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Enjoy Salem Willows oceanfront park
- 1 hour ago
- 6 min read
Discovering Salem's Micro Neighborhoods: Enjoying Salem Willows oceanfront park
Salem is without a doubt one of the most fun cities to visit. Its vast history and bountiful options of things to do and see make it a must-visit destination. The downtown area is a vibrant mix of shops, attractions, and restaurants that stretch across Essex, Central, Washington, and Church Streets. But wait, there’s so much more to Salem than just downtown.
The Hidden Gems of Salem
There are plenty of micro neighborhoods to explore, and you’ll want to visit them all. Our series will help you discover fantastic shops, attractions and restaurants that you can explore during your visit.
Part three of this series takes us to the Salem Willows that is rich in history, full of fun things to do and has a spectacular view of the ocean. Have a bite to eat, play in the park or just let the lapping of the waves relax you.
This area is at the end of Fort Avenue and Memorial Drive. Trust us, it’s worth your time to stroll through this charming area.
A History of Salem Willows
Salem Willows is one of the best kept secrets on the North Shore of Massachusetts. Tourists flock to our quaint city of brick and cobblestones to soak in the rich history of the 1692 Witchcraft Trials, American Revolution and Maritime Period. Few tourists head to the tip of the Salem peninsula that is a wonderful respite that has been enjoyed since the early 1700s.
In 1630, the Winthrop Fleet landed in the waters off of Salem Willows that forms the delta of the North River. The area was called hospital point for the almshouse, was a gathering point in the 1700s for events and became a summer destination in the 1800s for residents of the area.
One of the big events that was held there starting in 1741 was an event called Negro Election Day in which enslaved people in the state gathered to elect their own king to govern them and represent them to the state governor. A celebration followed and continues to this day.
In 1801, an almshouse (aka Pest House) was built to isolate and treat sailors. The European White Willow trees were planted there in 1801 to form shaded walkways for the patients. A "Hospital for Contagious Disease" (that also served as an insane asylum) was built next to the almshouse in 1844. A fire consumed the hospital in 1846.
The area then became a public park in 1858 and was named the Salem Willows for the willow trees. It was been a summer destination for residents of the North Shore ever since.
The Naumkeag Street Railway company extended their horsecar system from the city to the park in the 1877 and constructed an amusement park that opened June 10, 1880. By 1911, electric streetcar service had been increased to include two tracks from Derby Street along Fort Avenue to the end of the line at what is now the parking lot at the arcade. A steamship traveled from the tip of the peninsula to Lynn and Boston.
It was the place to be in the summer as residents took the trolley to the oceanfront park. Men wore their top hats and summer suits, while woman adorned their bustle gowns and carried parasols
In 1890, a casino opened up at the corner of Bay View and Fort Avenues. By 1920, local brothers Charles and Cy Shribman opened a dance hall on the site called the Charleshurst Ballroom. It quickly became a premier stop for prominent Big Band and jazz acts, including Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong and Count Basie.
On the opposite end from the casino was the Grand Willows Pavilion that featured a roller-skating rink, restaurant and Camera Obscura tower. It was dismantled during the mid-20th century as trolleys fell out of favor and the amusement area downsized.
Restaurant Row developed on the north side of the Salem Willows, serving fresh seafood. There was The Chase House, Ebsen’s and Swenbecks. The Chase House burned by fire, but a new Chase House opened at Pickering Wharf in 1979. Ebsen’s and Swenbecks closed.
The Salem Willows today is still a gorgeous ocean front park, covering over 35 acres and includes beaches, a pier (recently rebuilt in 2024), a yacht club and a boardwalk with an arcade as well as take-out restaurants. There are many areas for recreational activities including social gatherings and picnicking. There are gazebos, a hatch shell as well as tennis and basketball courts.
The two small beaches located on the Willows are a common place for locals and tourists to go and see the surrounding cities and towns. The beaches are also a common place to watch the 4th of July fireworks since you can see three sets of fireworks - Salem, Beverly, and Marblehead. The Salem Trolley stops at the park.
