Plan a Road Trip to Salem, MA

Once an idyllic settlement founded by immigrants who chose the name Salem because it means “peace,” Salem, MA, has a volatile history. From its founding in 1626 until 1692 when the Salem Witch Trials began, the once peaceful settlement went through many changes. Ultimately, it is now infamous for the 19 innocent people who were hanged for being witches.

In truth, the first witch trials took place in the mid-1600s in the neighboring state of Connecticut, where trials ended with 16 executions. People who visit the site of the Connecticut Witch Trials first can gain a bit of additional perspective before exploring the hysteria that happened in the once idyllic town of Salem.

Salem, Massachusetts, is a short drive from the Albany, New York, area, making it a simple day trip. However, visitors who want to stay a bit longer to discover all this historic area has to offer have many options for lodging and iconic attractions.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Boston – Peabody

Check in and relax with a stay at the Homewood Suites by Hilton. This all-suite hotel features separate areas for sleeping, dining, and relaxing. It has full-size kitchen appliances and a pet-friendly policy. This AAA Three Diamond property offers amenities like an indoor pool and a daily hot breakfast buffet included in the room price. The convenient location, just seven miles from Salem, offers visitors easy access to area attractions.

The House of the Seven Gables

Once the home of John and Elizabeth Turner, the House of the Seven Gables has become one of the most intriguing historic homes in the area. With a history dating back to 1668 when it was built, this National Historic Landmark was home to one of the colonies’ most successful maritime families. The house later inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The House of the Seven Gables.” It’s open daily for mansion and grounds tours, and it also hosts events periodically and is home to many historic works of art, furnishings, books, and more.

Old Burying Point Cemetery

The Old Burying Point Cemetery, also sometimes referred to as the Charter Street Cemetery, is one of the oldest cemeteries in the country and the oldest maintained resting place in Salem. Its history dates back to 1637 when it first opened, and it’s the resting place of many of the poor souls executed during the Salem Witch Trials.

Some notable people buried in the cemetery include John Brooks and Sarah Bradlee Fulton, both famed for their roles in the Revolutionary War. Judges in the Salem Witch Trials, including John Hathorne and Bartholomew Gedney also have graves here. Today, many curious visitors come to pay their respects. Some people claim that the graveyard is haunted, with the spirits of those killed during the trials and even the ghost of John Hathorne reportedly wandering the grounds.

Salem Witch Museum, North Washington Square, Salem, MA, USA

Visitors to the Salem Witch Museum explore the tragedy and history of the Salem Witch Trials through two exhibits. The first immerses visitors in the drama with 13 life-size stages where they can witness reenactments. In the second exhibit, the museum examines the way that witches’ images evolved over time, beginning with the trials in Europe and moving through all the history leading to the tragic ending for so many people in 1692.

The Witch House at Salem

This museum was once the home of Jonathan Corwin, who was heir to an enormous fortune. Seventeen years after buying the home, the Corwin family participated in the Salem Witch Trials, making this an intriguing testament to the times. Visitors can explore the architecture and the way the family lived while gaining a unique perspective on the people involved in the Salem Witch Trials. The Witch House is one of the few buildings in Salem that has direct ties to the event.

Salem Witch Trials Memorial

Understated, yet profound, the Salem Witch Trials Memorial stands four feet high. Granite benches are arranged around the memorial and are etched with the names of each victim, along with the execution data and method. Words from the accused are etched into the memorial’s threshold, providing a poignant statement for visitors to ponder.

Regatta Pub

Sightseeing can work up quite an appetite. Visitors to Salem enjoy stopping into Regatta Pub in the Salem Waterfront Hotel and Suites for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It serves seasonal, regional fare and a fresh bistro menu. The bar boasts an extensive wine list, signature cocktails, and a variety of beers.

Plan Your Salem, MA, Day Trip with AAA Hudson Valley

Stay for the day or extend your plans to stay for a few days. With so much to do, see, and explore, Salem is a fascinating destination. Let AAA Hudson Valley help plan your next trip. Visit one of our three locations or call us at (518) 426-1000 to get more information.