The Perfect Day Trip to Salem from Boston (Witch City Guide)
Looking to take a Day trip to Salem from Boston? 🧹✨
I’ve spent many a weekend or day trip from Boston to Salem, Massachusetts on the North Shore. It’s a really cool spot that I think is often overlooked, with the exception of October in Salem.
Most people have heard about Salem during Halloween, which is a fun experience (although incredibly busy, in my opinion), but there’s also plenty to do year round if you’re looking to take a day trip to Salem from Boston.
If you’re in need of a plan for how to get to Salem from Boston, what things to do in Salem for the day, as well as how to get around, you’ve come to the right place!
How to get to Salem from Boston
Salem is a great place for a day trip, but how do you actually get there from Boston? You have several options for getting to Salem from Boston. Options that I would recommend are driving, taking the ferry, or taking the train.
✔️ Ferry to Salem from Boston
A unique way to take a Boston to Salem day trip is to take the ferry. The Salem Ferry is a high-speed catamaran service that runs from May through October and will take you about an hour. Not only will you get a beautiful view of the Boston skyline, you’ll skip out on any traffic on the way.
🚢 Grab a spot on the High Speed Ferry!
✔️ Train to Salem, MA from Boston
Another great option for taking a day trip to Salem from Boston is to travel via the MBTA commuter rail train. The train leaves from Boston’s North Station and runs often throughout the day (year-round).
The line you’ll take is the Newburyport/Rockport line and you’ll get off at Salem Station which will take you about a half hour which is pretty quick! Again, you’ll skip the traffic and the train will take you straight to Salem.
✔️ Boston to Salem by Car
A more private way to get to Salem is by car. By car, the quickest route to Salem will take you about a half hour to 45 minutes to get from Boston to Salem. Of course this will depend on traffic and what time of day you are heading North. You can either take US-1N up to Salem or a combination of I-93N and I-95N.
So what’s the best or easiest way to get to Salem from Boston? I recommend taking the Salem Ferry at least one way and then using the commuter rail for the opposite direction for transportation. The ferry is a really unique experience that you don’t want to miss out on!
Should I Take a Day Trip to Salem from Boston?
Yes! Salem is a town filled with not only history but also loads of New England charm. There is so much to see and do, lots of food to eat, and plenty of history.
While you can definitely spend one day in Salem, MA I generally recommend that you plan for a weekend if you are able to. Or at least an overnight visit to give you time to explore a few really great options and squeeze in meals at some good restaurants while in town.
If you don’t have a weekend, don’t fret, you can still see this exciting city in one day. I’ll break out how to get there and some of the top things to do in Salem when you arrive.
Top Things to do in Salem Massachusetts
Salem is a historic town located north of Boston. Salem is most well-known for its association with the Salem Witch Trials of 1692, but the city has a lot more to offer visitors today. Here are some of the top things to do in Salem or things to add to your Salem itinerary.
1. Salem Witch Museum
Learn about the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692 at the Salem Witch Museum. This museum is one of the most popular attractions in Salem and tells the story of the witch trials using life-size figures, stage sets, and narration.
The museum is located on the site of the witch trials and is a must-visit for anyone interested in this rather dark period of American history. The museum and narration is extremely educational and definitely could be an interesting thing to add to your day trip.
- Hours: 10am to 5pm year round, 10am to 7pm in July and August and extended hours in October
- Tickets: Adults – $17.50, Senior Citizen – $16.00, Children (3-14) – $14.50
2. Peabody Essex Museum
Stroll through Peabody Essex Museum, one of the oldest museums in America, and view their extensive collection of art and maritime artifacts. This museum is one of the region’s largest art museums and holds vast collections and exhibitions. There’s also a library with over 400,000 books and manuscripts.
One of the most popular exhibits to see is the Yin Yu Tang exhibit which is a traditional Chinese house that was dismantled in China and brought to the museum. The house has been reassembled on-site and is open for tours. This is the only traditional Chinese architectural style on display in the United States. Isn’t that awesome?
3. Salem Witch Dungeon Museum
If you’re interested in learning more about the Salem Witch Trials, be sure to visit the Witch Dungeon Museum. This museum is located in a historic building that was once used as a jail during the witch trials.
The museum uses professional actors to reenact a trial of an accused witch during the Salem Witch Trials. The reenactment is based off historical transcripts of 1692. This is a very popular attraction and definitely provides some chills! The museum is small but well put together and provides a great look into this chilling time period of Salem.
