Need a relaxing escape or action-packed weekend in Southern New Hampshire? Head to Salem! From mysterious megalithic sites to tax-free shopping and outdoor family fun, Salem blends New England charm with exciting attractions. Whether you're exploring ancient legends or riding coasters, Salem offers something for every traveler.
Salem, NH Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Ride the coasters at Canobie Lake Park – Enjoy thrill rides, water slides, and nostalgic attractions at this classic amusement park.
- For History Buffs: Uncover secrets at America’s Stonehenge – Explore a mysterious archaeological site featuring stone structures and astronomical alignments.
- For Shoppers: Splurge at The Mall at Rockingham Park – Enjoy tax-free shopping with top brands and plenty of dining options.
- For Couples: Sip and relax at local wineries – Sample New Hampshire wines at cozy spots like Zorvino Vineyards or Sweet Baby Vineyard nearby.
- For Families: Picnic and paddle at Hedgehog Pond – Enjoy nature trails, playgrounds, and peaceful water activities in a local hidden gem.
Best Time to Visit Salem, NH
The best time to visit Salem is from late spring to early fall (May through October). These months offer warm weather, ideal for visiting Canobie Lake Park, hiking, or enjoying outdoor events. Fall foliage season is especially scenic.
How to Get to Salem, NH
- If you are traveling by car: Salem is located off I-93, just 35 minutes from Boston and easily accessible from I-495 and Route 28.
- By Plane: The nearest airports are Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (25 minutes) and Boston Logan International Airport (45 minutes).
- By Bus: Coach services connect Salem to nearby New England cities and Boston’s North Station.
Where to Stay in Salem, NH
- Recommended for Families: Holiday Inn Salem – Convenient location with an indoor pool and family-friendly amenities.
- For Couples: The Artisan Hotel at Tuscan Village – A sleek, upscale stay near dining, shopping, and entertainment at Tuscan Village.
- For a Boutique Hotel Stay: The Silver Fountain Inn (nearby in Dover) – Historic charm, elegant décor, and hearty breakfasts in a Victorian mansion.
Best Things to Do in Salem, NH
⮕ Go on roller coaster ride at Canobie Lake Park
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Canobie Lake Park promises hours of fun for the whole family. The amusement park started off as a small trolley park and botanical garden in 1902, built to provide entertainment for passengers using the trolley transport. Over the last century the park has grown into a full-scale family amusement center offering a wide variety of rides for all ages. Highlights of your visit will include the Yankee Cannonball (installed in 1936), the Canobie Corkscrew and Untamed, all of which are daring and exciting roller coaster rides for adrenalin junkies. For younger visitors there are a host of suitable rides including a carousel, a tea-cup ride and the Caterpillar. There are also a few fun water rides.
Address: Canobie Lake Park, 85 N Policy Street, Salem, NH 03079, Phone: 603-893-3506
⮕ Shop at The Mall at Rockingham Park
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Conveniently located adjacent to Interstate 93, just 30 miles north of Boston, The Mall at Rockingham Park is the largest retail mall in New Hampshire. The mall has stores for all tastes and ages, including Macy’s, JC Penny, Dick’s Sporting Goods and many more. You can find the latest fashion at Abercrombie and Fitch, American Eagle, Forever 21, Gap and Michael Kors, to name but a few. When you need a break from the shopping you can relax over a meal or coffee at one of 16 food outlets or catch the latest movies at Cinemark Century Theatres. There is also a fun Disney Junior Play Zone for little visitors.
Address: The Mall at Rockingham Park, 99 Rockingham Park Blvd, Salem, NH 03079, Phone: 603-894-5526
⮕ See America’s Stonehenge
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Named after England’s famous Stonehenge archaeological site, America’s Stonehenge is located on a 30-acre site in Salem. The site encompasses a number of large rocks and stone structures whose origins are uncertain. Some scientists believe that the site was the result of a 20th century archaeological hoax, while others argue that the remains could be pre-Columbian in origin and thus very significant. Archaeological evidence is sparse and conflicting, but it is now widely thought that the site was assembled in the 18th or 19th century. Whichever way you view it, it is a beautiful place to take a walk while you ponder the possible origins. There is also an alpaca farm on the site.
