Most likely, when you think of Salem, Massachusetts, you picture centuries-old witch trials.
Although this community still has that regrettable heritage, it is by no means the only aspect of it.
This is a New England jewel with wonderful sights and wonderful people, and it’s among the loveliest places in the US.
The top 25 enjoyable activities in Salem, Massachusetts, are listed here.
25 Best & Fun Things To Do In Salem, MA (2025)
1. Salem Trolley
Take a ride with the Salem Trolley this weekend if you want to get an amazing tour of the town.
These excursions take you to some of the most famous sites and help tell much of Salem’s story.
You’ll know a lot more about Salem issues after an hour.
The trolley visits a number of locations, including the Peabody Essex Museum, the Witch Dungeon Museum, and the House of the Seven Gables.
If you don’t have the time to see all 14 of the places on the trips, this is a respectable alternative.
To discover more about this town and its attractions, take a ride on the Salem Trolley.
Address: 8 Central St, Salem, MA 01970, United States
2. Singing Beach
Singing Beach, in Manchester-by-the-Sea, close to Salem, is one of the best beaches in New England.
Despite its rather small size, it offers some really lovely attractions and looks fantastic.
The beach gets its name from one of these natural phenomena.
The reason Singing Beach gets its name is because when you walk your feet across the sand, it produces a melodious resonance.
It’s cool to hear, even though it may not be Aretha Franklin-caliber.
The stunning blue lake is accompanied by a concession kiosk and a bathhouse.
Address: 119 Beach St, Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA 01944, United States
3. Pickering Wharf
Take part in a variety of enjoyable beach activities at Pickering Wharf in Salem.
Almost everything you could possibly want for fun can be found in this community hub.
You can shop and eat to your heart’s delight at Pickering Wharf.
Pickering Wharf is made even more enjoyable by the waterfront setting.
The sea air has a certain sweetness to it.
It can remind you that you are alive, pique your appetite, and help you remember things you may have forgotten.
Try to get the most out of your time at Pickering Wharf, whatever you have planned.
Address: 23 Congress St, Salem, MA 01970, United States
4. Historic New England Phillips House
One of the best places to see in Salem, Massachusetts, is a magnificent house like the Historic New England Phillips House.
Its colonial revival setting has persisted since the early 20th century, when Anna Phillips and her husband, Stephen Willard, lived there.
See why this prestigious home/museum has grown to be such a valued part of the town by taking a tour.
The public can only enter this mansion on Chestnut Street.
You can observe what Phillip had to provide throughout five generations when you’re here.
In addition, it’s a fantastic method to discover what life was like in those days.
With a few notable exceptions, you could discover that it wasn’t all that different from what we’re used to.
Address: 34 Chestnut St #3129, Salem, MA 01970, United States
5. Salem Witch Trials Memorial
Today, we are reminded of the Salem witch trials in many ways.
This memorial, however, is among the best examples.
Perhaps paradoxically, it is located on Liberty Street and pays tribute to people whose lives were snatched from them without cause.
Although it’s a really sobering event, it has a lot of significance.
This lists the names of those who were mistakenly executed, much like a war monument.
It also demonstrates the time and manner of their execution.
You may observe what they said during their trials to further emphasize their humanity.
Since they weren’t even allowed the honor of completing their thoughts, many of these utterances were left unfinished.
The victims of these witch trials were treated as though they were not human.
Address: 24 Liberty St, Salem, MA 01970, United States
6. Salem Maritime National Historic Site
One of Salem’s most captivating attractions is the Salem Maritime National Historic Site.
This website can help you put things in perspective, even if you already know how important ships are for defense, commerce, and discovery.
For a priceless history lesson, visit the Salem Maritime National Historic Site today.
This location features a dozen structures as well as the “Friendship of Salem,” a tall ship that has been reconstructed.
Being here gives you a better understanding of what went into the shipping sector centuries ago.
An essential resource for learning about an important part of history is the Salem Maritime National Historic Site.
Another interesting fact is that this was the very first National Historic Site to be named as such.
