If you’re looking for a quick little day trip outside of the city filled with history, great dining and picturesque scenery then Salem is the place to visit! 

Salem is just a quick 45 minute drive away from Boston, and if you don’t have a car, it is easily accessible by the Commuter Rail departing from North Station.  (Check the www.mbta.com website for schedule information).  Everything of interest is clustered together and within walking distance to the train station – so once you arrive, you won’t really need your vehicle. 

Salem is best known for its infamous Witch Trials in the late 1600’s, and while fans of the macabre and the haunted will surely find plenty to satisfy here – it’s also home to great restaurants, antique shops and maritime history. 

Places of interest include the Witch Dungeon Museum, the Salem Witch House (the only property still standing with direct ties to the Witch Trials), the House of Seven Gables, the Peabody Essex Museum and the Hawthorne Hotel.

All the exploring will surely work up an appetite!  Some of my favorite restaurants include Finz Seafood for great, fresh seafood overlooking the wharf (seasonal outdoor seating available), the historical Lyceum for classic New England fare (currently under renovation but due to reopen by late September) and The Old Spot offering classic British Pub favorites in addition to some rotating specials.

As you could imagine, October is the peak month for this otherwise quaint little town.  If you plan on visiting during this busy month, it’s best to leave the car at home as parking can be scarce (especially during the weekends).  The town often holds different special events in October from fairs to costume parties to public witch trial reenactments!

So make sure to put Salem on your itinerary the next time you visit Boston. 

Elaine Goldman, Concierge
Image: Flickr, Pag2525

September 2nd, 2009