International Welcome

The following city profile is available in Chinese, Japanese, Korean, German, Spanish, French and Italian by clicking on the links to your left. Some of the museums and cultural attractions in Salem offer translations of their programs and presentations. If you are visiting Salem from abroad, please let us know how we can assist you.

Salem, Massachusetts: A City Profile

Salem, nicknamed the "Witch City" because of the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692, is located on the Atlantic coast just 16 miles (about 30 minutes) north of Boston and is easily accessible by car, train, bus or boat.

This city grew rich as a major seaport during the heyday of post-Revolutionary trade with Africa, the West Indies, Russia, India, Sumatra and China in the 18th and early 19th centuries. In recent times, the city's place in history and its unmatched collection of 17th to 19th century architecture have led to national and international recognition as an American historic treasure.

Salem attracts more than a million visitors each year from every corner of the globe. This "walking city" boasts one of Massachusetts' highest concentrations of historic sites, museums, cultural activities, fine dining and shopping. The hotels and historic inns in the city, as well as along the coast and in the surrounding countryside, offer accommodations to suit every budget. Salem is America's Bewitching Seaport with a little history in every step.

A Little History in Every Step

Just think of it! A city where the first settlers looked to the sea for their livelihood; where young, adventurous seafarers brought art treasures from around the world home to their wives and sweethearts; where the consequences of witchcraft accusations inflicted unimaginable suffering on innocent men, women and children: a city launched to international attention by the author, Nathaniel Hawthorne.

The history of our nation is alive in Salem. Begin your visit at the new National Park Service Regional Visitor Center, conveniently located just across from the public parking garage. Watch a multi-media presentation that introduces our New England heritage and picturesque region. Right next door to the Visitor Center is the world-renowned Peabody Essex Museum where you can discover our heritage through art and architecture and explore art and cultures from around the world. Or... visit the famous Salem Witch Museum, and relive the shocking Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Afterwards, you might want to board the Salem Trolley or walk along the Heritage Trail, marked by a red line, to The House of the Seven Gables that inspired Hawthorne's novel of the same name.

Are you hungry? Have lunch at one of our many tempting sandwich shops and restaurants or take it down to the harbor for a picnic by the sea. With the cries of gulls on the ocean breezes, imagine the times when magnificent sailing ships ruled the waves, and Salem was our nation's most important and active port.

Visit Hawthorne's famous Custom House, walk historic Derby Wharf to view the breathtaking scenery of Salem Sound or browse in the many quaint shops along the way.

There's no shortage of interesting choices for your afternoon venture. Will it be an ocean Whale Watch or a visit to the New England Pirate Museum? Mingle with the famous and infamous at the Salem Wax Museum of Witches and Seafarers. Or take a shuttle to Salem 1630: Pioneer Village at Forest River Park. Explore the spooky depths of the Witch Dungeon Museum or visit the Witch House the home of a 17th-century Witch Trial Judge.

Later, take a stroll around Salem's traditional New England town common or walk down historic Chestnut Street. Take in the architectural features of the elegant mansions - Federal-style homes of successful sea captains and businessmen - standing unchanged from their 19th century splendor. Finish up the day at one of our award-winning restaurants. Choose from savory seafood fresh from the Atlantic and a wide range of irresistible cuisine with something tasty for everyone.

For night life, more awaits you - music, dancing, and romantic dinners! With a full day of excitement and exploration tomorrow, it's time for a comfortable night's rest at one of our charming hotels or historic inns. As you fall asleep, colorful images of adventure on land and sea fill your dreams.