February vacation is a wonderful time to visit Salem! Spend a day downtown exploring our museums and attractions or make your trip into an overnight stay for the whole family. Here are a few ideas for how to spend a day or an overnight in Salem this month:
Activities
Learn About Different Cultures at The Peabody Essex Museum
Join The Peabody Essex Museum on February 21, 24, or 25th to celebrate the range of cultures represented in Salem’s local community. Each day has the same programming, beginning with open-ended play with neuroscientist Darcy Moore that encourages children to embrace diversity and inclusion while reflecting on the differences they see in people, then children can drop in and contribute an aspect to a fabric applique forest. Finally, the day ends with the children having the opportunity to dance, drum and sing, while learning about the historical significance of African and Latin music and dance. Click here to learn more.
The Salem Wax Museum and Witch Village
Dive headfirst into the history of Salem with The Salem Wax Museum and The Witch Village. Offering a self-guided exploration of Salem history, the Salem Wax Museum of Witches and Seafarers depicts Salem’s history, from the witch trials to bold seafarers and pirates. Then, venture into The Witch Village to discover the myths and the facts surrounding witches and their craft through a guided indoor tour. Purchase the Hysteria Pass to save $4 on their combination pass valid February 19 – 27th.
Take A Class with The Good Witch of Salem
A new addition to Salem’s vacation options, The Good Witch of Salem has opened a shop and interactive space for kids from four to ten on North Street, right across the street from the Witch House. The Good Witch of Salem will add a little magic to vacation week! Stop by to Decorate yummy cookies and play bingo or mix a potion while celebrating Valentine’s Day. Or, kids can make a mess and create their own slime during either “Makeup Slime Time” or “Lego Slime Party”. Then they can finish the trip by relaxing at the spa with easy to make sugar scrubs and hair styling.
Learn About Salem Maritime
If weather permits, take the half-mile walk out Derby Wharf, past the tall ship FRIENDSHIP, to Derby Light Station. There are interpretive signs along the wharf, and you can find more information about the park at www.nps.gov/sama.
Kid-Friendly Dining
Find family-friendly dining throughout downtown Salem. Find pizza and Sci-Fi at Flying Saucer Pizza Company, or NY style pies at Essex’s NY Pizza & Deli. Spend some time after lunch playing classic video games at Bit Bar. Check the list below for more family-friendly dining ideas or view a complete list of Salem’s restaurants here.
Family-Friendly Shopping
In between fun activities, make sure to check out some uniquely Salem shopping. Curly Girl Candy Shop features bulk candy for kids to crazy in and nostalgia classics for parents to enjoy. Wrap in some history by stopping at Ye Olde Pepper Candy Companie, America’s oldest candy company, where the whole family can enjoy historic classics like gibralters. The Peabody Essex Museum Shop has a great kid’s section including books and art supplies. Check the list below for more family – friendly shopping options or click here for a complete list of Salem shops.
- Curly Girl Candy Shop
- Maria’s Sweet Somethings
- Peabody Essex Museum Shop
- Salem Witch Museum Store
- Wicked Good Books
- Ye Olde Pepper Candy Companie
Stay Overnight
Please note that as of 12/23, masks are required in all indoor locations as well all individuals ages 12 and over shall be required to present proof of vaccination to enter indoor entertainment venues, and food service establishments where food is consumed on-sit. For more information on Salem’s mask order, see salem.com/masks and click here for more on COVID-19 preparedness in Salem.
Tags: Art, Family, History, Museums, Peabody Essex Museum, Things To Do
