Salem, Massachusetts, contains several significant sites related to the Salem Witch Trials, famous authors, and maritime history. In addition to its historical treasures, this seaside town is a great place for groups to enjoy local eateries with fresh seafood, galleries and boutiques, and classic New England charm.
Bewitch
Salem is perhaps most famous as the site of the Salem Witch Trials, which occurred in the 17th century and continues to capture the imagination of the world. Take your group to places associated with this fraught period of American history, including the Salem Witch Museum, Witch Dungeon Museum, and Witch History Museum.
Credit: Destination Salem
Dive In
Real Pirates Salem is the city’s newest group-friendly attraction. The museum tells the story of the wreck of the Whydah, a pirate ship that went down off the coast of Cape Cod during a storm in 1717. The wreck is still an active dive site, and the attraction tour includes a look at pirate treasure and other shipwreck artifacts.
Explore
Get to know the city—both then and now—through guided walking tours. Popular group-friendly options include Witch City Walking Tours, Salem Night Tour, and Salem Historical Tours. Groups of 40 or more should contact walking tour coordinators to be paired with an expert local guide.
Learn
Salem has several museums that cover a wide variety of topics. Visit literary legend Nathaniel Hawthorne’s birthplace; The House of the Seven Gables, New England’s oldest wooden mansion; or the Peabody Essex Museum, which is the United States’ oldest continually operating museum.
Credit: Destination Salem
Float
Book a scenic boating excursion for a sunset cruise with Sunset Sail Salem. Listen to the waves, marvel at lighthouses, and take in the coastline sights as your group floats across the harbor.
Main Image: The House of the Seven Gables, Credit: Destination Salem
