Salem, MA, is located a mere sixteen miles north of Boston. Rich with early American history, Salem now boasts an amalgam of new age Wicca products and shops along with established museums and historical houses.
Established in 1626, the word “Salem” is an adaptation of “shalom” which means “peace.” But with the infamous Witch Trials of 1692 where due to hysteria, twenty innocent people lost their lives, Salem’s early history was anything but peaceful. Presently, the city has many museums, historical sites, shops, restaurants and galleries all dedicated to taking the modern visitor back in time.
There are a lot of attractions to see but a weekend should afford plenty of time. Here is a list of some of the top tourist sites.
The House of the Seven Gables
Built in 1668, the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne to write his classic novel, The House of the Seven Gables in 1851, and now you can tour that very house, adorned with secret staircases, authentic antique furniture and knowledgeable guides. The grounds also include beautiful seaside gardens designed in 1909 and spectacular views of Salem Harbor. Literature buffs can also tour Nathanial Hawthorne’s birthplace, now located on the grounds.
The Salem Witch Museum
Boasting that it is “Salem’s Most Visited Museum,” this dedication to the Witch Trials has three distinct parts. The visitor will see a thirteen-part retelling of the events leading up to and including the Trials, as well as the aftermath. The new exhibit, Withces: Evolving Perceptions, discusses the origins of the term Witch and the modern implications of that word on the Wicca religion. After that, you can visit the large gift shop for purchases from books and videos to wands and cauldrons.
The Witch House
With a notable distinction, The Witch House is the only structure in Salem still standing that has a direct correlation to the Witch Trials. It was the home of Witch Trial judge, Jonathan Corwin. Now a walkable historic home, you get a glimpse into late seventeenth century life with plentiful furnishings, decorations and architecture.
Witch Dungeon Museum
This exciting museum takes the actual transcripts from the 1692 Salem Witch Trials and reenacts it as you watch in shock. After the performance, you go underground for a tour of the dungeons. Be careful as you walk around the catacombs for a soul or two that has not yet gone to rest.
Pickering Wharf
This waterfront area allows the visitor to get close to Salem Harbor for a view of the boats and a quaint lighthouse. There are also shops galore filled to the brim with mystic stones, incense, crystals and candles, plus eateries for everyone. It’s a nice break from the touring of museums and historical sites.
Essex Street Pedestrian Mall
This street is lined with shops, bars and restaurants. You can duck into a store for a psychic reading or grab fried dough from one of many vendors. It can get crowded but there is something to do at every turn.
Where to Stay in Salem
Modern hotels, quaint inns and even a YMCA are available in Salem. The thirty minute drive from Boston is easy, but for those wary, there is a train station and ferry system as well.
For everything you need to know about getting to, staying in and what to do in Salem, check out the informative Destination Salem website.
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