4. House of the Seven Gables
The House of the Seven Gables is a historic house that was built in 1668 and is known for being one of the oldest wooden mansions in America. The house was built by sea captain John Turner and today, it is a museum that is open for tours.
The house is also known for being the inspiration for writer Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, The House of the Seven Gables. The house is located on 12 acres of land and also has a garden that is open to the public. The House of the Seven Gables is definitely a must-see if you’re interested in American history or architecture.
This was one of my favorite stops in Salem when I was taking the grand tour of everything in town!
Pro-Tip: Rumor has it there’s a hidden staircase here that you can climb up if you’re on a guided tour. Who doesn’t love a good secret staircase?
5. Salem Maritime National Historic Site
Salem Maritime National Historic Site is a great place to learn about Salem’s maritime history. The town was big in the maritime industry back in the 18th century and this site tells that story.
The site located on Pickering Wharf includes historic buildings, wharves, and a replica tall ship, and about 9 acres of land along the waterfront in Salem. Some of the popular sites here include:
- The Darby Wharf – one of the historic wharves that leads into the Salem Harbor
- The Darby Light Station (lighthouse) – Located at the end of Darby Wharf and once powered by an oil lamp it’s now powered by solar
- The Friendship of Salem – a beautiful tall ship replica of the type of ships that Salem merchants would have used in the 18th century
- The Custom House – reflects the work of the Customs inspectors back in the day and is also the site where Nathaniel Hawthorne worked out of for 3 years which inspired his novel The Scarlett Letter
Many people visit Salem for the witch trials history, but this is an awesome area to check out that is quite underrated for the history and influence of the area.
6. Visit the Hocus Pocus House
If you’re a fan of the 1993 Halloween movie Hocus Pocus, then you’ll want to visit the Hocus Pocus House. This is the house that was used in the movie as Max and Dani’s house and is in several scenes for the movie. The house is located on 4 Ocean Ave in Salem.
However, it’s important to note that you are not able to go inside the house since it is a private residence, but you can still see it in person and take pictures. Please be respectful though as it is still a private residence.
Did you know that many of the Hocus Pocus filming locations can be seen and visited in Salem and nearby towns? Now you know!
🧙♀️ Check Availability on this Hocus Pocus Walking Tour!
7. Salem Witch Trial Memorial
The Salem Witch Trial Memorial is a memorial to the victims of the 1692 witch trials. The memorial is located on Liberty Street in Salem and is a great way to pay your respects to those who lost their lives.
The memorial is made up of 20 granite benches that have the names of the victims inscribed on them. The benches are arranged in a crescent shape and there is also a granite pillar in the center of the memorial that has the words “In Memory of the Victims of the Witch Trials 1692” inscribed on it.
The Salem Witch Trial Memorial is a beautiful and moving memorial that is definitely worth a visit. While you’re here, check out the Old Burying Point Cemetery nearby which is the final resting place for many notable figures from Salem’s past
8. Walk the Salem Heritage Trail
The Salem Heritage Trail is a 2.5 mile walking trail that will take you around some of the most historic and important sites in Salem. The trail is a great way to see Salem and learn about its history.
Some of the sites you’ll see on the trail include The Witch Trial Memorial, The Witch House, the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, and more. The trail is well marked and easy to follow.
If you’re looking for a way to see Salem and learn about its history, then the Salem Heritage Trail is a great option.
9. Visit the Bewitched Sculpture
Take a trip down memory lane as this captivating bronze artwork immortalizes Samantha Stephens, the iconic character from the popular sitcom “Bewitched.” With elegance and grace, Samantha stands before you, almost ready to cast her famous nose-twitching spells.
The sculpture is more than just a tribute; it’s a portal to the past, giving feelings of nostalgia for those who loved the show (like me!). So, strike a pose with Samantha, and let the whimsical atmosphere of Salem transport you to the era of classic television.
Where to Eat in Salem, Massachusetts
There’s a lot of incredible food to choose from in Salem (but not quite as much food as Boston has though)! From Italian food to seafood, this town has a little bit of everything. Here are some of the places I recommend for where to eat in Salem:
- Finz Seafood & Grill – This Salem seafood restaurant is a local favorite and has been open since 1986. The menu includes fresh seafood, steak, and pasta. I recommend the seafood chowder and the lobster roll. This restaurant is located right on the wharf too, so you can enjoy beautiful views of the water while you eat.
