Things to do in Salem

Liz & Forrest

From Liz & Forrest's guidebook

The Salem Witch Museum is admittedly hokey and a bit dated, but it’s also something nearly every visitor ends up wanting to see. It’s a classic tourist stop and part of the shared Salem experience—for better or worse. If it’s on your list, buy tickets well in advance, or log on right at 8:00 AM the day of to snag availability before it sells out.

Juan

From Juan's guidebook

The Salem Witch Museum offers an engaging overview of the 1692 witch trials, with immersive exhibits and storytelling that bring history to life. It’s a popular spot, so consider booking tickets in advance, especially in October. If you’re a history fan, it’s worth the visit!

Asmait

From Asmait's guidebook

One of Salem’s most popular spots. The life size exhibits walk you through what really happened in 1692. It’s about a 15 minute walk from the house. Definitely book ahead in October since it gets busy.

Alex

From Alex's guidebook

This museum has so much to offer from local history to incredible special exhibits to the unique experience of walking thru the Yin Yu Tang House which was dismantled in China & reconstructed here.

Gil

From Gil's guidebook

World-class museum with collections spanning maritime art, Asian artifacts, and rotating exhibits. Don’t miss the Yin Yu Tang, a restored Qing Dynasty Chinese house.

Todd

From Todd's guidebook

Peabody Essex Museum (PEM), located in Salem, Massachusetts, weaves together art, culture, and history in a mesmerizing tapestry. Here’s why it’s a must-visit: Rich Heritage: Founded in 1799, PEM is the oldest continuously operating museum in the United States. Its historic building, with a light-filled atrium, sets the stage for exploration. Global Collections: Wander through vast galleries showcasing New England decorative arts, maritime history, and an exceptional array of Asian art. The preindustrial Japanese collection here is world-renowned. Yin Yu Tang: Step into a Chinese home—Yin Yu Tang—shipped from China’s Huizhou region. It’s a living testament to cross-cultural connections. Interactive Experiences: The Art & Nature Center engages visitors with games and exhibits designed for all ages. Little ones will love the age-specific ‘Gallery Discovery Kits’. Whether you’re drawn by art, history, or curiosity, PEM promises an enriching journey through time and culture. 🏛️🌏🎨

Wayne

From Wayne's guidebook

Tour the 1668 home that inspired Hawthorne’s novel, with seaside gardens overlooking the inner Salem harbor!

Amy

From Amy's guidebook

Walk straight out the door one block and tour the The House of the Seven Gables made famous by American author Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel The House of the Seven Gables (1851). It's 1668 colonial mansion named for its gables. The house is now a non-profit museum, with an admission fee charged for tours, as well as an active settlement house with programs for children. It was built for Captain John Turner and remained in the family for three generations

Ryan

From Ryan's guidebook

My personal favorite since I was a child. The House of the Seven Gables is a historic seaside mansion made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, offering guided tours, gardens, and waterfront views.

Asmait

From Asmait's guidebook

The only building left in Salem with direct ties to the witch trials. It’s small but really interesting with preserved rooms and artifacts from the 1600s. It’s an easy 15 minute walk from downtown and worth seeing early in the day during October.

Alexandra

From Alexandra's guidebook

The Witch House is the last structure in Salem that is directly tied to the Witchcraft Trials of 1692. This was the 17th century home of Judge Jonathan Corwin. We are a historic house museum offering fascinating insight into this period.

Kristen

From Kristen's guidebook

The Jonathan Corwin House in Salem, Massachusetts, known as The Witch House, was the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin (1640–1718) and is the only structure still standing in Salem with direct ties to the Salem witch trials of 1692

Paul

From Paul's guidebook

This is one of my favorite parts of Salem! It has arcades, sea food ,pizza , best popcorn in town , gourmet ice cream, beaches, small biking and hiking paths and scenic views of the harbor. It’s usually super crowded on weekends ! And full of skunks at night, so avoid going at night.

Margaret

From Margaret's guidebook

Beautiful coastal walk, about 3 miles roundtrip from The Dowager Countess. The Salem Willows is a scenic, seaside public park. One of Salem’s Treasures, Salem Willows is a great way to spend the day. With a video arcade, the best popcorn in New England, a picnic area, and a seaside promenade, you won’t want to leave. The Salem Willows is open year-round to the public. The amusement portion of the park operates seasonally and consists of various privately owned businesses, where hours of operations may vary.

Michele

From Michele's guidebook

Oceanfront, boardwalk- style arcade offering nostalgic favorites plus today’s most popular games. Located in beautiful Salem Willows Park. Fun for kids of all ages!