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A charming New England seaside destination, Salem offers visitors the requisite bevy of enthralling elements: a world-class museum, compelling oceanfront and maritime history, quirky shops and tempting restaurants. They're all here and vying for your attention. However, one event in Salem's 400-year history looms above all else — the Salem witch trials. One of the most notorious cases of mass hysteria, the trials saw over 200 people charged with witchcraft, 25 of whom died as a direct result. Try as they might, the city was never able to memory hole the events of 1692. So eventually they changed tack, leaning into the lore of witches and magic. Today the "Witch City" plasters its civic institutions with witch silhouettes, they even built a baseball diamond atop Gallows Hill Park. The plan seems to have worked, tourists have responded and business is up. You know what they say, "time heals all wounds".
For thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans, the Naumkeag people enjoyed life on this rocky peninsula. Contact with early explorers was calamitous, and disease would shatter their society. Throughout the 17th century, a series of wars and pogroms pushed them to the brink of extinction. In 1686, Naumkeag survivors pressed their claim in court, and were given £20 (roughly $5,000 today) in payment for their land.
Salem is perhaps best known for the Salem witch trials , which began during the winter of 1692. Two little girls began behaving erratically, acts which town elders quickly deemed "witchcraft". A flurry of accusations and trials would play out over the course of the following year. By the time the outrage subsided, over 200 villagers stood accused of witchcraft. 19 were hanged, 5 died in jail, and one was pressed to death. In hindsight, the major political upheaval of the day combined with neighborly quarrels likely sparked the mass hysteria. The accused were overwhelmingly women (78%), and were often impoverished, having little means to speak of.
During the American Revolution , hundreds of large privateers arrived in Salem to assist the patriot cause. These vessels and their crews saw a great deal of action, scuttling somewhere around 600 British ships. Post-war, sea captains turned their attention to distant lands; the East Indies, China, and Zanzibar to name but a few. Warships were modified to support commerce, and bold Captain-entrepreneurs imported pepper, silks and other luxuries with windfall profits. Today, the legacy of these riches remains on full display throughout the many overlapping historic districts of this city of 44,000 people (2020).
Derby Street is of primary concern to any visitor. Running roughly east to west, it passes through the Maritime District on its way to the ferry terminal. Equally as important is Essex Street , roughly paralleling Derby one block behind the harbor. The vast majority of tourist attractions are found between these two streets. At their western boundaries, you'll encounter Washington Street . This north-south thoroughfare holds the train station at its northern end. Cross Washington to find Summer Street, where your walking tour of the Chestnut Street District begins. The architecture here is stunning, but the shops and restaurants mostly drop away.
For those venturing further afield; Salem Willows and Winter Park can be found to the northeast. Follow Derby until it becomes Fort Ave. To the south, Pioneer Village and Salem University can be reached by following Washington until it merges with Lafayette Street. The more modern areas of Salem (the hospital, the Target, et al ) can be found to the southwest, after Essex turns into Highland Ave.
The climate in Salem is roughly identical to nearby Boston . Summers are typically warm and humid, while winters are cold and stormy and feature the occasional bout of snow. Spring and fall tend to be cool to mild, with a commensurate uptick in tourism during the annual autumnal fireworks.
If you're day tripping from Boston and just concentrating on the core downtown area, your best bet could be the train. It's affordable, takes a ½ hour, and runs somewhat often. The ferry provides outstanding views, but it takes an hour and is more expensive and infrequent. A car can be a good idea if you're visiting other north shore locations, but high season parking can be challenging. The trip might take 30 minutes to an hour or more depending on traffic.
From Boston and points south, take Route 1 north, then merge onto MA-128 north, which is also labelled as Yankee Division Highway on some maps (although no-one calls it that). Next you'll take exit 40A and merge onto MA-114 east. From points north, take Interstate 95 south to Route 1 south, and follow signs for MA-114 east, Peabody and Salem. Continue on 114, pass under Route 128, and a few miles after that you'll cross the North River. You're in downtown Salem! Drop your vehicle off as soon as possible. Parking is quite challenging during most of the summer, and is especially tricky during the month of October. Driving in Salem on Halloween — or the closest weekends — is the stuff nightmares are made of.
A few infrequent and slow MBTA buses provide service to Salem. They are the cheapest option ($2.40 from Logan Airport in 2023), but tend to be more useful as a means of escape. The 450 and 455 bus routes travel to Lynn, the 435 to Peabody, and during weekday rush hours the 451 goes to Beverly. There is no Sunday service to Salem on the 435 bus. The 455 always runs out from the Wonderland MBTA station, but the 450 is a bit wacky; running from Haymarket weekdays, and from Wonderland station on weekends.
Salem finds itself well positioned along several cycling routes. The East Coast Greenway passes through the center of town, making good use of both the Salem Bike Path and Marblehead Rail Trail . The former will run you into the heart of town; while the latter is unpaved, but well traveled. Almost any bike should make short work of these trails. Many riders choose to add the Northern Strand Trail to their cue sheet, and pedal to Salem from Boston. It's a flat 25 mi (40 km) between the Peabody Essex Museum and the P-town ferry, most of which is hidden away from cars. Along the way you'll pass miles of protected marshes, historical markers, and oceanfront vistas – it's really quite a remarkable route.
Salem remains a small town, and as such the tourist attractions here fall within a tightly packed area. A stretch of Essex Street , from Washington St to Hawthorne Blvd, is closed to cars and is a delight to walk. Walking across the city; say from the ferry dock to the Witch House, is barely over a mile. Most folks should be able to cover this distance in about 20-25 minutes. The sites you'll pass along the way are packed with more than enough curios to hold anyone's attention.
The Salem Harborwalk is a short walkway along the South River basin, extending from Derby to Congress streets. It's a nice way to escape the crowds on Derby, and there are even a few picnic tables squeezed in-between the parking lots.
The downtown area is often congested, and becomes all but impassable to cars during October. Do not drive to Salem on Halloween. On street parking is generally good for about 2-4 hours and costs a dollar or two per hour. The city also owns a few garages and off-street lots if you're in need of some longer-term parking. Your best bet is going to be in one of the lots off of Church Street. There's a few surface lots there as well as the Museum Place Garage. Your other option is the MBTA parking lot and the adjacent Crescent lot. The Town of Salem has a great map showing all the gory parking details.
