After living in Salem for 2 years, I could tell you all the ins and outs of the city. I love this little city, and was so happy to get my little pocket of time there. I would highly recommend a visit, it’s a gorgeous place and there is a ton of energy here.
Whether you are into the spooky Halloween happenings, or if you want to enjoy the waterfront, or just find some good food and bars, this is the town to see.
Here are my go-tos for you to go to.
If You’re Staying in Salem…
The Hotel Salem – To be honest, the rooftop bar at this spot is a game changer. You get a view of the entire city and very reasonable prices with great food (brunch, lunch, etc.) and great drink specials. The hotel is nice too, but the rooftop makes it above and beyond.
The Hawthorne Hotel – The most popular place to stay, mostly because there is a murder mystery behind it and everyone wants to visit that room. Don’t worry, it only affects one specific room, so the ghosts are limited.
Salem Waterfront Hotel – If it’s all booked up or you want to fully avoid ghosts, this hotel is also very central to the town and there is parking too, so it’s a great place if you want to be in walking distance to everything.
What to Do
Haunted Happenings Tour – Let’s be honest, most people visit for the mystery of Witch City, so I’ll get the obvious choice out of the way. If you’re visiting for Halloween or just to see something spooky, I’d recommend this tour, it’s very popular.
Winter Island – The sunsets here are incredible, but keep in mind they close the gates early, so you can only catch them in the winter.
Salem Willows – Now here’s a spot where you can see a sunset at any time of year… the summer it can get quite busy with all the kids, but it’s got an arcade if you are looking for something fun to do!
Peabody Essex Museum – A really cute museum in town with some interesting installations. Definitely check it out if you’re in town.
Take a ferry to Boston (or from) -This is a fun way of getting in/out of the city. I highly recommend, especially since it’s pretty affordable.
Salem Witch Trials History – If you’re looking for some history, you need to check out the witch house in town to learn about everything.
Salem Witch Trials Self Guided Tour – This is a good option if you want to explore on your own, and at your own pace.
I Ate… A lot
AM Coffee Walk Food Tour – If you’re obsessed with food like me, this tour is a must. You get a bit of a history and some food, a great combo!
The Derby – Try the nachos. This is my favorite dinner spot in town, I have been at least every week or every other, so take my word for it because I’m quite the foodie. (Recently closed :(, but the new restaurant in it’s place should be similarly popular!)
The Roof – Do you like rooftop bars? Now this one gives you a view of ALL of Salem. Since the city buildings aren’t too tall, you can see quite a lot.
Bagel World – A very affordable bagel shop, with incredible and fresh bagels. It’s a chain in the area, so you’ve got options in other parts of the area.
Flip the Bird – The best chicken sandwich ever… seriously. Okay and technically it’s not right in Salem since that location closed, but the surrounding towns of Beverly and Swampscott have plenty of locations.
Goodnight Fatty – The best most mouthwatering cookie that I’ve ever tried, and the secret menu changes weekly so the options are always a surprise. Only open a few days a week though so plan ahead.
Rockafellas – A nicer restaurant, but great food and drinks.
Finz – If you’re looking for some incredible seafood, you’ve found the spot.
Village Tavern – Restaurant by day, bar/night club by night. Pretty much the only one in town. I’ve been here way too many times.