Opening Time: Every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Address: 160 Derby St, Salem, MA 01970, United States
7. Peabody Essex Museum
The Peabody Essex Museum is among the top educational destinations in Salem, Massachusetts.
This place has a ton of fascinating sights to view.
This museum, called “PEM,” features art from all around the world in addition to Salem.
Each exhibit and piece demonstrates the wealth of knowledge that may be gained solely from art.
Families will love this place.
While children can have a great time making art in the Atrium, adults can enjoy perusing the various galleries.
Address: 161 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970, United States
8. Misery Islands
This is one of the most stunning locations to explore close to Salem, Massachusetts, despite the unflattering name.
The reason for their name is that in the 1600s, a shipbuilder got stuck here during a snowstorm.
Putting that prejudice aside, you should discover that these islands are really magnificent.
The Great and Little Misery Islands make up this sensory-rich experience.
The Misery Islands are the place to go if you want to obtain some peace and quiet.
Nobody lives on them at the moment.
Naturally, there will probably be other people taking in the island’s scenery and activities, like hiking.
Nonetheless, you should have a pretty restful time, particularly if you’re near the ocean.
Wading at low tide is one way to get to Misery Islands.
Address: Salem Sound, Salem, MA 01944, United States
9. New England Pirate Museum
Although witches receive most of the attention, Salem, Massachusetts, has been a significant place for other communities.
For example, years ago, this area was looted and pillaged by pirates.
The New England Pirate Museum is the greatest place to learn about these seafaring criminals and their heinous activities.
Because of films and cartoons, pirates like Blackbeard may appear to be a part of popular culture.
But they were real, and they definitely made people quite afraid.
An excellent museum that immerses you in the world of piracy is the New England Pirate Museum.
In addition to exploring a cave where pirates would conceal their loot, you can tour a ship that has been reconstructed.
Address: 274 Derby St, Salem, MA 01970, United States
10. Salem Witch Board Museum
Simply substitute “ouija board” if you’re having trouble understanding what a witch board is.
These spacecraft are the main focus of this Salem, Massachusetts attraction.
Regardless of your opinion regarding ouija boards and their veracity, it’s impossible to dispute their intrigue.
Will you be visiting Salem this weekend?
Check out this museum.
You may view a number of Ouija boards and read about their history here.
It goes without saying that a Ouija board museum would not be complete without one for you to test out.
Fortunately, this place has a seance room.
Just be careful not to ask questions you aren’t prepared to have answered.
Address: 127 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970, United States
11. Salem Kayak
Salem’s waterways are too magnificent to just admire.
Exploring the seas with a Salem Kayak is among the top activities in Salem, Massachusetts.
For the exercise and the view, this is one of the most energizing things you can do.
Salem Kayak offers kayaking training for those who are new to the sport.
There are other, more sophisticated packages available.
These cruises are made more memorable by the various stops, like Salem Harbor and Coney Island.
With this firm, you may have a great time whether you are a kayaking novice or an experienced paddler.
It’s very stunning and a ton of fun.
Address: 4521 Harlan Dr NE, Salem, OR 97305, United States
12. Harbor Sweets
Ideally, a community that is so closely linked to Halloween would also have some really good candy.
Harbor Sweets is the best illustration of this.
When it comes to demonstrating what a sweet treat can be, this candy maker goes above and beyond.
If you love candy, you should go to Harbor Sweets.
Harbor Sweets has been a New England staple for almost 40 years.
Their handcrafted chocolates are their most well-known product.
Caramel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and even gluten-free products are offered.
It’s also a great spot to purchase for gifts.
Check out Harbor Sweets if you’re craving sweets while sightseeing.
Address: 85 Leavitt St, Salem, MA 01970, United States
13. Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site
One of the most significant locations in the US for manufacturing significance is the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site.
The first ironworks in the nation were situated here.
It’s an excellent venue to learn about the social effects of iron because of its historical preservation.
Given how comprehensive the instruction is, this is among the greatest locations to visit.
Recreated tools demonstrate the mill’s exceptional performance.
Despite its brief existence (about 14 years), its significance is still evident.
It is situated in the town of Saugus, close to Salem.
