Salem

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Salem's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Historic Salem
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

Enjoy a ghost tour that dives deeper into Salem's haunted history. Conclude your evening with dinner at a cozy restaurant in downtown Salem.

day 2
Witchcraft and Mystery
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

Dine at a haunted house restaurant famous for its spooky ambiance. Attend a medium's show to delve into the supernatural side of Salem.

day 3
Salem on the Water
morning
:

Start your day with a relaxing walk on the scenic Salem Willows waterfront. Enjoy a coffee at one of the local seaside cafés.

afternoon
:

Take a sailing tour to experience Salem from the water. Learn about the Maritime history and enjoy some fresh sea air.

evening
:

Spend your evening at the local arcade or amusement park for some family fun. Grab dinner at a harbor-side grill with great views.

day 4
Historical Highlights
morning
:

Begin your day at the Salem Old Burying Point Cemetery, one of the oldest cemeteries in the U.S. Explore the graves of prominent historical figures.

afternoon
:

Visit the Witch Trials Memorial to pay homage to the victims. Take a short stroll to see the National Park Service Visitor Center for more context.

evening
:

Savor a historical-themed dinner at an old tavern. Attend an evening lecture on Salem's history to deepen your knowledge.

day 5
A Day of Arts
morning
:

Visit local art galleries in the downtown area to appreciate the work of contemporary artists. Take a guided art walk to learn about the local scene.

afternoon
:

Join a painting workshop to unleash your creativity. Stop by a craft shop for unique souvenirs made by local artisans.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a trendy bistro featuring local cuisine. End your night at a local theater for a performance or movie.

day 6
Family Friendly Fun
morning
:

Visit the Salem Witch Village for interactive exhibits that engage the whole family. Learn about witchcraft traditions in a fun way.

afternoon
:

Head to the Salem Common for picnicking and outdoor games. Check out the local zoo if you're traveling with kids.

evening
:

Dine at a family-friendly restaurant with a Halloween theme. Attend a pumpkin carving event if available to get into the seasonal spirit.

day 7
Nature Day in Salem
morning
:

Spend your morning at the Gloucester Stage Company enjoying the scenic nature trails. Breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the local flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit the Salem public gardens for a relaxing picnic. Enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the flowers and landscapes.

evening
:

Head to a local eatery with outdoor seating to soak in the night sky. If the weather allows, sit around a fire pit to enjoy the ambience.

day 8
Nighttime Enchantment
morning
:

Take it easy by enjoying a leisurely breakfast at a quaint café. Spend some time at a local bookstore browsing through interesting reads.

afternoon
:

Visit the Essex Street pedestrian mall to shop and explore. Stop by local candy shops for unique treats.

evening
:

Join a candlelit walking tour to experience Salem's enchanting atmosphere at night. Wrap up your day with dessert at a famous bakery.

day 9
Say Hello to Salem
morning
:

Start off with a visit to the local farmers’ market. Enjoy fresh produce and homemade goods while mingling with local vendors.

afternoon
:

Take a historic trolley ride around Salem to catch the key sights. Hop off at various stops to explore more fascinating locations.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional New England restaurant known for its chowder and lobster rolls. After dinner, partake in a storytelling session at a community center.

day 10
Walk Through History
morning
:

Walk the Freedom Trail to discover important historical sites. Enjoy the sights along the way and learn from informative plaques.

afternoon
:

Visit a historic home turned museum to get insights into colonial life. Engage with reenactors to experience history firsthand.

evening
:

Enjoy a formal dinner at a historic inn. Wrap up your trip by reflecting on the day over some cocktails in a vintage bar.

Discover Salem

Read more in our Salem 2024 Travel Guide.

Salem Travel Guide