Address: America’s Stonehenge, 105 Haverhill Rd, Salem, NH 03079, Phone: 603-893-8300
Attractions for Couples
⮕ Choose from over 90 brands of cigars at the Two Guys Smoke Shop
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The Two Guys Smoke Shop first opened to the public in Somerville Massachusetts in 1985. The store stocked fine cigars which proved to be immensely popular and the business soon expanded to Everett and then to tax-free Salem in New Hampshire. Today cigar enthusiasts can visit what is probably the largest cigar store in the world, right in the heart of Salem. The expansive premises include a ground floor showroom and a cigar lounge and café on the first floor. Enthusiasts can choose from over 90 brands of cigars as well as tobaccos, humidors, cutters and other cigar accessories. Each month a new cigar features as Cigar of the Month.
Address: Two Guys Smoke Shop, 304 S. Broadway (Rt. 28), Salem, NH 03079, Phone: 603-898-2221
⮕ See a New Hampshire Philharmonic Orchestra performance on your getaway
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Founded by Miss Mary Fife in 1895, the New Hampshire Philharmonic Orchestra found a perfect home base in the Seifert Performing Arts Center in 2018. The orchestra draws its members from a pool of talented student, amateur and profession musician from all around the state and strives to create a better understanding of classical music through inspirational concerts and performances. The orchestra does not restrict its performances to the classics and regularly features popular music from film and Broadway as well as their very popular Holiday Pops program which will appeal to all music lovers. The NH Phil also hosts educational programs to introduce children to music appreciation.
Address: New Hampshire Philharmonic Orchestra, Seifert Performing Arts Center, 44 Geremonty Dr, Salem, NH 03079, Phone: 603-647-6476
⮕ Have a romantic dinner at Trattoria Amalfi
© Trattoria Amalfi
Trattoria Amalfi brings the vibrant colors and flavors of Italy’s beautiful Amalfi coast to Salem. Not content to just serve delicious food, owners Gerry and Sandra (both born and raised in Italy) want guest to experience a genuine Italian dining experience – a warm welcome, a relaxed ambiance and fresh, wholesome Italian classics. Fountains, plants and paintings of Italy set the scene, while fragrant aromas excite the taste-buds. On the menu you will find an extensive offering of delicious Italian fare made using the freshest local ingredients and pasta imported from Italy. Gerry’s specialties include Chicken Sabrina, Seafood Della Trattoria and sublime Porcini Ravioli.
Address: Trattoria Amalfi, 385 South Broadway, Salem, NH 03079, Phone: 603-893-5773
Recommended Attractions
⮕ Visit the playgrounds in the Field of Dreams Park
© Field of Dreams Park
The Field of Dreams Park is one of Salem’s most popular community playgrounds and parks. The non-profit park was built thanks to the efforts of many local volunteers who came together to create a safe place for families to play and enjoy the great outdoors. Perfect for kids of all ages, the Field of Dreams Park offers a dedicated play area for toddlers and one for older children. There are a number of recreational spaces to enjoy including miles upon miles of hiking trails, an outdoor fitness trail designed to improve and maintain physical health, as well as picnic areas, sports courts, and even performance areas.
Address: 48 Geremonty Drive, Salem, New Hampshire 03079, Phone: 602-233-4455
⮕ Taste unique brews at the Border Brewery
© Border Brewery
The Border Brewery started in 1996 when its owner, Joe, decided to quit his day job and pursue his passion – home brewing. Some years later, with his trusty and beloved border collie at his side, Joe grew the Border Brewery into what it is today, a popular NANO brewery in Salem, New Hampshire. Promising the best brew and the best barbecue in town, Border Brewery offers a smashing catalog of beers that are loved by thousands. Border’s brew masters are constantly tweaking recipes to find new outstanding flavors, so visitors can be sure that they’ll find the craft beer to suit their tastes at the brewery.
