Best Hotels in Salem, Mass: Where to Stay for a Spooky Getaway

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Salem, Massachusetts in October had been on my fall travel bucket list for a long time. And I finally made it happen!! Salem is one of those destinations that feels especially magical in the fall. Between the historic streets, witch-themed shops, haunted history tours, and all the Halloween decorations, it’s the perfect place for a fall getaway. And of course, choosing one of the central hotels in Salem, Mass makes it easier to access many of the best things to do there.

During my visit, I went on a haunted history walking tour, checked out some of the Hocus Pocus filming locations, and even had aura photos taken. There is so much to see and do here that I could easily have spent another day exploring!

So, if you’re planning a trip to Salem, one of the first things you need to figure out is where to stay. The good news is that there are several great options, whether you want a historic hotel with plenty of character, a stylish boutique property in the middle of downtown, or a comfortable hotel with family-friendly amenities.

In this guide, I’m sharing some of the best hotels Salem Mass has to offer, along with a few charming inns and bed-and-breakfasts worth considering. I’ll cover what makes each property unique, who it’s best for, and what to consider before booking so you can find the perfect home base for your Salem adventure.

Quick Guide to the Best Hotels in Salem, MA

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick look at my top hotel picks for different types of travelers.

• Best historic hotel: Hawthorne Hotel
• Best boutique hotel in the heart of downtown: The Hotel Salem
• Best waterfront hotel: Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites
• Best for a modern, quirky stay: The Cove at Salem
• Best for a romantic getaway: The Merchant
• Best for families who want extra amenities: Hampton Inn Salem
• Best historic inn experience: The Salem Inn
• Best for a unique, historic overnight stay: Daniels House Inn

One of the biggest things I learned while planning and exploring Salem is that location matters. If you want to spend most of your time visiting museums, browsing shops, taking tours, and enjoying the restaurants downtown, staying within walking distance of the main attractions can make your trip much easier. Not just because of traffic, but because of dealing with parking as well.

1. Hawthorne Hotel: Best Historic Hotel in Salem

Best for: History lovers, first-time visitors, and anyone who wants a classic Salem experience.

If you want your accommodations to feel like part of your Salem experience, the Hawthorne Hotel is an excellent place to start.

Located at Washington Square overlooking Salem Common, this historic hotel has been a Salem landmark since 1925. Its traditional New England character makes it a natural fit for a destination so closely associated with American history.

The hotel has 89 guest rooms, an old-fashioned atmosphere, and on-site dining options. It’s also conveniently located near the Salem Witch Museum, the Peabody Essex Museum, and the shops and restaurants around downtown. You can explore the city without constantly worrying about driving or finding another parking spot.

And, of course, no conversation about Salem would be complete without mentioning the ghost stories! The Hawthorne Hotel is one of the Salem Mass hotels that is frequently associated with local paranormal lore, which makes it especially appealing if you enjoy the haunted side of Salem.

During my October visit, I realized just how much the city’s atmosphere adds to the experience. Walking through the historic streets, hearing stories about the past and visiting the places connected to Salem’s history made the entire trip feel immersive. Staying somewhere with its own history would be a fun way to extend that experience.

Why stay here?

• Historic architecture and classic New England charm
• A central location for sightseeing
• On-site restaurants
• Easy access to Salem Common and major attractions
• A great choice for travelers who enjoy ghost stories and historic hotels

Things to consider: The traditional style may not appeal to travelers who prefer sleek, contemporary accommodations. October is also an especially popular time to visit, so book early if you have your heart set on staying here.

2. The Hotel Salem: Best Boutique Hotel in Downtown Salem

Best for: Couples, friends on a weekend getaway, and travelers who want to be in the middle of everything.

If you prefer a more modern hotel with a little personality, The Hotel Salem is worth a look.

Located on Essex Street, this boutique Salem, Mass hotel puts you right in the heart of downtown. That is a huge advantage when you’re visiting Salem for a short trip and want to make the most of your time. A centrally located hotel makes it much easier to head out for the day and return to your room when you need a break.

The Hotel Salem has a stylish mid-century-inspired design, with room options ranging from compact rooms to more spacious suites. It also has a rooftop venue, making it a particularly appealing option if you want somewhere to enjoy a drink or a meal without leaving the hotel. That was the first bar we ventured to, and it was a great spot to enjoy a drink while people watching at the mayhem below.

I would especially consider this property for a girls’ trip like mine. After spending the day exploring, taking tours, and getting into the Halloween spirit, it would be nice to have a comfortable, stylish place to return to without needing to travel far for dinner or drinks.

