Loading
Loading
Loading
Loading
Loading
Loading

Things To Do

The Wedding Website of Abbey Cole and Brandon McGrath
As you may know, we first met and bonded over our love for craft beer and delicious food. After visiting almost 100 breweries together, we’ve picked up a few favorite spots, some of them just a short walk from the wedding venue! If you’re looking for things to do before or after the wedding, we’ve put together some of our top picks. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed brunch, fresh seafood, creative cocktails, or a taste of local history, there’s lots to do. You’ll find our favorite restaurants and bars, charming historic sites and some classic touristy Salem attractions. All are within waking distance of the Hawthorne Hotel and are perfect for exploring the city and enjoying the scenery.

Couch Dog Brewing Company

76 Lafayette Street, Salem, MA 01970

A really cool local spot and they're dog lovers just like us (hence the name)! They have a variety of beer styles and a sweet collection of polaroid photos of all the pups that have visited the brewery. Be sure to squeeze in a quick game of table shuffle board. *Within walking distance of the wedding venue!

Notch Brewery & Tap Room - Salem

283R Derby Street, Salem, MA 01970

Notch is one of the first breweries we went to when we first started dating. They have a sweet patio spot right on the water and often have live music. *Within walking distance of the wedding venue!

East Regiment Beer Company

30 Church Street, Salem, MA 01970

This is a unique little brewery right in the heart of Salem. They offer classic styles of beer and have some small bites available too. *Within walking distance of the wedding venue!

The Tavern

18 Washington Square West, Salem, MA 01970

A cozy, classic pub‑style restaurant tucked inside the Hawthorne Hotel overlooking Salem Common. With rich oak‑paneling, a wood‑burning fireplace and a full bar of craft beers and creative cocktails, it’s a laid‑back spot to enjoy comfort food favorites, soups, salads and seasonal entrees. This is a great spot to meet friends/family and grab a drink before the ceremony or for our post wedding after party.

Nathaniel's Restaurant

18 Washington Square West, Salem, MA 01970

Located inside the Hawthorne Hotel, Nathaniel’s is a great spot to enjoy a relaxed brunch (lunch or dinner) while in Salem. On weekends (especially Sundays), they often offer a lively brunch vibe complete with creative twists, sometimes paired with live music.

The Roof

209 Essex Street, Salem, MA 01970

Salem’s only open‑air rooftop bar and restaurant perched atop The Hotel Salem, offering laid‑back vibes, panoramic views of the city and harbor, and a seasonal menu of creative drinks and casual bites.

1925 at the Hawthorne

18 Washington Square West, Salem, MA 01970

Super cute gift shop with lots of goodies honoring the Hawthorne Hotel and Salem. From glassware, ornaments and crystals, this little shop has some great finds.

Howling Wolf Taqueria

76 Lafayette Street, Salem, MA 01970

If you love mexican food like we do, Howling Wolf is a must try! Reasonably priced, large portions and delicious margaritas!

Turner's Seafood at Lyceum Hall, Salem, MA

43 Church Street, Salem, MA 01970

A beloved local favorite in downtown Salem, this family‑run seafood restaurant serves fresh New England classics in a warm, historic setting. Housed in the beautiful Lyceum Hall, it’s known for its dock‑to‑plate seafood, oyster bar selections and cozy yet vibrant atmosphere.

Ledger Restaurant

125 Washington Street, Salem, MA 01970

Set inside a beautifully restored historic bank building, Ledger offers modern New England cuisine with creative seasonal dishes and an extensive wine and cocktail program. On Sundays, the vibe is especially welcoming for brunch.

Bit Bar Salem

278 Derby Street, Salem, MA 01970

A lively arcade‑style bar and restaurant on Derby Street that mixes retro fun with great food and drinks. A rotating selection of classic arcade and pinball games alongside craft cocktails, local beers and delicious eats!

Derby Street - Jaho Coffee Roaster & Wine Bar

197 Derby Street, Salem, MA 01970

Salem favorite for coffee lovers. Jaho is a family‑founded roastery and café with a laid‑back vibe and thoughtfully crafted drinks roasted right in town. It’s a perfect stop for an expertly brewed espresso, latte, tea, or a pastry while wandering downtown.

Ropes Mansion and Garden

318 Essex Street, Salem, MA 01970

We had our engagement photos taken at the Ropes Mansion and Garden (the majority of photos you've seen on this website). Tucked just behind the historic mansion, this beautifully maintained formal garden is a peaceful oasis. Designed in the early 20th century, it features brick pathways, lush perennial beds, climbing roses, fruit trees and charming fountains. It's truly a breath taking space and its free to explore!

Derby Wharf Light Station

Salem, MA 01970

At the far end of historic Derby Wharf, this charming little lighthouse marks the entrance to Salem Harbor and makes for a scenic photo stop along the water (some of our engagement photos were taken here). While the lighthouse itself isn’t open to explore inside, the walk out on the wharf offers beautiful views of the harbor and skyline.

Salem Witch Museum

19 1/2 North Washington Square, Salem, MA 01970

Dive into one of Salem’s most famous stories at this long-running history museum that brings the 1692 witch trials to life. Through immersive multimedia presentations and life-size stage sets with dramatic narration, the museum explores the events of the trials and the evolving image of witches in history. A fascinating stop for visitors curious about Salem’s iconic past.

The House of the Seven Gables

115 Derby Street, Salem, MA 01970

Step into 17th-century history at this beautifully preserved colonial mansion in Salem. Built in 1668 and famous as the inspiration for Nathaniel Hawthorne’s beloved novel, the site now operates as a museum with guided tours, historic gardens and fascinating stories of maritime life, architecture and literary legacy.

Peabody Essex Museum

161 Essex Street, Salem, MA 01970

One of the oldest continuously operating museums in the United States, this world-class museum in historic Salem features expansive art and cultural collections from around the globe from Asian and American art to maritime treasures and unique historic houses. Its dynamic exhibitions and beautiful galleries make it a fantastic stop for art lovers and curious visitors.