Salem comes alive after the tour buses leave. While most visitors know it for witch trial history, nights here pack way more excitement – from ghost tours in America’s most haunted streets to brilliant bars hiding in 300-year-old buildings. I’ve found the best things to do in Salem at night that go beyond the usual tourist spots.
From harbor restaurants with killer views to historic pubs where locals share wild stories, this guide shows you the real Salem after dark. Ready to discover why this city’s nightlife is seriously underrated?
- 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend this lantern-lit walking tour through historic Salem! They take you past centuries-old architecture and legendary witch trial sites, plus access to hidden historical spots illuminated by moonlight. Walk the same dark streets as the accused while uncovering the true horrors of 1692. This haunted walk is absolutely a must-do on a Salem itinerary in my opinion.
Best Things to Do in Salem at Night: 20 Salem Nighttime Activities
Are you ready to explore the most unique things to do in Salem in the nighttime? As mentioned earlier, there’s a wide range of exciting activities in Salem after dark. Keep reading to find where to go in Salem at night.
Are you looking to explore the city’s rich history with ghost tours and visits to historic sites? Or would you prefer experiencing waterfront dining options and shopping in eclectic shops? Whatever you’re planning to do once the sun sets, Salem can accommodate your needs. Here are all the best things to do in Salem at night that you should know about.
1. Join a ghost tour through Salem’s witch trial sites
Ghost tours in Salem run every single night, and honestly, they’re way better than I expected. Salem Ghosts meets at 158 Essex Street and does both 1-hour ($25) and 90-minute ($30) walks year-round. I’ve been on a few of these and they actually stick to real history instead of making stuff up, which is refreshing.
You’ll hit the big spots like the Salem Witch Trials Memorial and Old Burying Point Cemetery. Salem Historical Tours runs the Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour – it’s been around since 1997 and they use actual lanterns, which looks cool in photos. The guides know their stuff and share documented ghost sightings rather than tourist-trap nonsense.
Some companies like Ghost City Tours keep things family-friendly, while others actually take you inside supposedly haunted buildings to see cursed objects (if you’re into that). Book ahead in October because everyone and their mom wants to do ghost tours then, but you can usually get spots other times of year. Just dress warm – Salem gets chilly at night, especially near the water.
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1. Sip craft cocktails at Salem’s hidden speakeasies
Hallowed Ground is Salem’s actual underground speakeasy, and it’s way cooler than you’d expect. You literally descend below street level into this cozy, dimly lit space that feels like you’ve stepped back into the 1920s. Their cocktail program is seriously impressive – I’ve had drinks here that took 10 minutes to make and were worth every second of waiting. The bartenders know their stuff and can craft something custom if you tell them what flavors you’re into.
The Hidden Door is another gem that’s been getting tons of buzz lately. Elle and James behind the bar are fantastic, and the whole entry experience makes you feel like you’re in on some secret. Deacon Giles Distillery has their own speakeasy-style tasting room called the “Speakeasy Lab” where you can watch the distilling process through glass walls while sipping their house-made gin, vodka, and rum cocktails.
Most speakeasies don’t take reservations for small groups, so just show up and expect to wait a bit on busy nights. Cocktails run $12-16, but the experience is what you’re paying for. I’d recommend starting early (around 8pm) if you want to hit multiple spots. These places fill up fast, especially on weekends when tourists discover them.
3. Visit the Peabody Essex Museum after hours
The Peabody Essex Museum stays open until 7pm on Fridays, which is perfect if you want to avoid the daytime crowds. It’s $20 to get in (kids under 12 are free), and I was surprised how different it feels when it’s not packed with tour groups. The maritime stuff and Asian art collections are actually pretty cool when you can take your time.
This place is massive – like 130,000 square feet – so don’t try to see everything in one go. I spent most of my time checking out the witch trial documents and this wild exhibit where they rebuilt an entire 200-year-old Chinese house inside the museum. The Yin Yu Tang house thing is genuinely impressive.
They do special evening events sometimes with talks and guided tours, so check their calendar. Also, if you’re military, a teacher, or part of certain groups, you might get in free – just bring ID. Plan at least two hours here. It’s way more interesting than I thought it would be, especially the stuff about Salem’s shipping history.
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4. Take a sunset sail on a historic schooner
The Schooner Fame does sunset sails that are actually pretty awesome if you’re into maritime history. This thing is a replica of an 1812 privateer, and they fire an actual cannon during the trip, which always makes people jump. You can help raise the sails or just sit back with a drink – they’ve got a full bar onboard. The crew really knows their stuff about Salem’s shipping history and will point out all the lighthouses as you sail around Salem Sound.
Sunset Sail Salem operates the Schooner When and If, which was originally built for General George Patton (yeah, that Patton). The boat’s got this incredible history – Patton wanted to sail around the world “when the war is over and if I live through it.” The sunset cruises are more intimate, usually capping at 25 people, and the crew serves cocktails while telling stories about the boat’s famous owner.
