Trip Planner: USA / Massachusetts / Salem / Salem Maritime National Historic Site

Salem Maritime National Historic Site, Salem

4.3

Historic Site · Hidden Gem · Tourist Spot

Create an itinerary including Salem Maritime National Historic Site

The Salem Maritime National Historic Site is a National Historic Site consisting of 12 historic structures, one replica tall-ship, and about 9 acres (36,000 m2) of land along the waterfront of Salem Harbor in Salem, Massachusetts. Salem Maritime is the first National Historic Site established in the United States (March 17, 1938). It interprets the Triangle Trade during the colonial period, in cotton, rum, sugar and slaves; the actions of privateers during the American Revolution; and global maritime trade with the Far East, after independence. The National Park Service manages both the National Historic Site and a Regional Visitor Center in downtown Salem. The National Park Service (NPS) is an agency of the United States Department of the Interior.

In 2014, the National Park Service, which runs the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, released figures and statistics for 2012: there were 756,038 visitors to Salem who spent an estimated $40,000,000. The National Park Service celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2016.

Put Salem Maritime National Historic Site on your schedule, and learn what else deserves a visit by using our Salem day trip planning app.
Source

Improve this listing »

Create a full itinerary - for free!

Tours to Salem Maritime National Historic Site

FROM $45 BOOK WITH VIATOR Black Cat Land & Sea Tour Black Cat Land & Sea Tour

5.0

Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes

Tours from $45 ›

Salem Maritime National Historic Site reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating

358 reviews

Google

4.6

By ajohns924

When we ran out of things to do thanks to the influx of tourists this was a nice quiet spot. The view was cool and definitely worth a visit.

When we ran out of things to do thanks to the influx of tourists this was a nice quiet spot. The view was cool and definitely worth a visit. more »
By Cynthia E

This is an expanse of land with many attractions. Perhaps due to the pandemic, none were opened when I visited during the week, but perhaps some are open on weekends. I really wanted to view the...

This is an expanse of land with many attractions. Perhaps due to the pandemic, none were opened when I visited during the week, but perhaps some are open on weekends. I really wanted to view the... more »
By K1291KKpaulinew

The ship lies in a lovely harbour situation, close to restaurants and gift shops. Would have loved to have boarded the ship but it was closed to visitors

The ship lies in a lovely harbour situation, close to restaurants and gift shops. Would have loved to have boarded the ship but it was closed to visitors more »

See more on TripAdvisor ›

Google

By Dustin Phillips

Everyone knows why people go to Salem. It's no mystery, and Salem delivers on the witchy theme and the beauty of the colonial style city. I could walk the cobblestone around the cemeteries and shops all day. However, the surprise of the journey was the Maritime National Historical Park. If you meander around the city area and the Commons' outskirts you'll naturally gravitate towards the water, and what a pleasant sight it is. Only a 10-15 walk from the Commons, you will be greeted by the boats, the water, the history, gorgeous views, and an overwhelming sense of Coastal Massachusetts. Even if witchery is the only reason you set your feet in Salem, take the time to walk to the Maritime Park, you won't regret it.

more less
By Nicholas Ferraz

Cool piece of history! Worth walking through and enjoying the views. I would have preferred the Ship to have its Masts installed, but I can understand the weather constraints. Great spot for pictures!

more less
By Jill Roaden

This is America’s first National Historic site. It consists of 12 structures along the waterfront including a ship and a lighthouse. There are restrooms onsite.

more less
By Ryan Smith

Learn about Salem's sailing history at this hidden National Historic landmark. Great photos opportunities for love and sailing, wooden ships and history.

more less
By Nicole White

The kids had a great time exploring on the ship! Check the hours before you go to be sure you can get on board. At the time of visiting (October 2021) it was only open Saturday and Sunday from 11-3. Also if you're looking for Jr. Ranger books & badges for your kids, you'll have to head to the NP visitors center in Salem to get them.

more less