Mayor Dominick Pangallo and the City of Salem have announced planned and anticipated road closures for October in Salem, including lot closures and traffic impacts from planned special events. The Salem Police will close roadways at any point if they determine they should be closed for public safety reasons. To ensure public safety, many of the closures in 2026 will be more secure with the use of harder barricades following up on the success of this in 2025. Throughout the month of October, as it is for the rest of the year, the single greatest priority in Salem will be the safety of residents and visitors alike. Safety measures will include but not be limited to road closures; significant police deployments, in vehicles, on bikes, on foot and in plainclothes; weapons bans; the installation of permanent and temporary cameras; and counter-drone measures. Visitors to Salem in October should not plan to drive into downtown Salem, especially on weekends. Traffic is heavy and parking is severely limited. Visitors should plan to ride the commuter rail (https://www.mbta.com/schedules/CR-Newburyport/timetable) (about 30 minutes from North Station in Boston or about 5 minutes from the downtown Beverly station), or take the Salem Ferry (https://www.cityexperiences.com/boston/city-cruises/salem-ferry/). Free parking will be available on Saturdays, Sundays and Indigenous Peoples’ Day at 108 Jefferson Avenue, which is just a short 5-minute walk into downtown Salem. Please note that Halloween will be on a Saturday this year. While there are currently extensive road closures planned downtown for Saturday, October 31, starting no later than 12:00pm noon, those closures may begin earlier, depending on crowd size and public safety considerations. Road closures will also be made throughout the month of October. Please see the chart within this press release, below for a detailed list of planned and anticipated road closures. For real-time traffic and road closure notices download the My Salem MA app or the Destination Salem app for mobile devices and enable notifications. Mayor’s Night Out: Friday, September 25th The City of Salem presents Mayor’s Night Out on the pedestrian mall starting at 5:30 near the fountain. Essex Street from Hawthorne Boulevard to New Liberty Street will be closed to vehicles from 4:00pm-8:00pm. Grand Parade: Thursday, October 1 The Haunted Happenings Grand Parade starts at 6:30pm at Shetland Office Park on Congress Street on October 1. The parade route is as follows: from Congress Street at Shetland Park the parade will take a left onto Derby Street, a right onto Central Street, a left onto Front Street, a right onto Washington Street, a right onto the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall, a left onto Washington Square, and into the Salem Common. Roads along the parade route will be closed to traffic. Anticipate traffic delays on Route 114 and Route 1A. Route 1A from Derby Street to Brown Street will be closed to traffic from 4:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Other road closures will be Congress Street, Washington Street, Essex Street from Washington Street to Union Street, Central Street, Front Street, and Washington Square West, North, and South. There will be no parking tow zones along the entire parade route. Please Note that there will be barricades along the entire parade route again this year to enhance safety of the spectators and participants. This will require roads to close earlier and parking restrictions to be enforced earlier than in past years. No Parking – Tow Zone Areas A parking ban will be in effect on October 1 on the following streets. Please note the individual times and note that the timing will be earlier than last year. Any vehicle parked in these areas will be towed. Congress Street both sides from Derby Street to Harbor Street: Staging of barricades may occur several days earlier Essex Street from Hawthorne Blvd. to New Liberty: Parking ban to begin at Noon Essex Street from Washington Street to Hawthorne Boulevard: No deliveries to be allowed after 10AM - No exceptions will be made Central Street both sides from Charter Street to Derby Street: Parking ban to begin at 10AM Derby Street both sides from Congress Street to Lafayette Street: Parking ban to begin at 10AM Front Street both sides from Washington Street to Lafayette Street: Parking ban to begin at 7AM Washington Square both sides from Essex Street to Brown Street: Parking ban to begin at 2PM Parking meter spaces at the intersection of Charter Street, Front Street, and Central Street: Parking ban to begin at 10AM Washington Street between Lynde Street and Front Street both sides: Parking ban to begin at 10AM Front Street Lot: Parking ban to begin at 10AM Essex from Barton to Washington: Parking ban to begin at 10AM Road Closures The following roads will be closed on October 1 from approximately 4:00pm until approximately 9:30pm. Congress Street will be closed from Harbor Street to Derby Street. Derby Street will be closed