When considering a summertime destination, the Salem, Massachusetts area probably does not come to mind. However, just ten minutes from America’s Halloween capital is the gorgeous seaside town of Marblehead.
Marblehead has spectacular ocean views and offers many beloved summertime activities including nightly boat cruises, kayak and standup paddleboard rentals, stunning beaches with turquoise water, and so much more.
For history buffs, a visit to the Marblehead Museum is a must. The museum operates three distinct properties, the J.O.J. Frost Gallery, the Jeremiah Lee Mansion, and the Civil War and G.A.R. Museum, which all detail Marblehead’s storied past.
Dining in the area is top notch, and you don’t have to leave Marblehead’s hamlet in order to enjoy a fine meal. 5 Corners Kitchen is a favorite not only among visitors but locals as well/ Maddie’s Sail Loft has been in business since World War II and serves a seafood-heavy menu in a casual pub atmosphere. For traditional New England clam chowder, you can’t beat the Barnacle.
When you've had your fill of food and fun in town, there’s no better place to rest your head than the Hotel Marblehead. Formerly known as the Marblehead Inn, this quaint boutique hotel offers just 14 rooms that were recently updated to preserve the old world charm, but incorporate more modern luxuries.
Every morning a breakfast buffet is set out in the charming lobby. You’ll find fresh pastries, coffee, cheeses, and more, as well as several local and national newspapers. When I was a guest at the hotel this was my favorite way to start the morning. There is also outdoor seating behind the historic house turned hotel with a gorgeous fountain and comfortable chairs.
The staff is not only incredibly friendly but highly knowledgable about the area. They suggested several activities and restaurants that really enhanced my trip. I also loved returning to what felt like a home. Hot water and tea is always available, and after a very chilly outing, it was extremely comforting to pour myself a cup of chamomile and relaxing in my room.
In Salem, you’ll be happy to know that the spooky activities aren’t just relegated to fall. Nearly all of the witch-related tours and events go all summer long and the famous Salem Witch Museum, the Witch House, and the House of Seven Gables are all open as well.
Even if you are not an art buff, you’d be remiss not to visit the Peabody Essex Museum, a premier art museum located in downtown Salem. The exhibits are constantly rotating, but the jewel of the museum and a permanent part of the collection is the Yin Yu Tang House. Imported from the Anhui province in China, this 18th-century house was reconstructed by the museum and offers a truly unique peek into what life was like during the Qing Dynasty.
Several daily tours are included with museum admission, such as the Two Merchants’ Houses tour and a popular architectural walking tour of the town.
The Ropes Mansion, which is owned by the Peabody Essex, was made famous by the Halloween favorite, Hocus Pocus, was just reopened to the public after many years of being shuttered.
Given the diversity of events, historical sites, the grandeur of the beaches, and proximity to Salem, make sure you put Marblehead on your summer agenda.