Salem is probably best known around the country for the witch trials of the 17th century. This interactive museum transports you to 1692, allowing you to experience a live witch trial - complete with actors.
Want to learn about the witch trials but aren't into historical reenactments or actors in period clothes? This museum has two exhibitions, one telling the story of the 1692 Salem trials, and one that looks at the perceptions of witches throughout time and in Europe.
Check out this indie bookstore (with an amazing name) for some additional reading material on the witch trials, a good book for the trip home, or to grab a cute tote or tee! Amanda loves to read and support bookstores that aren't Amazon, so she will definitely be spending time here before the wedding.
One of Amanda's favorite things about New England is going on a sunset sail in a new city.
Come for a drink and stay while you check out their arcade games and pinball machines. If you're looking for John before the wedding, you'll probably find him here playing arcade hoops.
The Punto Urban Art Museum is an open air, mission-driven social art program with the goal of breaking down socio-economic barriers and create opportunity in the El Punto neighborhood of Salem. Amanda loves street art and is looking forward to checking out the 75 large scale murals.
If you're looking for a place to grab coffee, stop at Jaho. They have locations in Boston and Amanda loves their extensive nut milk selection (try the pistachio milk!) and creative latte flavors.
Recreational cannabis is legal in MA! This dispensary, the only one located in downtown Salem, has partnered with Salem Sound Coastwatch to help protect and preserve local marine ecology. (Just remember that it's still technically illegal to smoke in public.)
Built in 1668 and designated a National Historical Landmark in 2007, the House of the Seven Gables is best known as the setting of Nathaniel Hawthorne's 1851 novel.
Did you really come to New England if you didn't eat seafood? Turner's is the best place in Salem for chowder, lobster rolls, and more.
PEM was established in 1799 and today its total holdings number around 1.3 million pieces. It is one of the oldest continuously operation museums in the United States and has one of the largest collections of Asian art in the country.
Red's is more than just sandwiches and is actually a great place for a classic New England style diner breakfast. The restaurant is located in the historic London Coffee building built in 1698.
The former house of Jonathan Corwin, one of the judges of the witch trials, and is now the only remaining building in Salem with direct ties to the trials.
Located across the street from the Hawthorne Hotel, this cozy pub serves up American classics alongside an extensive beer and cocktail list.
Looking to get crafty? Make an appointment to craft a witch's broomstick or bind your own dream journal. Tarot card readings are also available.
For fans of Bewitched, check out the statue on the corner of Essex and Washington Streets that pays tribute to the show and the seventh season that filmed in Salem. Fun fact: Amanda grew up watching Bewitched every morning with breakfast.
This weekend-only bakery releases new fatty (what they all their thick and gooey cookies) flavors every Saturday.
Need ideas for additional things to do, or looking for an actual map as you begin to explore? Check out the visitor center (open 10-4).