Michelle & David
Things To Do
The Tavern
The Hawthorne Hotel’s cozy Tavern offers a wood-burning fireplace, oak-paneled walls, winged back chairs and views of the Common. One of Salem’s most inviting restaurants, the menu is available all day and offers kids, gluten-free and vegan options. The full bar includes rotating local draft beers and award-winning cocktails served by a veteran, hospitable staff. Reservations accepted. Vibe: Laid back, smart, welcoming. Hufflepuff meets Ravenclaw. Michelle recommends: Any of the seasonal mules! The meatloaf for carnivores and the autumn quinoa salad as a delicious vegetarian option. David (strongly) recommends: Also the meatloaf. ‘Nuff said.
Trattoria Bella Verona
The best Italian food we’ve eaten since Italy, aside from our family’s home cooking of course! We stumbled upon this adorable, unassuming spot one freezing night when the Tavern was full, and lucked out with the very last table for two. Little did we know this is a renowned restaurant, featured on “The Real Housewives of New York”. Wonderful service and incredible food just steps away from the Hawthorne- this is a go to dinner spot for sure. Vibe: Warm, familiar, cozy, charming. Michelle recommends: Literally everything here is delicious! I always get the straciatella alla romana on cold days, and the insalata caprese is a classic that hits the spot. David recommends: The spaghettini bolognese (Michelle seconds this!)
Essex Street
One of the great things about Salem is how walkable it is. The main commercial street in the downtown district is Essex Street, which features a combination of historic homes, restaurants, shops and many tourist attractions. Once November hits you’ll find fewer and shorter lines and an overall much more easygoing pace. Essex Street is the place to be if you want to feel the magic of Halloween every day. Vibe: Busy, quirky, a great way to pass the time!
Salem Witch Museum
Located directly across from the Hawthorne Hotel and the Common, The Salem Witch Museum is a must see for first time visitors. It’s also the place where we went on one of our first dates back in 2015! This is a wax museum that gives a basic overview of the Salem Witch Trials. If you’re a Gilmore Girls fan picture the Twickum House Museum- voice over acting and all- but with actual historians providing accurate information. Sorry, Taylor! Vibe: Historic, theatrical, slightly tacky but in the best way! Michelle and David recommend: Purchasing tickets ahead of time, as this is a popular attraction.
Salem Witch Trials Memorial
This is a beautiful, outdoor memorial to the people who were killed during the Salem witch trials. Free to visit and easily accessible, memorial stones bear the accused person’s name and date of death. Spend 5 minutes or 30 minutes, but be sure to pay tribute to those whose lives were senselessly cut short during this time in our nation’s history. Vibe: Historic, solemn, beautiful, nature. Michelle & David recommend: Visiting a local museum or taking a walking tour first to provide context for this important monument.
COVEN
If you’re looking for the most perfect photo opportunity look no further. Salem’s coolest boutique is is COVEN. This shop’s designer has gone all out, and inside is just everything. Witchy clothing. Spooky accessories. And an instagram worthy background that you might recognize if you happened to “save the date” of our wedding weekend. Vibe: Edgy, gothic, cool and a little kitschy.
Pickering Wharf Marina
One of the most beautiful areas in Salem, this waterfront is full of great shops and restaurants. Catch a boat tour, stroll down the pier and see the lighthouse in the bay, or simply admire the scenery on your way to the nearby House of Seven Gables. Vibe: Quintessential New England waterfront. Easy, breezy, beautiful. Covergirl.