If you've only got one day, take a brisk walk through the Peabody Essex Museum, then maybe try to squeeze in a tour of the House of Seven Gables. Spend the rest of the day investigating whatever piques your interest along Derby street in the Maritime National Historic Site.
With extra time, it's easy to tailor an itinerary to your interests. There's plenty more to see at the PEM, architecture buffs will head for the Chestnut Street District, and nature lovers have a variety of options beyond the city center to explore. Parents might try Forest River Park or perhaps some of the kitschy stuff with older children. If you're open to it, the Satanic Temple is a true "only in Salem" experience.
Perhaps the perfect spot for a stroll. The Chestnut Street District calls out to architecture buffs, budding photographers, and anyone seeking a brief respite from the crowds. Many grand mansions line these boulevards, serving to showcase the enormous wealth created by the Old China Trade. Although demolished, Samuel McIntire's home and workshop at 31 Summer Street still anchors this historic area. Roughly bounded by Bridge, Summer, Beckford, and Broad Streets and referred to locally as the McIntire Historic District , it was created in 1973 and contains some 407 notable buildings.
Spend an afternoon along Salem's historic nine acre waterfront, where a dozen remarkable buildings span over 600 years of maritime history. The park was established in 1938 as America's first historic site. Plaques throughout the area offer interpretive explanations of the infamous triangular trade (rum, molasses, slaves), privateering during the revolutionary war, and the Old China Trade in the post-war period. Most visitors simply walk down Derby street and explore whatever strikes them. If you're into it, however; begin your visit along the tiny walkway adjacent to the Narbonne House on Essex street. This short path is part of the NPS and takes you past a formal garden and several historic views.
Unless it's calling to you, most items on this list are skippable if pressed for time. Although parents (and children at heart) should make note of the options available at Salem Willows.
You can also find a couple dozen walking tours in the area. They all have some theme like: ghosts, cuisine, history, architecture, witchcraft, photography, maritime events, and so on. A few are flash in the pan, but many are good quality and passionate about their subject matter. Do a quick search and read reviews before booking your tour. Many are accredited with the city's tourist office, inquire within the main visitors center at 2 New Liberty St.
Visitors should expect to find a wide range of elevated fare, often rubbing shoulders alongside classic dining experiences. Many tourists descend on the area for the first class seafood options, which are in no short supply. Unsurprisingly, many are found along the looping Wharf Street , fronting the harbor. The highest concentration of restaurants can be found on Washington street from Derby to Essex streets. Lappin Park in particular has a few worthy mid-range options along its borders. As with all tourist zones, local gems await your discovery just a short walk from the center of the action. These eateries remain open throughout the winter months, when usually the only changes you'll see are to the menu.
Due to its small size, pretty much everything in Salem is going to be "right in the heart of it all". The high season here runs from Memorial Day until Halloween. Book well in advance to ensure your bunk! Sleeping here on Halloween night? Make your reservations by Thanksgiving. For real. Most accommodations are basically the same price, around $300 once you factor in taxes, fees, and surcharges. Same story for AirBnB and similar services. If you're looking to save money, there is a campsite on Winter Island. If roughing it's not your thing, there are more affordable options along the Route 1 & I-95 corridor in Peabody and Danvers , but then you'll have to deal with driving here.
As in the rest of the country, dial 911 in an emergency for help . Overall, Salem is a very safe city with a crime rate far below the US average. Take the same standard precautions you would anywhere else. Keep valuables out of sight, don't flash wads of cash, take your headphones off, and so on. Many visitors come to Salem to blow off steam, so don't be surprised to see increasingly drunken behavior as the night wears on. Bars tend to close around midnight-1AM. Finally, don't let any black cats cross your path, and if you find a monkey's paw leave it alone!
Oct 26, 2021 · Leave a Comment
This guide to Salem has everything you need to discover one of the best spots on the north shore of Massachusetts!
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure page for more information. Thanks! Guide last updated October 2023.
After a good ten years of living in Massachusetts, I'm pleased to share with you the ultimate guide to Salem!
Despite our six-month hiatus when we traveled the world , we’ve spent a lot of time in Witch City and have come to love this quirky, historic, and exciting place.
Here you’ll find my ultimate guide to Salem - things to do, historic sites, all the hocus pocus, where to stay, hidden gems, places to shop, and where to eat!
Cue the Hocus Pocus soundtrack & let’s get into this guide to Salem!
Background on salem.
Salem is a coastal city just north of Boston, Massachusetts, dating back to 1626. There are plenty of colonial and maritime history in Salem, and of course, the history of witchcraft as well. Today it is a vibrant and exciting destination that attracts tourists year-round but is most popular during the month of October.
The Salem Witch Trials took place here starting in 1692, which led to overall hysteria and the death of twenty people. Salem was made famous by the author Nathaniel Hawthorne and the 1993 movie Hocus Pocus, which has seen a massive revival in popularity in recent years (though some of us have been obsessed since the ’90s…).
Salem also has a diverse community, including a large presence of immigrants from the Dominican Republic. Hearing Spanish is very common in this area, and also finding delicious Dominican foods, like pastelitos, mangu, and rice (Be sure to check out a local típico for them! )
To get the best experience and understanding of this ultimate guide, I would highly suggest reading more about Salem through the city's tourism website - Destination Salem . Also, Things to Do in Salem is a Salem-based blog that also focuses on all of the great things about Witch City!
For more travel information when you arrive in Salem:
For more general information about Salem, walking tours, maps, the city layout, events, and other helpful tips, head to the Salem Regional Visitor Center , on the corner of New Liberty Street and Brown Street , which as of January 2022 is open Wednesday-Sunday, 10 am-4 pm. You can also access visitor information is available at Waite and Peirce NP Store on Derby Street, from 10 am-5 pm.
If you are planning to visit Salem, it’s roughly 30 minutes from Boston’s Logan Airport. You can take the commuter rail on the Newburyport/Rockport line which takes you directly into downtown Salem. If you prefer to rent a car, the best parking areas are the Peabody Essex Museum lot or garage. It’s central to almost everything.
If you visit during the month of October, parking can be a nightmare ! The prices in most parking lots increase, and it’s packed with tons of people. Thousands of people come to Salem in October, so it can be a bit crazy! For more information on where to park in Salem, check out this helpful resource .
When creating this ultimate guide to Salem, there's one area that has never been something we've had to worry about since we live locally. But if you are visiting, here are the top places I’d recommend!