from Congress Street to Lafayette Street. Commuters will not be able to use Route 1A between New Derby and Brown Street which includes Derby Street, Hawthorne Boulevard and Washington Square at the Common entrance. Front Street Essex Street will be closed between North Street and Hawthorne Blvd Washington Street between New Derby and Bridge Garage Access Vehicles parked in the South Harbor Garage will not be able to exit until approximately 9:30 p.m. No exceptions will be possible. PLEASE PLAN ACCORDINGLY. The Museum Place Garage entrance will only be accessible from Church Street or St. Peter Street. Vehicles exiting the Museum Place Garage will only be able to take a left onto to Brown Street and a right onto St. Peter Street. Witch City 5K: Saturday, October 3th The Salem YMCA Witch City 5K road race starts at 9:00 a.m. at the Salem Willows. No road closures are planned, however anticipate traffic impacts along the following roadways: Memorial Drive, Essex Street, Route 1A, Route 114 including Hawthorne Boulevard, Derby Street, and Fort Avenue, ending at Restaurant Row. Devil’s Chase: Saturday, October 17th The Devil’s Chase road race starts at 8:00am at the Salem Willows soccer field on Fort Avenue. No road closures are planned, however expect traffic impacts until 11:00am along the route. Route: Restaurant Row to Memorial Drive to Szetela Lane. Right to walking path before Webb Street, left Andrews, crossing Washington Square into the Common and exiting at Forrester Street. Washington Square East, then right to Essex Street, left onto Little Hawthorne Boulevard, left on Derby Street to Fort Avenue to Winter Island Road. Winter Island Road back to Columbus Square, right to Columbus Avenue, right onto Bay View Avenue, left onto Beach Avenue, left on Sutton Avenue, right onto Bay View Avenue, right onto Willows Access Road. Follow walking path around the backside of the Willows by the yacht club, exit back on to Restaurant Row, follow onto Memorial Drive, right at Szetela Lane, to Memorial Drive, left onto Fort Avenue, and left onto Memorial Drive by the soccer field to finish. Road Closures September/October weekends (Saturdays, Sundays and Indigenous Peoples Day Monday): September 26th and 27th , October 3, 4, 10, 11 & 12, 17, 18, 24, 25 & 31 & Nov 1 Essex Street from Hawthorne Boulevard to New Liberty Street will be closed to through traffic and no on-street parking will be allowed from 9:00am to 10:00pm every Saturday and Sunday, as well as starting at noon on Fridays. Essex Street from Barton Square to Washington Street will utilize hard barricades every weekend from Friday at noon through Sunday night at midnight. Please Note: The Essex Street Pedestrian mall will have more managed programing and vendors this year. The following chart outlines the estimated road closures and time frames during Haunted Happenings: All information above is subject to change. The Salem Police Department will close any street at any time if they determine that a public safety issue exists. There will also be No Parking postings on portions of Washington Square North and South during the weekends in September/October, reserved for authorized event vehicles. Halloween: Saturday, October 31 Halloween events will include multiple road closures and heavy traffic impacts for the entire day and night. Note that heavy traffic and likely road closures are also anticipated for Friday, October 30, the weekend prior to Halloween, October 24th, and October 25th as well as for the weekend of Halloween. Visitors during weekends and on Halloween are strongly encouraged to take the commuter rail or ferry to get to Salem. Traffic impacts will be significant, including on highways leading to the City. Expect major traffic impacts on Route 114 and Route 1A, as well as likely impacts and delays on Route 128. Downtown Salem streets will close to all traffic no later than Noon on October 31st. Road closures include: Essex Street from Crombie Street to Union Street. Washington Street from New Derby Street to Bridge Street. Federal Street from St. Peter’s Street to North Street. Washington Square North and West from Essex Street to Williams Street. Brown Street from New Liberty to Washington Square N. Hawthorne Boulevard, Derby Street from Lafayette to Congress Street. Charter Street, Central Street, Front Street, and Lafayette Street from New Derby Street to Front Street. Bridge Street will also close to all traffic between the westerly overpass ramps and Sgt. James Ayube Memorial Drive from 9:15pm to 11:30pm for the end-of-night drone show, which will replace the fireworks of years past in closing out the festivities this year. Drone Show will start at 10:15PM. Please note that the MBTA closes the MBTA Salem garage from 6:00pm to 1:00am on Halloween night. Cars will not be permitted to enter or exit the garage between these hours. All information above is subject to change. The Salem Police Department will close any street at any time if they determine that a public safety issue exists.

