Great combination park, sandy beach, and playground with encircling walking path. Provides excellent harbor views, and it's a perfect spot to let your kids get the wiggles out. Pretty, but check for broken glass in the sand before you decide to go for a dip.
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The Satanic Temple
Opened in 2016 in the former Dubiel Funeral Parlor. This art space doubles as the world headquarters for the Satanic Temple. Offering a rotating selection of events, screenings, and artworks by local practitioners. The giant statue of Baphomet is always quite popular. Other permanent exhibits are dedicated to Satanism, witch hunts, and moral panics. Stop by the gift shop for t-shirts and merch you just can't get anywhere else.
On this field in 1637 the East Regiment militia performed various drills and exercises. This day of training became known as "the first muster"—eventually leading to the birth of the US National Guard. 30 years later, in 1667, villagers decided the park should be held as common land where their livestock could graze. As the town grew and the park could no longer fulfill its purpose, it was closed in. The current handsome wrought iron fence dates from 1850. Visit in April, when the Second Corps of Cadets arrive to pay respects to their founder, Stephen Abbott; interred nearby. During the ceremony the cadets lay a wreath, play taps, and fire a 21-gun salute.
The museum includes a narrative on the history of the trials in 1692 and also an exhibit on witchcraft through the ages.
Built in 1675, this home wouldn't be added to the park until 1964. Acting as a counterpoint to some of the more grandiose structures, this is a remarkable example of a 17th century middle-class family home. Exhibits within the house showcase rare early ephemera and artifacts discovered during archeological digs on-site. The taller bits belong to the original structure, which remains (mostly) as it was when absorbed in the 1960s. The small adjacent sidewalk is a "hidden gem" entrance to the larger Salem Maritime National Historic Site.
Turner-Ingersoll Mansion
One of the oldest surviving 17th-century wooden mansions in New England. Made famous by the eponymous 1851 Nathaniel Hawthorne novel. The oldest sections of the home date to 1668, when it was built for Captain John Turner and his family. The home has been altered and modified countless times over the centuries as family fortunes ebbed and flowed. Eventually; in 1908, wealthy philanthropist Caroline Emmerton purchased the home and set about effecting its restoration. Supervised by Boston's city architect; they restored the home to its former glory, making only the occasional sacrifice to historical accuracy. Visitors today will discover low ceilings, extensive Georgian paneling, and hidden staircases among hundreds of period curios. Walking the grounds is always a charming activity. The fresh ocean breezes are sure to invigorate. Also on site is the home where Nathaniel Hawthorne was born. It was moved here in 1958 and is worth a few minutes of your time.
Housed in a historic building dating to the 1650s, the Salem Arts Association features over 180 new and upcoming North Shore artists specializing in all media and disciplines. Pieces on display are constantly rotating and available for purchase. The association is an all volunteer run non-profit. Check their calendar for a variety of events that take place throughout the year.