Things To Do
in Salem
Salem is a historic city located in the state of Massachusetts, known for its infamous Salem Witch Trials in the late 1600s. Today, Salem is a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors with its rich colonial history, maritime heritage, and spooky attractions. The city is home to several well-preserved historic sites, museums, and cultural institutions that offer insights into its past.
Residents and visitors alike enjoy exploring Salem's charming streets, waterfront, and diverse dining and shopping options.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Salem Witch Museum to learn about the infamous witch trials. Stroll through the historic district to admire the charming architecture.
Head to the Peabody Essex Museum to explore its vast collection of art and historical artifacts. Grab a bite at a local café featuring fresh seafood.
Enjoy a ghost tour that dives deeper into Salem's haunted history. Conclude your evening with dinner at a cozy restaurant in downtown Salem.
Visit the Witch House, the only structure with direct ties to the witch trials, and explore its eerie exhibits. Take a guided tour to understand the historical context.
Check out the Salem Maritime National Historic Site and learn about the city’s maritime history. Walk along the waterfront and enjoy some stunning views.
Dine at a haunted house restaurant famous for its spooky ambiance. Attend a medium's show to delve into the supernatural side of Salem.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including the infamous Salem Witch Trials.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and access to the Willamette River.
- A vibrant arts and entertainment scene with numerous events and festivals.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in Oregon.
- Strong sense of community with friendly residents.
- Limited job opportunities in certain fields compared to larger metropolitan areas.
- Frequent rain and overcast weather can be a drawback for some.
- Some areas may experience higher crime rates and lack of safety.
- Public transportation options are limited, making a car essential for commuting.
- Potential for traffic congestion during peak hours due to a growing population.
Best Activities in Salem
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful gardens, walking paths, and historic Bush House at this urban park.
Hike the Trail of Ten Falls and experience stunning waterfalls, lush forest, and scenic viewpoints.
Take a leisurely riverboat cruise along the Willamette River and enjoy scenic views of Salem.
Tours
Uncover the best of Salem with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Salem
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic public park with picturesque scenery and photo opportunities.
Scenic seaside park offering stunning views of the ocean and Salem Harbor.
Historical mansion with beautiful waterfront views and gardens.
Offers picturesque views of the waterfront and historic buildings.
A scenic coastal park with views of the lighthouse and Salem Harbor.
Food in Salem
Salem Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy soup filled with tender clams, potatoes, and savory flavors, best enjoyed at Turner's Seafood or Sea Level Oyster Bar.
Must-Try!
A buttery, toasted bun filled with succulent lobster meat, often served with a side of coleslaw. For an exquisite lobster roll, head to the Lobster Shanty or Mercy Tavern.
A hearty seafood platter featuring a variety of fried fish, shrimp, and scallops, typically found at places like the Naumkeag Ordinary or Sea Level Oyster Bar.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Salem better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delectable street food from local vendors. Don't miss the gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and wood-fired pizzas.
A bustling area lined with food carts and stalls offering a wide range of cuisines, from authentic Mexican tacos to Korean fusion dishes.
An annual event celebrating the best of Salem's culinary scene, featuring an array of street food vendors and food trucks showcasing delicious offerings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Salem has a rich historical background, so it's important to show respect for the city's history and cultural heritage.
Salem is a diverse community, and it's important to be open-minded and tolerant of different cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles.
Salem is known for the infamous witch trials, so it's important to approach this part of history with sensitivity and respect for those who were affected by it.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Salem with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Salem
Ensure a smooth experience
In Salem, United States, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants, bars, and for services such as hairdressing and taxi rides.
Payment in Salem, United States, is predominantly made using cash, credit/debit cards, and digital payment methods. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment options are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Salem.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Salem as the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. You can enjoy the beautiful floral blooms and various outdoor activities.
Summer is peak tourist season in Salem, with warm weather and numerous festivals and events. However, it can get crowded and more expensive during this time.
Fall is when Salem is most famous, with the Halloween season attracting visitors from around the world. The foliage is also stunning, making it a popular time to visit.
Winter in Salem is cold and quiet, with fewer tourists. However, you can still enjoy holiday events and the festive atmosphere in the city.
Salem at Night
Hiking in Salem
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning park known for its beautiful waterfalls and diverse hiking trails. It offers a network of trails that cater to all skill levels, with scenic views.
A large park with various trails suitable for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. It features flat paths and views of the Willamette River.
A trail that follows the South Santiam River, offering beautiful scenery and a peaceful hiking experience. It is suitable for various skill levels.
A remote area featuring rugged terrain and spectacular views. It offers challenging trails for experienced hikers looking to explore the wilderness.
A picturesque area noted for its old-growth forests and clear turquoise waters. The trails vary in difficulty, making it suitable for all hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Salem through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Salem by plane.
Located approximately 50 miles north of Salem, Portland International Airport is the largest airport in Oregon, offering numerous international flights and a wide range of domestic services.
Situated about 170 miles north of Salem, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport serves as a major hub for international flights and provides a variety of options for travel within the Pacific Northwest.
Located roughly 700 miles south of Salem, San Francisco International Airport is a prominent international gateway, connecting travelers to destinations across the globe.
About 800 miles south of Salem, LAX is one of the busiest international airports in the United States, providing extensive connections to Asia, Europe, and beyond.
Approximately 300 miles north of Salem in Canada, Vancouver International Airport is known for its wide range of international destinations and is a major gateway to Canada.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Caucasian population
Includes various ethnic groups with origins in Spanish-speaking countries
Includes individuals with African ancestry
Includes individuals of Asian descent, such as Chinese, Indian, and other Asian ethnicities
Individuals identifying with more than one racial category
Includes Indigenous peoples of North America
Includes individuals with origins in the Hawaiian Islands or the Pacific Islands
The Soul of Salem
Discover the essence of Salem through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played in schools, colleges, and local leagues, with a strong following and community support.
Widely played among youth and adults, with several local clubs and recreational leagues.
A traditional American sport with a rich history in Salem, featuring local teams and summer leagues.
High school and college football games attract large crowds, fostering community spirit and pride.
Popular among schools and recreational clubs, with both indoor and outdoor play options.
Gaining popularity in schools, particularly among youth leagues as a fast-paced team sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Salem.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Salem offer a wide array of plant-based dishes, from hearty salads to creative vegan renditions of local classics.
Visitors with gluten intolerances can explore numerous restaurants and cafes that provide gluten-free menu items, ensuring a safe and enjoyable dining experience.
Salem's food establishments are well-versed in accommodating various allergens, with numerous options available for individuals with food sensitivities or allergies.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Salem with these cultural adventures.
