If you’re looking for unique places to stay in Salem MA, we have some epic ideas for you in one of our favorite cities in the world! The city that is historically famous for witches and haunts is now a charming and cute Massachusetts destination full of history, beautiful sights, and no limits to what you can find.
Whether you are visiting Salem to discover its haunted history by staying in witchy lodging perhaps for Halloween, or visiting on a staycation or visiting family and looking for some cool places to stay (or all of the above), we are positive this list has an option or a few, for you!
We love Salem because it’s a city with a small-town soul. From the waterfront coves to Essex Street, from spooky fall to blooming spring, Salem is simply delightful and these unique stays make it even better – trust us!
The Merchant Hotel: Historical Home turned Upscale Hotel (That’s Rumored to be Haunted!)
When it comes to interior design, The Merchant Hotel is our favorite place to stay in Salem and might just be at the top of this list! Technically, I guess it is, as it’s the first hotel listed here… 😛 Anyways, built in 1784 by sea merchant Joshua Ward, this historic home is now one of the most unique places to stay in Salem, Massachusetts, especially if you love history and witch stories.
Why? Well, the land Joshua built this home on was once where a jail was, a jail where women accused of witchcraft were held. And perhaps some of the victims who died there may roam the halls of The Merchent today.
Now, if you’re still brave enough to stay here, you’re bound to be delighted by the rooms and suites. All are decorated in their own fashion, with unique color schemes, funky furniture, and complimentary wallpaper. The hotel also includes light breakfasts, a cozy common room, and an outdoor lounge area.
The Cove At Salem: ACTUALLY Witchy Boutique Hotel with Themed Rooms
I checked into The Cove and immediately felt like I’d stepped onto the set of a stylish yet eerie Salem daydream… moody lighting, cheeky witch-themed details, and just the right amount of spookiness. The rooms (with themes like the Witch’s Cottage, Witches Double Queen Suite, Medieval Dungeon, and Haunted Circus) lean playful-spooky rather than cheesy, so you get all the witch-city ambiance without sacrificing creature comforts (hello, plush bedding and piping-hot showers). It’s a perfect base for wandering!
At night, I loved how the energy shifts from bright and buzzy to cozy and atmospheric—like the town itself exhaled. The front desk vibe is casual, friendly, and efficient, and everything feels thoughtfully put together, from the keyless entry to the lighting for those inevitable haunted mirror selfies. If you want Salem charm with modern polish, this one nails the balance.
Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites: Unique Hotel in Salem on the Marina
The Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites is bound to impress guests from location to amenities. Including rooms with marina views, a heated indoor pool, an award-winning restaurant, and transportation to Pickering Warf, it has to be one of the most cool places to stay in Salem, MA.
The rooms and suites feature charming interior design with pops of blue and include bathrooms with tubs — ohh, how perfect soaking after a day of exploring Salem! In addition to being an excellent place for travelers, the hotel hosts weddings and events — Google and Tripadvisor being two companies they’ve hosted for!
Northey Street House: Cozy Salem Bed & Breakfast Near Dead Horse Beach
If you want to find a cool place to stay in Salem, MA, for Halloween (or any other time!), then the Northey Street House has you covered. Located about a 15-minute walk from downtown and only a 10-minute walk from the beach, the location of the Northey Street House is ideal for those looking for a quiet and quaint unique place to stay in Salem, Massachusetts.
The house was built in 1809 and retained its 18th-century charm through interior design and antique decorations. With only three rooms, guests will feel cozy and at home. There’s also a garden on-site for enjoying a bit of nature without having to leave!
The Coach House: Cute Salem Hotel on the Outside, Luxurious on the Inside (Digital Self-Check in)
The Coach House has to be one of the most unique places to stay in Salem, MA, with its fantastic fusion of history and luxury. Built in 1897, the mansion boasts Victorian architecture and is just a short drive or 20-minute walk from the top attractions in Salem. Plus, with a personal concierge, you’ll know the best places to visit, from historic locations to the best restaurants.
People love the digital self-check in at this boutique hotel, making it easier to manage timings almost like a vacation rental, but a boutique hotel.
The rooms and suites at The Coach House must be some of Salem’s best-designed. The spaces embrace a black, white, and grey color scheme with luxury accents and art deco. If you’re seeking a luxurious, historical, and homey space, then The Coach House is your cool place to stay in Salem.
Hawthorne Hotel: A Cool Hotel with the Best Annual Halloween Ball in Salem
Opened in 1925 as “a modern hotel for the business traveler,” the legacy of the Hawthorn Hotel lives on today as a luxury hotel in the heart of Salem — perfect for business travelers, couples, and families, and THE spot for Halloween. In addition to bringing an upscale experience, their annual Halloween Ball is something you can’t miss!
The rooms and suites are simple yet luxurious, and with a variety of selections, you can choose the room that will be the perfect fit for you. In addition, The Hawthorne is known for bringing people together and can host weddings, events, and business meetings.
