Retail Therapy in Salem, MA 

While it may be too hot to enjoy outdoor activities, there is still plenty to do throughout Salem when you want to escape the heat. Enjoy some retail therapy and shop at the many unique stores that line Salem’s historic downtown. 

Retail therapy can be ideal for avoiding the heat of the dog days of summer or for boosting one’s mood by browsing and shopping for items. Not only does Salem have a very walkable shopping district, but it also offers some of the most unique shopping options and dining establishments to provide respite after completing your shopping adventure. Let’s explore Salem’s shopping options! 

Gift Shops 

Salem is such a fun place to shop because there are so many charming shops and boutiques within the downtown district that you can visit in one afternoon. It’s also fun to window-shop and stroll along the historic cobblestone streets, taking in the people-watching and exploring the distinctive culture that the Witch City has to offer. 

Start your shopping adventure on Essex Street, where you’ll find the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall, featuring numerous gift shops offering a variety of souvenirs, local artisan crafts, books, and witch-themed merchandise. There, you can visit Witch City Wicks, where you can find handcrafted, artisan soy candles, jewelry, art and home decor. Right on the same street, you will also find Remember Salem Gifts, where you can explore their collection of enchanting gifts and magical memorabilia. A few doors down is the Peabody Essex Museum Shop, where you will find toys, puzzles, books, art and home decor. Don’t forget to check out Moody’s Home and Gifts shop, which offers handmade gifts crafted by local and international fair trade makers.

Beyond the Essex Street shopping district, there are many quaint shops to explore. Check out other gift shops such as Witch City Gift Shop, Timeless Life Treasures and so many more. 

Bookstores 

Everything is special in Salem and bookstores are no different. From the occult to the supernatural, Salem bookstores offer some impressive collections on Salem’s history, the 1692 Witch Hysteria, North Shore history and more. While many of the gift stores also provide an array of books on these topics, you will find a more expansive collection at Wicked Good Books and Silly Bunny Toys, as well as at Marble Faun Books and Gifts. 

Enjoy browsing and buying, as both bookstores are welcoming and love having guests explore Salem. 

Apparel 

If you’re looking for trendy clothing, consider visiting the North Shore Mall or Liberty Tree Mall in nearby Peabody and Danvers, respectively. However, if you’re looking for something special and uniquely Salem, many shops in downtown Salem fit the bill. 

For curated collections that may include a witch’s hat, consider visiting Salem Bespoke Boutique. Or for a modern twist on Salem’s charm, apparel, accessories, and cosmetics, check out Coven on Wharf Street. 

The District Trading Company is a Salem-inspired apparel and lifestyle shop featuring an original line of high-quality graphic t-shirts, hoodies, hats, greeting cards, home décor, souvenirs, stickers, and more. (5% of sales to art education.)

Sweet Treats 

After all day shopping, you deserve a sweet treat! Visit one of Salem’s chocolate or candy stores, such as Whimsy’s, Curly Girl Candy, Harbor Sweets, or Kakawa Chocolate House. Enjoy classic chocolate treats or be transported back to childhood with the extensive nostalgic candy options. Either way, you won’t be disappointed with your sweet treat options in Salem. 

Whether you are looking for books, gifts, souvenirs, or something uniquely Salem in style, shopping in the Witch City is a day well spent. Be sure to stop by Real Pirates Salem gift shop, where you can find treasures, maritime gifts and all things pirates.