Why stay here?

• An excellent downtown location
• Modern, boutique-style accommodations
• Room options for different budgets and space requirements
• A rooftop venue for drinks and dining
• Easy access to shops, restaurants, museums, and tours

Things to consider: Some room categories are quite compact, so check the room size carefully before booking. If you’re traveling with several people or lots of luggage, a larger room or suite may be worth the extra cost.

3. Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites: Best Waterfront Hotel

Best for: Families, couples, and travelers who want a little more space and a quieter setting.

For a hotel that combines a convenient location with waterfront scenery, consider the Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites.

This property is located on Pickering Wharf, a historic waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and lovely harbor views. It offers a slightly different atmosphere from the busier streets in the center of downtown while still keeping many of Salem’s main attractions within walking distance.

The hotel has an indoor heated pool, on-site dining, and a range of room options, including suites. Those amenities make it a particularly appealing choice for families or anyone who likes having somewhere to relax between sightseeing adventures.

When I travel, I appreciate having a comfortable place to recharge after a busy day. Salem is especially fun in October, but between walking tours, exploring shops, and visiting attractions, you can easily spend hours on your feet. Having an indoor pool or a place to unwind back at the hotel can be a nice bonus.

The waterfront setting is another plus. If you enjoy being near the water, you can add a different side of Salem to your trip instead of focusing exclusively on its witch-trial history. And you’ll have easy access to some of the best lobster rolls. Yum!!

Why stay here?

• Waterfront location on Pickering Wharf
• Indoor heated pool
• On-site restaurant
• Suite options that may work well for families
• Walking access to many downtown attractions
• A pleasant setting for relaxing after a busy day

Things to consider: Although the hotel is walkable to many attractions, you’ll still want to check the distance to the specific places on your itinerary. Room prices can also rise significantly during October.

4. The Cove at Salem: Best Modern Hotel With a Quirky Twist

Best for: Travelers who like contemporary accommodations with a playful Salem theme.

Salem is known for its unusual attractions and spooky personality, so why not carry that theme into your hotel?

The Cove at Salem is a modern boutique hotel that incorporates Salem-inspired touches into its accommodations. It’s a fun option for travelers who want something a little different from a traditional hotel.

The property is located on Bridge Street, a short distance from the heart of downtown. Depending on your itinerary, you may find it convenient to walk to some attractions, while other destinations may require a longer walk or a short drive.

Why stay here?

• Modern boutique accommodations
• Salem-inspired design details
• A distinctive alternative to traditional hotels
• A good option for a themed fall getaway

Things to consider: Compare the location with your planned activities before booking, especially if being within a short walk of Essex Street is a priority. Check the individual room descriptions and available amenities to make sure the property fits your needs.

5. The Merchant: Best Boutique Hotel for a Romantic Getaway

Best for: Couples, anniversary trips, and travelers looking for a more upscale, intimate stay.

If you’re planning a romantic weekend in Salem, The Merchant is one of the properties I’d put on your shortlist.

This boutique Salem, Mass hotel occupies a historic building on Washington Street and combines historic architecture with more luxurious modern touches. The atmosphere is intimate and distinctive, making it appealing to travelers who prefer a smaller property over a larger, full-service hotel.

The Merchant is also conveniently located for exploring downtown. You can spend the day visiting museums, shopping, enjoying Salem’s restaurants, or taking a walking tour before returning to a quieter place to relax.

Although my Salem trip was a girls’ getaway rather than a romantic escape, I can see how the city would work well for a couple’s weekend. Between the historic architecture, atmospheric streets, candlelit restaurants, and haunted tours, there are plenty of ways to make the trip feel special.

You could spend the day learning about Salem’s past and exploring its unique attractions, then enjoy a nice dinner and drinks in the evening.

Why stay here?

• Historic character paired with modern comforts
• A smaller, boutique-hotel atmosphere
• A convenient downtown location
• An appealing option for couples and special occasions

Things to consider: The Merchant is more focused on boutique charm than extensive family amenities. If you’re traveling with children or need a larger room, confirm the available room configurations before booking.

6. Hampton Inn Salem: Best for Families and Practical Comfort

Best for: Families, travelers who appreciate familiar hotel amenities, and anyone who wants to simplify the logistics of a Salem visit.

Not every trip calls for a historic boutique hotel. Sometimes, a comfortable room, included breakfast, and a convenient location are exactly what you need.

