Just a short drive north of Boston, Salem has a long and interesting history with an exciting list of things to do. It’s a place most connect with the famous witch trials of 1692, including accused “witches” who were burned at the stake. In the last couple of decades, an increasing number of shops have opened selling a variety of Wiccan accessories, with the town’s witchy heritage proudly displayed throughout, from the high school mascot to the police department. Both businesses and residents tend to go all out for Halloween, with a month-long festival, but no matter when you visit, you’ll find plenty to explore and some great Airbnbs to base your stay, including these.
The Mason Suite of Salem
The Mason Suite is located right downtown just steps from the Salem Witch Museum, Salem Common and the pedestrian mall with shops and restaurants. The one-bedroom space is on the third floor of a historic 1844 Greek Revival home on a street lined with 17th-, 18th-, and 19th-century buildings. Accommodating up to six, it’s accessed through a private back entrance and servant’s staircase and comes complete with a full kitchen, living room with two sofa beds, and large skylights that provide sweeping views of downtown Salem.
Quintessential Salem Stay
As the name belies, this is definitely the quintessential Salem Airbnb. If you want to immerse yourself in “witchiness,” you’ll appreciate it here. Accommodating up to four guests, it’s just a 12-minute walk to Essex Street and all the downtown attractions, while the main bedroom has dark gothic decor, “designed to get you in the Salem spirit,” as the host notes. The adjacent room was outfitted to look like a Victorian British library, ideal for a relaxing read, and you’ll also have a full kitchen with a coffeemaker, microwave and dishwasher, a dining room, spacious living room and full bath. Wi-Fi and TV are included too.
Newly Renovated Downtown Apartment
This open concept one-bedroom apartment in the heart of Salem accommodates up to three guests with a queen bed plus a small nook where another mattress can be added. Located on the first floor, you’ll have your own separate entrance and a shared back yard. Beautifully renovated with a new comfy couch, you’ll be within walking distance from everything yet away from the big tourist crowds.
The Salem House
This one-bedroom apartment accommodates four guests, set within a sea captain’s home built in the 1850s. It has a modern interior with all the essential comforts. You’ll have a dining room and full kitchen that comes with unlimited coffee and a refrigerator stocked with snacks and drinks too. Enjoy the outside patio and Adirondack chairs that are scattered around the property, ideal for sipping your morning coffee or relaxing with a refreshing beverage. It’s located a mile from downtown Salem, away from the traffic, yet still within walking distance from everything.
Ocean Park Retreat
This one-bedroom apartment is located on a quiet street in the Ocean Park neighborhood of Marblehead, steps from the ocean, yet just a 10-minute drive from downtown Salem. You’ll be able to walk to the waterfront, while the historic town center can be reached in 15 minutes on foot. It accommodates up to four guests and well-behaved pets are welcome upon request. You’ll have a full-size bed in the bedroom plus a pull-out full-size sofa in the living room, a bathroom with in-floor heating, and a kitchenette. Guests also have access to laundry facilities, a private furnished patio with a charcoal grill and a private dock and beach for swimming, kayaking, fishing or just relaxing.
Charming Studio Downtown
This charming studio space is centrally located, within two blocks from the train station, making it easy to reach from Boston if you don’t have a car. You’ll be within walking distance to many of the attractions too, from museums to shops and restaurants. It includes a private entrance, a fully equipped kitchen with a bedroom/living room area that has a queen-size bed, a sofa, Wi-Fi and cable TV.
Thomas Brown House
Located just steps from Salem Common, Peabody Essex Museums and the local witchcraft shops in the heart of town, this two-bedroom apartment for up to four is within the Thomas Brown House, built in 1781. Enjoy a slice of history with a stay in the oldest house on the street while enjoying modern comforts. It includes off-street parking, an individually controlled thermostat and a new full kitchen with extras like an espresso cafetera and milk frother as well as a coffeemaker with a timer. A wide array of personal bath products for both men and women, a hairdryer and a vanity are included too.
The Forstyhia Apartment
A spacious one-bedroom apartment accommodation up to three, is best for a couple or small family, with an open layout, meaning no doors between the rooms other than the bathroom. It features gorgeous hardwood floors in the bedroom, study and living room which includes a fabulous old hearth. You’ll be right in the middle of everything, including Salem’s rich history, with the writer of The Scarlet Letter and The House of Seven Gables, Nathaniel Hawthorne, born on the same street. It’s close to Salem Common, Pickering Wharf and the historic district too. The home itself is historic as your host notes, “built in 1769 as a hatter factory for Joseph Hood who later converted it into a dwelling for his widow.”
Water View Room
This private room has its own separate entrance and staircase, overlooking Collins Cove for a gorgeous view. You’ll have easy access to the paths that run along the water’s edge for walking and biking while still being close to Essex, the main street in Salem. Guests rave about the host’s hospitality and the many special touches and amenities. You’ll have your own parking spot, a huge bathroom, plenty of natural light and access to laundry facilities. There’s a little nook with a mini-fridge, microwave, kettle and fixings for coffee and tea, as well as a pitcher of water and glasses too.