If you want to view a significant portion of America’s manufacturing history, you should visit the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site.
Address: 244 Central St, Saugus, MA 01906, United States
14. Crow Haven Corner
Crow Haven Corner is another of Salem’s most popular witch-related sights.
There are lots of interesting witchcraft things at this store.
For both kids and adults searching for activities that will captivate them, it’s a great experience.
Spending a few hours in Crow Haven Corner is highly recommended.
There are activities in addition to this oldest witch shop in Salem, which has everything you could possibly need, including potions, unique gems, and more.
You can obtain a psychic reading from Lorelei herself and try your hand at enchantment using her Spell Altar.
She employs a range of techniques, including clairvoyance, palm reading, and Tarot.
Address: 125 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970, United States
15. Lyceum Hall
Witchcraft has little to do with the historical significance of several areas of Salem, Massachusetts. Lyceum Hall is a prime example.
Here, Alexander Graham Bell demonstrated the first long-distance phone call to an audience.
It would be an understatement to say that this was an amazing occasion.
Since Bell was phoning his Boston-based colleague Thomas Watson, “long-distance” meant something different back then.
But since then, communication has never been the same.
A variety of activities, including political and theatrical ones, were held at the Salem Lyceum.
This structure is now Turner’s Seafood at Lyceum Hall, a seafood restaurant.
Its history, however, will always play a vital role in it.
Address: 43 Church St, Salem, MA 01970, United States
16. Hocus Pocus Tours
Hocus Pocus Tours continues to provide amazing tours.
These also draw attention to some of the area’s more eerie features.
It doesn’t seem to be a complete coincidence if it reminds you of a particular film.
You may view some of the locations where the popular movie “Hocus Pocus” was shot on this trip.
However, the narrative of Salem itself is the main subject of these trips.
You’ll have an excellent guide to offer interesting anecdotes and explain things, just like on any other fantastic tour.
One of the most enjoyable things to do in Salem, Massachusetts, is take a Hocus Pocus tour.
Their website has details on how to schedule tours.
Address: 176 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970, United States
17. Bewitched After Dark Tour
Take a Bewitched After Dark tour in Salem, Massachusetts, if you want to feel genuinely spooked.
These nighttime outings draw attention to significant occasions and emphasize the overall fear of the city.
If you’re traveling around Halloween, this is a very enjoyable time.
These walking tours are excellent because of the tour instructors’ engaging style as well as the knowledge they impart.
They convey this information with complete composure and fervor.
With enough knowledge to compose an essay about this town, you can depart.
For visitors of all ages, Bewitched After Dark trips are fantastic throughout the year.
For more on tour schedules, visit their website.
Address: 180 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970, United States
18. Black Veil Shoppe of Drear & Wonder
If you enjoy spooky stuff, visiting the Black Veil Shop of Drear & Wonder is one of the best things to do in Salem, Massachusetts.
It feels like you’re walking into a ghoulish store, similar to what you could see in a horror film.
The experience at your neighborhood big-box retailer won’t be the same.
The equally eerie Black Veil Studio, a tattoo parlor, includes this business.
Excellent jewelry, clothing for children and adults, and items like postcards and candles are available.
Even while that alone doesn’t seem that eerie, the gothic tone of it all works incredibly well.
If you’re seeking for spooky locations to visit, Black Veil Shop of Drear & Wonder is a perfect choice.
Address: 137 Boston St, Salem, MA 01970, United States
19. High Rock Tower Reservation
High Rock Tower Reservation offers yet another breathtaking natural experience.
At just under five acres, this Lynn park isn’t very huge, but it’s really beautiful.
From this park, you may witness the splendor of the Atlantic Ocean, and there is an attraction that is truly a magnificent feat.
In any case, the High Rock Tower Reservation is among the most interesting destinations in Massachusetts.
But what really sets this park apart is the High Rock Tower, which is its name.
It is composed of stone and stands 85 feet tall.
Following a post-Civil War celebration that resulted in the first tower burning down, this is actually the second of its sort.
Address: 30 Circuit Ave, Lynn, MA 01902, United States
20. Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery
Do you simply love horror and science fiction movies?