Updated Sept. 16, 2026 One of the more frequent questions we get asked all the time is about traveling to Salem. It is fairly easy from November to June, but gets progressively harder from July to August. September and October can be very rough so we have decided to give some Transportation & parking tips for your visit to Salem! You can drive to Salem but traffic is crazy in late September and October. There are two ways in and two ways out so you will be stuck in insane “LA-Level” traffic. And then you have to park! For the best directions to Salem from your lodging, use google directions with 2 New Liberty Street as your Salem destination. That places you at the garage and next to the Visitor’s Center where you can get a map and information. Walk to everything once you park. Do not try to move the car from one part of the city to another if you are ambulatory. Just walk it. But it is understandable if you are not ambulatory and need accessible parking. PARKING IN SALEM There are many options for parking in Salem but it is very limited because of the volume. There are about 4,000+ parking spots for the throngs of people who come here. The main garage is downtown at 2 New Liberty Street. We also have a small garage at Congress Street. The MBTA garage is at 252 Bridge Street. There are several other small parking lots like the Universal Steel Lot, Church Street, Klopp Alley and Front Street lots. There is a good amount of metered parking spaces in the downtown area. Meters run Monday through Saturday from 9 am til 6 pm (some are 8 pm near the courthouses) and Sundays from noon til 6 p.m. The cost for metered spot is $1.50 per hour Monday through Friday. Some meters in the downtown are $7 an hour on Saturdays and Sundays. They also enforce a four-hour limit so if you are staying for the day, go to a parking lot at a school. It’s better to pay $40 to park at a school and not have to move the car than to park at a meter, move the car for $56 and risk a $25 ticket The City of Salem uses the Passport Parking app. Download that so you can pay by phone. You get four hours in the same spot and then have to move the car. The meters also take coins so bring change if you don’t want to use the app. If you have a handicap parking placard, you can park in any metered on-street parking space as well as any municipal lot free of charge. Additionally, there are specific accessible spots throughout downtown Salem and the rest of the city exclusively for residents and visitors with handicap placards. These spaces are marked with blue signs, and sometimes the spaces are painted blue as well. You can find more information about Salem garages, parking lots and rates at https://www.salem.org/travel-info/parking/ OCTOBER PARKING There are PRIVATE PARKING LOTS that offer parking on weekends in October. Parking there helps benefit local schools and churches. The Bentley Academy Charter School at 25 Memorial Drive offers parking on weekends in October. This location is outside of the downtown and about a 10-15 minute walk into the downtown. The Carlton Elementary School at 10 Skerry Street offers weekend parking starting September 26th through October. It is a secure, monitored location. It is day parking only. Cash and Venmo are accepted. It is a quick stroll (5 minutes) to Salem Common and the downtown area. St. James Church, aka the big red church, offers weekend parking at 160 Federal Street. The church is located within walking distance of the Witchcraft Memorial at Proctor’s Ledge on Pope St. It is also a 10-minute walk into the downtown. The Catholic Center next to the St. John Paul II church offers parking too. It is located downtown at 35 St. Peter Street. It is a smaller lot so you need to get there early. Shetland Park at 35 Congress Street offers parking on Saturdays and Sundays in October. There is no public parking allowed there during the week. They are located next to Salem Harbor and is an easy location to quickly get to the downtown. Salem Hospital Lot at 75 Jefferson Ave is available for you to park but there is no shuttle