The most hippie city near Boston has a reputation for being quirky. Salem is a must-visit destination for history buffs, Wiccans, and anyone who appreciates a visually-appealing, oceanfront town. This North Shore community is one of the most progressive and open-minded places in Massachusetts, making it a hippie hotspot.
Ironically, it's Salem’s history of persecution that continues to draw free-spirited folks to the city. You can't visit without coming away understanding more about the witch trials. This tragic aspect of Salem's past has spawned both gimmicky and thoughtful museums and stores. Many of the city's attractions focus on alternative belief systems and New Age ideas that overlap with the peace-loving, counterculture features of the hippie movement.
Start your visit by rebalancing your mind and body at The Salty Buddha, a yoga studio tucked inside the Hawthorne Building. You can attend classes on a drop-in basis.
Address: 201 Washington Street, Suite 206, Salem
Once you’re feeling centered, it’s time to browse through Salem’s indie stores.
Duck into Pyramid Books, your source for "enlightened books and gifts."
As you investigate the shelves, you’ll spot everything from volumes on dream interpretation to adult coloring books. The store also carries lots of candles and crystals.
Address: 214 Derby Street, Salem
Browse through teas, flower essences, alternative remedies, and herbs at Artemisia Botanicals.
If you’re interested in learning more about Wicca, you can pick up supplies here.
Address: 3 Hawthorne Boulevard, Salem
Feeling peckish? Life Alive is a restaurant that focuses on serving organic, chemical-free whole foods and following environmentally-friendly practices.
You can feel virtuous without sacrificing flavor as you tuck into grain bowls, salad bowls, or smoothies - try The Adventurer.
Address: 281 Essex Street, Salem
Round off your meal with some artisan ice cream!
Melt is seasonal (it’s usually closed during January and February) and the ice cream features local ingredients. The maple bourbon will have you pressing your nose to the window, hoping for seconds.Address: 60 Washington Street, Salem
Unwind with a treatment at one of Salem’s day spas.
LivingWell Salem is located at 207 Washington Street in Salem.
If you gravitate toward Eastern culture, are a travel junkie, or a fan of art, definitely stop by the Peabody Essex Museum.
Sailors from Salem established trading routes with countries around the world, and the art and artifacts they amassed are on display at this museum.
The museum contains an entire Chinese house! The Yin Yu Tang is more than two hundred years old and was shipped to the U.S. and reassembled here.
Address: 161 Essex Street, Salem
The hippie movement is closely tied to harmony with nature. Get your fill of the sights and sounds of nature with a stroll by the ocean at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site.
Address: 160 Derby Street, Salem
If you need accommodations during a trip to Salem, your options range from staying at the character-crammed Hawthorne Hotel to sleeping on a boat!
Whatever draws you to Salem, you won't regret spending a day or more in this fun and funky city. Have you visited this happy hippy community? Where's your favorite spot to recenter and relax? Share your suggestions in the comments below!
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