Hampton Inn Salem is a practical option for travelers who prefer a familiar hotel experience. Located on Dodge Street in downtown Salem, it offers complimentary hot breakfast, an indoor pool, a fitness center, and access to an attached heated parking garage.

For families, those extras can make a difference. Breakfast is one less expense to worry about each morning, and an indoor pool gives kids something to enjoy after a day of sightseeing.

I think this type of hotel is particularly worth considering if you’re traveling with older children or teenagers. A hotel with practical amenities can be a great base for spending most of your time out exploring.

Why stay here?

• Complimentary hot breakfast
• Indoor pool
• Fitness center
• Attached heated parking garage
• Convenient access to downtown Salem

Things to consider: If you’re visiting primarily for the atmosphere, a historic property such as the Hawthorne Hotel may feel more distinctive. Compare the total price, including parking and room configuration, rather than choosing based on the nightly rate alone.

7. The Salem Inn: Best for Historic New England Charm

Best for: Travelers who prefer a cozy inn, historic surroundings, and a more intimate atmosphere.

If you’d rather stay in a charming historic property than a conventional hotel, The Salem Inn is another excellent option.

The inn consists of historic homes with individually styled guest rooms, offering a different experience from a larger hotel. It has the sort of traditional New England character that fits naturally with Salem’s historic streets and architecture.

The location is also convenient for exploring downtown. You can head out to visit the city’s museums, shops, restaurants, and historic sites without spending your entire trip in the car.

The Salem Inn is one of the best hotels in Salem Mass if you want that historic atmosphere without necessarily booking a larger full-service hotel.

Why stay here?

• Historic New England architecture
• Individually styled accommodations
• A central location for sightseeing
• A cozy alternative to a traditional hotel

Things to consider: Because the property is made up of historic buildings, room layouts and amenities can vary. Review the specific room you’re booking, particularly if you need multiple beds, accessible accommodations, or extra space.

8. Daniels House Inn: Best for a Unique Historic Stay

Best for: History enthusiasts, couples, and travelers who want an especially memorable overnight experience.

If Salem’s history is the main reason you’re visiting, Daniels House Inn is another property worth considering.

Dating to 1667, Daniels House is one of Salem’s oldest historic inns. Its period features, exposed beams, and historic character offer a very different experience from staying in a modern hotel.

This is the kind of place that appeals to travelers who want the accommodations to be part of the trip itself. Instead of simply having somewhere to sleep, you’re staying in a building that connects you to the area’s past.

My haunted history walking tour was one of the experiences I enjoyed most during my Salem visit. Hearing the stories behind the city’s buildings and historic locations gave me a better appreciation for how much history is woven into everyday life there. For travelers who enjoy that same connection to the past, an overnight stay in a historic inn could be a memorable addition.

Why stay here?

• A historic building dating to the 17th century
• Distinctive period architecture and character
• An intimate alternative to larger hotels
• A particularly appealing option for history lovers

Things to consider: This is a historic inn rather than a full-service chain hotel, so amenities and room configurations may differ. Be sure to check the details of your chosen room before booking.

Where Should You Stay in Salem, Massachusetts?

With several good options available, the best Salem, Mass hotel really depends on what you want from your trip. And what’s available, because as I mentioned before, these hotels will book up far in advance in the fall. Especially the smaller ones.

Here’s how I’d narrow it down.

If you want…	Consider…
A classic historic Salem experience	Hawthorne Hotel
To walk to downtown attractions and restaurants	The Hotel Salem
Waterfront scenery and an indoor pool	Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites
A modern hotel with Salem-inspired character	The Cove at Salem
A romantic boutique stay	The Merchant
Breakfast, a pool, and practical family amenities	Hampton Inn Salem
A cozy historic inn	The Salem Inn
An especially historic overnight experience	Daniels House Inn

My biggest recommendation is to prioritize location if this is your first visit. Salem is a wonderful city to explore on foot, and staying close to the attractions you want to visit can save you time and make the trip feel much more relaxed.

Having a convenient place to stay would make it easier to fit authentic Salem experiences into a weekend without constantly worrying about transportation and parking.

Is It Worth Staying Overnight in Salem?

Absolutely! You can visit Salem on a day trip, but I’d recommend staying at least one night if your schedule allows.

My October visit was a girls’ getaway, and I loved having time to experience Salem’s unique mix of history, spooky attractions, and quirky experiences. I was so glad that we had a couple of days to explore so that we never felt too rushed. We even spent a ridiculous amount of time waiting in line for BlackCraft Coffee. Worth it! And our nights were spent in comfies watching Hocus Pocus and episodes of Bewitched.

