Honeymoon Guide to Salem, Massachusetts

Salem, Massachusetts, is an enchanting and historically rich destination that offers a unique blend of romance, mystery, and charm. While it’s famous for the 1692 witch trials, the city is also a fantastic spot for honeymooners who want to experience beautiful architecture, coastal views, and a touch of New England history. Here's a guide to help you plan your perfect honeymoon in Salem.

1. Stay in a Romantic Historic Inn or Boutique Hotel

Salem is filled with charming, cosy inns and boutique hotels that are perfect for a romantic honeymoon escape. Many of these places are located in historic buildings, adding a sense of timeless elegance and intimacy to your stay.

The Salem Inn: A cosy historic inn made up of three 19th-century homes, ideal for a romantic getaway. The inn offers luxurious rooms with fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and a perfect balance of antique charm and modern comfort.
Hawthorne Hotel: This grand historic hotel offers classic elegance in the heart of Salem. It’s known for its beautiful rooms and proximity to the major attractions.
Merchant Hotel: A boutique hotel in a restored mansion that dates back to the 1700s, offering chic, contemporary rooms while maintaining a historic atmosphere.

2. Explore the Historic Downtown

Salem’s downtown area is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to stroll hand-in-hand while exploring its many shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Essex Street Pedestrian Mall: Filled with unique boutiques, quirky shops, and cafes. This is a great place to pick up souvenirs, explore witch-themed stores, and enjoy local art galleries.
Old Burying Point Cemetery: One of the oldest cemeteries in the country, this site is both haunting and beautiful, perfect for couples interested in the city’s history.
Witch House: The home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, one of the judges of the witch trials. The house offers a glimpse into 17th-century life and is the only remaining building with direct ties to the trials.

3. Visit the Iconic Witch-Related Attractions

Given Salem's infamous history with the witch trials, a visit to some of the witch-themed museums and memorials is a must. These spots can be surprisingly romantic when shared together, especially for couples who enjoy history, mystery, and the supernatural.

Salem Witch Museum: One of Salem's most famous attractions, where you can learn all about the witch trials through a combination of exhibits and historical storytelling.
The Witch Dungeon Museum: A theatrical experience that brings the witch trial court proceedings to life. Great for couples who enjoy live performances.
The Witch Trial Memorial: A solemn and beautiful memorial dedicated to the victims of the witch trials. This is a peaceful place to reflect together.

4. Stroll Along Salem's Waterfront

Salem's coastal charm adds a romantic element to any honeymoon. Stroll along the waterfront, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the harbor, fresh ocean air, and possibly a gorgeous sunset.

Pickering Wharf: A charming waterfront district lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon, especially with a glass of wine or seafood by the water.
Salem Maritime National Historic Site: A great spot to take in some maritime history, with beautiful views of the harbor and historic ships.

5. Sail into Romance

What better way to celebrate your love than with a romantic cruise along the coast? There are several companies in Salem that offer boat tours and sunset cruises.

Mahi Mahi Cruises: Enjoy a sunset cruise along Salem Harbour, complete with drinks and live music.
Salem Ferry: For a day trip, take the ferry from Salem to Boston and enjoy the ocean breeze and beautiful coastal views along the way.

6. Enjoy a Candlelit Dinner

Salem has a variety of excellent restaurants where you can enjoy an intimate dinner with your partner. From cosy taverns to waterfront dining, the food scene in Salem caters to all tastes.

Turner’s Seafood: Known for its fresh, local seafood, this restaurant is a favourite for couples looking for a delicious, elegant meal.
Finz Seafood & Grill: Located on Pickering Wharf, this spot offers waterfront dining with a view, serving up local seafood dishes.
Bella Verona: An intimate Italian restaurant perfect for a cosy, romantic dinner. The candlelit ambiance makes it ideal for couples.

7. Take a Ghost Tour

A nighttime ghost tour through the eerie streets of Salem is an exciting way to add some adventure to your honeymoon. With tales of haunted history, it’s both thrilling and memorable.

Salem Night Tour: This popular ghost tour takes you through the streets of Salem, sharing spooky stories of witches, ghosts, and the city’s haunted past.
Hysteria Ghost Walk: Another great option for couples who love all things mysterious and macabre.

8. Explore Nearby Scenic Destinations

Salem’s location makes it easy to explore other beautiful New England towns and cities during your honeymoon.

Rockport: A picturesque coastal town about 30 minutes from Salem, perfect for a day trip. Its charming art galleries and serene harbor views make it a romantic spot.
Marblehead: Just a 10-minute drive from Salem, Marblehead offers stunning coastal scenery, historic homes, and quiet beaches.
Boston: If you want to explore a larger city, Boston is just a ferry or short drive away. Stroll through the historic North End, visit the Boston Common, or take a romantic walk along the Charles River.

9. Visit the Peabody Essex Museum

For couples who love art, culture, and history, the Peabody Essex Museum is a must-visit. It’s one of the oldest continuously operating museums in the United States and has a fascinating collection that ranges from maritime artifacts to contemporary art.

10. Relax at Winter Island Park

For a quiet escape, head to Winter Island Park. This scenic spot offers beach access, walking trails, and gorgeous ocean views. It’s the perfect place for a romantic picnic or a peaceful afternoon together.

Final Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Salem is especially magical in the fall, when the leaves are changing and the town celebrates Halloween. However, it’s also beautiful in the spring and summer, with pleasant weather for exploring the waterfront and nearby towns.
Getting Around: Salem is a walkable town, so it’s easy to explore on foot. If you plan on visiting nearby destinations like Rockport or Marblehead, consider renting a car for a day or two.

With its blend of history, mystery, and coastal beauty, Salem is a unique and unforgettable honeymoon destination. Whether you’re exploring the historic sites, enjoying romantic dinners, or simply strolling along the waterfront, Salem offers an intimate, magical atmosphere that’s perfect for newlyweds & is definitely a recommended destination to visit, which is why we have placed this in our number one spot!