The Salem Jazz and Soul Festival is held there in August and the North Shore Concert Band holds many concerts there. Plays and other performances are also held at the site.
If you come to Salem for a few days, you must experience the Salem Willows for yourself.
197 Tea Bar (197 Fort Avenue) serves a diverse menu of boba, fruit teas, smoothies and Hong Kong-style egg puffs as well as popular items like classic milk tea, mango fruit tea and fresh squeezed lemonades. They have a cozy atmosphere for tea lovers and the ocean views are a perfect accoutrement.
Cappy’s Seafood and Grill (175 Fort Avenue) offers classic seafood eats like burgers, hot dogs, steak sandwiches, fried seafood, lobster rolls, slush, milk shakes, fried dough and ice cream treats.
Clam Shack (200 Fort Avenue) is on the north side of the park and serves plates, baskets, boxes and rolls of your seafood favorites. There are also have meals for the landlubber in your party. They have their own picnic tables so it is a great place to partake of a nice dinner while outside enjoying the ocean view.
Dairy Palace (187 Fort Avenue) has been a standard for locals and tourists alike to grab some ice cream. They have soft serve and regular ice cream as well as frappes, sundaes and other cold treats to sooth you during a warm summer day by the ocean.
EW Hobbs (207 Fort Avenue) was established in 1885 as part of the National Popcorn Works and has been a staple in the park sine 1897. Their popcorn products are made in small batches with their 100-year-old family recipes and vintage popcorn equipment. All products are heat sealed to ensure quality and freshness. They also serve ice cream, salt water taffy and have a grill so you can get a classic hot dog, cheeseburger, grilled cheese and more.
Gennaro’s Cutlet Counter (197 Fort Avenue) is known for its crispy chicken cutlet sandwiches, eggplant cutlet subs and homemade meatball sandwiches. They also offer fresh-made pizzas and pasta dishes for dine-in or takeout. If you're looking for authentic, homemade Italian fast casual food, Gennaro's is your spot.
Holy Cow Ice Cream (181 Fort Ave) is a locally made and nationally award-winning ice cream.
Experience their premium handcrafted ice cream made with passion and creativity. Their menu changes every two months, bringing in fresh flavors and limited-time favorites. If you see one you love, don’t wait—it might not be there long. From their unique flavor combinations to house-made mix-ins, every scoop is a 'Holy Cow!' moment. Phil Rizzuto would be proud.
Kiddieland (191 Fort Avenue) offers a variety of rides geared toward children, including water boats, car rides and a 1905 carousel. This classic attraction is a must ride for all ages. They also have a miniature golf course.
Peppy’s Pizzeria (165 Fort Avenue) is known for its classic Italian dishes and comforting quick bites. It offers a casual atmosphere appealing to both locals and tourists exploring the area. The restaurant prides itself on fresh ingredients and a menu that satisfies pizza lovers alongside those seeking salads, calzones and appetizers.
Sage Fusion Kitchen (177 Fort Avenue) offers sandwiches that are more than just a meal – they’re a masterpiece. Each one is made with the freshest ingredients, unique flavor combinations and a touch of culinary innovation. Whether you’re craving a classic or something with a twist, their sandwiches are crafted to satisfy every taste and elevate your dining experience.
Salem Willows Arcade (165 Fort Ave) has attractions for all ages. They have you covered whether you enjoy the simplicity of an old-fashioned game of skeeball or the excitement of a simulated rollercoaster ride. They have everything from antique novelty games like Pac Man and Galaga to the latest high tech ticket dispensing games Chexxx Bubble Hockey and Dance Dance Revolution.
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Super Taco Salem (179 Fort Avenue) is a Mexican restaurant, offering a variety of traditional dishes with an emphasis on tacos and bowls. The menu features signature items like steak, grilled chicken and al pastor tacos, alongside options such as fish tacos and vegetarian choices. Additional offerings include quesadillas, loaded nachos, and burrito bowls.