Airbnb is always an excellent option. There are plenty of small apartments and private rooms within the downtown area and in the historic district. Just make sure you are renting from locals.
For local BnB’s with great breakfasts and witchy flair, try Morning Glory Bed & Breakfast or The Salem Inn . For a historic ( and haunted! ) hotel with year-round celebrations, events, and great meal options, stay at The Hawthorne Hotel , located right next to Salem Common. The Hotel Salem is a new boutique hotel downtown with a rooftop bar. Learn more about this hip and stylish space right here .
Other hotels include The Merchant Salem and Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites . All three hotels are located in the downtown area, putting you in a perfect spot to walk to everything and not need a car. Uber and Lyft are always available, and Witch City Taxi too (look for the witches on everything...even our cabs!)
There’s a lot to do in Salem, so this guide does not include everything. But these are some of our favorites for every season. Be sure to also check out Salem Main Streets to find out what events are happening downtown when you visit.
Visiting Salem in Winter
Salem is much quieter and less touristy in the winter months. As such, you'll probably find fewer crowds, cheaper accommodation prices, and of course, snow. But a visit to Salem in the wintertime or colder months still has a lot to offer! Check out these festivals, activities, and things to do in winter.
The Peabody Essex Museum
The Peabody Essex Museum was established in 1799. It's rooms are filled with art, sculpture, installations, and exciting exhibits. Discover maritime history about Salem, art from all over the world, and even exhibits on the Salem Witch Trials. The museum is located on brick-lined Essex Street. It's open Thursdays, Saturdays & Sundays 10 am–5 pm, Fridays 10 am-7 pm and holiday Mondays.
It's $20 per person and you should plan to spend a good 3 hours here. It's not an enormous museum, but there's plenty to see. You can purchase advanced general admission tickets at pem.org/tickets or by calling 978-542-1511.
So Sweet Chocolate & Ice Sculpture Festival
Every February, local shops and businesses downtown have Valentine's day specials involving lots of chocolate and ice sculptures! You can take the trolley around town to see them, or bundle up and walk around to view them yourself. Here's a link to the 2021 Ice Sculptures festival to see a map of where the sculptures are usually placed.
Visiting Salem In Spring
Springtime is personally my favorite season in Salem, just for the gardens alone. With warmer weather, the flowers in bloom, and New Englanders starting to emerge from winter hibernation, this is a lovely time to visit Salem. Here's what I recommend if you're visiting in the spring!
Check out the local gardens
The two gardens I recommend in Salem are the Ropes Mansion on Essex Street and the Derby House gardens, located behind the Derby House on Derby Street. Both have benches where you can sit down and enjoy the view, read a book, or take a break from sightseeing.
Salem's Maritime History
The National Parks Service runs the Salem Maritime Historical Park , which is comprised of a number of historic buildings, like the Salem Custom House, and the Friendship of Salem, pictured above. Salem has a strong history as a trading port and you can learn about it in this of Derby Wharf.
Currently as of October 2023, the Wharf is open for you to explore, as well as the Visitor Center, Park Store, and Restrooms. The Friendship of Salem is only open on certain days per month for tours. Please check the National Park Service website for updates!
Visiting Salem In Summer
Salem in the summertime is a classic nautical scene in New England. Hydrangeas blooming, boats in the harbor, sunshine, and great beach days. Here are some fun things to do if you are visiting Salem in the summer.
Get Ice Cream At Melt
Melt is the local ice cream shop in downtown Salem on Washington Street. While there are others as well (scroll down to the "Where to Eat" section for the details), Melt is my favorite because they have really cool flavors. Try the banana nutella, or opt for their raspberry.
And if you're gluten-free like me, they have great allergen protocols, plus gluten-free cones and sprinkles. A perfect treat to cool you down on a hot day.
Visit The Salem Willows
Relax by the water on one of the benches, bring a hammock, or lay out on the beach - the Willows has it all, plus old-school arcade games and food stalls. It's a great spot for a picnic, too!
Visiting Salem In Fall
Be warned: This is the most popular and busiest season in Salem. Expect long lines, lots of people, traffic, bad parking availability, and that advanced reservations for meals, tours, and admission will be necessary.
If you’re visiting Salem in the fall, you most likely know the connection to the city with witchcraft and the Salem Witch Trials. It’s been shared in history classes, literature, and plays such as Arthur Miller’s The Crucible , and in the cult classic film “Hocus Pocus”.
If you are planning to visit specifically during the month of October, you'll want to arrive early in the day and check out the Haunted Happenings website . It will include information about events, parades, parking (it can be tricky!), festivals, street vendors, and other spooky sites.
Spooky Spots in Salem
To get the ultimate Salem experience with all its spooky history, we highly recommend taking a ghost tour in the evenings. Check out Bewitched After Dark tours for their historic nighttime tours of Salem. Tickets are $30 per person and go for 2 hours past many popular sites in Salem.
For more witchy locations, visit the House of Seven Gables, Salem Witch House, Witch Dungeon Museum, and the Salem Witch Museum . The Burying Point is the old graveyard with tombstones that go back centuries - look for the Mayflower Pilgrim buried there. For one of the most haunted spots in Salem, visit Proctor’s Ledge, the execution site for those accused of witchcraft during the Salem Witch Trials.
To get catch a glimpse of a real apothecary shop with homemade products to purchase visit Red Antler Apothecary . You can also check out these witch shops for a psychic reading.
Update Fall 2023: My friend Evan Northrup is a fantastic magician offering shows this fall in Salem during Haunted Happenings! Check out Evan's website for all of the details on where to see his wonderful magic or his Instagram page too!
Hocus Pocus Filming Locations
The cult classic "Hocus Pocus" is a favorite Halloween movie by 90s kids, myself included. And living in Salem you have plenty of opportunities to see spots where filming took place.
The Ropes Mansion is one of my favorite locations in Salem, and it's the site of Alison's House in Hocus Pocus. You can visit the inside of this historic home, or just walk through the gardens around the back. Max and Dani's house is located past the downtown area, in the area of Salem called The Point on Ocean Avenue. Please keep in mind that people actually live here , so please be respectful of their property and their privacy.
You can also visit Pioneer Village, where the village of Thackery Binx was filmed, or check out The Old Town Hall, where Max and Dani's parents attend the Halloween party. For more Hocus Pocus filming locations, check out this article from Destination Salem.
