There`s more to Salem than witches. It is a thriving waterfront community of 38,000, just 15 miles north of Boston. Among its non-witchery offerings:
Events
– Salem`s Heritage Days: A series of events that re-create various aspects of Salem`s rich history and heritage. Aug. 10-16.
– Concerts on Salem Common: Presented throughout August.
– Haunted Happenings Week: Events include storytelling at museum sites, a haunted house on Salem Common and Halloween-related activities throughout the city. Oct. 23-Nov. 1.
Attractions
– Chestnut Street: A National Historic Landmark with imposing whaling mansions lining both sides, Chestnut Street is considered one of the most beautiful and architecturally significant streets in the country.
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– House of the Seven Gables, 54 Turner St.; 508-744-0991: Built in 1668 by Capt. John Turner, the mansion was made famous by author Nathaniel Hawthorne and is part of a complex of historical buildings and gardens on Salem`s waterfront. Year-round guided tours, museum shop. Open: July 1 to Labor Day, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Labor Day-June 30, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Admission: $6.50 adults, $4 children 13-17, and $3 children 6-12.
– The Peabody Museum of Salem. East India Square; 508-745-9500: Founded in 1799 by sea captains, the Peabody is a respected repository of artifacts and nautical curiosities from around the world. Open: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $5 adults, $4 senior citizens and students, $2.50 children 6-18.
– Pioneer Village, Salem waterfront in Forest River Park; 708-744-0991: A re-creation of life in a Puritan village circa 1630. Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sundays noon-5 p.m. through Oct. 31. Admission: $4 adults, $3.50 senior citizens, $3.50 children 13-17, and $2.50 children 6-12. – Salem Maritime National Historic Site, 174 Derby St.; 508-745-1470: A 9-acre site built around Derby Wharf, which dates to the 1760s. Open: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. year round, until 6 p.m. June 1-Sept. 1. Free admission, guided tours.
The 1.3-mile Salem Heritage Trail links all of Salem`s historical attractions, including many of the sites listed above.