A Guide on How to Have a Wicked Good Time in Salem, MA
If you are considering booking a trip to Salem in the winter, don’t worry, you will still have a wicked good time! Visiting in the colder months is still a magical time to explore the winding cobblestone streets and uncover the mysticism that makes Salem oh-so bewitching.
Why Book a Trip in the Off-Season
From September to November, Salem is a bustling hub for all things related to Halloween, and there is a certain magic tied to the frenzy of the crowds that visit and the shared affinity for witch history. That said, if you crave a more low-key way to experience the city, visiting during the latter half of November through February is a beautifully intimate time to take in the history that is nestled in every corner of Salem.
While hours of businesses might vary, plenty of Salem’s top attractions are still open for exploring. We suggest checking the websites or social channels of the attraction you plan to visit so you can accurately prepare and take advantage of all the city has to offer. Before setting out on your adventure, be sure to grab your mittens and your warmest winter coat, and get ready to experience the quiet, quaint beauty of Salem.
Salem City Events
Just because it’s not peak tourist season doesn’t mean Salem has lost its spark; the city hosts a plethora of events for locals and visitors to enjoy! While these gatherings might not be about Halloween, they shine a spotlight on the community and foster a sense of togetherness. So, if you were hoping to mingle with a coven, you might be out of luck, but you can gather with fellow Salem enthusiasts and support the local businesses that keep the city’s magic alive.
Salem’s So Sweet Festival
If you’re visiting Salem in February, be sure to check out Salem’s So Sweet Festival! While it may be a departure from the city’s spooky streets and Halloween décor, wintertime brings out Salem’s sweeter side. Chocolate lovers will be in paradise, as the weekend is centered around indulgent treats. It’s the perfect way to get into the Valentine’s, Galentine’s, or even Palentine’s spirit! Admire intricate ice sculptures, snack on decadent chocolate, join fun scavenger hunts, and enjoy special offers from local shops and businesses during this deliciously festive time.
Indoor Markets
Whether it’s before the holiday season or in the months afterward, Salem frequently hosts indoor craft markets throughout the city. These markets give visitors a chance to browse the creations of local artisans and creatives, pick up something truly special, and avoid the crowds of more tourist-heavy spots. They also support the community by giving small businesses a space to showcase their handmade goods. Be sure to check local listings before your visit to see if a market will be happening during your stay!
Visit a Museum
If you are looking to escape the infamous New England winter, take a step into one of the many museums and walk through history. While most tourists choose a trip to Salem for its ties to the witch trials, the city has many other links to other prominent historical periods. Winter offers the perfect chance to slow down and discover some of Salem’s hidden historical treasures.
Explore art, maritime history, industrial advancements, and, of course, the witch lore that the city is known for.
Peabody Essex Museum
Just a quick walk from the Salem Inn is the largest museum in Salem! The Peabody Essex Museum, or the P.E.M., is known for curating alluring exhibits touching on various topics from art to history. With a seasonal rotation of exhibits, it offers the chance to explore not just Salem’s history, but fascinating stories from around the world.
Salem Witch Museum
If a typical museum experience isn’t your cup of tea, just steps from the inn, you’ll find the Salem Witch Museum. This immersive, story-driven attraction offers a fresh perspective on the Salem Witch Trials of 1692, making it a must-visit for first-time visitors.
The House of Seven Gables
No quintessential trip to Salem is complete without a photo-op in front of The House of the Seven Gables. This colonial house is a cherished landmark of the city, and for tourists alike. While many flock to Salem for its witch history, this house also holds significant literary and architectural connections. For a more leisurely activity, enjoy a self-guided tour of the home and grounds for a charming touchstone of Salem’s rich past.
Pirate Museum
For a quick and quirky dive into Salem’s maritime history, stroll over to the New England Pirate Museum. In just thirty minutes, you can explore the historically accurate tales of Salem’s pirate lore. The museum is especially interactive and immersive for kids, making it a perfect family-friendly escape from the winter chill. Expect the little ones to be talking about Captain Blackbeak and his mateys for years to come!
If you are interested in immersing yourself in all the history the city has to offer, consider some of the other popular museums in town!
Take a Tour of the City
If you’re brave enough to face New England’s notorious winter chill, there’s no better way to experience Salem than on a guided walking tour. While it might be an unconventional time to explore the streets, winter tours offer a more intimate experience, letting you explore the city without the crowds of peak season. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours are a fantastic way to discover both amusing and historical stories. With a variety of themes to choose from, even in the off-season, you can tailor your tour to your personal interests, whether it’s pop culture, the Salem Witch Trials, or the city’s famously haunted corners. Grab your winter gear, and perhaps some hand warmers, and step out into history!
Witch City Walking Tours
With an array of tour themes to choose from, you will be sure to find something that sparks your curiosity for Salem’s past. Witch City Walking Tours is a company of licensed touring professionals who are passionate about the expansive history of Salem. Before you book your tour, be sure to check if they have any seasonal offerings!
Salem Ghosts
For our paranormal-loving guests looking to experience more than what Room W17 in the West House has to offer, take to the streets and indulge your apparition-filled aspirations with a guided tour from Salem Ghosts. Uncover local legends and lore, but beware, the chill you feel may not be a brisk New England breeze, but a ghost passing by as you explore
If you’re interested in exploring other tours that will leave your spine chilled by more than just the cold, discover all that Salem has to offer.
Outdoor Activities
Salem is full of beautiful nooks and crannies to discover. With its coastal charm and expansive wooded areas, there are plenty of spots to explore beyond the city’s main hub. While winter may seem like a bizarre time to head outside, it’s actually a beautiful season to explore. Take in snow-capped trees, the satisfying crunch of leaves beneath your boots, and a quieter, more quaint journey that invites you to recenter yourself and reconnect with nature. Test your hand at being a true New Englander and bundle up for an outdoor adventure; bonus points if you cap it off with an iced coffee.
Beach Photography
While it may not be beach weather, and we don’t recommend putting on your swimsuit, the beaches in Salem are just as breathtaking in winter. Many offer picture-perfect moments, with the sun setting over the horizon, creating stunning scenes. Photographers often flock to these spots to capture memorable shots and mementos of their visit.
Dead Horse Beach
Despite what the name suggests, we promise this beach does not offer anything malicious, only beautiful scenery! With sweeping views of the Salem Harbor and Beverly, Dead Horse Beach is a highly sought-after spot for photographers, both professionals and amateurs alike. While it’s enjoyable in the summer sunshine, perhaps with an ice cream from the Salem Willows, winter is the perfect time to capture the beach’s beauty. With fewer tourists and less foot traffic, no need to worry about photobombers as you snap your perfect shots!
Waikiki Beach
Colloquially known as Winter Island, Waikiki Beach is a must-visit during your winter stay! For a quintessential snapshot of New England charm, head to Winter Island and capture the iconic Pickering Wharf. Beyond the scenery, the island is wrapped in so much history, making it a place where every photo feels like a story waiting to be told.
Salem Woods
Whether traveling solo or with a furry friend, consider taking a trip to the Salem Woods and walking the many trails with the soundtrack of nature in the background. Enjoyed for centuries by a wide range of visitors, from birders to Boy Scouts, these woods are truly well-loved. While not one of Salem’s main tourist attractions, Salem Woods remains a cherished hidden gem among locals.
Stay at The Salem Inn
After a day of exploring everything Salem has to offer, from museums and beaches to craft festivals and guided tours, there’s no better way to unwind and warm up than at the Salem Inn. We invite you to book a stay with us, enjoy the amenities at one of our three downtown locations, and experience the charm of a local, quaint inn that makes your visit truly special.