Weekending in Salem, MA – What To Do & See

Summer is an ideal time to visit historic Salem, Massachusetts. The Haunted Halloween crowds have thinned out, allowing visitors to explore all this unique city offers, including charming streets, quaint shops, a wide variety of cuisine and a list of things to see and do that will fill your weekend. 

If you are planning to spend a weekend exploring the Witch City, it’s a good idea to plan your trip in advance to make the most of your time, whether you want to dive into the Salem Witch Trials history, explore the art and culture scene, or take advantage of the waterfront views. 

Let’s break down the list of places you may want to visit based on your interests. 

Salem’s Art & Culture 

If part of your weekend plans include exploring Salem’s art and culture scene, you won’t want to miss the events, exhibits, or street art that give the city its unique vibe. Salem has something for everyone, from the Punto Urban Art Museum to the world-renowned Peabody Essex Museum (PEM). 

Peabody Essex Museum 

Start your art tour of Salem at the impressive PEM, home of America’s oldest continually operating museum. There, you can view artwork and exhibits featuring Witch Trial objects, maritime history, fashion, and special exhibits. You won’t want to miss the late 18th-century Chinese dwelling that was moved from its original location in Asia and re-erected in the PEM. 

Artists’ Row 

Right down the street at Salem’s Old Town Hall, you will find Artists’ Row. This public plaza and pedestrian way is a great spot to meet artists at work, discover unique treasures and immerse yourself in the art and culture of Salem. 

Punta Urban Art Museum 

A short walk to the Point neighborhood will bring you to the open-air museum, which contains 75 large-scale murals featuring 40 global and 25 New England-based artists. The Punta Urban Art Museum offers educational tours on social justice, equity, and segregated neighborhoods. 

The Salem Art Association 

Located on Derby Street, the Salem Art Association offers exhibitions, workshops, markets, artist talks, and other events that are all open to the public. Explore the calendar to see what workshops interest you during your trip. 

Salem’s Maritime & Local History 

If you love history, Salem is the ideal place to visit to learn more about the 1692 Salem Witch Trials, colonial history, or maritime history of our region.   

Maritime History 

Head to the waterfront to visit the Salem Maritime National Historical Site, where you can visit 12 historic structures, one replica tall ship (The Friendship), and about 9 acres of land along the waterfront of Salem Harbor. 

Salem Witch Trials History 

Visit the Salem Witch Museum, where you can experience the Salem Witch Trials through a series of stage sets and exhibits. Or, take in the Witch House, which was once the home of Witch Trials Judge Jonathan Corwin. For more historical insights, walk along the Salem Heritage Trail, where you can visit the Witch Trials Memorial and more regarding the 400 years of Salem’s history. Don’t forget to walk by the Charter Street Cemetery, where many figures from the Salem Witch Trials are buried. 

Shopping

As you enjoy Salem’s history and culture, you will undoubtedly encounter many shops along the way. One favorite shopping area that you won’t want to miss is the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall, where you will find unique shops, bars, dining establishments, and gluten-free food options.

Salem has so many options to fill your getaway weekend that you may need to come back to experience it all. Visit our Foodies Guide to Salem to find the perfect restaurant or dining options for your weekend in Salem.