If you have hung out with me on Instagram, in my Facebook group, etc. you’ve likely seen me say that sentence above about a billion times. There’s no place like Salem. It is one of the most unique cities I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing and I clearly am home. I wouldn’t be running this website and associated accounts if I wasn’t passionate about it, right? Yup.

So why is Salem so different? Let’s chat.

Salem is a welcoming community

I’ve mentioned before that Salem is very welcoming and that still rings true. The city has many resources for the LGBTQIA+ community, actively seeks to banish discrimination through the No Place For Hate committee, is a sanctuary city and more. Salem embraces people from all walks of life, religions, backgrounds, etc.

This applies to families as well. With events such as the Halloween carnival, Wicked Wednesdays programming and more, Salem is a place you can enjoy with the kiddos.

It’s pretty much Halloweentown

I mean, c’mon.

Yeah, there is tons more to Salem than Halloween. However, if you’re into all things autumn and spooky you’re going to love it, I promise.

There is always something to do

It doesn’t matter when you visit, there is something going on. Calendars are slammed during the fall of course, but all year ’round you can find something.

Salem can be enjoyed from multiple angles

Depending on what you’re into, Salem can enjoyed in many ways. If you are into history, you can find landmarks, attractions and more than focus on the city as part of New England’s history. If you’re here for the witches, you’re covered. If you want to enjoy the water, there are festivals, schooners and more that will fill that role. There is something for everyone!

Visit for a day or over a weekend

Or just move here. 😛

Outside of packing up and moving in, if you’re on a time crunch you can make it work. I always suggest a weekend visit but if you only have a day, that’s entirely doable.

Salem is very walkable

If you are flying into MA and don’t have a car, you can do most of the visit on foot. Once you make it into Salem from the airport (train, Uber, etc.) you can walk most of the city. If you do drive in, it’s super easy to park the car and leave it for the day. Hop the Salem Trolley, check out a bike from Zagster (Salem’s bike share program) or just grab the comfy shoes. No car needed.

Enjoy food from all influences

Salem is certainly no place to start a diet. There are so many delicious restaurants, you’re sure to find something to please. The city offers options from all different influences and is constantly growing to include more.

Salem + the arts

Salem offers creative inspiration, tons of street art, festivals, business and more to foster growth of the creative community. If you’re into the arts, you’ll find a place in the city to express that and practice your skills. From local events like Drink and Draw at the Gulu-Gulu Cafe to larger events like the Salem Arts Festival, you’ll be in good company.

Salem loves small business

Salem is home to very few “big box” type stores. Most of what you find is hand made, hyper local and offered with love. For this reason, if you’re visiting and something catches your eye I’d suggest grabbing it while you can. It’s very likely it’s a unique find and something you won’t be able to purchase once you’re home or online.

The Mayor is super involved

Mayor Kim Driscoll is always out and about. She can be found at ribbon cuttings, local events, trick or treating in October, celebrating Salem’s festivals and more. She is very involved and I love that she is so present.

What are some of your reasons? Feel free to comment below. Enjoy!! <3