With Halloween right around the corner and decorations in stores and on homes, I was reminded of a trip I took with my kids years ago to Salem, Massachusetts. Salem is on the north coast above Boston and famous for it's 1692 witch trials, during which several locals were executed for practicing witchcraft. There are several landmarks there to visit to make Halloween extra spooky!
The Witch House, was the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin who investigated claims of diabolical activity when a surge of witchcraft accusations arose. This house is the only structure still standing with direct ties to the
Salem Witch Trials of 1692 (photo from Wikipedia).
1n 1692 14 men and 6 women were accused of being witches, were tried, convicted and executed.
The Witch Trails Memorial consists of 20 granite benches inscribed with the names of the accused and the means and date of execution.
It is located in an area surrounding the old burying point (photo from www.salemweb.com). If you want to get that creepy, Halloween feeling then you should visit the Salem Witch Museum. I can't tell you how cool the exhibits were on the inside because my younger son was only about 5 years old and was too freaked out to go anywhere past the gift shop!
There are many historic sites, landmarks and museums to see in Salem and most are within walking distance. If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle, then stroll down to the Derby Wharf Light Station which has aided navigation in Salem since it was first lit in 1871 (photo from www.nps.gov).
After all of the walking around you are definitely going to need some food to refuel for more sightseeing! At the time of my visit 15 years ago, I wasn't vegan and don't remember where I stopped to eat, but I always search for healthy/vegan options now when I travel. You can stop by Adea's Mediterranean Kitchen on Lafayette Street for a good fast food/take-out lunch. They are vegan-friendly, with Israeli, Kosher, and American choices. Looking for a slice of pizza? Try the Flying Saucer Pizza Company on Washington Street in Salem. It has a unique Alien/Sci-fi decor with vegetarian and vegan options as well.
Salem Willows Arcade and Park is an oceanfront destination with plenty of games, kiddie rides, tennis/basketball courts, and beaches with a view of the Salem Harbor and North Shore Coast. It was established in 1858 and named for it's abundance of majestic White Willow Trees planted in 1801 to form a shaded walk for the patients at a nearby smallpox hospital. Salem Willows has a history of Jazz since Duke Ellington played there as well as Count Basie and Louis Armstrong at the old Charleshurst Ballroom, now known as the Willows Casino Arcade. Although there is plenty of food available to purchase, you might want to pack your own food if you're following a plant-based diet or have any food restrictions and take advantage of the picnic area.
It seems strange that I was unable to locate any of my own photos from this trip, but even if I found them, I'm sure the quality wouldn't be very good. I'll be sure to photograph and share some other cool places during my next trip to Salem. Feel free to comment if you have a favorite place there to explore!
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