20 Best Things to Do in Salem, MA

The historic city of Salem, Massachusetts, is a must-see for history buffs and architecture lovers.

Salem was the site of the famous witch trials of 1692, and many historical landmarks associated with that event still stand today.

Salem is also home to several museums, galleries, and other attractions worth visiting.

Its abundance of things to see and do makes it an ideal destination for tourists from all walks of life.

Whether you're interested in exploring the city's unique history, checking out its range of shops and restaurants, or simply taking in the sights, Salem has something for everyone.

Here are the best things to do in Salem, Massachusetts:

Visit the Salem Witch Museum

Since Salem is such an integral part of American history, the Salem Witch Museum was established to educate the public about what happened during the witch trials of 1962.

In Salem, individuals accused of practicing witchcraft were put on trial and, if found guilty, were sentenced to death.

The Salem Witch Museum is located in downtown Salem on Washington Street and is a must-see for anyone visiting Salem.

The museum has life-size recreations of the Salem witch trials and exhibits on the history of witchcraft.

Visitors can also learn about the science behind the accusations of witchcraft.

Take a Look at the House of the Seven Gables

The House of the Seven Gables is one of Salem's most iconic buildings.

It was built in 1668 and is open to the public for tours.

The house is named for its seven gables, inspired by Nathaniel Hawthorne's 1851 novel The House of the Seven Gables.

The house's interior is just as mesmerizing as the exterior, with period furniture and paintings and a hidden staircase leading to a secret room.

Tours of the house are led by knowledgeable guides who bring the history of the building and its occupants to life.

If you're looking for a Salem attraction that is sure to please, add the House of the Seven Gables to your list.

Relive Salem's Rich History at The Witch House

Salem is a city steeped in history, and that history is on full display at The Witch House.

This is the former home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, who was one of the key figures in the Salem witch trials of 1692.

The Witch House is open for tours.

It's a must-see for anyone interested in Salem's dark past.

On the tour, you will learn about Judge Corwin and the witch trials.

You will also see Judge Corwin's bedroom, which is said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman accused of being a witch.

Look into the Wax Figures of the Salem Wax Museum

The Salem Wax Museum is one of the quirkiest places to visit in Salem.

As its name suggests, the museum contains wax figures of historical figures and celebrities.

Some figures are pretty life-like, while others are decidedly less so, but all of them are fascinating in their own way.

The Salem Wax Museum is located on Derby Street, right in the heart of Salem's historic district.

Best of all, it's open year-round, so you can enjoy it no matter when you visit Salem.

If you're looking for a unique Salem experience, check out Salem Wax Museum.

Discover the Salem Maritime National Historic Site

Located on Derby Street, the Salem Maritime National Historic Site is a must-see for anyone interested in Salem's maritime history.

This site includes several maritime buildings and artifacts, including the Salem Custom House, the tall ship Friendship, and the National Park Service Visitor Center.

The Salem Custom House is the oldest custom house in the United States, and it was here that Salem ships brought back goods from around the world.

Meanwhile, the tall ship Friendship is a replica of one of Salem's early trading ships and is open for tours.

The National Park Service Visitor Center is an official Visitor Center for the Essex National Heritage Area.

It's a great place to learn more about Salem Maritime National Historic Site, and it also has a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs.

Explore Salem's Rich Colonial History at the Peabody Essex Museum

One of the best ways to experience Salem's past is to visit the Peabody Essex Museum.

This museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in the United States.

It is located in East India Square and features art, culture, and history exhibitions.

The museum also has a library and archives open to the public.

If you're interested in Salem's history, the Peabody Essex Museum is a must-see.

Take an Afternoon Stroll along Salem Common

Salem Common is a Salem landmark and a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

The park is located in North Washington Square and is a popular spot for walking, picnicking, and relaxing.

Salem Common also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Salem Folk Festival and the Salem Art Fair.

The park is well-maintained and provides a beautiful setting for a stroll.

Whether you're looking to get some exercise or soak up the city's atmosphere, Salem Common is the perfect place to enjoy your Salem experience.

Take the Afternoon Off and Explore the Salem Pirate Museum

Salem is well known for its witch history, but did you know that it was also home to pirates?

The Salem Pirate Museum is located on Derby Street and explores Salem's piracy history.

It features several interactive exhibits, including a pirate ship replica that visitors can board.

