Peabody Essex Museum

A world-class museum with rotating exhibits featuring art, culture, and history from around the globe—including maritime and New England collections.

Salem Maritime National Historic Site

Explore Salem’s seafaring past with historic buildings, a replica tall ship, and scenic waterfront views.

The House of the Seven Gables

Tour this iconic 17th-century home made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel. Bonus: amazing harbor views!

Pickering Wharf

Shop, stroll, and dine along this quaint waterfront area filled with boutiques, restaurants, and beautiful views of Salem Harbor.

Salem Witch Museum

Learn about the infamous 1692 witch trials in a theatrical presentation that blends history with drama.

Salem Willows Park

A charming oceanside park perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Enjoy arcade games, fried clams, and saltwater taffy with a view.

New England Pirate Museum

Great for families and pirate fans alike—this fun and interactive museum dives into the swashbuckling history of New England’s pirates.

Take a Walking Tour

Whether you’re into history, architecture, or ghost stories, there’s a Salem walking tour for you. It's a great way to explore the city on foot and learn something new.

Restaurants:

Ledger Restaurant & Bar
Located in a former bank building, Ledger offers upscale New England fare with a modern twist. Perfect for a nice dinner out. We are having our welcome drinks here! A Mike Favorite!

Adriatic Restaurant & Bar
A Mediterranean-inspired spot known for its fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and romantic patio.

Finz Seafood & Grill
A casual waterfront restaurant with fresh oysters, sushi, and seafood classics—plus great views of Salem Harbor. A Mike Favorite!

Turner’s Seafood
Housed in the historic Lyceum Hall, this local favorite serves up classic New England seafood in a cozy, tavern-like setting.

The Babe
Trendy and intimate, The Babe serves up shareable small plates, natural wines, and cocktails in a chic, cozy setting. Great for lunch and pre-dinner drinks. An Elise favorite!

Flying Saucer Pizza Company
A quirky, sci-fi-themed pizzeria offering creative pies, vegan options, and a fun, casual vibe in the heart of downtown. BOTH LOVE!

Life Alive Organic Café
A colorful, health-conscious café serving vibrant grain bowls, smoothies, juices, and organic fare. Great for a light lunch or quick pick-me-up. An Elise Favorite!

Breweries:

Notch Brewing
A must-visit for beer lovers. This riverside taproom and biergarten specializes in session beers and has a laid-back, communal vibe. This is where we attend run club! BOTH LOVE!

East Regiment Beer Company
Small-batch brewery offering inventive beers and a fun, casual tasting room right in downtown Salem.

Far From the Tree Cider
Not a brewery technically, but a local gem making craft hard ciders with unique flavors. Their tasting room is relaxed and dog-friendly!

Coffee Shops & Breakfast Spots:

Red Line Café
A cozy spot downtown offering coffee, smoothies, and delicious breakfast sandwiches and crepes.

Jaho Coffee Roaster & Wine Bar
Trendy and inviting, Jaho is great for both morning coffee or an afternoon wind-down with wine, beer, and light bites.

Gulu-Gulu Café
Funky and artsy café with great coffee, craft beer, and a solid breakfast/brunch menu. Often features live music and events. An Elise Favorite!

Ugly Mug Diner
A quirky, laid-back breakfast spot serving creative takes on diner classics. Get there early—it's popular for a reason! BOTH LOVE!

Not Ya Mammas Vegan Cafe
Low key casual diner with all vegan breakfast and lunch! An Elise Favorite!

Boston, MA 40 minutes

Just 40 minutes from Salem, the most obvious choice is to visit Boston. Boston is packed with history, culture, shopping, and amazing food. Walk the Freedom Trail, explore the North End (hello, cannoli!), or catch a game at the TD Garden.

Beverly, MA 10 minutes

Right next to Salem, Beverly is a quieter coastal town with beaches, cute shops, and a great food scene. Check out Cabot Street for cafes, breweries, and live music venues. WE LIVE HERE!

Gloucester, MA 30 minutes

A working fishing town with rugged charm, scenic views, and some of the best seafood around. Visit Good Harbor Beach or hop on a whale watch cruise.

Rockport, MA 35 minutes

A postcard-perfect coastal village known for its art galleries, lobster rolls, and the iconic red Motif No. 1 fishing shack. Great for a relaxing stroll along the waterfront.

Newburyport, MA 40 minutes

This charming seaside town is full of boutiques, historic homes, and waterfront dining. It's a great spot to walk along the harbor or explore nearby Plum Island beaches.

Portsmouth, NH 50 minutes

Just across the border in New Hampshire, Portsmouth is a lively, walkable city with colonial architecture, craft breweries, and a great dining and shopping scene. It’s a fun mix of historic and hip.