Salem travel guide

Salem travel guide

National Airports

Salem does not have a commercial airport. The nearest airport is Boston Logan International Airport, located about 15 miles south of Salem. Logan Airport is the largest airport in New England and serves many domestic and international destinations. From Logan Airport, visitors can take a taxi, shuttle, or public transportation to get to Salem. Alternatively, the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, located about 45 miles northwest of Salem in Manchester, New Hampshire, is another option for visitors flying into the area.

Trains in Salem

Salem is served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), which operates a commuter rail station in downtown Salem. The station is located on the Newburyport/Rockport Line and provides service to Boston’s North Station, as well as other destinations along the North Shore. The commuter rail is a convenient and affordable way to travel between Salem and Boston, as well as other towns and cities in the region. The station is within walking distance of many of Salem’s attractions, including the Salem Witch Museum and the Peabody Essex Museum.

Buses in Salem

Salem is also served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) bus system, which provides local bus service throughout the city and surrounding communities. The MBTA bus routes that serve Salem include the 450, 451, 455, and 459. These buses connect Salem to nearby towns and cities, as well as other MBTA services such as commuter rail stations and subway lines. The MBTA bus system is a convenient way to get around Salem and the North Shore region. Additionally, private bus companies like Greyhound and Peter Pan provide long-distance bus service to and from Salem.

How to get to Salem

Salem is located on the North Shore of Massachusetts, approximately 16 miles northeast of Boston. Visitors can get to Salem by several means of transportation:

By car: Salem is easily accessible by car via Interstate 95 or Route 1. There are several parking lots located in and around downtown Salem, as well as street parking available.

By train: Salem is served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) commuter rail system. The Salem Station is located in downtown Salem on the Newburyport/Rockport Line and provides service to Boston’s North Station.

By bus: The MBTA bus system provides local bus service to and from Salem, as well as private bus companies like Greyhound and Peter Pan that provide long-distance bus service to and from Salem.

By air: The nearest airport to Salem is Boston Logan International Airport, located approximately 16 miles south of Salem. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi, shuttle, or public transportation to get to Salem.

By ferry: During the summer months, visitors can take a ferry from Boston to Salem via the Salem Ferry. This is a scenic and enjoyable way to travel to Salem and experience the harbor.

What is the best time to travel to Salem

The best time to travel to Salem depends on what you are looking for in your visit. Salem is a popular destination year-round, but the peak tourist season is from late September through October, when the city celebrates Halloween and the historic witch trials. During this time, the city is bustling with activities and events, but it can also be very crowded and expensive.

If you prefer a quieter visit, you may want to consider visiting Salem in the spring or summer, when the weather is milder and the crowds are smaller. During this time, you can still enjoy many of the city’s attractions and historic sites, as well as outdoor activities like walking tours, boating, and biking.

Ultimately, the best time to travel to Salem depends on your interests and preferences. If you are interested in the witch trials and Halloween festivities, then late September through October may be the best time for you. If you prefer a quieter visit and are interested in outdoor activities, then spring and summer may be more suitable.

How to get around Salem

Salem is a relatively small city, and many of its main attractions and historic sites are located within walking distance of each other. However, there are also several other transportation options available for visitors who prefer not to walk or want to explore further afield:

Public Transportation: Salem has a public transportation system operated by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). The MBTA offers bus service throughout the city, as well as commuter rail service to and from Boston and other nearby towns. Information about fares and schedules can be found on the MBTA website.

Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available in Salem. Visitors can use these services to get around the city or to travel to nearby towns and attractions.

Bicycles: Salem is a bike-friendly city, with several bike rental options available for visitors who want to explore on two wheels. There are also several bike trails in and around Salem, including the Salem Bike Trail and the Marblehead Rail Trail.

Car Rental: Visitors can rent cars from several companies located in and around Salem. Having a car can be convenient for exploring the surrounding areas, but parking can be difficult in the city center.

Walking: As mentioned earlier, walking is a popular and convenient way to get around Salem. Visitors can take guided walking tours to learn about the city’s history and attractions, or simply stroll through the streets at their own pace.

Accommodations in Salem

Salem offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some popular choices:

Historic Inns and B&Bs: Salem is known for its historic homes and buildings, and many of these have been converted into charming inns and bed and breakfasts. These accommodations offer a unique experience, with period furnishings, cozy rooms, and personalized service.

Hotels: There are several hotels located in and around Salem, offering a range of amenities and price points. Many of these hotels are located within walking distance of the city center and historic sites.

Vacation Rentals: Visitors can also opt to stay in vacation rentals, such as apartments or houses, which can offer more space and privacy than a traditional hotel. Sites like Airbnb and Vrbo offer a range of options in Salem and the surrounding areas.

Hostels: For budget-conscious travelers, there are a few hostels in Salem that offer dormitory-style accommodations and shared facilities.

Some popular accommodation options in Salem include The Merchant, The Salem Inn, The Hawthorne Hotel, and The Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites. It’s recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons and around major events in the city.