Known as the Witch City because of its dark past as the center of the 1692 witch hunts, Salem, Massachusetts is today a popular destination for anyone interested in the history of that era. This town is definitely not afraid of witches anymore. Instead, the whole identity of Salem is formed by the magical women; even police cars have witch logos on them. While you're in town enjoying witch tourism events like "Haunted Happenings," here are some places to stay in Salem, Massachusetts.
The Salem Inn
7 Summer Street, Salem, MA
1-800-446-2995
This small, 40-room boutique hotel has been operating for 25 years in the heart of Salem. It consists of three adjacent historic homes that are all on the National Register of Historic Places. A few family suites are available, which come with a kitchenette and enough room for everyone. Pets are allowed in the West House. Each house has its own parlor sitting area with a fireplace so you can relax and socialize with other guests in the evening. Rates range from $139 to $229 per night.
Salem Waterfront Hotel and Suites
225 Derby Street, Salem, MA
(978) 740-8722
Located on Pickering Wharf in Historic Salem, the Waterfront Hotel is a trolley ride away from many of Salem's most notable attractions, and a ferry-ride away from all the excitement of Boston. The 86 large rooms include standard, king size, mini suite, and two-room suite options. A heated indoor pool, a waterfront restaurant called The Regatta, and several ballrooms for hosting events. Summer peak rates range from $199 to $259 per night.
Hawthorne Hotel
18 Washington Square W, Salem, MA
(978) 744-4080
This hotel is named after famous Salem resident Nathanial Hawthorne, author of the Scarlet Letter. Since 1925, it has been considered one of the finest hotels in Salem. The hotel includes 93 rooms, with six suites and a smaller four-room bed-and-breakfast area with a higher level of service. The wide range of prices by season and room type make the Hawthorne affordable for anyone, starting at just $114 and going up to $315 per night.
Clipper Ship Inn
40 Bridge Street, Salem, MA
(978) 745-8022
This downtown motel bills itself as the only "motel" in historic Salem. Parking is conveniently on site, but the hotel is still within walking distance of all the historic attractions of downtown Salem. There are 60 rooms with rates from $95 to $145 per night.
The Coach House Inn
284 Lafayette Street, Salem, MA
(978) 744-4092
This bed-and-breakfast is located in a late-1800s Victorian mansion. Just two blocks from the harbor, the Coach House is located close to the action but on a quiet residential street. The interior of the hotel is just as charmingly historic as the outside, with period furnishings and decorations. Rates for one-room or two-room suites range from $105 to $240.
Northey Street House
30 Northey Street, Salem, MA
(978) 397-1582
In 1809, this dark-blue structure in historic Salem was built as a home for Nathaniel Appleton, a famous cabinet-maker of the day whose pieces are now honored in museums. Marble fireplaces, wood floors, and 1800s era decorations make visitors feel as though they have stepped back in time. Rates range from $125 to $200 for the nice suites.
Stepping Stone Inn
19 Washington Square N, Salem, MA
(978) 741-8900
With only eight guest rooms, this bed-and-breakfast provides a great level of personalized service that bed-and-breakfast patrons love. It was built in 1846 as a home for a naval officer. It is a light blue, three story building with wonderful wood cladding construction. Rates are $105 to $150 per night.
Salem is a great place to visit, and there is no shortage of hotels to accommodate all the visitors. The true treasures of Salem are its historic bed-and-breakfast inns, which will allow you to get to know other guests and your local hosts very well. Enjoy your stay in Salem, Massachusetts, but watch out for black cats and pointy hats.