There are many local shops that have a wide selection of adorable products! Here are some of the best places to find unique stuff in Salem!
Oak & Moss Plants, home decor - modern and minimalist. My absolute favorite!
Roost & Co Stationary, cards, coloring books, and assorted cute stuff. It's the sister store to Oak & Moss.
Spruce The third store in this line up with home decor, candles, pillows. Honestly, all three of these places are fantastic!
Pamplemousse Adorable kitchenware, specialty foods wine, and assorted home items.
Modern Millie’s The best and most amazing thrift store with adorable and classic outfits!
The Boutique Women’s clothing & trendy items, including dresses, tops, blouses, scarves, and more.
Salem Cheese Shop CHEESE, wine, meats, and imported products.
Wicked Good Books If you are a bibliophile like me, nothing beats a good bookstore.
You can find my entire celiac dining guide to eating gluten-free in Salem right here on the blog.
But if you don't have celiac or need to eat gluten-free, here’s where to eat in my ultimate guide to Salem, no matter what your preferences may be!
My favorite breakfast place is Crave . and if you’ve been following my Instagram for any period of time now, you know it’s our go-to weekend spot with celiac safe options. They have recently opened a new location in Salem, too! Make sure to get a North Shore sandwich because it's mindblowing, or pick up some scones/cupcakes (all gluten-free).
Other popular breakfast spots are The Ugly Mug Diner and Red’s Sandwich Shop . Mr. Crepe has also recently become popular for delicious crepes with various fillings.
For an awesome brunch, look into Ledger Restaurant . It’s a former bank that has been transformed into a hip restaurant space and they do great mimosas and brunch options on the weekends.
We have many coffee shops here in Salem besides Dunks and Starbucks. Check out Jaho , Front Street Coffee House , Odd Meter , or Gulu-Gulu , for great coffee and tea, or even a pumpkin spiced latte in the fall.
Bambolina and Flatbread Company both offer more traditional Italian pizzas and flatbreads, but if you are looking for funky, check out Flying Saucer . The amount of Star Trek and space memorabilia, along with their fun pizza toppings and names, makes it a well-loved local stop. Order the Stormtrooper Commander - Dylan’s favorite, and it’s technically not even on the menu anymore and is a secret item. Chicken, ranch, bacon, broccoli are some of the toppings.
Italian & Mediterranean
For a more elegant experience with Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, dine at The Adriatic or Bella Verona for a delicious dinner. The Hawthorne Hotel also has multiple restaurants with wonderful and classy dining options.
Adriatic is our favorite restaurant in Salem and we always come here for anniversary dinners or date nights.
Asian Cuisine
For sushi, check out Koto Grill & Sushi , or Opus for an American and Asian fusion menu. Kokeshi is known for its ramen, and Thai Place serves excellent classic Thai dishes such as pad thai , fried rice, and mango sticky rice.
The Lobster Shanty is a tiny bar and seafood place on Artist’s Row. Give their lobster rolls a try for a classic New England dish. For oysters, steamers, and other local options including the classic New England clam chowdah, try Sea Level Oyster Bar or Finz . Turner’s Seafood is a more upscale sit-down restaurant that has excellent seafood and allergen protocols in historic Lyceum Hall.
Howling Wolf Taqueria has quesadillas, tacos, burritos, nachos, and everything in between. The decor is fun and looks like something from a Day of the Dead celebration. Expect big crowds and tasty dishes- including margaritas and avocado fries.
American/Bar & Grill
The Boston Hot Dog Company serves specialty hot dogs and sausages. The Derby , formerly Tavern in the Square, is an American bar and grill with burgers, sandwiches, and more. Opus , as mentioned earlier for an Asian fusion menu, also does excellent burgers and dinners. The Village Tavern is a pub that has lots of tv's for sports watching, pool tables, and is usually busy.
Healthy Eats
Life Alive Cafe is an organic cafe serving up juices, grain bowls, kombucha, soups, teas, and acai bowls. The Juicery is a similar cafe with bowls, juices, and other health-conscious options.
Sweets & Treats
Melt Ice Cream is allergen-friendly and full of eclectic flavors. Captain Dusty’s Ice Cream is down by the Wharf and a local favorite. Essex Street recently opened another new sweet shop, Kakawa Chocolate House ! Jodi Bee Bakes is a vegan bakery and cafe (Sadly closed as of September 2023). And Goodnight Fatty makes crazy good cookies (that's what my friends and Dylan say).
Deacon Giles makes tasty cocktails and really good gin. They are small and a bit off the beaten path in Salem, but so worth it. You can take a tour of the distillery or try out one of their concoctions in the Tasting Room.
Far From The Tree is our number one favorite spot for a drink in Salem! Amazing 100% gluten-free ciders , games, great patio space, dog-friendly, and pop-ups/trivia on a regular basis.
Notch is a brewery offering traditional beers in a beer-hall setting. They also have a nice outdoor Biergarten and an exciting Oktoberfest every fall.
All Soul's Lounge is a new cocktail lounge just across the street from Notch. They also make a mean grilled cheese sandwich.
East Regiment Beer Company is a new brewery in Salem that opened just a few years ago. A friend of a friend started the brewery and we've heard great things.
O’Neills is your typical Irish pub and pub fare.
The Roof offers drinks atop, you guessed it, a rooftop! It’s above the Hotel Salem on Essex Street.
Bit Bar is an 80’s themed pub with funky drinks, arcade games, and pinball. They do fun events like crafts, trivia, and music bingo.
If you enjoy live music, check out Opus Underground - the basement of Opus for a bricked music room and bar with great bands. Hopefully they can resume having bands play here agian soon. Artist’s Row usually has live music out front of the Lobster Shanty, and Rockafellas has dance parties and DJs frequently.
I hope this guide to Salem lets you enjoy more of Witch City with a few local favorites! Salem is such a fun town and there's always something going on.
Learn more about visiting New England's national park - Acadia , in Maine.
Explore celiac travel guides to Boston , New Hampshire , Vermont , and Maine .
Discover our favorite secret spots for leaf peeping in New Hampshire during the fall.
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Dubbed “Witch City,” there’s more history and supernatural speculation here than just about anywhere else in the country. That said, it’s not all witches and ghosts. Salem is a beautiful seaside town with excellent food, beautiful architecture, stunning hotels, and bed and breakfasts. October is prime time to visit, with the Haunted Happenings celebration in full swing. Parades, film nights, haunted houses… and huge crowds might be your thing. Didn’t book your stay in time for this year’s festivities? I suggest planning your trip after things mellow out for next year. Or if you still want to experience Salen, plan now for when things have mellowed out a bit. Trust me, it’ll still be fun and waaaay less crazy.