- Howling Wolf Taqueria – If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, Howling Wolf Taqueria is the place to go. This Salem restaurant serves up fresh and authentic Mexican cuisine. The menu includes burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and more. I recommend the chicken tacos and the guacamole. Portions are pretty large here and there’s outside seating!
- The Tavern at Hawthorne Hotel – This hotel restaurant is a great option if you’re looking for a little more upscale dining. The atmosphere definitely has a vintage vibe, and the decoration is cozy and charming. The menu includes American classics like burgers, steak and seafood. I recommend the seafood chowder and the Seafood Risotto. The Coconut-Curry bowl is another fan favorite.
- Ugly Mug Diner – If you’re looking for a spot with a casual dining experience and all-day breakfast, the Ugly Mug Diner is the place for you. This diner-style Salem restaurant is known for its fabulous eggs Benedict, espresso drinks, and waffles. They even have great lunch offerings like their burgers, sandwiches, and fries.
How to Get Around Salem Massachusetts
In Salem, there are a few options for getting around. You can walk, bike, or drive. In my opinion, the best way to get around Salem is on foot. Salem is a small city, and you can easily walk to all of the major attractions pretty easily. This also gives you access to take in all of the sights and sounds of the historic city.
Another great option is to use the Salem Trolley Tour which is a hop on hop off tour that will take you to the many popular places in Salem. It’s a great way to hear a narrated guide for the city and an easy way to get around.
If you’re looking for a more active way to get around, you can rent a bike. Check out the Bluebike stations in the area to learn more about how you can go about renting bikes. It’s a fun and quick way to see the city.
If you’re driving to Salem, parking can be difficult to find, especially during busy seasons. There are several parking garages in the city, but they can fill up quickly. If you’re planning on driving, it’s best to arrive early.
What are the Best Salem Tours?
If you’re looking for ways to see the city with a guide, there are several different Salem tours (and even plenty of witch tours and ghost tours) to choose from.
✅ Salem Trolley Tour
The Salem Trolley Tour is a popular excursion in the city of Salem, which lasts about an hour and includes narrated history of the area.
You’ll learn about the city’s history and see some of its most popular landmarks, like the Salem Witch Museum, the House of the Seven Gables, and the Witch Trials Memorial. The trolley brings you to 16 different sites throughout Salem, and the shuttle service allows you to do so at your leisure.
✅ History and Sightseeing Walking Tour
If you’re looking to learn more about the history of the town as well as visit some of the major attractions, you might be interested in the Salem History and Sightseeing Walking Tour.
This particular tour runs about 2.5 hours and will take you to places like the Witch Trials Memorial, the Pickering House, Old Town Hall, and more. This is a fantastic tour for history buffs that want to know all of Salem’s history, not just the witch-related history!
👟 Save your spot on this exciting History Walking Tour!
FAQ’s About a Salem, MA Day Trip
Here are some frequently asked questions that will help you plan your day trip as you travel to Salem from Boston.
Absolutely! Salem is a charming and unique city, rich with history and culture. If you’re looking for an interesting day trip from Boston, Salem is the perfect place to go.
The best time to visit Salem is from late May to early October. This is when the weather is most pleasant, and the city is full of tourists. However, Salem is also a great place to visit during the Halloween season.
There are several parking options in Salem. You can park on the street for free, or there are several parking garages and lots available for a fee. Spots fill up fast, though!
Just a hop, skip, and a witchy broomstick ride away – Salem is about 30 minutes north of Boston or a distance of about 25 miles! Perfect for a day trip filled with magic and history.
Yes, definitely! October is prime time for a thrilling day trip to Salem, MA, where Halloween magic comes alive. However, keep in mind that it’s the busiest season of the year, so be sure to book well in advance and be prepared for crowds!
Nope! It’s a city north of Boston by about 30 minutes. It’s pretty easy to plan a day trip to Salem, MA though.
Related: Is Cambridge in Boston?
Final Thoughts: A Day Trip to Salem From Boston
Salem is a great place to visit for a day trip from Boston. There is so much to do in the city, from learning about and exploring the historical sites to checking out all of the shops and restaurants. You can meander through the streets at your own leisure, or you can decide on a guided tour of the area.
There’s a little bit of something for everyone, whether you’re interested in Salem’s Witch history or if you’re just a history buff wanting to know more about Salem’s general history. A day trip to Salem from Boston is a memorable experience you won’t want to miss out on!
Let me know what you’re most excited about seeing in Salem in the comments!
