Know before you go: Salem Maritime National Historic Site

If you have visited Salem during this spring, you may have noticed some changes at Salem Maritime National Historic Site.  Some of the changes are good (tours are free!), and some of the changes are less good (the Orientation Center is closed), and I'm here to tell you that the National Park Service in Salem is working diligently to provide interpretation of Salem Maritime National Historic Site to the visiting public. 

Here is some information that may be helpful if you are planning a visit that includes Salem Maritime and the Tall Ship Friendship during 2013:

• The Orientation Center on Derby Street is closed in 2013 due to federal budget reductions, which have resulted in reduced staffing levels and service hours at the park.
• All services previously provided at the Orientation Center are available at the Visitor Center at 2 New Liberty Street.
•    The Visitor Center at 2 New Liberty Street is open 10am-4pm weekdays, 9am-5pm Saturday, 10am - 5pm Sunday.
• Rangers and NPS staff walk the site and wharves daily providing park information to visitors.
• Visitors can book a free ranger-guided tour by calling the Visitor Center at (978) 740-1650 or stopping by the Visitor Center.  All tours are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.  Space is limited and reservations are required. Tours are not offered on Tuesday and Wednesday. 

If you find yourself at the Orientation Center at 160 Derby Street, you will find this flyer on the door.

There is still plenty of activity at Salem Maritime National Historic Site. Click here for the Tour and Program Schedule in May and June.

Visit nps.gov/sama for complete information on visiting the Park.