A Perfect Day in Salem, Massachusetts

  1. 10:00am: The House of the Seven Gables
    Estimated travel time from the city center: 5 minutes by car (1.3 miles)

    The House of Seven Gables is a perfect place to start your day with a history lesson. This old mansion features an interesting architecture and fascinating history going back to the 17th century, based on the novel by Nathaniel Hawthorne.

  2. 11:30am: Salem Witch Museum
    Estimated travel time from The House of the Seven Gables: 13 minutes on foot (0.6 miles)

    Step into the Salem Witch Museum to learn about the infamous Salem witch trials of 1692. The museum has life-sized presentations accompanied by commentary and narration that bring you closer to the events that led to much chaos in historical Salem.

  3. 1:00pm: Red's Sandwich Shop
    Estimated travel time from the Salem Witch Museum: 6 minutes on foot (0.3 miles)

    Opened since 1937, Red's is the quintessential New England diner. Enjoy your lunch with amazing tuna salad, cozy interior and friendly service.

  4. 2:00pm: Salem Maritime National Historic Site
    Estimated travel time from Red's Sandwich Shop: 7 minutes on foot (0.4 miles)

    Learn about Salem's maritime history at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. Culture vultures will love walking around the exhibits, antique shops, and walking paths surrounding the venue.

  5. 3:30pm: Salem Willows Amusement Park
    Estimated travel time from Salem Maritime National Historic Site: 14 minutes by car (2.9 miles)

    Salem Willows Amusement Park offers the perfect setting in nature for some fun and excitement with family and friends. Engage in amusement rides, seafood, arcade games, and ice cream. Try the fried clams with butter, and popcorn shrimp!

  6. 6:00pm: The Lobster Shanty
    Estimated travel time from Salem Willows Amusement Park: 10 minutes by car (1.5 miles)

    To round off your perfect day, check out The Lobster Shanty to enjoy some of the freshest seafood found in and around the Salem area. Try items off the raw bar or opt for a full lobster meal or the Fried Haddock served with homemade chips and cole-slaw.

Time Estimates and Costs

  • The House of Seven Gables (1 hour, $15)
  • Salem Witch Museum (1 hour, $16)
  • Red's Sandwich Shop (30 minutes, $12)
  • Salem Maritime National Historic Site (1 hour, Free Entry)
  • Salem Willows Amusement Park (2.5 hours, $30)
  • The Lobster Shanty (1.5 hours, $40)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $113

Useful Tips

If you are staying for more days, take time to explore the events and exhibits managed by the National Park Service in Salem. More recommended venues in Salem include the Peabody Essex Museum and the Witch House which didn’t make it to the one-day travel itinerary. If you have less time, you can check something off your list from Northey Street House, Ropes Mansion, or the Witch Dungeon Museum.

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