Your best bet is flying into Boston for those not within driving distance. You can rent a car or make it easy on yourself by taking the train. In fact, if you’re planning a long weekend in Boston, Salem makes for a perfect day trip. The commuter rail at North Station will take you into Salem in about 30 minutes, dropping you within walking distance of just about everything. You may also take a ferry from Boston between May and October.
I love finding interesting places to stay while visiting historic towns. Morning Glory Bed & Breakfast , a beautifully restored Georgian Federal home, dates back to 1808. Owner Bob Shae, a native of Salem, keeps the inn in stunning form (and has tons of recs for visitors!). In addition to a fantastic breakfast, there’s a 700-square-foot ocean view terrace; off-street parking, and if you don’t want to drive, they’ll send someone to pick you up at the ferry or train station. It’s in the heart of everything, but on a quiet street near the seaside (and across the street from the historic House of Seven Gables).
For more of a hotel experience, check out The Merchant . The building dates back to 1784 and, in the years since, has served as a home, a tavern, an office building, and a rare bookshop. Today, this historic, 11-room hotel mixes modern, fun, vibrant character with the building’s old-school charm. Spend the night in the same room George Washington did in 1789 (hint: it’s the room named after him).
One of the most beloved eateries has to be Red’s Sandwich Shop . Located in the historic London Coffee House (built in 1698), this place does classic diner fare, and they do it well. Fried egg sandwiches, omelets, and lots and lots of sandwiches.
For a modern twist on diner grub, hit up the Ugly Mug . Think breakfast poutine; or their take on chicken and waffles, made with duck confit and candied pecans atop a waffle, served with a bourbon maple syrup reduction. Kids and adults will love their soda fountain drinks, from the traditional New York Egg Cream to the unconventional Spring Sprang, made with elderflower and ginger syrup with a splash of lemon.
Who doesn’t like pizza? You’ll find delicious Neapolitan-style pies at Bambolina restaurant. Try the Autumn Harvest, made with roasted cauliflower, aged provolone, truffle essence, and mascarpone, topped with a soft poached egg. Their simple Margherita is fantastic as well.
Good bar food, cocktails, and classic arcade games? Count me in! Bit Bar offers next-level (video game puns!) mac and cheese, burgers, tater tots, and salads alongside your childhood favorite games. You really can’t go wrong with the food, so I guess the real question is which to play first: Centipede, Q-Bert, Miss Pac-Man, or Galaga.
I love a good brewery, but being a bit of a lightweight means, many taprooms pour stronger stuff than I want. Enter Notch Brewing , which specializes in session beers, aka beers that won’t knock you on your Massachusetts. A session beer is 4.5% ABV or lower, but that doesn’t mean they’re not delicious. Try a perfected European brew, like the Polotmavy Czech Amber Lager or the Dog and Pony NE IPA. Bring your own food, order from one of the food trucks that often pops up, or enjoy a delicious Bavarian pretzel from their onsite kitchen.
Of course, no trip to Salem is complete without a little seafood. Visit the Lobster Shanty for a great seafood spot that’s masquerading as a dive bar. Awesome clam chowder, spicy crab cakes, sammiches, and more.
There’s something really special about the architecture here. Let’s face it—there are not too many places in the USA with buildings dating back to the 17 th Century. Soak up much of the town’s architectural history in the McIntire Historic District , named after famed local architect Samuel McIntire. Head out on the McIntire Historic District self-guided walking trail, which is one mile (about one hour’s walk). The trail is marked on posts and sidewalk plaques by one of McIntire’s favorite designs – a sheaf of wheat, symbolizing the prosperity of Salem and the new United States. Here’s a map if you’re interested .
You should make a special trip to visit the House of Seven Gables , the place that inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne’s book of the same title. The seaside mansion was built in 1668 for Captain John Turner I. Admission includes a 40-minute guided tour of the mansion, a visit to Nathaniel Hawthorne’s birthplace, a stroll through the Colonial Revival seaside gardens, and more.
You can’t talk about Salem without mentioning its infamous witch hunt. There are all sorts of museums, shops, tours, and more capitalizing on the witch thing. It’s fun to dig into the kitschiness of it all, but it’s worth mentioning that 20 innocent people died during these 1692 trials. Steep yourself into the complicated history at Salem Witch Trial Museum . The main exhibition features thirteen life-size stage sets, figures, lighting, and a stirring narration.
Another notable locale is the Jonathan Corwin House (1640–1718), aka the Witch House. Corwin served on the Court of Oyer and Terminer, which ultimately sent nineteen to the gallows. It’s the only structure still standing in Salem with direct ties to the Salem witch trials.
The Salem Witch Memorial is a must. Dedicated in 1992 by Nobel Laureate Eli Wiesel, it’s a somber, understated place to remember and honor those executed in 1692.
Okay, now that we got the serious historical stuff out of the way, let’s talk about fun stuff! I love a good walking tour—it’s a way to get the lay of the land, learn interesting facts from locals, and get your 10,000 steps in. For a great overview of the city, check out Hocus Pocus Tours . This 90-minute walking tour delves into Salem’s infamous Witch Trial Hysteria, the life and times of Nathaniel Hawthorne, plus fun stops showcasing sites from the cult classic Halloween flick, Hocus Pocus . If you’re a fan, you know it takes place in Salem and yes, it was filmed here.
Looking for something spookier? Book a ghost tour with Salem Historical Tours . This lantern-lit stroll features engaging guides that creatively convey Salem’s authentic haunted history. Delve into Salem’s macabre past guides regale you with true tales of documented paranormal activity, chilling cemeteries, and centuries-old murder. Bwahahaha!
And if spooky isn’t your thing, get out on the water with Mahi Harbor Cruises . You can opt for one of their specialty charter cruises from May to October. Think daytime trips with live music, sunset cocktail cruises, and fall foliage and lighthouse cruises.
One of my all time favorite places ,
Did you actually take those tours? One of them is #16 on Trip Advisor.
My two daughters and I have been dying to get to Salem during the Halloween season for years now. We actually had it planned all out this year and then we needed the money we had set aside for the trip for bills. Thank you for posting all about Salem and it’s fun stuff! Maybe next year!
