Top 10 things to do in Salem Massachusetts. Salem is a historic town just sixteen miles north from Boston. It has a waterfront and in the fall the city is overrun by tourists looking to see and explore the history of the Salem Witch Trials that happened in the 17th century. During the trials hundreds of people were accused and twenty were killed. Salem is known as the “Witch City” and is a popular destination in all seasons, not just Halloween.
The Bewitched Statue
The Bewitched Statue is near the train station and is a popular attraction. The statue was unveiled in 2005 and is for all the lovers of the popular television show, “Bewitched.”
The Ropes Mansion and Gardens
The Ropes mansion and gardens are just beautiful. This is Allison’s house in the popular children’s movie, “Hocus Pocus.” It is now a museum operated by the Peabody Essex Museum. It is an architectural masterpiece of Georgian fashion. The gardens are very pretty with 5,000 flowers!
The Witch House
The Witch House is the only house standing that has direct ties to the Salem Witch Trials. The owner of the house at that time, Jonathan Corwin, was a judge of the trial. Now, the house stands as a museum to those awful times. Period furniture and other objects are displayed in the historic house.
The House of 7 Gables
The House of the 7 Gables is also now a museum. It was where famous author, Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote his famous book, “The House of the 7 Gables. “
Old Town Hall
The Old Salem Town Hall is where the townspeople had an epic Halloween party in the movie, “Hocus Pocus.” This red- bricked building dates from the 19th Century and is where the townspeople gather for community events and concerts. It is built in the Federalist style.
Max and Dani’s House
This is the house well known for being in the movie “Hocus Pocus.” You can visit this neighborhood but don’t annoy the neighbors or the people living in the house currently. In the fall months there is no parking for tourists there. Parking is for residents only.
Salem Maritime Historical Site
This site was designated in 1938, making it the oldest and first historical site in the United States. The site was preserved to make people aware of the maritime history and heritage that Salem has.
Salem Common
Salem Common is a great and nice park in the town of Salem. It has lots of trees and nice green spaces. Established in 1667, it is the oldest park in the United States. During the 17th and 18th centuries, it was used as a training ground for the military. It was also used as a place to execute people, even during the witch trials.