Fun Winter Activities in Salem, Massachusetts
February 1, 2024Salem, Massachusetts, often referred to as the Witch City is the must-visit spot in October in the weeks leading up to Halloween. But did you know that Salem is just as exciting a place to visit in the winter months with lots of museums, restaurants, and events to attend?
Let’s explore some fun ways you could spend a weekend in Salem as you dive into the arts, culture and amazing cuisine offered in this North Shore city.
Take Part in Salem’s So Sweet
If you plan to be near Salem in February, you can not miss this annual tradition of Salem’s So Sweet event. In its 22nd year, Salem’s So Sweet Chocolate & Ice Sculpture Festival is a decadent tradition of mouth-watering chocolate, sparkling ice sculptures, and Valentine’s Day shopping! This year it is being celebrated from February 9 through Feb. 11, 2024.
One of the most popular traditions celebrated during this annual event includes a variety of ice sculptures displayed around town, starting with installation on the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall on Friday, Feb. 9th. Ice sculptures will be illuminated in the evenings of Friday, February 9th and Saturday, February 19th from 5-9 pm.
Additionally, there will be The Chocolate Hearts Challenge on Saturday, February 10th and Sunday, February 11th. A QR code game in businesses around town will offer fun prizes for participants. There will be sweet treats and deals all weekend long all around Salem.
Visit Salem’s Favorite Attractions
Some of Salem’s favorite attractions are best visited when the crowds are gone and you can lean into the details and get an up-close look at the culture and history of the region.
Some of our favorites include The Salem Witch Museum, The House of The Seven Gables, the Peabody Essex Museum, Salem Witch Village and Salem Wax Museum. Here you can learn all about the 1692 Salem Witch Trials, the maritime history of the port of Salem, and see amazing exhibits from around the world on display.
We would also love to invite you to visit Real Pirates Salem at 285 Derby Street, Salem, MA where you can view some of the artifacts found at the shipwreck of the Whydah – a pirate vessel led by Captain Black Sam Bellamy during the 1700s.
Savour Local Cuisine
Salem is also known for its huge assortment of dining establishments that include fine dining, casual eateries, decadent desserts and bakeries galore.
Enjoy a scrumptious meal at Regatta Pub at the Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites, Rockafellas, Longboards Restaurant & Bar, Sea Level Oyster Bar, Brodie’s Seaport, The Tavern in the Hawthorne Hotel, or any of the many dining establishments that line the quaint cobblestone streets of Salem’s downtown.
Stay For A Cozy Weekend
In addition to world-class museums, cultural attractions and restaurants, Salem also has some magnificent historic inns, B&Bs, and full-service hotels. Stay at the Hawthorne Hotel right in downtown Salem, or try one of Salem’s Bed and Breakfasts such as The Northey Street House Bed and Breakfast, The Merchant, and Morning Glory Bed & Breakfast.
Set aside some time to visit Salem, Massachusetts this winter to soak up some of our New England charm and enjoy all the Witch City has to offer.