Salem, MA is a beautiful example of a New England town. It really comes alive in October for the Halloween season, but it is also fantastic for a late summer visit in September. Read on to hear all about this wonderful weekend getaway spot!
Where to Stay
Salem, MA is a gorgeous New England town and I was lucky enough to stay at a hotel that really speaks to this heritage. The Merchant, a Lark Hotel, located on Washington Street—right near all the action.
Like all Lark Hotels, The Merchant is a funky boutique hotel in a renovated historic home. Once a captain’s home, the hotel has that old New England feel with a modern vibe. The Boston Globe said it best, “History with a shot of spice.”
The rooms feel cozy and chic, and everywhere you look there is something funky and colorful. The entire space is bright and cheerful, but with a hint of mystery, very fitting for Salem.
One of my favorite features of all Lark properties is the small plates breakfast. Always including some tasty unique items, it is definitely a highlight.
And one special feature of the Merchant is that they offer a nightly BYOB happy hour. All you need to do is bring the booze and they provide all the trimmings. Another must see! Details like this are what set Lark Hotels apart; they really want you to have a great time!
Where to Eat
Salem is one of those towns that you will want to spend some time just strolling around, so instead of making a lot of reservations for your meals juts go with the flow and pop into whatever you pass by. There are many great options in downtown. Gulu-Gulu café is an eclectic café right on the corner of Essex and Washington Street and is the perfect spot to grab a crepe or a salad.
And after your lunch head down the street to Caramel French Patisserie for some amazing French pastries! Seriously, you will want to buy everything in the store, each pastry is more beautiful than the next. I am a big fan of the French patisserie and Caramel makes you feel like you are back in Paris! Can’t wait to come back again!
What to Do
My favorite activity in Salem is visiting the Peabody Essex Museum. With an amazing permanent collection of American and international art, as well as interesting exhibits each season, the PEM is defiantly worth the trip. Last time we visited there was an awesome feature on the golden age of ocean liners.
The other must on the list for any first time visit to Salem is the Witch Museum, inside you will learn all about the infamous with trials of the 1600s.
And after you have gotten your dose of history at the museums head to Melt Ice Cream for a little treat! They have so many amazing flavors; they are the ice cream spot in town!
Getting There
Salem is just about 45 minutes from Boston and so it makes for a perfect weekend getaway. But beware, in October the crowds are for real, so incorporate a little buffer time to find parking if you try to visit any of the hotspots on a weekend before Halloween.