Itineraries for Your Trip to Salem
1 Day in Salem for First Timers
I spent my college years and beyond experiencing all New England has to offer, from clam chowder to the Red Sox. I took advantage of any opportunity to visit coastal towns such as Salem and Marblehead to breathe in the fresh Atlantic air and enjoy meals with lots of seafood.
While I always recommend visiting the Salem Witch Museum when you have one day in Salem, there's so much more to see. The bustling wharf is the perfect destination when hunger hits, and you can find quirky shops for a broom or witch's hat souvenir. Here's how you can enjoy your 1-day visit to Salem.
Salem has the best weather in summer and fall, and snow blankets the area in winter and early spring.
If you only have time for one thing, make it the Salem Wax Museum.
Salem is full of history, and many visitors head there to learn about the 1692 Salem witch trials. The best way to get to know the city is by walking around. There are quirky stops, such as the Bewitched statue, alongside historic spots like the Old Burying Point (Charter Street Cemetery). If you want to lean into the quirk, the Salem Wax Museum should be on your must-visit list.
After lunch, enjoy Salem's cultural institutions. Standouts include the Salem Wax Museum and Witch Village. For a great value, look out for 2-for-1 entry deals, which are typically available with advance purchase. After the Witch Village, walk down Wharf Street—enjoy views of the water, and find several restaurants where you can fill up on fresh, local seafood. If you're inspired by the water views, end your afternoon with a sailing adventure on Salem Sound. Private sailboat charters typically have flexible departures, so it's easy to fit a sail into your busy afternoon.
One of Salem's best features is its location on the water. Take advantage of this by heading out on a sunset sail at the end of your day. The craggy Massachusetts coastline is best viewed from the ocean, and most sunset cruises offer beverages onboard. When you are back on shore, enjoy a meal of clam chowder and fresh-caught fish at one of the restaurants on the wharf.
