Travel to Salem
Why travel by car, when someone else can take the wheel. Sit back relax and in 35 minutes you willl be in Salem. If you take the ferry it is just under one hour.
By the second week in October, Salem’s parking lots are filled. Ubers are overpriced and traffic to Salem has become so bad- the city of Salem runs shuttle buses from the mall in the neighboring town of Peabody.
By Train:
North Station is a major transportation hub in Boston, Massachusetts, located at 135 Causeway Street in the West End/North End.
North Stationhas 3 diferent train rails systems
The MBTA Subway System - for travel around the city -MBTA Line
The MBTA Commuter Rail - for travel out of the city to the suburbs- Purple Line
We perfer “ taking the train” which is the MBTA Commuter Rail from North Station to Salem. It is the most efficient, reliable way to get from the heart of Boston to historic Salem.
The Amtrack Downeaster- For travel around New England and beyond.
Our guides meet you at North Station / TD Garden.
Expect a one-way ride of about 30–35 minutes.
Practical points:
Schedule: Trains run frequently during weekday peak hours and less often midday and on weekends. Check the MBTA schedule for exact departure times, especially on Sundays and holidays.
Boarding: Arrive a few minutes early. Trains board from assigned tracks; station signage and staff can direct you. Most trains have bike racks and accessible seating.
On arrival:
Salem station is a short walk from the historic downtown, museums, and waterfront. There are clear pedestrian routes and local shuttle/bus options for longer hauls or if weather is poor.
Seasonal crowds: Salem is busiest around Halloween. Trains and the station can be crowded then; consider earlier or later departures to avoid peak congestion.
The Commuter Rail offers a straightforward, comfortable connection from Boston to Salem—fast enough for a day trip and convenient for longer stays.
Ferry
Ferry Service operated by City Experiences is located at Long Wharf, Boston - 7 Days a week throughout the season May- Oct. Check the schedule on their site.
What to wear? People start dressing for Halloween Ovtober 1st. Im not surprised to see someone in costume waiting for the train to Salem.
I suggest sneakers for sure- just becuase of the cobblestone and brick walkways. The uneven curbs and the occasional pot holes in the street, There is plenty of shopping in Salem to buy a hat or gloves- but you will not find footwear- so come prepared to walk..walk.. and walk..
October can be cold and a heavy sweater or a lightweight jacket is plenty. No need for snow gloves, maybe boots if it rains and a hat keeps everyone warm.