Both operations run from Pickering Wharf from late spring through October. Sunset sails cost around $55-65 per person and last about 2 hours. I’d definitely book ahead, especially for weekend sunsets – they sell out regularly. Bring a light jacket because it gets windy on the water, even on warm days.
5. Walk through Salem Willows Park at night
Salem Willows Park is this 35-acre waterfront spot that’s free to walk around anytime. The arcade and food places close by 9pm during season (April-October), but the actual park stays open. I like going here after dinner because it’s way more chill than downtown Salem and you can actually hear the ocean.
The old willow trees are pretty at night, and there’s a decent walking path along the water. The vintage carousel and kiddie rides look cool all lit up even when they’re closed. Parking near the arcade costs $1/hour during busy times, but you can usually find free street parking if you don’t mind walking a bit.
This is where locals actually hang out – I see people fishing off the pier and couples walking around. Sometimes there are random concerts in the summer at the band shell. It’s not going to blow your mind, but it’s a nice break from all the witch stuff downtown. Plus the harbor views are solid, especially if you’re into photography.
6. Hunt for late-night eats and bar-hop through downtown
Bit Bar Salem is hands down the best late-night spot in town. It’s this cool arcade bar in an old jail building with vintage games, craft cocktails, and surprisingly good food. They do karaoke on Wednesday nights and trivia that’s way more entertaining than your typical pub quiz. The donut burgers sound weird but they’re actually incredible after a few drinks.
All Souls Lounge on Derby Street has that perfect dive bar vibe with vintage cocktails and gourmet grilled cheese that hits different at 11pm. The Tin Whistle is where locals go – it’s no-frills but they’ve got the best steak tips in town and stay open late with a crowd that’s way more chill than the tourist spots.
Most bars stay open until 1am on weekends, 12am on weeknights. The best strategy is to start with dinner at one place, then bar-hop your way through Essex Street and Derby Street. Uber and Lyft are readily available, but honestly everything’s walkable in downtown Salem. I always grab a late-night snack at All Souls – their grilled cheese menu is way more creative than you’d expect.
7. Take a nighttime harbor cruise
The Schooner Fame does sunset sails that are actually pretty awesome. It’s a replica of an 1812 ship and they fire a cannon at sunset, which is cheesy but fun. Costs about $35-45 per person and leaves from Pickering Wharf. I went last year and the crew really knows their history.
Mahi Cruises runs themed evening trips from spring through fall, including haunted harbor tours that mix ghost stories with sightseeing. Their 90-minute cruises are around $25-30 and include snacks. For something different, Tiki Hut Boats does 90-minute trips for groups of six with cocktails on this tropical-themed boat (you have to be 21+ though).
Most of these give you commentary about Salem’s shipping history while you cruise past five lighthouses and historic waterfront stuff. Evening timing means you get cool shots of the city lights reflecting on the water. Book ahead during summer and October – these smaller boats fill up fast, especially for sunset times.
8. Experience Salem’s craft brewery and distillery scene
East Regiment Beer Company on Church Street has this awesome four-season heated patio where you can drink with your dog regardless of weather. They’ve got about 8 rotating taps with unique flavors you won’t find anywhere else, and the vibe is super relaxed – no TVs, just good conversation and great beer. You can bring your own food, which is actually pretty cool.
Notch Brewing on Derby Street specializes in session beers (under 5% alcohol), so you can actually have a few without feeling destroyed the next day. Their biergarten overlooking the South River is perfect for groups, and they do German-style food that pairs perfectly with their Czech Pils and black lager.
Far From The Tree Cider has a taproom where you can try their rotating seasonal flavors. I’ve been impressed by their creativity – they’ve got everything from traditional styles to weird experimental flavors. Most breweries are open until 10pm on weeknights, midnight on weekends. Prices are reasonable, usually $6-8 per beer, and the quality is way better than chain spots.
9. Catch a show at Salem’s historic theaters
The Salem Theatre Company and Grand Salem Theater put on shows year-round in these cool old buildings. Tickets run $15-35, which is way cheaper than Boston theater. I’ve been to a few shows and the small venues make everything feel more intimate – you’re not stuck in some massive theater where you need binoculars.
Salem Theatre Company does more community productions with local actors, while Grand Salem Theater gets touring shows and bigger productions. Most shows are Thursday-Sunday with 7:30 or 8pm start times. The buildings themselves are pretty impressive if you’re into historic architecture.
Some places team up with restaurants for dinner-and-show deals, which makes planning easier. Check their websites for what’s playing and book ahead, especially in October when Salem gets crazy busy. It’s a nice change of pace from all the ghost tours if you want something more sophisticated.
