The weather is (finally!) starting to take a turn for the better and I am SO excited for it. Walking around Salem with my camera is one of my favorite things ever and I can’t wait for the weather to be more conducive to that. So today on the blog I figured I’d share ten things to do in Salem, MA in the summer.

1. Ice cream
What summer day is complete without ice cream? My personal favorite is Melt! They offer such yummy flavors, so be sure to check their social media for specials. Other options include Captain Dusty’s Ice Cream, Dairy Witch and Maria’s Sweet Somethings.

2. Go for a walk around historic Salem
We all know Salem is a walking city, and with gorgeous side streets and historic homes it’s even better. I like going for a stroll with friends around the Mcintire District to check it all out. Always lovely!
As another option in line with the above, you could join a tour of the Phillips House Museum. It reopens for the season on May 1, 2018 and runs through the summer. You can read the details of that here.

3. Grab a drink
Sitting in Notch’s Biergarten is so nice on a summer day. Dog friendly, a gorgeous view of the water and delicious beers. Perfect!

4. The Salem Trolley
Even if you’ve taken the trolley around Salem before, it’s still always worth it in my opinion. I’ve been on it time and time again and each ride I still wind up learning something I didn’t know before. When the windows are open with the breeze sweeping through the trolley it’s a good way to cool off and take in some sights.

5. Winter Island drive in
Last year, Creative North Shore teamed up with the city of Salem to create a drive in style movie night on Winter Island. They showed several titles, one each month and the turn out was through the roof every time. I am waiting for more details of this for 2018 to come down the wire and when they do, I’ll share the info here of course.

6. The Salem Arts Festival
This is one of my favorite festivals in Salem and it’s right around the corner! The Arts Festival is a celebration of dance, art, music, poetry, handmade works and more. Check out the details of Salem Arts Festival 2018 right here.

7. The North shore Pride Parade and Festival
Get out and walk the streets of Salem in support of the LGBTQIA+ members of the community and in your life! To read details of the event and see the parade route, click here.

8. The Salem Maritime Festival
Salem has a deep nautical history as one of the most significant seaports in Puritan American history. The Maritime Festival features live music, historical reenactors, harbor cruises, demonstrations, interactive programs, arts, crafts, and more. 2018 dates are yet to be released, but when the info is available I’ll share it on my blog and calendar of course.

9. Salem Celebrates the 4th
The City of Salem puts on an awesome fireworks display for the 4th of July at the Wharf and it is a great time, always. Check out the details of the 2018 celebration here.

10. Salem Willows park and arcade
Is it really summer if you haven’t had popcorn from E. W. Hobbs? I don’t think so. 😛 Check out the Salem Willows Park, enjoy some classic arcade games and feast on yummy food.

Enjoy!! What are some of your favorite summer time activities in Salem? Feel free to comment below.