Salem in October is the best! If you can’t make a walking tour (my poor father uses a cane and can’t go long distances) don’t forget to jump on the trolley tours. When we went we learned that a statue honoring Elizabeth Montgomery (the actress who delightfully played Samantha the witch on the “Bewitched” series) was in Salem.
Interesting, I just did a 4-part story on Salem complete with bakery and restaurant guides before you. Maybe Sam is Free Time Journal’s #1 fan?!
A long time ago I visited Salem. Back in2010 I still love it over there
I visited Salem and I like it
This is on my bucket list! I’m a huge fan of all things scary, so this is the place for me at this time of year! I love all of the great suggestions – as usual.
Hello, We also have a tour could the Salem Smugglers’ Tour that we would like added to your page if you would be so kind! We offer tours at 3 pm and 8 pm 7 days a week. The More than Witches Tour we provide goes over how Salem made America’s first millionaires through a series of smuggling tunnels. These millionaires then went on to shape our government and our daily lives to this day! We have stories about the first drunken elephant in America, the murde the game Clue is based on, and how one man from Salem almost controlled the White House, Congress, the Supreme Court, and the National Bank! To find out more info please visit http://www.salemsmugglerstour.com .
We also work with Angelica of the Angels’ 30th Love and Passion Psychic Faire with over 8 psychics throughout the month. They are the home of the Salem Love Psychic, Rev. Barbara. They are offering a group psychic reading for over 3 people at discount rates that a whole BFF Gang can sit with one psychic at the same time. They can make it like a party. Then they also have great one on one services to help anyone find their way to love, or at least passion. They can be reached at http://www.salemloveangels.com . Thanks for your time and consideration. Cheers, Chris
I’m in love with a Witch
On one of my visits to Boston with friends many years ago we took a side tour and Salem was one our stops. It was a very interesting place to visit. Hoping you will add Boston to one your Places to Love. Many good memories.
I actually visited Salem last October for a few days during Halloween week (October 2020). Because of COVID, the crowds were a fraction of what they normally would have been. I went to a number of places in your article and the crowds were minimal. A great trip!
I spent Halloween week in Salem last year (October 2020). Because of COVID, the crowd was a fraction of what it normally is. I went to several places in your article and the crowds were minimal. Overall, a great trip!
Salem in October is heavy on the spooky / crowded / ghoulish vibe – and the rest of the year it is glorious for a lot of other reasons! The witch stuff is actually a teensy part of the city’s history. The Peabody Essex Museum is world-class, and owns several nearby old houses for early-period architecture buffs. Within it is also the Yin-Yu Tang, a classic home relocated from China (Salem made its early fortune off the China trade). In the neighborhood are also lots of trendy restaurants for lunch and evening, and a fab bakery, a cheese shop, and Jolie Tea with some really interesting blends and a good proper afternoon tea service…..
Yes, Salem is a fun place, but if you have a low tolerance for crowds, long lines & wait times, limited parking, elevated prices, etc., etc… I would not recommend that you go anytime close to Halloween. It will probably be worse this year due to pent up damand, and covid is also making a comeback… i don’t mean to be a downer, but just be prepared if you go there in October – if you must, try to go mid-week earlier in the month.
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If I were to ask you to start naming some of the most naturally beautiful…
If you’ve been following along with each new season of “Places to Love,” you’ll notice…
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The Halloween capital will put a spell on you.
If you're a fan of the occult and macabre, chances are you've had Salem, Massachusetts on your travel bucket list since the first time you binge-watched Hocus Pocus . The 400-year-old New England town is infamously known for the Salem Witch Trials of 1692—most notably dramatized in Arthur Miller's 1953 play (and required high school read) The Crucible— and has become a global destination for Halloween lovers and history junkies alike over the last few decades.
Salem proudly displays its witchy heritage (fun fact: a witch serves as both the local police department's trademark insignia and the Salem High School mascot), and while you can visit its sites all-year-round, the month-long annual Haunted Happenings festival in October is when you can experience the town's spooky spirit at its fullest potential. Here, the best way to spend 24 hours in the "Witch City."
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To fully appreciate Salem, you need to know its deep-rooted past. Start your trip off by visiting the Salem Witch Museum , which offers an in-depth presentation of the 1692 Witch Trials (guided by a sinister recorded voiceover and some seriously creepy wax figures) followed by a fascinating look at how the perception of witches has evolved throughout history. (This is the most visited museum in Salem, so I'd suggest getting there right when it opens to beat the rush.)
Continue your history lesson with a live-action reenactment of the trials at the Witch Dungeon Museum , followed by a tour of a recreated dungeon where many of the accused were imprisoned. You can also check out Imprisoned! 1692 , a walking tour that relives the horrors of the Old Witch Gaol (jail) at the actual dungeon location (it's now a corporate office building, but locals claim that the site is one of the most haunted in Salem). Finally, head over to the Instagram-friendly Witch House , the gothy former home of Judge Jonathan Corwin and Salem's only remaining building with direct ties to the 1692 events.
Now that you're witch trial-ed out, The House of the Seven Gables is another historic abode worth visiting; it's slightly outside of the city center, but a must-see if you're a fan of old, dark romantic literature and colonial architecture.
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The heart of Salem's Halloween-themed activities is located near the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall, where the town's Creative Collective merchant market takes place. Here you'll find a plethora of costume-clad street performers, psychic shops, street food vendors, haunted attractions, and bar crawls.
Shop artisan soy candles at Witch City Wicks or snag some custom-fit fangs and gothic jewelry at Vampfangs . Read up on occult literature at Wicked Good Books and stock up on steampunk home decor at Emporium 32 .
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Essex Street is also home to Count Orlok's Nightmare Gallery , an absolute must-visit for horror movie fans. The cinematic museum features more 60 life-size wax figures of your favorite movie villains (Frankenstein, Freddy Krueger, Chucky—you name it) professionally crafted by Hollywood special effects artists. If you need a breather from all of the Halloween action, the Peabody Essex Museum , only a stone's throw away, features a wide variety of work by artists from all over the globe.
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All of that ghoulish gallivanting is likely to work up an appetite and, luckily, Salem is host to a thriving food scene. For brunch, go to Sea Level Oyster Bar , a lively, casual spot with breathtaking views of Salem Harbor. It's New England, so the fresh seafood and raw bar are top notch (my personal picks are the shrimp cocktail, lobster egg white frittata, and seafood shepherd's pie), but the non-pescatarian options are just as delicious.