service. You will have to walk about 15-20 minutes to downtown. You will pass a coffee shop, antique store and great breakfast place so make it work for you. Businesses and homes are allowed to let you park there. However, there are some scams so be careful. Make the person allowing you to park and taking your money proves they work or live at the location. The city is no longer doing operating bus service from satellite parking at the high school, Salem State University and Salem Hospital. DON’T DRIVE OPTIONS We highly recommend not driving in the fall unless you have a guaranteed spot at a hotel or your lodging. Salem is a very quaint walkable city. There are a lot of options to get to Salem via public transportation and being driven in. UBER, LYFT or TAXI You can take one of those from surrounding towns and cities into Salem. You can take one from Boston but it could be pricey. However, it can be inexpensive for a group if you are splitting it. But you could hit traffic. You might want to get dropped off outside of the downtown area like the train station, library, St. James Church, Lafayette Street or Salem State University. It could be a 15-minute walk, but that might be better than 30-45 minutes in the car and a $50+ uber ride. SALEM SKIPPER This is a ridesharing service serving the entire city. It works like a minibus that comes when and where you want. You can book a ride straight from your phone, get picked up in minutes, and skip the hassle of parking. This is a good way to get around Salem if you are not too ambulatory or want to go to Salem Willows, Winter Island or Pioneer Village. The Salem Skipper has been extended through the end of the year so it will be available in the fall and through Christmas. Download the app to get started. Here’s the FAQs. https://www.salemma.gov/m/faq?cat=29 MARBLEHEAD TO SALEM There is no bus or train from Marblehead to Salem. You will need to drive or take an Uber/Lyft. Starting the first weekend of October, Mid-Harbor Launch Moorings in Marblehead starts a ferry service. It departs Village Street Dock, Marblehead and comes to Congress Street, Salem. The times are 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm. It departs Congress Street, Salem to Village Street Dock, Marblehead. The times are 10:15 am, 12:15 pm, 2:15 pm, 4:15 pm, 6:15 pm The cost per person each way is $10.00 each. LOGAN AIRPORT (BOSTON) TO SALEM There is no easy way to do this. If you have a lot of luggage, you might want to just Uber/Lyft/Taxi. Check your apps but the cost could range from $40-$70 one way. If you have moderate luggage or are traveling very light, here are some options. NOTE: You can find links to all of the trains, buses, subways and ferries on this blog. You will have to plan the timing of the buses and trains. Airport to Salem via Logan Express You can take the Logan Express Danvers bus from your terminal to the Liberty Tree Mall in Danvers. Then you need an Uber/Lyft/Taxi to Salem. Or you could also take the 435 bus that stops in front of the Best Buy at the Liberty Tree Mall and comes to Salem Station. Airport to Salem via SL3 Take the airport shuttle from your terminal to the Airport Station on the Blue Line. Wait for the Silver Line 3 (SL3) bus toward Chelsea. Get off at Chelsea and wait for the Newburyport/Rockport train (schedule below) to Salem. Airport to Salem via subway • Take the airport shuttle from your terminal to the Airport Station on the Blue Line. Go outbound to Wonderland Station (the end of the line) and pick up the 450 or 455 bus to Salem Station. You can Uber, Lyft or Taxi from Wonderland to Salem. • Take the airport shuttle from your terminal to the Airport Station on the Blue Line. Take the inbound train (Bowdoin) to Aquarium Station in Boston. Walk to North Station (about 15 minutes) and take the Newburyport/Rockport train (schedule below) to Salem. • Take the airport shuttle from your terminal to the Airport Station on the Blue Line. Take the inbound train (Bowdoin) to State Street Station in Boston. Switch to the outbound (Oak Grove) orange line