Salem Inn in Salem, Massachusetts

The Salem Inn is an historic hideaway filled with Victorian charm that’s conveniently located within walking distance of most Salem sights and activities and half a block from a trolley stop. Filled with antiques, it offers the charm expected of a small inn, along with privacy and romantic touches like whirlpool bathtubs, fireplaces, and canopied beds.

Salem Inn’s 41 guest rooms and suites, located in three historic buildings, are all decorated with antiques and Victorian accents such as floral wallpaper and fabrics and tall windows with lace curtains. Many have fireplaces, oversized whirlpool baths, or canopy beds, and all have simple, modern bathrooms. Rooms contain a television, clock radio, refrigerator, coffee maker, and air-conditioner.

Salem Inn offers a complimentary breakfast buffet that features quiche, croissants, bagels, pastries, and cereal, along with juice and coffee. The meal is served in a brick-walled dining room that has a fireplace and overlooks a courtyard. While no other meals are available on site, many of Salem’s restaurants are within walking distance.

Salem Inn coordinates with historic Hamilton Hall, built in 1805 as a meeting hall for Salem’s wealthy merchants and named for Alexander Hamilton. Today Hamilton Hall hosts weddings with up to 180 guests and the wedding party may stay at the inn. Small weddings can be held at the inn itself, especially in the courtyard. The staff coordinates flowers, music, and all other details.

Salem Inn’s Honeymoon Package includes roses, champagne for two served in Salem Inn flutes, chocolates, a two-day rate, and a $50 gift certificate to Salem’s Bella Verona restaurant. The couple can stay in one of the three charming honeymoon suites, with a queen-sized bed and double whirlpool bath, or the Enchanted Forest Room, decorated by the owners’ daughter, New England artist Jill Pabich. It has stars on the ceiling and other romantic touches.

While the Salem Inn offers no activities on site, the staff will help arrange tours and provide information on sightseeing and other activities. Brochures are displayed in the parlor. The inn is half a block from the trolley, making it a convenient spot for visiting Salem’s many museums, shops, and other attractions.

Salem Inn consists of three historic buildings: Captain West House, built by sea captain Nathaniel West in 1834, the yellow Italianate Revival Curwen House (1854), and the colonial style Peabody House (1874). Outside the buildings are stately, well-maintained townhouses. Inside, they express the charm of an earlier era, with subdued colors, Victorian flourishes like lace curtains, and antique furniture. The West House parlor has a large cage with finches and a fish tank.

While the Salem Inn offers a quiet place to retreat, there are no activities or dining facilities on site.

Salem Inn has all the charm of a quaint country inn, yet is conveniently located near Salem’s sights and other amenities of downtown, including restaurants, a movie theater, and shops. While all three buildings retain the ambiance of family residences, the helpful staff is unobtrusive.