When people hear the words Salem, Massachusetts, the first thing that comes to mind is the witch trials that took place there in 1692. The town has boldly embraced its notorious image as well as its tragic history in order to transform itself into an intriguing destination for tourists.
There are a lot of intriguing things to do in Salem, and if you’ve ever been curious about the witch trials or the culture surrounding witchcraft, you won’t be disappointed. Wander through the old town, which has managed to keep its architecture in remarkably good condition.
Because of this, you are able to experience the past and, in addition to the many attractions, gain an understanding of the enigmatic occurrences.
The Best Wonderful Places to Visit in Salem, MA
You will have a fantastic time in Salem at any time of the year you choose to go there, regardless of the season. Keep reading to learn about the top 10 attractions in Salem and find out where you should go next on your trip.
1. The Phillips Residence
During your time in Salem, you absolutely have to take a stroll around the Chestnut Street Historic District in the morning. Mansions built in the Federal style and dating from the 18th and 19th centuries can be found in rows here. However, only one of these, the Phillips House, is currently open to the public for tours and visits.
The original house was moved to its current location in the 1820s, but Anna and Stephen Phillips did not come until the early decades of the 20th century, which is when the house became famous.
2. The Islands of Misery
The Misery Islands, which are located in Salem Sound and just off the shore of town, are made up of two islands: the Great Island and the Little Island. Robert Moulton, who became stranded on the islands in the midst of a snow blizzard in 1620, is credited with giving the islands their gloomy moniker. The islands are currently a scenic nature reserve.
Since that time, the islands have evolved into many different places that serve as homes for individuals and companies. However, as of right now, they are empty and waiting for human discovery.
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After reaching her shores, take a stroll along the nature trails to take in the breathtaking views of the mainland and the approach to the pebble stone beaches. You can discover what’s left of a shipwrecked steamer by wading across to Little Misery when the tide is low and looking for it.
3. Custom House
The most interesting part of Salem’s maritime history can be discovered along Derby Wharf, which is the longest pier in the city. It is in this location that you will be able to investigate a variety of sights, one of which is the well-known ship Friendship of Salem.
But if you walk a little distance in the opposite direction from the dock, you’ll find yourself on Derby Street, where the imposing presence of Salem’s Custom House may be found. The alluring structure made of red brick was constructed in 1819, and it features a golden eagle as decoration.
4. The Willows of Salem
At Salem Willows, you may enjoy both the breathtaking views of the water and a ton of fun. A location that combines the elements of an amusement park and a video game arcade into one cohesive whole.
The park acquired its name from the spectacular willow trees that rise over the water’s edge all around the park. You will find wide lawns below, perfect for lounging on, with breathtaking vistas and plenty of shady shelters. Use the beaches at Salem Willows to cool off during the summer’s hottest days.
During the day, the park’s arcade is a bustling place to be; however, by night, the atmosphere takes on a whole new dimension. Explore the many arcades that are packed with games, have fun with your friends and family on the bumper cars, and then reward yourself with a meal at one of the restaurants that are located on the premises. The neon lights will be flashing.
5. The Winter Island Park
Visit Winter Island Park for a dose of nature while you’re in Salem. You won’t regret it. The park has a history that predates any other park in the city and connects the harbor to the peninsula in the area.
In the year 1643, the area that is now known as Winter Island Park was initially constructed as a place of strategic military importance. During this time, the building of Fort Pickering got underway. During the Civil War, a significant portion of the fort was decimated, and the historic ruins and bunkers may now be found on the eastern side.
6. Visitor Center of the National Park Service
The excellent Peabody Essex Museum and the National Park Service Visitor Center are two of the best places to start your exploration of Salem. The local park rangers will greet you, and you can then start planning your trip with their help and the wealth of information that is available on-site.
However, this is not a typical visitor center where you can quickly enter and exit the building at your leisure. There are a wide variety of fascinating displays that will take you on an adventure through the ages.
7. Salem Witch Village in Massachusetts
You may learn the truth and hear the stories that have defined witches throughout the decades at the Salem Witch Village, which is located directly across from the breathtaking Old Burying Point Cemetery.
When you leave, you will have a deeper comprehension of the role witches play in our culture as a result of having been led through the village by a real-life witch who will separate reality from fiction as she explains the history of witchcraft.
8. Museum of the Witches’ Dungeon
The Witch Dungeon Museum does the best job in town at recreating the events of the Salem Witch Trials. If you can’t see the Witch House or the historic cemetery, then the Witch Dungeon Museum is your next best option.
When you are a member of the audience in the courtroom, you will have a clear understanding of the movement, the terror, and the power that is possessed by men like Jonathan Corwin.
After witnessing the execution of 19 individuals, muster up the guts to go into the prison, which is a duplicate of the one that was used to house the so-called witches.
9. The Nightmare Gallery, Owned By Count Orlok
Indulging in the eerie and supernatural realm of witchcraft, vampires, and terror is what Salem is all about. Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery is the best place to go if you want to have a good time without having to worry about anything else.
The one-stop shop that specializes in shocks is also recognized as the sole monster museum in the city. Visitors will be able to relive their favorite moments from their favorite science fiction and horror films, as well as interact with some of the world’s most famous monsters.
Fans of the horror film genre are going to have a great time interacting with some of their favorite characters and performers while simultaneously gaining knowledge about the genre.
10. The Acquaintance of Salem
In order to have a deeper understanding of Salem’s affection for and connection to the water, be sure to include plenty of time on your schedule to visit the Salem Maritime National Historic Site.
The complex comprises several historic structures, one of which is the Pedrick Store House, which was an important institution during the Revolutionary War and is located along the picturesque waterfront in the heart of downtown Salem.
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However, the most exciting part of the attraction may be reached in just a few short steps. The magnificent Friendship of Salem is a replica of the famous East Indiaman ship that was built in 1797. This original ship had three masts.
11. The Cemetery at Old Burying Point
Old Burying Point is the town’s oldest cemetery, and it is also sometimes referred to as the Charter Street Cemetery. Even though the first grave pits were dug here in 1637, the basic wooden grave emblems have subsequently deteriorated due to the passage of time.
You will find that Doraty Cromwell, who passed away in 1673, is buried in the cemetery, and hers is the earliest known grave there.
The cemetery’s atmosphere and the significance of its past are very much alive despite the presence of brand-new concrete buildings on either side of it.
Conclusion
Salem, Massachusetts, is a wonderful destination for a day trip from Boston due to its tranquility and stunning seaside location in New England. The “Salem Witch Trials” of 1692 are a series of events that continue to captivate people all over the world. These trials are what made Salem famous.
During this time period, twenty people were put to death for what was thought to be “witchcraft,” and Salem is home to a lot of knowledge on the topic.
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