4 Days of Witchy Fun: Salem on a Budget

Discover spooky history without breaking the bank in Salem, USA.

21 June 2023

Salem, located in Massachusetts, is a city rich with history and steeped in legend. While visiting on a limited budget, travelers can visit museums and historic sites, such as the Salem Witch Museum and the Peabody Essex Museum, both offering affordable admission prices. Additionally, exploring the city's architecture and shopping at the numerous local markets and boutiques can create a fulfilling and culturally enriching experience.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

Check into Coach House Inn, a cozy budget hotel with free breakfast and parking.
Grab a bite at Gulu-Gulu Cafe, known for its artisanal coffee and sandwiches.
Explore the Salem Witch Trials Memorial where each bench honors one victim of the trials.
Stroll around the Bewitched statue and snap a quirky photo of yourself with the statue.
Get spooked at the Pioneer Village, a replica of the 1630s Salem settlement.
End the day with a seafood dinner at Turner's Seafood, a local favorite since 1954.

Day 2

Museums and Art

Start the day with breakfast at A&B Burger, known for its juicy patties and truffle fries.
Visit the Peabody Essex Museum, housing a fantastic collection of Asian and African art.
Head to the Salem Maritime National Historic Site and learn about Salem's unparalleled seafaring history.
Get lost in the Witch History Museum where life-size dioramas depict the Salem Witch Trials in a chillingly realistic manner.
End the day at the Salem Art Association, showcasing local art in a historic building.

Day 3

Haunted Happenings

Have breakfast at Front Street Coffee House, serving up freshly roasted beans and breakfast burritos.
During October, join the Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour, going through Salem's haunted hotspots.
Walk through the Salem Witch Museum to learn the facts about the infamous trials.
Have lunch at Red's Sandwich Shop, a local institution serving up delicious breakfast and lunch.
Visit the House of the Seven Gables, Nathaniel Hawthorne's birthplace and the setting of his novel of the same name.
End the day with dinner at Tavern on the Green, a charming pub with a cozy atmosphere.

Day 4

Greenery and History

Begin the day with breakfast at Coffee Time Bake Shop, famous for its sticky buns and bear claws.
Take a walk through Salem Common, a 32-acre historic park with beautiful fountains and monuments.
Visit the Phillips House Museum, where you'll get a glimpse of how the privileged families of Salem lived in the Victorian era.
Stop by the Witch House, the only structure directly related to the witch trials still standing.
Have lunch at Howling Wolf Taqueria, serving up delicious Mexican food with a twist.
End your trip with a peaceful stroll through the Salem Witch Trials Memorial.

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Salem, United States by plane is to fly into Boston Logan International Airport and then drive or take public transportation to Salem, which is approximately 25 miles northeast of the airport.

Car

The best way to get to Salem by car is to drive on I-95 N and take exit 44-A for MA-128 N/MA-62 E towards Danvers/Lawrence. Follow the signs to Salem.

Train

There is no direct train to Salem, but the nearest Amtrak station is in Boston. From there, you can take a commuter rail or drive to get to Salem, which is approximately 16 miles north of Boston.

Boat

The best way to get to Salem by boat is to take a scenic harbor cruise from Boston to Salem, which takes approximately 1 hour and offers stunning views of the coast. Alternatively, you can charter a private boat to sail to Salem.

Bus