Salem, MA Gallery

Photos of historic Salem — landmarks, Halloween celebrations, waterfront views, live music, gardens, and the street performers who make it special.

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Friendship of Salem at the Maritime

Derby Wharf, Salem

The Friendship of Salem, a full-scale replica of a 1797 East Indiaman merchant vessel, at Derby Wharf National Historic Site. One of Salem's most iconic waterfront views at golden hour.

waterfront historical attraction derby wharf sunset friendship of salem
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Historic colonial architecture, Salem

Salem, MA

Salem's streets are lined with impeccably preserved colonial-era homes dating to the 17th and 18th centuries, many still serving as private residences or recognized historic landmarks.

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Federal Street at dusk

Federal Street, Salem

Federal Street in Salem's McIntire Historic District at dusk, lined with Federal-style mansions designed by architect Samuel McIntire in the late 18th century. The McIntire District is a National Historic Landmark.

downtown architecture federal street mcintire sunset historical
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Salem character — year-round Halloween

Salem, MA

In Salem, Halloween spirit lives year-round. This characteristic home with vine-covered facades and gothic décor captures the city's embrace of its spooky identity long after October ends.

halloween downtown architecture gothic year round
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Old Burying Point at sunset

Charter Street Cemetery, Salem

The Charter Street Cemetery (Old Burying Point), established in 1637, is one of the oldest cemeteries in America. Resting place of Mayflower passengers and Salem's colonial founders, adjacent to the Salem Witch Trials Memorial.

charter street historical cemetery attraction witch trials sunset
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Live music at East India Marine Hall

Peabody Essex Museum, Salem

East India Marine Hall at the Peabody Essex Museum hosts live music events, lectures, and cultural gatherings in its grand 19th-century assembly hall — a centerpiece of Salem's thriving arts scene.

live music peabody essex venue downtown events arts
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Salem in costume

Downtown Salem, MA

During Haunted Happenings in October, Salem fills with costumed visitors from around the world. The city becomes a living Halloween celebration with events, parades, and street performances throughout the month.

halloween haunted happenings october costume downtown
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Halloween downtown Salem

Essex Street Mall, Salem

Salem's pedestrian Essex Street mall transforms into a carnival during Haunted Happenings, packed with costumed crowds, street performers, vendors, and Halloween festivities every October.

halloween essex street downtown october pedestrian mall street
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The Pickering House — Gothic Revival

Broad Street, Salem

The Pickering House on Broad Street, built circa 1651 and continuously owned by the Pickering family for over 300 years, is considered the oldest family home in America. Its Gothic Revival exterior dates to an 1841 remodeling.

broad street architecture gothic historical pickering house colonial
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The Seven Gables Gardens in spring

House of the Seven Gables, Derby Street, Salem

The House of the Seven Gables, Nathaniel Hawthorne's inspiration for his 1851 novel, overlooks Salem Harbor. Its surrounding gardens bloom in spring with views across Derby Wharf and the water beyond.

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Buskers

Borah The Witch

Essex Street, Salem

Salem's streets are enlivened by talented buskers year-round. Borah The Witch is one of Salem's beloved local characters, a fixture on the pedestrian downtown drawing crowds with her performance art.

buskers street performer downtown essex street local
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Buskers

Big Top Tiny

Essex Street, Salem

Big Top Tiny brings circus arts to Salem's streets — juggling, acrobatics, and theatrical performance drawing crowds on the Essex Street pedestrian mall throughout the season.

buskers circus street performer downtown essex street