Home » Blog » Do » 10 Things to Know About Salem, Massachusetts
With a festival or celebration every month of the year, a robust local theater scene, active nightlife, and ever-changing museum programming, you will always find something to do and explore in Salem. To start your adventure, here are 10 things to know about Salem, Massachusetts:
9. Our busiest season is October during the Haunted Happenings Festival
Essex Street Market during Salem Haunted Happenings. Photo by John Andrews.
Salem Haunted Happenings is a month-long celebration, encompassing everything from family-friendly magic shows, to costume balls, psychic readings, haunted harbor cruises, ghost tours, and more. Whether you come to Salem seeking history, spooks, shopping, or even a vibrant food and “spirits” scene, you are sure to find your own adventure each October.
8. Salem hosts dozens of festivals throughout the year
Salem’s So Sweet Chocolate & Ice Sculpture Festival. Photo by John Andrews.
There are a couple of self-guided walking tours available through the National Park Service. Print the a brochure before you go on either the McIntire Historic District or Architecture in Salem and tour Salem’s history at your own pace. Prefer an audio tour? You can download the (free) Salem Black Heritage Audio Tour right to your smartphone by searching for “UniGuide” in your app store and selecting the tour.
5. Parking costs between $.75/hour and $20/day
Essex Street Pedestrian Mall
The cost of parking in Salem varies depending on the space, garage, lot, or season. During October weekends, City garages and lots along with most private lots cost $20 (cash on entry) to park for the day. You can find long-term parking in one of the City garages, or by downloading the Passport Parking App to feed your meter from your phone.
4. ”Pop-ups” and special events happen all the time!
Finz Seafood & Grill. Photo by Jared Charney.
Be sure to allow time for the unexpected since there is always something happening in Salem! You may find a cookie “speakeasy” down an alley, an artisan market at a brewery, or the Farmers’ Market in Derby Square! You can always check out events happening during your visit on our events calendar.
3. Salem is a dog-friendly destination
Howl-O-Ween Pet Parade
We have lots of dog-friendly restaurants that allow you to dine on their outdoor patios for you and your pet, with some locations even offering special ‘doggy menus.’ Salem is even home to a number of pet-friendly accommodations, walking tours, and shopping experiences. We even celebrate Halloween with furry friends during the annual Howl-o-ween Pet Parade each October!
2. Combination tickets are available for select attractions
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