10. Join trivia nights and pub games across Salem
Village Tavern does “Not Your Average Trivia” on Monday nights that actually lives up to the name. It’s fast-paced, funny, and they mix in music rounds and visual puzzles that keep things interesting. The questions are challenging without being impossible, and the host keeps things moving so you’re never bored.
Bit Bar Salem has trivia on Wednesdays at 8pm that’s been nominated as one of Boston’s best. It’s interactive and game-show style, so it’s way more entertaining than just answering questions. Essex Pizza does a Nintendo 64 themed trivia tournament where you can actually win a console and Mario Kart 64 – pretty epic for nostalgic millennials.
Far From The Tree does free bingo Monday nights with Greta Gaucho at 7pm, which is surprisingly competitive and fun. Most trivia nights are free to play with prizes like gift cards and bar tabs. I’d recommend showing up 15-20 minutes early to grab a good table, especially for the popular Monday and Wednesday night spots. Teams are usually 4-6 people max.
11. Dine at Salem’s best nighttime restaurants
Sea Level Oyster Bar has killer harbor views from their two floors and outdoor patio when it’s warm. Turner’s Seafood at Lyceum Hall does solid New England classics – their hot lobster roll with butter is legit, and I liked that you can pick from different sides instead of just getting fries. Most good places stay open until 10pm or later.
The Lobster Shanty is more of a dive bar that’s open April through January. They have live music on the patio from 6-9pm some nights, which creates a fun atmosphere. When I went, the chicken tenders and fries were surprisingly good, but skip the crab cakes – way too salty.
Lots of restaurants along Federal Street and Essex Street have outdoor seating that’s perfect for people-watching. Make reservations for weekend dinners, especially during busy seasons. The food scene here is actually way better than I expected for a touristy place like Salem. You get historic settings, water views, and food that doesn’t suck.
12. Dine with harbor views at Salem’s waterfront restaurants
Sea Level Oyster Bar has killer harbor views from their two floors and outdoor patio when it’s warm. Their raw bar is legit – the oysters are incredibly fresh and they’ve got 20 craft beers on tap. I always get their signature chowder and whatever fish special they’re running. The upstairs dining room has floor-to-ceiling windows that make you feel like you’re dining on a boat.
The Roof at The Hotel Salem is the city’s only rooftop bar with Mexican-inspired food and craft cocktails. You get views of the harbor and Essex Street from four floors up, and their tacos are way better than typical bar food. Finz has this awesome 40-seat bar that flows from dining room to lounge, plus they do outdoor patio dining right on the water during good weather.
Most waterfront places get busy during sunset hours, so I’d make reservations for dinner if you want a window table. Prices are reasonable for the location – expect $15-25 for entrees. The Landing is more casual with signature fishbowl cocktails that are perfect for groups. The harbor views alone make these spots worth it, especially if you time it right for sunset.
13. Stroll Salem’s historic cobblestone streets
Salem’s downtown looks completely different at night when the street lamps light up all the old buildings. Essex Street (the pedestrian mall) is especially cool after dark – shops stay open late and sometimes there are street performers. I like these evening walks because you can actually see the architecture without fighting crowds.
The area around the Salem Witch Trials Memorial and House of the Seven Gables is way more peaceful at night. Chestnut Street has some seriously impressive old mansions, and the period lighting makes everything look like a movie set. Great for photos if you’re into that.
Lots of shops along these streets stay open late during peak season – independent bookstores, artisan shops, that kind of thing. It’s one of Salem’s most underrated nighttime activities because most people just do ghost tours and call it a night. Wear comfortable shoes though – some of the old sidewalks are uneven and harder to see in low light.
14. Catch live music and entertainment at local venues
Mercy Tavern combines great food with live music in a cozy gastropub setting. They book local bands regularly and the acoustics are surprisingly good for a smaller venue. O’Neill’s Pub does regular live music and DJ nights with an authentic Irish pub atmosphere – it gets pretty lively, especially on weekends.
Dire Wolf Tavern has live events amid whimsical decor and serves New American small plates with sushi. The crowd skews younger and it’s got this hip, artsy vibe that’s different from typical Salem bars. Olde Main Street Pub is more laid-back but books solid local acts and has an impressive beer selection.
Most venues don’t charge cover for local acts, maybe $10-15 for touring bands. Shows usually start between 8-9pm and go until close. I’d check their social media for lineups since they book different genres throughout the week. The music scene here is pretty diverse – you’ll find everything from acoustic folk to indie rock to electronic acts depending on the night.
15. Browse the nighttime market at Artists’ Row
Artists’ Row on Essex Street turns into this cool evening market during warmer months. Local artists set up stalls with handmade jewelry, original art, and Salem-specific stuff you won’t find in regular tourist shops. It’s not super organized, but galleries stay open late and street musicians play, so there’s always something happening.