Then you should see the Nightmare Gallery of Count Orlok.
Often referred to as a “monster museum,” it features amazing displays regarding the stars of these genres.
At Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery, there is an abundance of eerie things to experience and enjoy.
If you enjoy movies, this is among the greatest things to do in Salem.
There’s a great gift shop, plenty of movie trivia, and eerie lifelike wax statues.
If you’re easily frightened, it could be a little unnerving, but that’s a huge part of the excitement.
When a film is sufficiently spooky, you may overlook the characters and special effects.
You can relive that experience in Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery.
Address: 217 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970, United States
21. Joshua Ward House
Seeing the Joshua Ward House is one of the best things to do in Salem, Massachusetts.
One of the most significant historical sites is this one as well.
It is now one of the town’s most popular attractions and is named for businessman Joshua Ward, who played a significant role in the town’s growth.
One of the main attractions in Salem is the Joshua Ward House because of its architecture.
Now, in fact, it serves as a hotel.
It is still possible to visit without making a reservation.
But it’s worth the bother to remain the night.
You can even enter the room that George Washington once occupied.
The Joshua Ward House has survived various significant historical events.
Address: 148 Washington St, Salem, MA 01970, United States
22. Breakheart Reservation
Breakheart Reservation may seem like a place to break up with your significant other based on its name.
But it’s really among the most beautiful areas of Massachusetts.
Here, you can explore over 600 acres.
You can still have a significant experience even if you can only see 10% of it.
At Breakheart Reservation, the nature and river are both shown with such breathtaking grandeur.
You can travel through some amazing woodlands, visit a beautiful section of the Saugus River, and enjoy some breathtaking views from several hills.
Active folks will love this spot because it’s a terrific place to go hiking or riding a bike.
Address: 177 Forest St, Saugus, MA 01906, United States
23. Elizabeth Montgomery Statue
What does Elizabeth Montgomery have to do with Salem, Massachusetts, you ask?
She did, however, portray Samantha, one of the most well-known fictional witches of all time, on “Bewitched.”
Her image in one of the most well-known witch cities in history is undoubtedly justified by that.
This pop culture statue is located at the Pedestrian Mall on Essex Street.
Made of bronze and at six feet tall, it does a fantastic job of portraying Montgomery and her personality.
Perhaps not unexpected, TV Land was involved when it was made public in 2005.
There is even more of a connection because this village was used to film several of the “Bewitched” episodes.
24. Fort Sewall
Another significant location in American military history is Salem, Massachusetts.
One of the most significant buildings of its kind is Fort Sewall, which is situated on the Marblehead Peninsula.
You can see why American forces found this to be such an excellent source of protection.
The land of Fort Sewall is mostly utilized as a park because of more tranquil times.
But the locations of the troops’ hiding places are still visible.
In order to help tourists understand what life was like during a conflict centuries ago, historical recreations are also there.
One of the main attractions for tourists interested in history is Fort Sewall.
Marblehead, Massachusetts is where you may find this attraction.
Every day from sunrise to sunset, it is open for business.
Address: 8 Fort Sewall Ln, Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
25. Salem Willows Arcade
You should visit Salem Willows Arcade for a delightful and lovely experience.
This location, which got its name from the plants that have existed there since the 19th century, offers a lot to appreciate.
Whether you’re seeking excitement or simply want to take in some breathtaking scenery, it’s fantastic.
Enjoy some delectable food, engage in entertaining activities, and explore their rides, which include a simulated roller coaster and bumper cars.
The experience is further enhanced by the willows and the seaside location.
You can see how much fun Salem is at the Salem Willows Arcade.
Enjoying a picnic or simply relaxing by the water is another way to take in the park’s beauty.
Address: 167 Fort Ave, Salem, MA 01970, United States
What Are You Waiting For? Start Planning Your Trip To Salem, MA
Salem, Massachusetts, is a fantastic city with a wealth of historical, natural, and social attractions.
Although the witch trials still play a significant role, its legacy goes well beyond them.
Discover a town that is unlike any other when you visit Salem, Massachusetts.
Your perspective on colonial history will never be the same again.