Winter Activities in Salem, Massachusetts 

Tired of the frigid weather in New England and want to get out and about before you go stir-crazy? Salem is a robust city with plenty of shops, museums, eateries, breweries, tours and activities to explore even during these dreary wintery months. 

Whether you enjoy learning about pirates, art, maritime history or the infamous Witch Trials of 1692, Salem has lots of museums to explore. If visiting taprooms and tasting new brews is something you enjoy, Salem has plenty of breweries to visit. For film lovers, there’s even the Salem Film Festival at the end of March that you won’t want to miss. 

Let’s explore some of the best ways to fill your winter months with activities and events in Salem, MA. 

Salem Museums 

With over 26 museums to visit with varying areas of interest from witches to art to pirates, Salem is the perfect place to spend an afternoon or full day walking through the exhibits. Of course Real PIrates Salem is our favorite museum, but there are so many more to visit. 

The Peabody Essex Museum offers the opportunity to view a global array of art, science, history and culture, including a 200-year-old Chinese home. The House of Seven Gables allows visitors to embark on a tour of the location where famed novelist Nathaniel Hawthorne based his book of the same name. Then there are museums that explore the history of the 1692 Witch Trials, the maritime history of Salem and the North Shore or the Urban Art of Salem at the Punto Urban Art Museum. 

For a full list of museums and attractions around Salem visit Destination Salem to start your museum journey. 

Salem Breweries 

Salem has several breweries for beer lovers to explore this winter. Depending on the style, type and atmosphere you are seeking, we suggest trying Notch Brewery and Taproom, Far From the Tree, Couch Dog Brewing Company or East Regiment Beer Company. Or, if you are in the mood to visit them all you could find yourself a rideshare and hop from place to place comparing the brews that suit you! 

Salem Film Festival 

Nearly 18 years ago the Salem Film Festival began its run in Salem. This year the film festival is being held March 27-30, 2025. The annual event shows features, shorts and special events to a loyal audience of thousands. The festival is mostly run by volunteers through a non-profit entity, Salem Community Arts Center, Inc. It is now considered the largest international documentary film festival in Massachusetts. 

Salem Food Tours 

Foodies rejoice with the perfect tour for their taste buds. Explore the wide range of tours available to guests looking to not only explore historic Salem but get to experience some of the amazing cuisine that has put the city on the map. Explore all the options at Salem Food Tours where you will get a chance to try out many tastings from some of Salem’s best food shops and restaurants. 

Salem has so much to do all year long including the winter months. Don’t let the weather stop you from exploring the history, arts, culture, and cuisine of the Witch City. And don’t forget to stop in and visit us at Real Pirates Salem as you explore our beloved city.