5 Unexpected Things to Do in Salem, Massachusetts

Most of the crowds flee to Salem not just in October, but year-round, for the infamous ties to the witch trials. While Salem may be best known as the “Witch City,” it has much more history, culture, and character to explore. While the iconic spots should be on your to-do list, here is a line-up of some unique things to do during your visit. 

One pro tip for traveling to Salem is to skip the parking, especially as Halloween gets closer. To avoid the hassle of parking in an unfamiliar city filled with crowds, just take the train. From North Station, you can ride the Newburyport/Rockport Line right into Salem Station, and on weekends, you can travel with a $10 Weekend Pass to get you within a mile of the city’s top attractions and hidden gems.

Explore Salem’s History Beyond the Witch Trials

Dating back to 1810, the Salem Athenæum (.5 mi) is one of the nation’s earliest independent libraries. While the building itself is historically significant, it holds more significance than meets the eye. From a 50,000-volume research collection to notable figures such as Susan Burley, mathematician Nathaniel Bowditch, and author Nathaniel Hawthorne walking the halls, this hidden gem deserves a spot on your bucket list. 

If you are looking for a quiet place to escape the crowded streets, unwind, and connect with different touchpoints in American history, the Salem Athenæum is a must-visit for a unique Salem experience. 

Visit America’s Oldest Candy Shop 

If you have a sweet tooth, you must add Ye Olde Pepper Companie (.8 mi) to your Salem itinerary. As America’s oldest candy company, this local gem sells iconic treats from the 1800s, like Black Jacks and Gibraltors. Still serving the original recipes, a stop at Ye Olde Pepper Company is not only a way to experience a sweet part of Salem’s history, but to taste it, too.

Discover One of Salem’s Quirkiest Attractions 

Tucked away in downtown Salem, and just off the hustle and bustle of Essex Street, is the Salem Witch Board Museum (4 mi). While you might miss this spot if you are not looking closely enough, paranormal enthusiasts won’t want to miss John Kozik’s display of Ouija boards. 

From talking boards rumored to be haunted to unique editions, a stop at the Witch Board Museum gives you a glimpse into the depth of Kozik’s collection while also exploring the fascinating lore and history of Ouija boards as a whole.

Experience Salem’s Culture, Art, History & More in One Tour

If you are looking for a unique thing to do when visiting Salem, the Urban Art Museum (.5 mi) is a must. While this attraction might not be what some consider a quintessential Salem experience, it offers a look at the modern culture and stories unfolding in the city. 

Covering 4 blocks of the El Punto Neighborhood in Salem, the Urban Art Museum is a community initiative that features over 75 murals from both world-renowned and local artists. With walking tours available, you can take in Salem’s art, culture, architecture, and history all in one experience.

Uncover Salem’s Spirited Past

Deacon Gilles Distillery (.8 mi) is a modern-day distillery and the perfect stop if you want to trade the rumored spirits that haunt Salem’s streets for the ones that come in a glass. Inspired by John Stone’s distillery from 1830, this modern-day distillery and speakeasy reflects a chapter of Salem’s history that might not have made it into your history books.

With two speakeasies on the property, each with its own unique vibe and purpose, this is a fun place to taste a little piece of Salem’s history. Tours and tastings of the distillery are also available for those who want to take this experience to the next level. 

Find More Stops to Add to Your Salem Itinerary 

From Salem Willows to the Salem Witch Museum, there are so many uniquely Salem things to do when you visit. For more ideas on how to make the most of your visit to the Witch City, including things to do and how to get there, follow us on Instagram and check out our events for more things to do, places to explore, and tips for getting around the Boston area.