to get to North Station. Take the Newburyport/Rockport train (schedule below) at North Station to Salem. Airport to Salem via ferry The ferries may not run if the waters are rough. Check their websites for alerts. To get to Salem from the airport via ferry, take the #66 shuttle from your airport terminal to the Water Transportation Dock at Logan Airport in Boston. That will bring you to Long Wharf in Boston. You can then get the ferry to Salem. https://www.cityexperiences.com/boston/city-cruises/salem-ferry/ AMTRAK TO SALEM If you are taking Amtrak from any points south of Massachusetts, you will most likely end up at South Station in Boston. You have several options to get to Salem from South Station. • You can take the subway to the commuter rail. Take the red line (toward Alewife) to orange line (toward Oak Grove) to North Station. Then you take the Newburyport/Rockport train. • You can take the subway to close to Salem. Take the red line (toward Alewife) to blue line at State Street. Then ride the blue line train all the way to Wonderland, where you can get an Uber, Lyft, Taxi or bus (see busses described above). It might be easier to walk to Aquarium Station on the blue line. It is only a 5-10 minute walk from South Station. • You can take the Silver Line 3 (SL3) to Chelsea. Then you take the Newburyport/Rockport train (schedule below) AMTRAK TO BACK BAY STATION TO SALEM Before reaching South Station, the Amtrak trains will stop at Back Bay Station. You can get off there and take the orange line (toward Oak Grove) to North Station and then pick up the Newburyport/Rockport line (schedule below) to Salem. NEWBURYPORT/ROCKPORT COMMUTER RAIL The commuter rail runs from Boston to Newburyport and Rockport. Make sure you apply the schedule for outbound and inbound. Outbound is leaving Boston. Inbound is heading toward Boston. In addition, make sure you get the correct train. The line splits after Beverly station (10 Park Street) so you can take either the Newburyport or Rockport train to return to Beverly. But then the train will proceed north to Newburyport or northeast to Rockport. The conductor will announce which train it is. The schedule will explain that also. Always check their website for alerts. The cost for a commuter rail ticket from Boston to Salem is $8 each way. They do have $10 weekend passes. You can buy tickets at North Station, on their app or on the train with the conductor. They will charge more for peak travel times. One-way, round trip, 5-day Flex Passes, reduced fare and monthly Commuter Rail passes for all zones are available on the mTicket App. Credit and debit cards are accepted. The mTicket App can be found on in the App Store and is available for iPhones and Android. You can find general information for fares here: https://www.mbta.com/fares/commuter-rail-fares You can find schedules and other important information for the train at https://www.mbta.com/schedules/CR-Newburyport/line TRAIN STOPS ON THE NEWBURYPORT/ROCKPORT LINE One trick that many tourists do is park at one of the train stations along the train line and then commute the handful of stops to Salem. Here is a list of the train stops along the line so you can plan your visit. Just remember, many people have this same idea. Go to the link above to see each train stop for parking rates and other helpful info. The train stops for the Newburyport line are: Boston (lots of garages) Chelsea (no parking) River Works (no parking) Lynn Interim (11 Ellis St. Lynn, 329 spots; The Ellis lot has 64 spots) Swampscott (Burrill Street & Railroad Ave, 144 spots) Salem (252 Bridge Street, 712 spots) Beverly (10 Park Street, 494 spots) North Beverly (Enon & Dodge Streets, 86 spots) Hamilton/Wenham (Bay & Walnut Roads, Hamilton 194 spots) Ipswich (4 Peatfield Street, 170 spots; non-residents cannot park from 6 AM - 6:00 PM, M-F) Rowley (70 Railroad Ave, 283 spots) Newburyport (25 Boston Way, 680 spots). The train stops for the Rockport line are: Boston (lots of garages) Chelsea (no parking) Riverworks (no parking) Lynn Interim (11 Ellis St. Lynn, 