Salem, Massachusetts is a city that is rich in history, and what better way to explore that history than by visiting some of the museums that are scattered throughout the city? From witchcraft to maritime history, there is something for everyone (plus it’s a quick drive from our hotel!). Here is a guide to some of the must-visit museums in Salem, MA.
1. The Salem Witch Museum
20 minutes from the Inn
This museum is dedicated to the infamous witch trials of 1692, and it uses life-size stage sets, exhibits, and narration to tell the story of what happened during that dark time in Salem’s history. Innsider tip: This is Salem’s most visited museum so be prepared for lines.
2. The Peabody Essex Museum
20 minutes from the Inn
This museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in the country, and it is home to a vast collection of art, artifacts, and cultural objects from around the world. Its maritime collection is particularly impressive, with over 1.8 million objects related to Salem’s seafaring history. Innsider tip: This is an incredible museum that the North Shore is lucky to have – a staff favorite!
3. The Salem Maritime National Historic Site
20 minutes from the Inn
Established on March 17, 1938 as the first National Historic Site in the United States, this site tells the story of Salem’s role as a major seaport in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Visitors can explore historic buildings, learn about the customs and traditions of sailors, and see a replica of a 1797 merchant ship. Innsider tip: It is best to go here on a nice day to fully appreciate the beautiful scenery!
4. The House of the Seven Gables
20 minutes from the Inn
This museum is housed in an 18th-century mansion that was made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about the history of the mansion and the Turner family who lived there. Innsider tip: The home’s secret passageway is a highlight, but it is small, and the stairs are steep, so it’s not ideal for those who are claustrophobic.
5. The Witch House
16 minutes from the Inn
Also known as the Jonathan Corwin House, this museum is the only building in Salem with direct ties to the witch trials. The name may be a bit misleading as it was never home to any witches but still warrants a visit. Innsider tip: They only offer self-guided tours so you may not walk away with as much information as the other museums but it will certainly give you a glimpse into Salem’s eerie past.
Expert Tips for Exploring Salem’s Museums
Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun way to spend a day in Salem, these museums are sure to provide an interesting and educational experience. Additionally, they are all within convenient walking distance of each other. If you can’t find street parking, there are a few parking garages around Salem – we recommend either the Museum Place Garage or Waterfront Garage. Winter is obviously best to avoid crowds, with heavy crowds expected from September until the middle of November, especially during peak October days. You could hit all of them in a day if you wanted to be ambitious, but we’d probably recommend 2 days, especially since you will want to give yourself a few hours for the Peabody Essex Museum. Make sure to check current ticket prices when you plan your visit.
Facts and Myths about the Salem Witch Trials
- Fact 1: A “perfect storm” of factors fueled the hysteria.
The Salem Witch Trials were driven by a combination of factors: trauma from King Philip’s War, political instability, and a fierce local feud between Salem Village and Salem Town. These elements created a volatile environment ripe for the witch trials. - Fact 2: The majority of those accused were women.
Historically, women were the primary targets during the Salem Witch Trials, reflecting broader societal beliefs about women being more susceptible to witchcraft. While men were also accused, the overwhelming majority of the nearly 300 accused were women. - Fact 3: The trials lasted only one year.
The Salem Witch Trials were relatively brief, occurring from late summer 1692 to early spring 1693. Despite the rapid timeline, the trials resulted in 20 executions. The end of the trials came about abruptly when the Massachusetts governor’s wife was implicated, leading him to halt further executions. - Myth 1: Witch hunting was widespread in early America.
While the Salem Witch Trials are infamous, witch hunting was not a common practice in early American Puritan communities. The trials in Salem were an anomaly, with strict procedures usually in place for such cases. The Salem events were fueled by chaos and disregard for legal norms, rather than being a standard part of Puritan life. - Myth 2: Float tests were used to determine guilt or innocence.
The idea that suspects were thrown into water to see if they floated (and thus were deemed witches) is a myth. This practice was more associated with earlier European witch trials. In Salem, the tests for witchcraft involved checking for physical signs or marks believed to indicate a pact with the devil. - Myth 3: Rotten wheat caused the hysteria.
The theory that poisoning from contaminated rye bread caused the Salem hysteria is largely debunked. By the 1690s, Massachusetts had measures in place to prevent such issues, and this theory is considered outdated. The true causes of the Salem witch trials were complex, involving war trauma, political instability, and deep-seated local conflicts.
Stay With Us
Marblehead is a charming and picturesque coastal town located just a few miles away from Salem. It offers a more peaceful and relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds and a slower pace of life, making it the perfect place to stay while also enjoying all that Salem has to offer. Nestled within this picturesque setting is our romantic hotel, providing easy access to the harbor, eclectic shops, art galleries, historic landmarks, and a plethora of dining options. Indulge in a delightful breakfast each morning, included with all our room rates, and enjoy the convenience of complimentary onsite parking throughout your stay.
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