The Water Park of New England is attached to the wedding block hotel. I (Gabe) have fond childhood memories of this place a few name changes ago, it's a great place for kids to splash around.
The historic town of Salem is a 30 minute drive from the hotel and conveniently the location for our Welcome Party. Go to the Peabody Essex Museum to see a home from China that was dismantled, shipped to the US, and rebuilt. Or, visit the Salem Witch Board Museum for something spooky. If you're looking for souveneirs or antiques, take a walk along Pickering Wharf and enjoy the sea breeze as you browse.
There are plenty of beautiful beaches in the North Shore, below are two recomendations. Good Harbor requires registration in advance for parking and parking at Salem Willows may be affected by the 4th.