RV Road Trip: Salem, Massachusetts
No Need to be Scared While Visiting the Historic Sites and Sampling Delicious Dishes in this Enchanting Town
Image Caption: Image Courtesy of Salem Maritime Museum
As we move deeper into the fall season, leaves turn brilliant hues, daylight lessens as the calendar rolls along, and cool evenings envelop us. Thoughts often turn to the spookiest of holidays this time of year, and where better to celebrate Halloween than Witch City?
Salem’s history is synonymous with the Witch Trials held there in 1692 in which at least 19 people found guilty of witchcraft were executed. While the trials lasted less than a year, their impact on Salem endures. Witch museums, ghost tours, and cemetery walks keep the macabre history of the town alive. On the lighter side, Salem hosts Haunted Happenings each October, a family-friendly celebration featuring street fairs, a parade, costume balls, and much more.
Salem has numerous options for things to do in addition to its supernatural attractions. The quaint burg lies on Massachusetts Bay, allowing for beautiful views of the rugged coastline while exploring the town. Historic homes, world-class art, and fresh seafood abound. Spooky or historic, culture or cuisine, Salem is sure to cast a spell on guys, gals, and ghouls of all ages.
Weekend Warriors
Off the Beaten Path
At History Alive, the show “Cry Innocent” starts outside where suspected-witch Bridget Bishop (the first person executed for witchcraft) is brought into the “court” with the audience serving as the jury. The mock trial show is a terrific introduction to the Salem Witch Trials and the town.
Image Courtesy of Getty
On the Menu
For fresh, delicious seafood, stop in at Sea Level Oyster Bar. Two levels of fantastic views and a huge raw bar make Sea Level a great place for dinner. Brave souls can try the Scary Mary, an unbelievable “drink” that includes a lobster!
Stay Here
Winter Island Park campground is close to downtown and adjacent to Salem Harbor. Visit the beach or the site of former Fort Pickering for a spectacular sunrise or sunset. The campground is open May through Halloween and is often booked far in advance.
Must-Do
Salem Maritime was the first National Historic Site in the US. Numerous houses and buildings tell the story of merchants and sailors who spearheaded international trade in our young country’s formative years. After admiring the tall ship Friendship, take a lovely stroll on the breakwater to the Derby Wharf Light Station.
Image Courtesy of Real Pirates Salem
Family RVers
Off the Beaten Path
Tap into your inner swashbuckler and see actual treasure at Real Pirates Salem. Artifacts from the 300-year-old sunken wreck, Whydah, are on display throughout the museum. Kids can, of course, dress up as pirates for a great photo op.
Image Courtesy of Getty
On the Menu
Vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free? No problem at Flying Saucer Pizza Company. Sci-fi decor and unique pizzas make Flying Saucer a fun place to take the whole family. For a one-of-a-kind meal, order the Nick Fury, a pizza with mac and cheese as the topping, and pair it with blue milk (as seen in Star Wars).
Image Courtesy of Massachusetts Parks Department
Stay Here
Lorraine Park Campground in Harold Parker State Forest is a beautiful site in lush surroundings. There are 35 miles of trails to explore. Columbus Day is the last day of the camping season; the park will reopen in early May 2023.
Image Courtesy of Salem Kid Tours
Must-Do
Join an engaging Salem Kids Tour led by local educators. The Salem Kids History Tour is a great overview of the town and its intriguing history. The Slightly Spooky Tour takes guests off the beaten path for true stories and mild ghost yarns.
Image Courtesy of Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site
Full-Time RVers
Off the Beaten Path
Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site is the site of the first successful ironworks in the US. Reconstructed water wheels, forges, and a blast furnace provide a fascinating window into local history. Catch a weekend guided tour of the Ironworks House or Industrial Site.
Image Courtesy of Red’s Sandwich Shop
On the Menu
Eat where the locals do, at Red’s Sandwich Shop housed in the historic 1698 London Coffee House building. Open for breakfast and lunch, the generous portions won’t leave you hungry, and the variety of options is sure to suit everybody.
Image Courtesy of Tuxbury Pond RV Resort
Stay Here
Tuxbury Pond RV Resort offers fun activities and events, including a game room, live entertainment, bingo, arts and crafts, and fishing. The Good Sam Park is located just over the border in New Hampshire and is open from mid-April through mid-October.
Image Courtesy of The House of Seven Gables
Must-Do
Built in 1668, The House of the Seven Gables served as the inspiration for Nathaniel Hawthorne’s 1851 novel of the same name. Hawthorne’s cousin lived in the oceanside mansion and regaled him with stories of previous owners and intrigues of the house.
Image Courtesy of Getty
Retired RVers
Off the Beaten Path
For a change of pace, explore the vast works of the Peabody Essex Museum. The collection includes art, culture, and architecture. In addition to the wonderful museum displays, the grounds include parks, gardens, and historic properties.
On the Menu
Turner’s Seafood at Lyceum Hall was originally an auditorium for lectures by numerous famous authors and orators as well as where Alexander Graham Bell made the first telephone call. While sampling delectable food, look out for Bridget Bishop’s ghost.
Stay Here
Enjoy ocean breezes while camping at Beach Rose RV Park. The cozy park features level cement pads and two dog parks. Beach Rose is open until November 15 this year, weather permitting, and reopens in April 2023. It’s located just 1 mile from Salisbury Beach.
Must-Do
Relax and be entertained with a narrated tour on the Salem Trolley. Hop on for a one-hour tour, then use the trolley as a shuttle around town. Brave souls can opt for the Tales and Tombstones night tours to hear stories of murder, intrigue, and ghosts. Boo!
