Things To Do

The maritime history of Salem, Massachusetts stretches back nearly four hundred years. Today, you can explore that history at Salem Maritime National Historic Site through guided tours, exhibits, wayside signs, junior ranger programs, special events, and films.

 

Young visitors become Junior Rangers

At the Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street
June 1 - October 31: Open Daily, 10:00am - 5:00pm
November 1 - May 31: Open Wednesday - Sunday, 10:00am - 4:00pm
Open on Monday Holidays: November 12, January 21, February 18, April 15, 10am-4pm

• Watch a film
  • Where Past is Present, 27 minutes, Daily screenings at 10:15am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm; FREE
  • Salem Witch Hunt, 38 minutes, Daily screenings at 11:00am, 1:00pm, 3:00pm; ADULT: $5.00, SENIORS/KIDS: $3.00

 

Pass by Pedricks store house as you walk along Derby Wharf

On the Waterfront, 193 Derby Street

• Explore the grounds of the Custom House, Derby House, and Narbonne House. For open hours and tour times, check our Operating Hours.
• Take the self-guided History Walking Tour and the Hisotry of Slavery at Salem Maritime tour. Access both tours online. Or download the National Park Service Tours by Oncell app on your smartphone and search for Salem Maritime.
• Visit the Public Stores and Scale House. Starting June 1, 7 days, 10am-4pm.
• Visit Friendship of Salem & the Pedrick Store House. For open hours, check our Operating Hours.
• Visit Waite and Peirce, our park store, open daily 10am to 5pm. Pick up the Junior Ranger Program here, too.
• Explore Salem's Historic Wharves.
• Walk the 1/2 mile length of Derby Wharf to visit the Derby Wharf Light Station.
• Download our self-guided audio tour to learn more about the site.
• Bring a lunch and dine at our picnic tables. Remember to carry out your trash!

 

Education Rangers help preschoolers learn about the site

Special Events & Exhibits

In addition to our regularly scheduled programs, Salem Maritime hosts and participates in a variety of events in the community of Salem and beyond.

Remember to check for any upcoming special events on our Calendar.

 

The industrial buildings at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site

Beyond Salem Maritime National Historic Site

• Learn about America's first iron works at our sister site, Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site, a 30-45-minute drive from Salem.
• Learn about other local events and attractions from Destination Salem, the non-profit cooperation that manages tourism in Salem.
• Visit more National Park sites in Massachusetts or our nearest National Heritage Area, Essex National Heritage Area.