Wind down for dinner at Adriatic , a cozy, dimly-lit restaurant that serves up traditional Italian dishes with modern Mediterranean twists. Make sure you order the "bag of munchkins" (a.k.a. lobster corn fritters)—they're amazing.
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Need a sugar rush? Head over to Kakawa Chocolate House for some of the best hot chocolate you've ever tasted. The premium chocolate shop offers one-of-a-kind truffles, drinking chocolate elixirs, agave caramels, solid dark chocolates, and homemade ice cream. You'll never be able to drink grocery store powdered mix again.
If you're still feeling peckish at the end of your journey, grab a nightcap and a hearty bowl of clam chowder at Turner's Seafood in Lyceum Hall. Be warned: The historic restaurant is allegedly haunted by a lady in white, so you might end up dining with an unexpected visitor.
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The best way to end your day in the Halloween capital is with a good old fashioned haunted tour. There are literally dozens to choose from, which can be overwhelming, but I highly recommend going with Spellbound Tours . Dr. Vitka–an actual paranormal investigator–is your leader, keeping you engaged with his seasoned, "historically accurate" knowledge of Salem's dark past.
You'll learn stories about modern-day vampires, visit documented haunted sites, uncover little-known facts about the infamous witch trials, and see where Hocus Pocus was filmed (including the town hall where Bette Midler performed the legendary " I Put A Spell On You " dance number).
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Recasting 'Hocus Pocus' for Halloween of Today
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The best time to visit Salem is September through November. Although you'll have to contend with hordes of tourists looking to explore the Witch City come October, Salem's jam-packed calendar of events, breathtaking fall foliage and spooky Halloween decorations make it worth the trip. A summer visit won't disappoint either, as warm weather in the 70s and 80s makes exploring Salem's outdoor attractions like Winter Island and Salem Willows Park a treat. Come winter, the chilly weather calls for added layers, but this is also the best time of year to catch a deal on airfare and hotels. If you can't handle the cold, but don't want to deal with the summer and fall crowds, visit between March and May when many of Salem's tours and attractions reopen for the season.
Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center
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The office of tourism & cultural affairs for salem, massachusetts.
As the official destination marketing organization for the City of Salem, Destination Salem cooperatively markets Salem as one of Massachusetts’ best destinations for families, couples, domestic and international travelers who are seeking an authentic New England experience, cultural enrichment, American history, fine dining, unique shopping and fun.
The organization is a nonprofit, public-private partnership funded by both the City of Salem and the businesses that invest in advertising in the annual Salem City Guide & Map and the annual Guide to Haunted Happenings.
Destination Salem Shipping: 245 Derby Street, Salem, MA 01970 Mailing: P.O. Box 630, Salem, MA 01970 877 SALEM MA (725-3662) Toll Free | (978) 741-3252 Telephone [email protected]
Destination Salem cooperatively markets, promotes and manages tourism in Salem. The organization advocates the kind of tourism which improves the quality of life for Salem residents and provides the greatest economic benefits to Salem’s tax payers. Destination Salem strives to take a leadership position in the development and promotion of high-end, year-round tourism.
Destination Salem’s marketing initiatives focus on the following markets: Leisure Travelers, Regional Visitors, Group Tours, LGBTQ Visitors, International Travelers and Cruise Passengers. The organization strategically places destination advertising and organizes cooperative advertising to reach audiences in these markets.
Click here for Destination Salem’s 2023 Media Kit. For recent media coverage and press releases, click here .
Salem Group Tour Profile (2024)
Salem Cruise Profile
International Profile (2024)
Wedding Profile (2022)
Accessibility in Salem (2021)
2024 Salem City Guide & Map Advertising
2024 Salem Haunted Happenings Brochure
2023 Light Pole Banner Sponsorship
Ashley Judge, Executive Director Stacia Cooper, Assistant Director/Sales Kathryn Horrigan , Communications Manager Sharon Driscoll , Info Center Retail Manager
The Board of Directors of Destination Salem consists of 15 to 17 directors. The board of directors includes representatives from each of the following organizations and business sectors: Accommodations, Attractions, Non-Profit/Cultural Institutions, Restaurants, Retail, Tours/Transportation, and Salem Resident. Representatives from the City of Salem, Salem City Council, and Salem Chamber of Commerce shall serve Ex Officio. The Board of Directors meets monthly on the third Thursday.
Executive Board
President Derek O’Brien, Peabody Essex Museum
First Vice-President Danielle Turner, Turner’s Seafood
Second Vice-President Jim Bostick, Salem Arts Association
Treasurer Jessica Moody, Moody’s Home & Gifts
Secretary Wendy Meigs, Salem Resident
Past President Tim Maguire, Salem Night Tour
At Large Mitchell Cox, Salem Waterfront Hotel Karen Davis, Coon’s Cards & Gift Shop Alaina Ferriero, Hawthorne Hotel Karen Gahagan, Salem State University Center for the Arts Teri Kalgren, Artemisia Botanicals Dakota Russell, The House of the Seven Gables Matt Smith, District Trading Kylie Sullivan, Salem Main Streets Ashley Tina, Good Witch of Salem
Mayor Dominick Pangallo, City of Salem Tom Daniel, City of Salem Rinus Oosthoek, Salem Chamber of Commerce Stacia Cooper, Assistant Director
Salem City Council Liaison
Alice Merkl, Councillor at Large
National Park Liaison
Jennifer Hardin, Salem Maritime National Historic Site
Comprised of marketing professionals who work in Salem’s tourism industry, the Destination Salem Marketing Committee meets monthly to review opportunities, publications, and strategy. The committee makes recommendations regarding marketing decisions to the executive director and the board of directors. The marketing committee meets monthly on the first Wednesday.
John Andrews, Creative Collective
Stacia Cooper, Destination Salem
Erica Feldmann, Haus Witch Home + Healing
Cheri Grishin, Essex HeritageTina Jordan, Salem Witch Museum
Karen Scalia, Salem Food Tours
Jeanne Sullivan, City Experiences / Salem Ferry
Kylie Sullivan, Salem Main Streets
Whitney Van Dyke, Peabody Essex Museum
Kathryn Horrigan, Destination Salem
Zoe Quinn, House of the Seven Gables
Virginia Cherol, Salem 400+
Jeremy Fiske, City of Salem
Salem’s tourism community is dedicated to acceptance of diversity and combating discrimination. We are committed to the wellbeing of our community and encourage everyone to challenge bigotry and to foster a prejudice-free environment in which all people are respected, heard, and appreciated for who they are and how they identify.
