Salem Boasts Rich Heritage
June 3 -- Salem, Mass., is best known for its infamous witchcraft trials, but this coastal town also boasts a rich maritime heritage, making it a quaint New England town that just happens to have a bone-chilling history.
Stop by for a Spell
One of the main events on "The Witch City's" calendar celebrates its notoriety with a monthlong celebration, the annual Haunted Happenings (www.salemweb.com/hh/2001/default.htm) bash. More than 300,000 revelers can show up, so expect a Mardi Gras atmosphere, especially on Halloween Night. Events run the gamut from a witches' ball to a costume contest for dogs. While some activities are truly frightful, others are fun and family friendly, including a children's costume parade and Kids' Day on Salem Common (both events are free).
But, with its elegant sea captains' homes and quaint atmosphere, Salem is worth a visit during most of the year. Visitors can overnight right in Salem. Two top places in the heart of town are the Hawthorne Hotel (www.hawthornehotel.com, 800-SAY-STAY), on Salem Common, and the Salem Inn (www.saleminnma.com, 800-446-2995). Five miles from downtown, but offering an indoor pool, is the Quality Inn King's Grant (www4.choicehotels.com/ires/en-US/hotel/ma070/. 978-774-6800).
Start Saturday at the Witch Dungeon Museum (adults, $6; seniors, $5; children four to 13, $4; 978-741-3570), where actors perform a play based on actual witch trial transcripts. This and the Salem Witch Museum (www.salemwitchmuseum.com, 978-744-1692) are best appreciated by kids ages eight and up. More suited to small fry is the New England Pirate Museum (978-741-2800), where a seafarin' scalawag will make you walk the plank toward a full-length pirate ship, an 80-foot cave and authentic booty.
Food Fun
As for food, vendors along Salem Common (www.salemweb.com/guide/common/default.htm) may prove irresistible, but if you hanker for a hearty meal, head to Pickering Wharf for dinner at the Rockmore Drydock (978-740-1001), which offers both harbor views and a children's menu. Or try Derby Fish and Lobster (978-745-2064). For a special souvenir, pop into Crow Haven Corner (978-745-8763), where you can find a magic potion to help you concentrate in school, or charcoal sticks that will rid your home of bad vibes.
