Salem Massachusetts Travel Guide: 17 BEST Things To Do In Salem MA

This Salem travel guide shares the best things to do in Salem.

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Recommended Tours in Salem:

2.5-Hour Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking Tour: https://www.viator.com/tours/Salem/Tw...

Salem "Hocus Pocus" Movie Locations Tour: https://www.viator.com/tours/Salem/Ho...

Triple Threat Combo Pass: 3 TOURS (3:30pm, 5pm, & 7pm or 8:30pm): https://www.viator.com/tours/Salem/Tr...

Witch Costume Photo Shoot - Witch Cottage theatrical set: https://www.viator.com/tours/Salem/Wi...
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Welcome to Salem, Massachusetts, a coastal city with a deep history, rich culture, and a world-famous reputation. Salem is known for its role in the 1692 witch trials, but the city offers much more than its spooky past. Salem combines historic sites, art, food, and waterfront views into a compact, walkable area that welcomes visitors year‑round.

Salem’s most famous site is the Salem Witch Museum, where simple exhibits and narration bring the 1692 trials to life. Just steps away is the Witch House, the only building still standing that was directly connected to the trials. These spots help explain why Salem became known around the world for its witchcraft legend.

History in Salem extends beyond witch trials. The House of the Seven Gables, made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, sits on a shaded street overlooking Salem Harbor. Guided tours of the house and its gardens show what life was like in colonial New England and why Salem was once a busy port city.

Art and culture play a strong role in Salem today. The Peabody Essex Museum offers globally diverse collections—from Asian art to maritime history—inside a group of historic buildings. Salem’s smaller galleries and studios also showcase local artists and crafts, making it easy to find something unique to take home.

The waterfront is part of Salem’s charm. Salem Harbor Park and nearby Derby Wharf Light Station offer views of boats and the ocean. Whale‑watching cruises and harbor tours leave from the docks, giving a chance to see seals, birds, and open water beyond the city.

Walking through downtown Salem is simple and engaging. Historic brick sidewalks connect shops, cafés, and restaurants. Salem’s food scene ranges from seafood shacks serving freshly caught fish to cozy bakeries with local treats. Seasonal events like Haunted Happenings in October bring parades, street performances, and pumpkin displays that showcase Salem’s playful side.

Salem’s neighborhoods add to its character. Chestnut Street’s fine homes and shaded trees show off Salem’s 19th‑century wealth. Jefferson Avenue’s historic district offers a quieter look at red‑brick buildings and hidden gardens.

A short ride from downtown, Salem Willows park has arcade games, snack stands, and a small beach—perfect for families in summer. Nearby Forest River Park offers trails and birdwatching along wooded marshland.

Salem combines history, art, and waterfront life into an easygoing city experience. Whether you’re here for witch trial exhibits, historic architecture, or harbor views, Salem, Massachusetts, has a lasting appeal that goes beyond its haunted reputation.

Keep watching to see the top things to do in Salem, top attractions in Salem, places to visit in Salem and Massachusetts travel guides.

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