Destination Salem reminds our visitors, employees, and residents to hold each other accountable, take care of one another, and be kind.
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Let Destination Salem be your guide to exploring the city of Salem, MA. Experience Salem art, culture, unique shops & boutiques, and delicious fine dining. Dive into Salem's Witch Trials, maritime, architecture, and literary history and explore museums and a National Heritage Site.
Contact. (978) 741-3252. [email protected]. Socials. Sign-Up To Join Our Mailing List. Download our FREE Digital Flipbook & Map Of Downtown Salem, MA. Find all of the information you need, all in one place.
Explore Salem's history, culture, and attractions, from the witch trials to the maritime trade. Find out how to get there, what to do, where to eat, and where to stay in this editor's choice destination.
Discover the best destinations for grown-up getaways. Zach Watson December 28, 2023. Ranking of the top 14 things to do in Salem, MA. Travelers favorites include #1 The House of the Seven Gables ...
6. Charter Street Cemetery. Also known as the Old Burying Point, this is Salem's oldest cemetery, dating from 1637. Early wooden markers have rotted away, so the oldest identified grave is that of Doraty Cromwell, who died in 1673.
About Destination Salem. Contact. (978) 741-3252. [email protected]. Socials. Sign-Up To Join Our Mailing List. View essential travel information when visiting Salem, including directions, the best places to park, and our FREE travel guide.
This 17th century post-medieval style mansion once belonged to a wealthy sea captain, John Turner I. Between 1845-1849, Hawthorne visited the house while working in Salem, becoming inspired by its appearance to write a namesake novel. Today, a $20 ticket includes a guided house tour and access to the grounds.
You can't visit Salem, Massachusetts, without delving headfirst into this New England town's eerie past. Best known as the location of the 1692 Salem witch trials, a period of mass hysteria that ...
House of Seven Gables. This 17th-century house was made famous from the National Hawthorne novel "The House of the Seven Gables (also conveniently located near the Salem Maritime Historic Site). The house was built in 1668 for Captain John Turner I, the head of one of the most successful maritime families in the New England colonies.
1.1 Getting Around Salem Massachusetts. 1.2 Where to Eat in Salem Massachusetts. 1.3 Where to Stay in Salem MA. 2 18 Top Things to do in Salem Massachusetts. 2.1 Salem Witch Trials Memorial. 2.2 Harbor Sweets. 2.3 Count Orlok's Nightmare Gallery. 2.4 Salem Willows. 2.5 Peabody Essex Museum.
The Bewitched statue can be found at the corner of Washington and Essex in downtown Salem. 6. Walk Around The Salem Maritime National Historic Site. One of the best things to do in Salem, MA is to enjoy the waterfront, and visiting the Maritimes National Historic Site is a great way to spend some time by the water.
Things to Do in Salem, MA (In One Day) Stop 1 - The Witch House. Stop 2 - Ropes Mansion and Garden. Stop 3 - Lunch at Bambolina. Stop 4 - The Burying Point & Salem Witch Trials Memorial. Stop 5 - The House of the Seven Gables. Stop 6 - Ye Olde Pepper Companie. Stop 7 - Salem Common. Stop 8 - Bewitched Sculpture.
Salem, Massachusetts. 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.
The Salem Ferry docked off Blaney Street. 42.5219 -70.8804 2 Salem Ferry, 10 Blaney St, ☏ +1 978-741-0220. 4-5 ferries daily May 26 - Oct 31. Hop aboard the Nathaniel Bowditch, a 92-foot catamaran with a top speed of 30 knots which makes the trip between Salem and Boston's Long Wharf in 50 minutes to an hour.
2024. 5. Count Orlok's Nightmare Gallery. 1,043. Speciality Museums. WE HAVE MOVED to 217 Essex Street in Salem! This cinematic Monster museum is one of Salem's most unique and sometimes overlooked attractions! If you enjoy monsters, don't miss this attraction!
Salem in the summertime is a classic nautical scene in New England. Hydrangeas blooming, boats in the harbor, sunshine, and great beach days. Here are some fun things to do if you are visiting Salem in the summer. Get Ice Cream At Melt. Melt is the local ice cream shop in downtown Salem on Washington Street.
It's fun to dig into the kitschiness of it all, but it's worth mentioning that 20 innocent people died during these 1692 trials. Steep yourself into the complicated history at Salem Witch Trial Museum. The main exhibition features thirteen life-size stage sets, figures, lighting, and a stirring narration.
Salem, Massachusetts—aka Witch City—is known as the spookiest spot in the U.S. But witches and ghosts are just part of the fun in this charming New England community. "The witch history isn't the whole history," says John Andrews, who founded the Creative Collective, an avant-garde grassroots organization that supports local businesses. "There was the maritime trade, and we have a ...
Student & Group Tour Info. About Destination Salem. Contact. (978) 741-3252. [email protected]. Socials. Sign-Up To Join Our Mailing List. Are you visiting Salem, MA? Find the best things to do in the area, such as guided tours, museums, psychics, and more, to plan your trip.
If you're a fan of the occult and macabre, chances are you've had Salem, Massachusetts on your travel bucket list since the first time you binge-watched Hocus Pocus.The 400-year-old New England ...
Make the most out of your trip and explore the most essential places to see while you visit Salem, MA. ... Travel Info; Free Guide; Blog; Salem Witch Trials; Port of Salem; Salem Film Office; Student & Group Tour Info; About Destination Salem; Contact (978) 741-3252. [email protected]. Socials.
Guide to the best hotels and things to do in Salem, MA. Maps, travel tips and more.
Thank you for your interest in Salem! Please choose one of the following options below and fill out the required information to receive our free Visitor Guide. If you have any questions please contact us at 503-581-4325 or [email protected].
Destination Salem Shipping: 245 Derby Street, Salem, MA 01970 Mailing: P.O. Box 630, Salem, MA 01970 877 SALEM MA (725-3662) Toll Free | (978) 741-3252 Telephone [email protected]. Mission. Destination Salem cooperatively markets, promotes and manages tourism in Salem.