SalemOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt

From Naumkeag to Salem Town

Salem, Massachusetts, was settled in 1626 by Roger Conant and English colonists from Cape Ann. The area was known as Naumkeag, a Native American fishing site. In 1629, Puritans under Captain John Endicott arrived, and the settlement was renamed Salem, from the Hebrew word "shalom," meaning peace.

Salem became the second-oldest settlement in New England, founded four years before Boston. The First Church in Salem, one of the oldest Protestant churches in North America, was organized in August 1629. By 1630, approximately 40 settlers lived there. The town operated under a town government until March 23, 1836, when Governor Edward Everett approved an act to establish the City of Salem, making it the second incorporated city in Massachusetts after Boston.

Maritime Powerhouse and Witchcraft Hysteria

By the late 17th century, Salem was a seaport. Its ships carried cod and lumber to the West Indies, returning with molasses, rum, spices, tea, sugar, ivory, and coffee. By 1790, Salem was the nation's sixth-largest city and the richest per capita. This maritime wealth is visible in the city's architecture, particularly in homes built by sea captains and merchants. The House of the Seven Gables, for instance, was built in 1668 for Captain John Turner I, head of a maritime family.

Salem's history is marked by the Salem Witch Trials in 1692. While initial accusations occurred in Salem Village (modern-day Danvers), court proceedings and condemnations took place in Salem Town. Between June and September 1692, nineteen people were condemned and hanged. As shipping declined through the 19th century, the city transitioned towards manufacturing.

• —Salem Witch Trials Memorial — This memorial, dedicated in 1992, consists of twenty stone benches, one for each of the twenty victims executed during the 1692 witch trials. Each bench is inscribed with the victim's name, means of execution, and date.
• —The Witch House (Jonathan Corwin House) — Built in the 17th century, this is the only remaining structure in Salem with direct ties to the 1692 witch trials. It was the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin. Visitors can see its architecture, furnishings, and learn about the trial history and superstitions of the era.
• —Salem Common — A public park dating to 1636, where the first muster of the National Guard took place. It is a large green space surrounded by homes.
• —Old Burying Point Cemetery — Established in 1637, this is one of the oldest burying grounds in the country. Early Salem residents are interred here, including Judge John Hathorne, an ancestor of Nathaniel Hawthorne.
• —House of the Seven Gables — This 1668 colonial mansion, also known as the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion, was featured in Nathaniel Hawthorne's 1851 novel. Visitors can tour the house and its grounds, which include Hawthorne's birthplace.
• —Derby Wharf (Salem Maritime National Historic Site) — This wharf is part of the first U.S. site designated a National Historic Site in 1938. It preserves Salem's history as a colonial port, with buildings, wharves, and the replica tall ship Friendship of Salem. You can walk to the Derby Wharf Light Station, a 20-foot tall square lighthouse built in 1871.

Salem experiences a four-season climate. The most popular time to visit is autumn, especially October, when the town holds its Halloween festivities. Expect large crowds, higher prices for accommodations, and long waits at restaurants during this peak season. Fall foliage typically peaks in late October and can extend into early November.

For fewer crowds and pleasant weather, consider late May through early July, or in September. Spring brings milder temperatures, and many museums and historic sites are open. Summer offers warm temperatures, waterfront activities, and festivals, though July and August can be humid. Winter (December to February) is the quietest season, with lower prices and a chance to explore museums and enjoy holiday events like "Christmas in Salem Historic House Tour" and "Salem's So Sweet" festival. Temperatures are cold, with average lows in January around 23°F (-5°C) and snowfall is common.

Salem is accessible. From Boston, take the MBTA Commuter Rail Newburyport/Rockport Line from North Station; the ride takes about 30 minutes. The Salem Ferry also offers seasonal service from Boston's Long Wharf, arriving at Blaney Street in under an hour.

Once in Salem, the downtown area is walkable, with most attractions nearby. For further travel, the Salem Skipper is an on-demand shared van service, costing $2 per ride ($1 for seniors, students, and people with disabilities). The Salem Trolley offers an hour-long tour with hop-on/hop-off service.

Parking in Salem can be challenging, especially during peak season. On-street metered parking is available for shorter durations (2 or 4 hours). City garages like Museum Place Garage (Witch City Garage), South Harbor Garage, and the MBTA parking garage offer longer-term options. Parking rates often increase in October. Use the Passport Parking app for payment.