It gets busiest during Salem’s festival times when multiple places coordinate late hours and special events. Pyramid Books and other longtime spots anchor the area, while pop-up vendors change things up. I’ve found some unique pieces here that beat the typical tourist trap stuff.
This isn’t happening every single night, but when it’s active, it feels like stumbling into a real community thing rather than a tourist attraction. The mix of established shops, temporary vendors, and random live music makes it unpredictable but often fun. Check social media or ask local shop owners when special events are planned.
16. Take a haunted pub crawl through Salem’s spookiest bars
US Ghost Adventures does booze and brews haunted pub crawls that combine ghost stories with drinks at Salem’s most historic bars. You’ll hit spots like The Merchant and other centuries-old buildings while learning about their supernatural residents. The guides are entertaining and know how to balance history with humor, plus you get themed cocktails at each stop.
Salem Ghosts offers different pub crawl routes that take you to bars housed in buildings from the 1600s and 1700s. You’ll hear stories about the Blue Lady, sinister sheriffs, and other local spirits while sampling craft cocktails. The Witch Trials Memorial is usually included as a sobering stop between bar visits.
Tours run $35-45 per person and include 2-3 drink stops over about 2 hours. Groups are kept small (usually under 15 people) so it feels more intimate and you can actually ask questions. I’d book ahead, especially for October when every ghost tour sells out. These are way more fun than regular pub crawls because the stories give context to the historic buildings you’re drinking in.
17. Enjoy live music at Gulu-Gulu Café
Gulu-Gulu Café at 247 Essex Street is Salem’s main bohemian hangout with live music seven nights a week. They’re open until 10pm Monday-Wednesday and 1am Thursday-Saturday. I love how small it is – you end up chatting with the musicians between sets, which you can’t do at bigger venues.
New owners took over in late 2024 but kept the good stuff – hard-to-find craft beers and creative food like savory crepes and gourmet sandwiches. Their beer selection focuses on unique brews you can’t get elsewhere. Open mic nights happen regularly with sign-ups at 7:30pm.
Food runs $8-17 for most stuff, and the vibe is super relaxed. College students, locals, everyone hangs here. They do themed nights like Drink & Draw sessions and comedy shows, so check their events calendar. If you want to experience Salem’s actual creative scene instead of just tourist stuff, this is the place.
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18. Try Salem’s themed escape rooms
Escape Room Salem in the Museum Place Mall has several rooms based on Salem history and witch stuff. They run about $25-35 per person for an hour-long experience. I tried their Spellcaster room and it was decent – more family-friendly than super challenging if you’ve done escape rooms before.
There are a few different escape room places around Salem, including Exitus Escape Rooms which gets better reviews for puzzle design. Most handle groups of 4-10 people, perfect for friend groups or team building. You can book time slots online throughout the evening.
The Salem theme is a nice touch beyond generic escape rooms – expect puzzles about witch trials, maritime history, or supernatural stuff that ties into the city’s reputation. Call ahead to discuss your group size and experience level since some rooms are better for beginners. Good option if you want something different from the usual ghost tour routine.
19. Go Candlepin Bowling at Derby Lanes
Derby Lanes at American Flatbread Salem brings together two New England classics: candlepin bowling and wood-fired pizza. Located at 311 Derby Street, this spot offers something most bowling alleys don’t. You can order craft cocktails and genuinely good food directly to your lane while you play.
The setup is perfect for a relaxed night out. With just four lanes, it feels way more intimate than your typical massive bowling center. You’re not dealing with screaming birthday parties or cosmic bowling chaos…just solid candlepin action (those smaller balls and pins that stay down when you knock them over, if you’ve never tried it).
The pizza comes from traditional clay ovens using organic ingredients, and their local draft beer selection is solid. It’s open Monday-Wednesday 4pm-10pm and Thursday-Sunday starting at noon, making it great for both dinner dates and casual hangouts with friends.
What makes this work is the combination. You get the nostalgic fun of candlepin bowling without the usual bowling alley food disappointment. Plus, it’s Salem’s only candlepin alley, so you’re experiencing something authentically local while avoiding the witch tour crowds downtown.
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20. Explore the Salem Witch Board Museum
The Salem Witch Board Museum is all about Ouija boards and their history, which is a different angle on Salem’s supernatural stuff beyond just witch trials. It’s downtown and has a collection of spirit boards from different time periods, plus background on American spiritualism movements.
The inside is pretty dark and atmospheric, which fits the theme. When I went, I learned about how Salem’s witch trial history connected to later spiritualist movements that used Ouija boards. They have some rare vintage boards along with explanations about their cultural impact.
This is definitely more niche than Salem’s main attractions – it’s for people who are really into paranormal history and supernatural culture. They have limited hours, so call ahead to make sure they’re open. It’s smaller than the big Salem museums, but gives you a unique perspective on how the city’s supernatural reputation extends way beyond 1692 into American folk culture.
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