Four-day itinerary for a Spooky trip to Salem

1. Day 1: The Witch House and The House of Seven Gables
   The Witch House is an important historical site that was owned by one of the judges involved in the Salem witch trials. The House of Seven Gables is a mansion that inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel of the same name. Both locations are within walking distance of each other.
   Time Est: 2 hours
   Distance Est: 0.4 miles

   The Witch House and The House of Seven Gables are two of the most iconic and richly historic sites in Salem. The Witch House is adorned with unique architectural details, and also serves as the epitome of the town’s macabre past. The House of Seven Gables has plenty of information on not only the family that lived there but also the importance it played within Salem’s history.

2. Day 2: Salem Maritime National Historic Site and Peabody Essex Museum
   Salem Maritime National Historic Site is a waterfront area with restored 18th-century buildings. Peabody Essex Museum is a world-class museum with art and artifacts from America and around the world. Both are must-visits attractions.
   Time Est: 4 hours
   Distance Est: 0.8 miles

   These two locations are the highlights of the second day. Salem Maritime National Historic Site presents a chance to get up close and personal with Salem's early history. Peabody Essex Museum is an art museum filled with history, expressive pieces of artwork and modern installations. Be sure to look out for their special exhibitions as they can be a highlight of your trip.

3. Day 3: Gallows Hill Museum and Proctor's Ledge Memorial
   Gallows Hill Museum is a theater-like museum experience that guides visitors through the witch trials. Proctor's Ledge Memorial marks the spot where the accused were executed.
   Time Est: 2 hours
   Distance Est: 1 mile

   The third day is dedicated to understanding the history and the horror of the infamous Salem Witch Trials. Gallows Hill Museum presents a unique and informative dissection of the events that occurred during the trials. Proctor's Ledge Memorial provides an emotional yet poignant experience, dedicated to the innocence that was taken away from the victims.

4. Day 4: Pioneer Village and Nathaniel Hawthorne Birthplace
   Pioneer Village is a 1630s living history museum where visitors can learn about life in the colonies. A short drive away is the Nathaniel Hawthorne Birthplace where the famous author grew up.
   Time Est: 3 hours
   Distance Est: 2.5 miles

   The last day will end on a more relaxed tone with an immersive experience in Pioneer Village. The living history museum presents an accurate representation of life as an early colonist. Nathaniel Hawthorne Birthplace is a perfect end to a Salem trip, honoring the birthplace of one of its most famous authors who drew so much inspiration for his infamous stories from the town.

Time and Costs Estimates

• The Witch House (30 min, $8)
• The House of Seven Gables (1.5 hours, $17)
• Salem Maritime National Historic Site (2 hours, free)
• Peabody Essex Museum (2 hours, $20)
• Gallows Hill Museum (1.5 hours, $17)
• Proctor's Ledge Memorial (30 min, free)
• Pioneer Village (1.5 hours, $8)
• Nathaniel Hawthorne Birthplace (1 hour, $15)
Total Estimated Costs: $85

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you might consider a visit to the Salem Witch Museum. If you have less time, you might skip either Pioneer Village or Nathaniel Hawthorne Birthplace. As with many historical locations, check hours of operation in advance and note they may be closed on certain holidays.