329 spots; The Ellis lot has 64 spots) Swampscott (Burrill Street & Railroad Ave, 144 spots) Salem (252 Bridge Street, 712 spots) Beverly (10 Park Street, 494 spots) Montserrat (180 Essex Street, Beverly, 117 spots) Beverly Farms (1 Oak Street, 25 spots) Manchester (40 Beach Street, 71 spots) West Gloucester (290 Essex Ave, 43 spots) Gloucester (75 Railroad Ave, 100 spots) Rockport (17 Railroad Ave, 88 spots) SUBWAY SYSTEM The subway in Boston comprises five lines (Blue, Green, Orange, Red and Silver). The Blue Line will bring you the closest to Salem. The cost for a one-way ride is $2.40 and you can use your credit card for “tap to pay.” Subway fares are valid on the Red, Orange, Green, and Blue lines and Silver Line routes SL1, SL2, and SL3. You can find more info about subway lines here: https://www.mbta.com/fares/subway-fares The Blue Line runs from Wonderland Station in Revere to Bowdoin Station in Boston. There is a blue line stop at Logan Airport in Boston. You can take the free shuttle from your terminal to the Airport Station. Take the outbound subway to Wonderland in Revere, the northernmost point of the subway. Then take an Uber/Lyft to Salem or the 450 or 455 bus to Salem. https://www.mbta.com/schedules/subway If you are staying in a hotel in the BOSTON SEAPORT area, you can take the SL3 Bus to Chelsea Station on the Newburyport/Rockport Commuter Rail (schedule above). Then you take the train up to Salem. https://www.mbta.com/projects/silver-line-3-chelsea-sl3 BUS TO SALEM You can also take a bus to Salem. You’ll still hit traffic but you won’t have to park. The 455 bus goes from Wonderland Station (Blue Line) in Revere to Salem Station with stops in Lynn and Swampscott. https://www.mbta.com/schedules/455/line The 435 bus goes from Danversport to Peabody and Lynn. It no longer goes to Salem. The 436 bus will go from the North Shore Mall to the Liberty Tree Mall where you can pick up the 465 bus to come to Salem. https://www.mbta.com/schedules/435/line The 450 Bus goes from Salem to Wonderland or Haymarket in Boston https://www.mbta.com/schedules/450/line The 451 bus goes from Salem to North Beverly https://www.mbta.com/schedules/451/line The 456 bus goes from Lynn to Salem https://www.mbta.com/schedules/456/line LOGAN EXPRESS DANVERS BUS The Logan Express is another way to get from the airport to the Salem area. You can pick the bus up at your terminal at the airport and it goes to the Liberty Tree Mall in Danvers (next to Salem). Then you can take the 465 bus or an Uber/Lyft/Taxi to your nearby hotel or to Salem. https://www.massport.com/logan-airport/getting-to-logan/logan-express/danvers BOSTON FERRY TO SALEM You can always take the ferry. It runs from Long Wharf in Boston to Blaney Street in Salem. It is just a 10-15 minute walk from Blaney Street to downtown. You can also take the trolley from the ferry dock in Salem to downtown. https://www.cityexperiences.com/boston/city-cruises/salem-ferry/ AIRPORT FERRY TO BOSTON There is no ferry from Logan Airport in Boston to Salem. You have to take a ferry from Logan Airport in Boston to Long Wharf Boston across the harbor. To do so, take the #66 shuttle from your airport terminal to the Water Transportation Dock at Logan Airport in Boston. https://www.cityexperiences.com/boston/city-cruises/water-taxi/ OTHER FERRIES You can find additional ferries to cities along the Boston coastline in Charlestown, East Boston, Hingham, Hull, Quincy and Winthrop. There is also an on-demand water taxi that you have to call ahead and book. https://www.massport.com/logan-airport/getting-to-logan/water-transportation BOAT MOORINGS AND SLIPS If you have a boat and plan on sailing into Salem, there are slips available through Safe Harbor Hawthorne Cove Marina, 978-740-9890. Pickering Wharf Marina (978)210-4584 and Mariners Port Marina (781) 631-4800. All rental moorings and slips must register with the Harbormaster Department once assigned by going to our registration system. https://salemma.lynxlog.com Sorry, the transporter on the Starship Enterprise has not been invented yet.