The Daniels House Bed and Breakfast: Best Place to Stay in Salem, Massachusetts for History Lovers
Known as America’s oldest bed and breakfast, the Daniels House Bed and Breakfast was built in 1667, before the Salem witch trials! So if you’re seeking unique places to stay in Salem, Massachusetts, don’t skip this one! The bed and breakfast provides a comfortable experience, with only four guest rooms, a daily breakfast, and a fireplace.
The rooms are eclectic, with bold colors, maritime-inspired designs, and historical pieces. Staying at this bed and breakfast, you’re staying in one of Salem’s cherished historic locations, and to make the most of your stay, inquire about a house tour that includes historical drinks and over 350 years of in-depth history.
Crow Haven Corner (Witchy Apartment / Vacation Rental)
Ever wanted to sleep practically inside Salem’s magic scene? This vacation rental lets you stay above the famous Salem witch shop! Trust us, it kind of feels like joining the cast – it has quirky curios, spell-friendly vibes, and the kind of décor that makes you reach for your journal. I loved waking up, wandering downstairs for a little browsing, then stepping straight into the cobblestone rhythm outside.
It’s more “immersive hideout” than hotel, but its one f the witcheist on this list! It’s self-contained, private, and perfect for a witchy Salem weekend with your bestie. Bring snacks, make tea, pull a card or two, and plan your day surrounded by charms and candles.
The Hotel Salem: From High-End Fashion Store to High-End Retro Hotel
Once a high-end clothing store, the walls of this building are now home to one of the most unique places to stay in Salem, MA — the Hotel Salem. Holding onto the roots of the building’s history through the interior embraces mid-century design and 60’s and 70’s decor, creating a funky ambiance. In addition to the fun interior design, the hotel is home to an on-site restaurant, a rooftop terrace, and a guest lounge.
This is another of our go-to places to stay in Salem. Personally, I love a more modern and boutique hotel, and this hotel is super cute with a boutique feel right on Essex Street. Oh, and I love a rooftop!!
The rooms and suites here incorporate art deco, retro design, and colorful accents to bring life to each space guests will love. While all the rooms are spacious and have excellent lighting (thanks to big windows!), this hotel also offers a unique micro room for travelers who want all the luxuries of a hotel without needing all the space.
The Salem Inn: Unique Colonial New England Restored Homes for Salem Travelers
The Salem Inn consists of three restored historic homes — right in the heart of Salem! The inn exudes history, from the colonial building to the interior design, capturing the essence of old New England. The inn includes daily breakfast (including an omelet bar!), free parking, and fitness center passes.
The rooms and suites vary, from individual rooms to family suites with kitchenettes, making this a great place for solo travelers and groups. Some rooms include whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, and canopy beds for an extra homey feel.
Broom & Board: Full House Perfect for Groups (& Cool Halloween Parties!) in Salem
The Broom & Board (vacation rental, not hotel) might be the perfect place to stay and host a Halloween party with friends and family in Salem, Massachusetts. Why? Well, unlike many of the cool and witchy places to stay in Salem, the Broom & Board offers an entire home for you and your group– giving you the utmost privacy and space to enjoy during your stay in Salem!
The home can host up to 10 guests and has four bedrooms, a kitchen, and a spacious living room. Location-wise, it’s within walking distance of the Salem Willows and many of the downtown haunted and historic Salem attractions. Luckily, the home is on a side street, so while the hustle and bustle are nearby, you’ll be tucked away in a quiet area.
Stepping Stone Inn: Colorful Bed & Breakfast in Salem with Coffee and Cats
If there are a few words to describe why you should stay at the Stepping Stone Inn, it’s cats, coffee, and location. The pet-friendly Inn is located in the heart of downtown, making it one of the ideal unique places to stay in Salem, MA, to get anywhere.
The Inn is home to two cats (who are very sweet), freshly brewed coffee every morning, and 6 rooms, giving it a homey feeling like you’re staying at a friend’s place (that is unless you don’t like cats and coffee!)
On top of this, the Inn is also a piece of Salem history, built in 1846 and has been a family home and then a boarding house until it became the Stepping Stone Inn in the late 1980s. While the Inn embraces historical design and antique furniture, you’ll notice that they enjoy pops of colors from the dining room to bedrooms, creating a unique interior.
The Morning Glory: Unique B&B With Daily Homecooked Breakfast & Harbor Views
If you’re seeking something quiet, charming, and close to everything in Salem, then The Morning Glory Bed and Breakfast is one of the most unique places to stay in Salem, MA, for you! Owned by a Salem native, the over 100-year-old Georgian home offers three rooms for a quaint and intimate experience.
The spacious rooms include harbor views and feature New England interior design. In addition to the comfortable rooms, guests rave about how the B&B hosts will make you feel right at home. If the space and welcoming hosts aren’t enough to convince you to stay, the daily breakfast is cooked with love and care — you’ll wish you could always wake up here!
That’s it for unique places to stay in Salem MA! Which will you choose?
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