With an overnight stay, you can explore during the day, enjoy dinner downtown, and leave time for an evening ghost tour or a relaxed stroll through the historic streets.

If you have two nights, even better. You’ll have more time for attractions such as the Peabody Essex Museum, the House of the Seven Gables, and the Salem Witch Museum without feeling like you have to squeeze everything into a single day. Be sure to plan accordingly though, because these are some of the Salem experiences that book up the quickest.

And while October is Salem’s most famous season, you don’t have to visit during Halloween to enjoy the city. Its history, architecture, museums, and waterfront make it an interesting destination throughout the year.

Tips for Booking Hotels in Salem, Mass

Before you book, there are a few things worth keeping in mind.

Book early if you’re visiting in October

This is the biggest piece of advice I’d give anyone planning a fall trip to Salem. October is extremely popular, particularly around Halloween and the busiest Haunted Happenings weekends. Hotel rooms in Salem, Mass can sell out many months in advance. And prices can be much higher than they are during quieter times of year.

If you know which weekend you want to visit, start checking accommodations as early as possible.

Compare the total cost, not just the nightly rate

A hotel that looks cheaper at first may not be the best value once you factor in parking, breakfast, and other expenses.

If you’re driving, check whether parking is included and whether you need to reserve a space. If you’re traveling with family, compare the cost of a suite against booking two separate rooms.

Decide whether you need a car

If most of your plans involve downtown Salem, you may not need a car for every part of your visit. Staying centrally can make it easier to explore the main attractions on foot.

If you want to visit locations outside downtown or explore more of the North Shore, however, having a car may be useful.

Consider visiting outside peak October weekends

If your schedule is flexible, visiting in late September or early November can be worth considering. You may still find seasonal atmosphere around the fall period, although the exact decorations, events, and crowds will vary by date.

You can also visit at other times of the year to explore Salem’s history without the intense demand associated with Halloween.

Look beyond traditional hotels if everything is booked

Salem also has historic inns, bed-and-breakfasts, and other boutique accommodations. If your preferred hotels are full, it’s worth checking those options as well as nearby communities such as Beverly, Peabody, and Danvers.

Just be sure to compare transportation times and costs before booking somewhere outside the city.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hotels in Salem, MA

What is the best area to stay in Salem?

Downtown Salem is generally the most convenient choice for first-time visitors. You’ll be close to many of the city’s museums, shops, restaurants, and historic attractions, making it easier to explore without driving between stops.

The waterfront is another good option if you prefer a slightly different setting while remaining close to downtown.

What is the best hotel in Salem for Halloween?

The Hawthorne Hotel is a great choice if you want historic character and a classic Salem atmosphere. The Hotel Salem is another strong option if you prefer a modern boutique hotel in the middle of downtown.

The best choice ultimately depends on your budget, preferred style, and availability for your dates.

Are there family-friendly hotels in Salem?

Yes! Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites and Hampton Inn Salem are worth considering for families because of their amenities, including indoor pools. The Hawthorne Hotel is another option for families who want a more historic setting.

Before booking, check the available bed configurations and make sure the room comfortably accommodates everyone in your group.

How far in advance should I book a Salem, Mass hotel for October?

As early as possible. October is the busiest season, and the most popular properties can book up many months ahead of time, especially for weekends close to Halloween.

If you have specific dates or a particular hotel in mind, I wouldn’t wait until the last minute to reserve a room.

Can you visit Salem without a car?

Yes. If you choose one of the hotels in downtown Salem, Mass., many of the main attractions are within walking distance. You can explore museums, shops, restaurants, and historic sites without needing to drive between every stop.

Your exact plans will determine whether you need a car for part of your trip.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Best Hotels in Salem, Mass

Salem is such a fun destination for a fall getaway, especially if you enjoy history, unusual experiences, and a little spooky atmosphere. My October trip was a memorable one, from the haunted history walking tour to visiting the Hocus Pocus filming locations and getting aura photos.

When choosing where to stay, I’d focus on what matters most to you. The Hawthorne Hotel is a great fit for historic charm, The Hotel Salem puts you right in the middle of downtown, and Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites is worth considering if you want waterfront surroundings and family-friendly amenities. Smaller properties such as The Merchant, The Salem Inn, and Daniels House Inn offer even more ways to experience Salem’s distinctive character.

Whatever you choose, try to book early if you’re planning a fall visit. The best hotels in Salem, Mass always book up in advance. With the right hotel as your home base, you’ll have more time to enjoy everything that makes Salem such a memorable place to visit.

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