The Salem Witch Village is also located nearby, making it the perfect place to learn about witch history and piracy.

Whether you're a fan of pirates or witches, check out the Salem Pirate Museum—you'll be sure to have a spell-binding time!

Check Out the Salem Witch Trials Memorial

The Salem Witch Trials Memorial is located on Liberty Street and commemorates the victims of the tragic witch trials in 1692.

Today, Salem honors their memory with the Salem Witch Trials Memorial.

The memorial features a simple yet poignant design.

Nineteen stone slabs are arranged in a semi-circle, each engraved with the name of one of the victims.

In the center of the memorial is a small pool of water, which reflects the light and creates a tranquil atmosphere.

The Salem Witch Trials Memorial is a fitting tribute to those who lost their lives during that dark period in Salem's history.

Learn More about Salem's Dark History at the Salem Witch Village

Salem is known for its dark past, and the Salem Witch Village is a spooky reminder

It is a living history museum that recreates the Salem witch trials.

This attraction is located on Lynwood Street.

If you're looking to get a taste of Salem's dark history, the Salem Witch Village is a must-see.

Discover the Birthplace of Renowned Author Nathaniel Hawthorne

Nathaniel Hawthorne was a prominent American author born in Salem, Massachusetts, in 1804.

Hawthorne's Birthplace, located on Salem Street, is a historic house preserved as a museum.

It's an integral part of American literary history.

This place is worth a visit for anyone interested in Nathaniel Hawthorne or American literature.

Visitors to Hawthorne's Birthplace can learn about the author's life and work and see some of the personal artifacts that belonged to him.

Take a Hike at Forest River Conservation Area

Forest River Conservation Area is an excellent spot for hiking and bird-watching.

It is located on Forest River Road.

The conservation area has a dense forest and many animals, including deer, beaver, otter, mink, weasel, marten, fisher, fox, coyote, wolf, and bear.

You'll also find a variety of birds, such as the American goldfinch, black-capped chickadee, northern cardinal, song sparrow, and red-winged blackbird.

Forest River Conservation Area is a great place to explore the beauty of nature.

Stroll through the Gardner-Pingree House Garden

Located on Essex Street, the Gardner-Pingree House Garden is a hidden gem in Salem.

The house was built in 1660 and was home to several notable individuals, including John Gardner, who served as the Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, and Elias Hasket Derby, one of Salem's most successful sea captains.

Today, it is open for tours and houses a museum on the second floor.

The  Gardner-Pingree House Garden is open to the public and features beautiful flowers, plants, and trees.

It's also a great place to take a stroll and relax.

Check Out the Majestic Georgian Architecture of the Ropes Mansion

The Ropes Mansion is a historic house open for tours.

It was built in 1727 and is located on Winter Street.

The mansion is an excellent example of Georgian architecture that has been well-preserved.

It's worth checking out if you're interested in history or architecture.

The Ropes family was one of the most prominent families in Salem, and the mansion was passed down through the generations.

They played a significant role in the Salem witch trials, and the Ropes Mansion is said to be haunted by the ghosts of some of the witches killed during the trials.

If you're looking for a hauntingly good time, the Ropes Mansion is the place for you.

Take a Stroll around the Phillips House

The Phillips House is a historic house located on Chestnut Street.

It is open for tours and provides a great way to learn about the area's history.

Built in 1857, it was the home of William Phillips, a prominent businessman in the area.

The Phillips House is a great example of Victorian architecture and is one of the area's few remaining houses from that era.

It has been restored to its original glory and is furnished with period furniture.

Soak up the Sun at Salem Willows Park

Salem Willows Park is the perfect spot to soak up some sun and enjoy a day by the water.

The park is located on the Salem waterfront, making it a popular spot for picnicking, swimming, and relaxing.

Salem Willows Park is also home to several of Salem's most popular attractions, including the Salem Witch Museum, the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, and the Salem Wax Museum.

In addition to its attractions, the park also offers many amenities, including a playground, a basketball court, and a picnic area.

Whether you're looking to explore Salem's rich history or enjoy a day in the sun, Salem Willows Park is the perfect place to do it.

Final Thoughts

Salem is a city that should be on everyone's bucket list of places to visit.

With its abundance of things to see and do, it's the perfect destination for tourists who want to experience a little bit of everything.

So what are you waiting for?

Add the best things to do in Salem, Massachusetts to your list, and start planning your trip today!