Salem, Massachusetts (aka “Witch City”) is well-known for being the site of the 1692 Witch Trials. Today, it is known as a popular Halloween travel destination. But did you know it’s also home to some really interesting historical homes? During my trip to Salem, I learned that Salem is also home to some of the most fascinating historic homes I’ve seen in my travels. Keep reading for a guide to a four fascinating houses in Salem!
1. The Witch House
Address: 310 Essex Street, Salem MA
The Jonathan Corwin House (aka the “Witch House”) dates back to approximately 1630. It was the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, who was one of the judges in Salem Witch Trials. The “Witch House” name is a bit deceiving as it was never home to any of the accused witches executed during the Salem Witch Trials. Instead, locals gave the house this nickname as is is the only home in Salem that still has ties to the Salem Witch Trials.
The exterior is absolutely gorgeous. During my trip, I took a self-guided tour of the interior and it was a bit lacking. However, it is worth the price of admission if you want to take a picture in front of the house as guides won’t let you take a picture in front of the house without a ticket. If you are going to Salem during peak season, be aware that it is a bit of a struggle to purchase tickets. Tickets are sold exclusively online and can only be purchased the day of.
2. The House of the Seven Gables
Address: 115 Derby Street, Salem MA
“Halfway down a by-street of one of our New England towns stands a rusty wooden house, with seven acutely peaked gables, facing toward various points of the compass, and a huge, clustered chimney in the midst.”
– Nathaniel Hawthorne, House of the Seven Gables
The House of the Seven Gables dates back to 1668. The house got its name for its seven gables (peaks) and served as the inspiration for Nathaniel Hawthorne’s classic novel of the same name. The home is surrounded by beautiful and peaceful gardens and is right on the Salem Harbor. The campus now also houses Nathaniel Hawthorne’s birthplace.
The exterior of the Witch House is gorgeous — but the exterior of the House of the Seven Gables is just breathtaking. Pictures do not do it justice. I took a guided tour of the interior and it was worth every penny. However, be aware that you will have to climb a secret staircase in the house which is very narrow. As such, I would not recommended for those with accessibility issues. I would also suggest going on tour later in the day so that you can experience a beautiful sunset over the Salem Harbor at the end of your tour.
3. The Pickering House
Address: 18 Broad Street, Salem MA
Another of the fascinating houses in Salem is The Pickering House. The Pickering House is located in Salem’s historic McIntire District. It dates back to 1660 and was continuously occupied by the same family for over 350 years! The house features beautiful gables, peaks and my favorite part- the unique fence. I wish we could have taken a tour of the interior. Unfortunately, tours are only offered for a few hours each weekend and the tours didn’t fit in our schedule.
4. Ropes Gardens and Mansions
Address: 318 Essex St, Salem MA
The Ropes Mansion was built in the late 1720s and is another gem of the McIntire District. There is a beautiful garden behind the home that is open to the public from dawn to dusk. I would suggest checking out one of the many ghost tours offered in Salem to learn why the house is rumored to be haunted.
I was not able to see the interior of this home, but was able to view the exterior and gardens. Did you know the Ropes Mansion was the filming location for Allison’s house in Hocus Pocus? Make sure to check out my post about the Six “Hocus Pocus” Filming Locations You Can’t Miss in Salem!
Honorable Mention:
Looking for more fascinating houses in Salem? Look no further than all of the other beautiful houses in the McIntire District!
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