Front Row Travel Guide: A Stylish Weekend in Salem
Presented by Bespoke Opulence
When people think of a trip to Salem, “scary” and “spooky” often come to mind. That reputation is understandable given its history, particularly the witch trials of 1692 and 1693. But if you’re like me and prefer a getaway that doesn’t revolve entirely around witches, Salem offers plenty of other reasons to visit.
From a hotel with retro flair to inviting restaurants, boutique shopping, and a leisurely cruise through Salem Harbor, the city offers all the makings of a stylish weekend. Consider this your Front Row guide to enjoying Salem with a little seasonal atmosphere and a few well-chosen stops.
Where to Stay
A former department store reimagined with a stylish midcentury vibe, The Hotel Salem sits in the heart of the city on pedestrian-only Essex Street. Guests can step outside and walk to nearby restaurants, shops, historic sites, and other attractions.
The hotel’s 44 rooms range from compact Micro Kings to loft-style suites. For a little more room to settle in, I’m recommending the Lark Suite, which features a sitting area, writing desk, large closet, and private bathroom with a walk-in shower and separate water closet. A plush king bed occupies the loft, creating separation between the living and sleeping spaces.
Photo: Lark Hotels
Other amenities include Counter, a modern take on the lunch counters of the early 20th century, located on the first floor. It features an open-concept kitchen and a menu highlighting local Salem favorites. There’s also The Roof, Salem’s only open-air rooftop bar and restaurant, where guests can take in views of the city and harbor over a meal or cocktails.
Where to Dine
Salem’s dining scene offers plenty to explore, but two restaurants worth putting on your itinerary are Settler and Bernadette, sister restaurants owned by husband-and-wife duo Chef Aaron Chambers and Shanna Chambers.
Photo: Michael Piazza Photography
Located in the heart of Salem, Settler pairs flavors inspired by Southern France, Italy, Spain, Egypt, and Morocco with ingredients sourced from small local family farms, fishermen, and artisans. The restaurant’s name captures the spirit of arriving somewhere new, settling in, and celebrating what makes a place special. It’s a fitting reflection of Chef Aaron’s own journey, which has included kitchens around the globe, from Al Mahara in Dubai to Café Boulud in New York City. While the menu changes seasonally, handmade pastas remain a local favorite, alongside the wine program and signature bread service featuring sourdough baked fresh daily.
Photo: Michael Piazza Photography
Just down the street, Bernadette brings French bistro dining to the North Shore, with cuisine rooted in Chef Aaron’s upbringing and classical training. Chef Aaron and Shanna envision it as a dinner party with friends, inspired by the way their mothers made everyone feel at home around the table. That welcoming spirit carries through to the open kitchen, attentive hospitality, and refined yet relaxed dining room. Current menu highlights include bistro classics such as moules frites, poulet rôti, and le burger.
Where to Shop and Explore
Salem has plenty of shops to help you look like the baddest witch in the room, but if your packing list calls for something a little more polished, I’d recommend J. Mode on historic Front Street. In business for nearly twenty years, the boutique offers clothing and accessories that balance contemporary trends with timeless style. Its selection ranges from denim to cocktail attire, with brands including Z Supply, Caballero, Mother Denim, Love The Label, and Velvet by Graham & Spencer.
Photo: J. Mode
For a different kind of browsing, stop by Diehl Marcus & Company, a shop of curiosities offering distinctive teas, finely scented candles, moisturizing soaps, curated antiques, and rare books.
After shopping, trade the city streets for the water with Slow Wake Society. Its private, captain-led cruises accommodate up to six guests for a leisurely 90-minute outing, offering views of Salem’s historic coastline.
You don’t have to go looking for scares to enjoy a weekend in Salem. As it turns out, the city has a few ways to charm you that don’t involve a spell.
