving memorial dedicated in 1992, with stone benches engraved with the names of the 20 people executed in 1692 and the dates of their deaths, set beside the old burying ground. It is free and open daily. Visit respectfully; protest words from the victims are carved at the entrance.
Also called the Charter Street Cemetery, one of the oldest burying grounds in the country, founded in 1637, with slate headstones of colonial residents including witch trial judge John Hathorne. A welcome center explains its history. Paths protect the graves, so stay on them and check opening hours.
Often called one of the most beautiful streets in America, lined with elegant Federal-style brick and wooden mansions built by sea captains and merchants in the early 1800s. It is part of the McIntire Historic District, named for architect Samuel McIntire. Best enjoyed on a slow walk; the homes are private.
A large historic green in the city center, once a grazing pasture and militia training ground, now ringed by grand houses and crossed by shaded paths, with a bandstand and playground. It is the site of events in October and summer. A good place to rest between museums.
A seaside park on a point at the edge of the harbor with old willow trees, shoreline paths, beaches, picnic areas and a small old-fashioned arcade and snack stands. It has views of Beverly and the harbor islands. Bring a picnic and stay for sunset; summer weekends are busy.
A month-long October celebration of Halloween and the city's witch history, with parades, costume balls, ghost tours, markets, psychic fairs and haunted attractions. Hundreds of thousands of visitors come, so book lodging months ahead, take the train from Boston and expect crowds on weekends.
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Massachusetts, United States
Massachusetts, United States
Massachusetts, United States
Massachusetts, United States
Massachusetts, United States
Massachusetts, United States
Massachusetts, United States
Massachusetts, United States
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