Apartments and Airbnb in Salem

Salem enchants visitors with its walkable cobblestone streets, centuries-old homes, and ties to the supernatural. Beyond the witch lore, the city boasts beautiful parks, vibrant arts, and a bustling harbor lined with seafood restaurants and boutiques. Every corner holds a piece of history, whether in its museums, graveyards, or preserved buildings. It’s a place where the past feels vividly alive and continues to shape the town’s unique identity.

Top areas to stay at in Salem

Downtown Salem

The heart of the city, Downtown Salem is perfect for travelers who want to be immersed in history and within walking distance of top attractions. The area is filled with museums, shops, restaurants, and picturesque colonial buildings. Vacation rentals here often feature historic facades with modern interiors, offering charm and convenience in equal measure. Staying downtown puts you close to the Salem Witch Museum, Peabody Essex Museum, and waterfront.

McIntire Historic District

Named after the renowned architect Samuel McIntire, the McIntire Historic District showcases some of Salem’s finest Federal-style homes. The neighborhood is quiet, elegant, and filled with tree-lined streets and preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture. Airbnbs here often reside in stately homes with original details and cozy furnishings.

The Point

Located south of downtown, The Point is a diverse neighborhood with a growing art scene and community-driven spirit. Vacation rentals here are typically more affordable, offering easy access to downtown and nearby parks. It’s a great base for travelers who want to explore local markets and experience a more residential side of Salem. The Point offers both value and a vibrant, local atmosphere.

Bridge Street Neck

Situated along the northeastern approach to the city, Bridge Street Neck offers a more residential environment while still being within walking distance of central Salem. The neighborhood features classic New England homes and tree-lined streets that are peaceful and inviting. Vacation homes and Airbnbs here provide a quieter retreat with easy access to the harbor and city sights.

Derby Street Historic District

Running parallel to the waterfront, the Derby Street Historic District is full of maritime charm and historic buildings. Guests staying here are steps from the House of the Seven Gables, the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, and several waterfront dining spots. The area combines history, sea breezes, and walkability for a quintessential Salem experience. Vacation rentals often include charming period homes and townhouses with harbor views.

Must-visit places and attractions in Salem

Salem Witch Museum

The iconic Salem Witch Museum provides a dramatic and informative overview of the 1692 witch trials. Using life-sized stage sets and narration, the museum immerses visitors in one of America’s most infamous historical events. It’s a must-see for first-time visitors eager to understand Salem’s haunted reputation. The museum also includes exhibits on witchcraft through history.

The House of the Seven Gables

Immortalized in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, The House of the Seven Gables is a preserved 17th-century mansion that offers guided tours and insight into colonial life. Visitors can explore secret staircases, beautiful gardens, and original furnishings. It’s one of the city’s most atmospheric and historically significant landmarks. The site also includes Hawthorne’s birth home and exhibits on local heritage.

Peabody Essex Museum

One of the oldest continuously operating museums in the U.S., the Peabody Essex Museum blends art, history, and culture with stunning collections from around the world. The museum houses American and maritime art, Asian artifacts, and changing exhibitions. Visitors can also explore a Chinese house transported from Suzhou, China.

Salem Maritime National Historic Site

This historic waterfront area, the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, celebrates the city’s rich seafaring past. Visitors can walk the wharves, tour historic buildings, and board the replica tall ship, Friendship of Salem. The site includes interpretive programs, a visitor center, and scenic harbor views.

Old Burying Point Cemetery

Dating back to 1637, the Old Burying Point Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in the United States. Many notable figures from the witch trial era are buried here, including Judge John Hathorne. A visit offers a reflective and eerie experience with historic gravestones and shadowy trees. Guided tours bring to life the stories of those interred.

Salem Witch Trials Memorial

Adjacent to the cemetery, the Salem Witch Trials Memorial honors the 20 victims who were executed during the hysteria of 1692. Designed for quiet contemplation, it features stone benches engraved with the names of the accused. The space encourages remembrance and reflection amid the bustle of the city.

Witch House (Corwin House)

The Witch House, also known as the Corwin House, is the only structure in Salem with direct ties to the witch trials still standing. Visitors can take self-guided tours through the 17th-century home of Judge Jonathan Corwin. The home offers a rare glimpse into Puritan architecture and early colonial life.

Pioneer Village

A recreation of a 1630s Puritan settlement, Pioneer Village brings colonial Salem to life through interactive experiences and seasonal events. The village features period homes, herb gardens, and live demonstrations. It’s a family-friendly destination that offers hands-on history in a scenic setting. Pioneer Village is perfect for educational outings and group visits.

Where to Find a Vacation Rental Near Salem

Gloucester, Massachusetts

Just 45 minutes northeast of Salem, Gloucester is a coastal fishing town known for its maritime heritage and rocky beaches. Visitors can explore the working harbor, visit the Fishermen’s Memorial, and enjoy fresh seafood. Gloucester provides a scenic and cultural contrast to Salem’s historical focus. Rest in a vacation rental in Gloucester with harbor views and easy access to local seafood shacks and schooner cruises.

Boston, Massachusetts

About 30 minutes south, Boston offers a world-class urban experience filled with revolutionary history, cultural institutions, and culinary delights. Guests can tour the Freedom Trail, shop on Newbury Street, or catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park. It’s an exciting complement to Salem’s quieter, more intimate vibe. Stay in an apartment in Boston close to museums, parks, and buzzing neighborhoods.

Rockport, Massachusetts

Neighboring Gloucester, Rockport is a charming seaside village known for its art galleries, coastal views, and the iconic Motif No. 1. The town’s narrow streets and picturesque harbor provide a perfect setting for a relaxed escape. Rockport brings peace and artistic flair to any North Shore itinerary. Spend your stay in a cottage in Rockport with views of sailboats and access to sandy coves.

Newburyport, Massachusetts

Located about 40 minutes north of Salem, Newburyport is a beautifully preserved waterfront town with a vibrant downtown and Federal-style architecture. The town features boutique shops, waterfront dining, and nearby beaches like Plum Island. Newburyport pairs well with Salem for a scenic and stylish New England experience. Unwind in a house in Newburyport just a stroll away from galleries and riverside restaurants.

Beverly, Massachusetts

Just across the bridge from Salem, Beverly is a friendly coastal community with easy access to beaches, theaters, and parks. Visitors staying in Beverly can enjoy the Cabot Theatre, Lynch Park, and a quieter pace while remaining minutes from Salem’s attractions. It’s a perfect nearby base for extended stays in the North Shore region. Relax in a vacation rental in Beverly where you’ll find more space and a local feel without straying far from historic Salem.