Free Things to Do in Salem, MA

Salem is known around the world for its rich history, museums, haunted happenings, waterfront views, unique shops, and vibrant arts and culture scene. Whether your next trip to Witch City is all about learning the history of the Salem Witch Trials or seeing the iconic locations showcased in Hocus Pocus (1993), you’ll also find plenty of exciting and unexpected experiences here that don’t cost a thing.

If you’re planning a weekend getaway, taking a day trip on a budget, or simply looking to add a few no-cost stops to your itinerary, these free things to do in Salem belong on your list:

Explore Salem Maritime National Historic Site

As the first National Historic Site established in the U.S., Salem Maritime National Historic Site offers a fascinating look at Salem’s maritime history. Wander along Derby Wharf, admire the historic waterfront buildings, watch boats come and go in Salem Harbor, and enjoy beautiful harbor views at your own pace. Depending on the season, many of the site’s historic buildings and exhibits (including the Custom House and Friendship) also offer free admission, making this one of Salem’s best values.

Walk to Derby Wharf Light Station

At the very end of Derby Wharf sits Derby Wharf Light Station, one of Salem’s most recognizable maritime landmarks. The nearly half-mile walk to the lighthouse offers panoramic views of Salem Harbor, passing the replica tall ship Friendship along the way. Sunrise and sunset are especially beautiful times to visit, and it’s a great addition to any trip to Salem.

Visit Winter Island Light

Located within Winter Island Park, Winter Island Light has watched over Salem Harbor since the 1800s. While the lighthouse is not accessible, it’s easy to admire from the surrounding grounds, where you can enjoy coastal views, picnic areas, walking paths, or a stroll along Waikiki Beach. Winter Island Park is open year-round, though some amenities are seasonal.

Explore Forest River Park

Designed by the renowned Olmsted Brothers landscape architecture firm, Forest River Park offers wooded walking trails, gardens, open lawns, and scenic waterfront views. During the warmer months, you can also spend the day at the park’s beach, swimming pool, playgrounds, and picnic areas. And, if you are visiting Pioneer Village (which does have a small admission fee), Forest River Park is located right across the parking lot.

Follow the Salem Heritage Trail

One of the easiest ways to discover Salem’s past is by following the painted yellow line of the Salem Heritage Trail. The self-guided walking route connects many of the city’s most important historic sites, museums, waterfront attractions, and neighborhoods, making it easy to explore on foot while learning about Salem’s colonial, maritime, literary, and Witch Trial history. Visit the Salem Heritage Trail website for detailed information on historical themes and sites along the trail.

Reflect at the Salem Witch Trials Memorial

Located on Liberty Street beside the Old Burying Point/Charter Street Cemetery, the Salem Witch Trials Memorial honors the twenty innocent victims executed during the Witch Trials of 1692. Granite benches engraved with each victim’s name create a quiet place for reflection and remembrance, making this one of Salem’s most meaningful historic sites.

Tour Punto Urban Art Museum

Punto Urban Art Museum transforms Salem’s Point neighborhood into an open-air art gallery featuring 75 large-scale murals created by local, national, and international artists. Because the artwork is spread throughout the neighborhood, you can take in the full mural collection at your own pace. You can view a full list of murals and learn about the inspiration and artists behind these breathtaking pieces on Punto Urban Art Museum’s website.

Relax in the Ropes Mansion Garden

Tucked behind the historic Ropes Mansion, or Allison’s House in Hocus Pocus, is one of Salem’s hidden gems. Open daily from dawn to dusk, this beautifully maintained Colonial Revival garden is filled with seasonal flowers, winding pathways, and quiet benches. It’s an ideal spot to relax with a book, take photos, or simply enjoy a peaceful break from the busier downtown streets. During the summer, the mansion itself also offers free seasonal tours.

Visit Hocus Pocus Filming Locations

Fans of Disney’s Hocus Pocus can visit many filming locations throughout Salem for free. Stop outside the Ropes Mansion (Allison’s house), walk past Old Town Hall, and recognize several streets and neighborhoods featured throughout the film. Pioneer Village is also featured in the film’s early scenes, but it is open seasonally and charges a small admission fee to enter.

Discover the Derby House Garden

Just steps from Derby Wharf, the Derby House Garden provides another peaceful escape along the waterfront. Maintained as part of Salem Maritime National Historic Site, the historic garden offers visitors a glimpse into early American landscape design while providing a quiet place to pause during a day of sightseeing.

Spend Time at Salem Common

Dating back to the 1600s, Salem Common has served many purposes throughout the city’s history, from militia training grounds to a public gathering space. Today, it’s a favorite spot for picnics, reading, people-watching, and enjoying the changing seasons. The Common is especially beautiful in spring and fall, but is worth visiting year-round and during special events.

Visit Salem Willows Park

With beaches, an expansive park, restaurants, and an arcade, Salem Willows is one of the city’s best spots to spend an afternoon in the summer months. Stroll the shoreline, relax beneath the willow trees, watch boats on the harbor, or plan your visit during an annual event or festival. While arcade games and food are available for purchase, walking through the park and enjoying the scenery is completely free.

Hike Through Salem Woods

For more time spent in nature, Salem Woods offers miles of peaceful wooded trails just minutes from downtown. The conservation area is ideal for hiking, birdwatching, photography, or simply enjoying a quieter side of Salem away from the city’s busiest attractions.

Stroll Historic Chestnut Street

Often considered one of the most beautiful streets in America, Chestnut Street is lined with elegant Federal-style homes built by Salem’s wealthy merchants in the early 1800s, including Historic New England’s Phillips House (which charges admission to enter). Walking the tree-lined street offers a glimpse into Salem’s architectural history and remains a favorite stop for photographers.

Browse the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall

Even if shopping isn’t on your agenda, Salem’s pedestrian mall is worth exploring. Street performers, public art, historic architecture, seasonal decorations, and plenty of people-watching make this lively downtown area fun to explore year-round, and especially in October during Salem Haunted Happenings.

Visit Charter Street Cemetery/Old Burying Point

Established in 1637, Charter Street Cemetery (Old Burying Point) is one of the oldest cemeteries in the United States. Many notable Salem residents are buried here, including a Mayflower passenger and the Witch Trials Judge and grandfather of Nathaniel Hawthorne, Judge John Hathorne. The cemetery also sits directly beside the Salem Witch Trials Memorial.

Find Salem’s Public Art and Statues

As you explore downtown, keep an eye out for Salem’s many public monuments and sculptures. Highlights include the Nathaniel Hawthorne Statue, the Roger Conant Statue, the Charlotte Forten Statue, and the highly photographed Bewitched Statue honoring actress Elizabeth Montgomery, each offering great photo opportunities while celebrating different chapters of Salem’s history.

Walk Along Pickering Wharf

While shopping and dining would complete the experience, strolling through Pickering Wharf costs nothing. Watch boats in the marina, enjoy harbor views, and experience one of Salem’s most picturesque waterfront districts.

Attend Free Festivals & Events

Throughout the year, Salem hosts a variety of free celebrations and festivals. Depending on when you visit, you may be able to enjoy events like the Salem Pride Parade in June, Fourth of July fireworks over Salem Harbor, Salem’s So Sweet in February, or the famous Haunted Happenings Grand Parade each October. Additional outdoor concerts and cultural celebrations also take place throughout the year, so it’s worth checking the events calendar before your trip.

From historic waterfronts and scenic parks to public art, beautiful gardens, and iconic film locations, there’s plenty to see and do without spending a dime. Whether you’re here for an afternoon or a longer getaway, these free experiences are a great way to discover Salem’s history, culture, and unmistakable magic.