Address: 224 North Broadway, Salem, New Hampshire 03079, Phone: 603-216-9134
⮕ Play on the Campbells Scottish Highlands Golf Course
© Campbells Scottish Highlands Golf Course
Located on the gentle hills and spacious meadows of Southern New Hampshire is the Campbells Scottish Highlands Golf Course. This 18-hole public course was crafted out of 135 acres of farmland, which is one of the best settings for links-style courses like Campbells. Designed by George Sargent alongside MHF Design, the course was opened to the public in 1994 and has been welcoming many golfing enthusiasts since then. Guests to Campbells Scottish Highlands can expect an approximate pace of 4 hours for 18 holes. Meanwhile, visitors can also choose to play shorter 9-hole games via the back nine. For golfers in need of sports’ essentials, the course also has a Pro Shop on site, as well as a bar and Grill to refuel after games.
Address: 79 Brady Avenue, Salem New Hampshire 03079, Phone: 603-894-4653
If you are interested in local events:
- For Families: SalemFest (September) – Celebrate with food trucks, craft vendors, live music, and kid-friendly fun.
- For Holiday Enthusiasts: Winter Wonder Lights (November–December) – Dazzling light displays and seasonal festivities at Canobie Lake Park.
- For Shoppers: Tuscan Village Holiday Market – Browse local crafts, gifts, and holiday treats in an open-air festive setting.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Salem, NH:
- For Beach Lovers: Hampton Beach (30 min) – Enjoy sun, surf, seafood, and a classic New England beach boardwalk.
- For Nature Enthusiasts: Harold Parker State Forest (MA) (20–25 min) – Miles of trails, ponds, and picnic areas just over the border.
- For Art and History: Lowell, MA (25–30 min) – Tour textile mills, explore canals, and visit the Lowell National Historical Park.
- For Scenic Strolls: Windham Rail Trail (15–20 min) – Bike, walk, or jog through peaceful woods and fields.
- For Craft Beer Fans: Rockingham Brewing Company (10–15 min, Derry) – Small-batch beers with big flavor in a laid-back tasting room.
- For Romantic Couples: Andover, MA (20–25 min) – Explore charming downtown, upscale dining, and the gardens at the Addison Gallery.
- For Wildlife Watchers: Beaver Brook Association (30 min) – Trails, nature programs, and wildlife viewing in nearby Hollis.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Where is Salem located?
- Salem is located about 30 miles north of Boston.
- Why is Salem a popular shopping destination?
- Because New Hampshire does not charge sales tax, Salem has become a popular shopping destination that attracts many visitors from Massachusetts.
- Where can I shop in Salem?
- You can head straight to the Mall at Rockingham Park, which offers excellent retail therapy.
- What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Salem?
- If you prefer spending time outdoors, treat the family to a day of excitement at Canobie Lake Park.
- What historical attractions are in Salem?
- Salem is also home to America’s Stonehenge, where you can see several large stone structures of uncertain origin.
- How far is Salem from Manchester?
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit |
Places to Stay |
Tips for Visiting |
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. |
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Salem – Comfortable accommodations with easy access to shopping and attractions. |
Visit Canobie Lake Park – Enjoy this fun amusement park with rides, games, and seasonal attractions. |
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the local lakes. |
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Salem – A modern stay with spacious rooms and great amenities. |
Explore the Lawrence L. Lee Scouting Museum – Learn about the history of scouting and outdoor adventures. |
Fall (September-November) – Cool air, beautiful fall foliage, and fewer tourists. |
Holiday Inn Salem – A convenient and cozy stay with easy access to the surrounding areas. |
Visit the Applecrest Farm Orchards – Enjoy apple picking, fresh cider, and other autumn activities. |
Winter (December-February) – Cold temperatures, perfect for cozy indoor activities and holiday events. |
Red Roof Inn Salem – A budget-friendly stay with convenient amenities and access to local attractions. |
Visit the Winter Festival at Canobie Lake Park – Experience a festive atmosphere with seasonal rides and holiday events. |
Plan Your Trip