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. (Nelson Dionne Salem History Collection, Salem State University Archives and Special Collections, Salem, Massachusetts) 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. . 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. (Nelson Dionne Salem History Collection, Salem State University Archives and Special Collections, Salem, Massachusetts)

Explore ToursOfSalem for the ultimate Salem, MA travel guide! Discover attractions, events, and insider tips. Explore Top-Rated Tours & Things to Do in Salem Your guide to unforgettable experiences. EXPLORE SALEM Our Popular Tours Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour $20–$28 Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour Salem 101: General History Tour $20–$28 Salem 101: General History Tour 1692 Salem Witchcraft Walk $20–$28 1692 Salem Witchcraft Walk Bewitched Walking Tour of Salem From $30.00 Bewitched Walking Tour of Salem Morning Walks with Salem Food Tours From $34.00 Morning Walks with Salem Food Tours Our Favorite Restaurant's Jolie Tea Company 316 Derby St See More! The Adriatic 155 Washington St See More! Longboards 76 Wharf St See More! Enjoy Salem Willows oceanfront park Discovering Salem's Micro Neighborhoods: A Journey Through Pickering Wharf Derby Street Area Getting to Salem - Transportation & parking tips for your visit! Salem turns 400 years old this year (UPDATED) The Warren Occult Museum is on the way back to Salem Salem Blog Upcoming Events Pops Goes the Willows Tue, Jul 14 Salem Willows More info Details Prussian Blue: a Victorian Cyanotype Salon Sat, Jul 18 Diehl Marcus & Company More info Details Music From Across the Pond Tue, Jul 21 Salem Willows More info Details Load More The Salem Travel Experience Step back in time and explore the chilling tales of Salem, MA, a city known for the infamous witch trials of 1692. Wander through historic streets where dark stories of witches, ghosts, and mysterious events come to life. There are many great tours, attractions and activities that offer a spine-tingling journey into the past, revealing the secrets and legends that make Salem a hub for paranormal enthusiasts. The Salem Travel Experience goes beyond the boundaries of Salem. The entire area was known as Salem in the 1600s. Salem is actually older than Boston, that is only a 30-minute train ride away. You can enjoy Salem and Boston at the same time as well as tours, attractions and activities of the neighboring cities and towns of Beverly, Lynn, Peabody, Gloucester, Rockport and more. Salem Activities Other Activities around Salem Salem Blog Other Activties

< Back Bewitched Walking Tour of Salem 90 minutes Join a local historian on this award-winning walking tour through over a dozen historically significant locations in downtown Salem. Experience 400 years of history with a captivating blend of history, legend, and pop culture—uncovering the real story of the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. Named 'Best tour in Salem!' and a 2024 Viator Rising Star Award Winner. Book Now!

< Back Longboards Restaurant & Bar Longboards is the neighborhood joint for locals and a must-stop for visitors. It's a lively, casual space perfect to call your own. Stop in and say hi. You're sure to see Justin, Matt, an old friend, or one you haven't met yet! 76 Wharf St, Salem, MA 01970, USA Visit Website About The Neighborhood Joint on the Wharf Founded in 2011 by North Shore natives Justin and Matthew Mattera, Longboards is the ultimate "come as you are" destination on Pickering Wharf. What started as a small sandwich shop called The Hungry Whale has evolved into a vibrant waterfront staple. While we’re inspired by the laid-back energy of the West Coast, we stay true to our New England roots with award-winning lobster rolls and a unique twist: our signature flatbread pizzas served on actual long boards. Location: 76 Wharf St, Salem, MA 01970 Key Info: Home of the "Scorpion Shot" (yes, it’s a real scorpion!), a dog-friendly outdoor patio, and a massive 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. schedule every single day. Links: Main Website | Full Menu | Online Ordering Previous Next