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Salem

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About Salem

Synonymous with the infamous seventeenth-century Witch Trials, Salem is also a fascinating cultural, historic and foodie destination: the city is far more than this dark episode in its past. Set on Massachusetts’ North Shore, this New England gem is a brilliant pick for a weekend city break or as part of a more extensive coastal road trip. Cool and quirky, the best places to stay in Salem reflect the city’s eclectic character and lively energy. There’s a whole array of accommodation options to choose from, but most of our favourites are right in the city centre.

Discover Salem’s illustrious seafaring past at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, take a harbour cruise, head to Fort Pickering or simply unwind on one of the beautiful nearby beaches. There are also excellent opportunities to try sailing or fishing out at sea. If you’re keen to delve into the city’s history, stroll through Salem Common — a classic New England town green — and into the McIntire District, where there’s heritage architecture aplenty to admire. The House of the Seven Gables, built in 1668, has the honour of being the oldest seventeenth-century wooden mansion in New England and offers excellent guided tours. Don’t miss visiting the Peabody Essex Museum and the Salem Witch Museum, too, to unravel the mysteries of a tragic era in Salem’s past. Boston, too, is within easy reach for day trips, and there are myriad adventures for outdoorsy adventurers to experience in the New England countryside.

Big days of exploring aside, kick back in buzzing bars and gourmet eateries, catch a show or venture out to a party for a real experience of Salem’s thriving evening scene. Lovers of live music, theatre and creative events will adore CinemaSalem and the programme of fantastic performances at the Salem State University Centre for Creative and Performing Arts — do find out what’s on during your stay!

The best places to stay in Salem fill up fast, so book your trip well in advance if you plan to travel during the summer months. The spring and autumn are quieter, and also picturesque.

The Best Places to Stay in Salem

For a Waterfront Stay

  • Salem Waterfront Hotel offers classic luxury in Pickering Wharf, just steps from the water. Popular with both business and leisure travellers, the property features spacious rooms and suites, an indoor pool, gym and all-day pub dining with a view. Ideal for sailors or explorers eager to stay close to the coast. Speak to the hotel about using their marina if you plan to arrive by boat.

For Boutique Chic

  • The Salem Hotel promises 44 cool, contemporary bedrooms in a former clothing store in the heart of Salem. Think slick, mid-century modernist furnishings, pops of colour and lively communal spaces. The buzzing restaurant, bar and terrace are brilliant gathering places for sociable visitors. Very chic.
  • The Merchant is an intimate hideaway in a former merchant's home. The property's eighteenth-century character has been thoughtfully fused with a bold colour scheme and eclectic artwork to create an appealingly funky feel. A hip, centrally-located small hotel for design-conscious travellers or romantic couples.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Boston's Logan International Airport and take a train or taxi to Salem. The journey should take 30 minutes by road.
  • Massachusetts is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel during the summer months (June to August) for the warmest weather, but do be aware that this is peak season. Come in the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for fewer crowds and great hotel deals. Expect bitterly cold winters!

STILL NOT SURE?

Best Hotels in Salem

  • Salem Waterfront Hotel Salem 86 rooms from $144

    Sailing  -  The property's marina, Pickering Wharf, can accomodate sail & power boats up to 55ft or transient dockage for boats up to 120ft
    Local exploring  -  Stroll along the harbourside, go sailing, explore the North Shore, learn about Salem's rich history or pop into Boston
    Business meetings  -  The property can put on conferences, events, off-sites and meetings in a series of flexible water-front spaces
    Restaurant  -  The all-day dining Regatta Pub offers American classics in a casual setting; salads, soups, burgers, sandwiches and desserts
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Traditional luxury hotel steps from the water in the historic Pickering Wharf. Classic rooms & suites are spacious, with living and working areas, some have harbour views. Enjoy street terrace dining, indoor pool, gym & shuttle-service, all in the heart of town. Works for both business or leisure. See More

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  • The Salem Hotel Salem (Massachusetts) 44 rooms from $168

    Sights nearby  -  Salem is synonymous with the Witch Trials of 1692. Visit the Salem Witch Museum, Witch House and the Witch History Museum
    City Style  -  There is nowhere like this in the city of Salem. A real boutique property with history, style and soul
    Value chic  -  The cleverly designed Micro King rooms allow for a stylish city-centre stay on a budget
    Great walks  -  House of the Seven Gables is the oldest surviving 17th century wooden mansion in New England. Tour the estate and seaside garden
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    44-room boutique located in the heart of Salem. This former high-end clothing store has been converted into a unique property with mid-century modernist artworks and furniture, and a Mondrian-esque colour scheme. A buzzing restaurant, bar and terrace give the property a fun and lively urban vibe. See More

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  • The Merchant Salem 11 rooms from $211

    Local exploring  -  Salem has so much to offer; learn about the city's rich history and fabled trading past with visits to museums and famous homes
    City Style  -  Combine history and heritage charm with contemporary style and comfort
    Great walks  -  Take a guided food-tour of Salem. Local delicacies are paired with paired with wines and Salem micro-brewed beers
    Sights nearby  -  Walk to Pickering to explore Winter Island Lighthouse, established in 1871
    Air conditioningParkingNo pets

    Intimate boutique with a great central location. Dating from the 18th century, the building was a former merchant's home. Cosy, colourful and homely rooms have fireplaces and fun, bright and unique decor; expect mismatched prints, bouncy pouffes and eclectic art. Great for design-focused couples. See More

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