Downtown Salem — Washington Square and Essex Street. The beating heart of the city, centered on the Salem Common, Essex Street pedestrian mall, and Washington Square. Staying here puts you steps from the Salem Witch Museum, Peabody Essex Museum, the Heritage Trail, and dozens of restaurants and shops. The… Good for: First-time visitors, culture-seekers, October Halloween travelers.
Derby Waterfront and Pickering Wharf. Salem's scenic harbor district along Derby Street and Pickering Wharf offers waterfront hotel rooms with harbor views, easy access to the House of the Seven Gables and Salem Maritime National Historic Site, and a lively cluster of seafood restaurants and… Good for: Couples, romantics, seafood lovers, photography enthusiasts.
McIntire Historic District — Chestnut Street and Federal Street. Salem's most architecturally distinguished residential neighborhood, home to some of the finest Federal-style streetscapes in America — Chestnut Street is frequently cited as one of the most beautiful streets in the country. Quieter and more residential than… Good for: Architecture enthusiasts, romantics, returning visitors seeking a quieter base.