History of the Hawthorne Hotel
Built in 1924, the now-famous historic Hawthorne Hotel opened its doors on July 23, 1925.
Located on Washington Square West in Salem, Massachusetts, the supposedly haunted hotel was named after Nathaniel Hawthorne, Salem resident and author of “The House of the Seven Gables.”
Before the hotel was constructed, the property was home to the Franklin Building, built in the early 1800s. It became the headquarters of the Salem Marine Society in 1838. In 1860, a large fire burned the building to the ground.
In 1923, local Salem residents decided the city needed a hotel to accommodate the influx of travelers. In the 1950s, for a short period, the Hawthorne Hotel changed its name to the Hawthorne Motor Hotel.
In 1970, the Hawthorne Hotel was featured in the television show “Bewitched” during the “Salem Saga.” In 1991, the hotel became a member of the Historic Hotels of America.
Fast forward to today, the Hawthorne Hotel has serviced well over 1 million guests, as well as celebrated many weddings, parties, and proms in their Grand Ballroom.
Features of the hotel
Adjacent to Salem Common, which hosts large outdoor festivities during the Halloween season, the vintage Hawthorne Hotel offers 89 rooms, including 6 suites. Included in your stay is complimentary parking, high-speed internet, and access to the local YMCA.
In October, the Hawthorne Hotel hosts its grand Halloween Ball, featuring lively music, interactive experiences, a costume contest, food stations, and bars. It’s truly a can’t-miss event if you’re in town, and the ball is open to the public, even for those not staying overnight.
The Hawthorne Hotel hosts two restaurants, the first being “The Tavern.” This warm, comfortable, and inviting venue features a wood-burning fireplace, oak-paneled walls, wingback chairs, and views of Salem Common. The bar offers local draft beers and award-winning cocktails. Meal times are listed below.
Breakfast
- Monday through Friday 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM.
- Saturday and Sunday 8:00 Am – 12:00 PM.
Lunch and Dinner
- Monday through Sunday starting at 11:00 Am with the last seating at 8:30 PM.
Nathaniel’s
The second restaurant within the hotel is “Nathaniel’s,” named after Nathaniel Hawthorne. This 1920s-style venue is perfect for starting and ending your day. For breakfast, try their smoked salmon bagel. In the evening, the restaurant transforms into a lounge-like setting with candlelight, live piano music, and acoustic performances. Meal times are listed below.
Breakfast
- Monday through Friday 7:30 AM – 11:00 AM
- Saturday 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Sunday 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Dinner
- Thursday, Friday, Saturday 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- With live entertainment starting at 6:00 PM
- To make restaurant reservations at the Hawthorne Hotel you can call their phone number, 987-825-4311.
The Hawthorne Hotels haunted rooms
Legend has it that two rooms in the Hawthorne Hotel are haunted. Room 325 is known to be the most haunted, while room 612 and the sixth floor have numerous reports of a female ghost wandering the halls.
The female ghost often seen at the Hawthorne Hotel is believed to be Bridget Bishop, the first woman executed during the Salem Witch Trials in 1692. Legend has it that Bridget’s apple orchard once occupied the land where the hotel now stands. Both guests and hotel staff have reported smelling the scent of apples as they walk through the hallways.
Room 325 has numerous reports of paranormal activity, including guests hearing the cries of a baby, feeling unseen hands touching them, and witnessing lights and faucets turning on and off by themselves. These eerie experiences have frightened many guests, with some even refusing to stay overnight.
In addition to the specific haunted rooms mentioned, the Hawthorne Hotel has experienced other paranormal activities. Furniture is known to move on its own, and the ship’s wheel located in The Tavern is said to turn by itself.
In 2007, the SyFy Network’s “Ghost Hunters” investigated the Hawthorne Hotel. Although they reported no concrete evidence of ghosts during their visit, countless experiences from guests and staff continue to fuel the hotel’s legendary haunted reputation.
How to make reservations to stay at the Hawthorne Hotel?
If you’d like to make reservations at the hotel you can do one of the following,
- Online Booking: You can visit the Hawthorne Hotel’s official website and use their online booking system. The direct link to make reservations is available here (Hawthorne Hotel).
- By Phone: Call the hotel’s reservation phone number at 978-744-4080.
- Email: You may also email the Hawthorne Hotel at [email protected] for reservation inquiries or additional information
Important notes:
Reservations for the hotel can be made up to one year in advance. During busy seasons, such as October, specific booking policies and timelines apply.
For stays in September and October, a one-night non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. For other times of the year, cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance to avoid charges.
This is also a two-night minimum stay requirement for Saturday bookings starting from June through October.
If you are looking to stay at the hotel for the Halloween season be sure to book your room as early as possible, the hotel sells out immediately.
For a complete overview of the hotel’s policies, you can refer to the FAQ section on their website.
Other Facts About the Salem Hawthorne Hotel
- Over the many years the hotel has been open it has hosted many celebrities including Johnny Cash, Liza Minnelli, Bette Davis, George Bush, Colin Powell, and the cast of the TV show “Bewitched”
- The hotel elevators were featured in the 1970s show “Bewitched”
- The Hawthorne Hotel is pet-friendly and has rooms on the 6th floor specifically for pets, although there is a pet fee.
- The hotel has received several awards over the years, including an award of excellence from Historic Hotels of America.
- The Hawthorne Hotel has had several renovations through out the years to maintain its historic look and feel. For example, in the 1950s, the second-floor balcony was converted into a business meeting space, and the ballroom’s windows were covered.
- The hotel is within walking distance of the Salem Witch Museum.
Questions and Answers
Is the Hawthorne Hotel haunted?
The Hawthorne Hotel is often considered one of the most haunted hotels in New England. Many guests and staff have reported unusual occurrences, including strange noises, objects moving, and apparitions, particularly in rooms 325 and 612.
Does the Hawthorne Hotel offer parking?
Yes, the Hawthorne Hotel offers complimentary parking for guests. There is a parking lot behind the hotel, and an additional parking lot nearby for overflow.
Is the Hawthorne Hotel pet-friendly?
Yes, the Hawthorne Hotel is pet-friendly and welcomes dogs in designated pet-friendly rooms. There may be a pet fee, and it’s recommended to inform the hotel in advance if you’re bringing a pet.
How close is the Hawthorne Hotel to the Salem Witch Museum?
The Hawthorne Hotel is located just a short walk (about 2 minutes) from the Salem Witch Museum, making it a convenient choice for visitors.
Is the Hawthorne Hotel a good place to stay during October?
October is one of the busiest times in Salem due to Halloween and the city’s Haunted Happenings festival. The Hawthorne Hotel is a popular choice, but rooms tend to book quickly, so early reservations are highly recommended.
What attractions are near the Hawthorne Hotel?
The hotel is centrally located in downtown Salem, near popular attractions like the Salem Witch Museum, Peabody Essex Museum, The House of the Seven Gables, and many shops and restaurants.
What Is the Address of the Hawthorne Hotel?
18 Washington Square W, Salem, MA 01970, United States
Reviews of the Hawthorne Hotel
“This hotel was fantastic! It’s within walking distance of all the major attractions, and the charming, comfortable atmosphere really stands out. The hotel has beautifully preserved its 1925 charm, making it a great spot for a short stay. The rooms are clean and cozy, and the staff is incredibly kind and helpful. My only two complaints were that the food at the hotel restaurant was overpriced, and the bathroom light kept turning on by itself during the night. Overall, I loved my stay and will definitely return the next time I’m in Salem!”
“We dined at the restaurant, and the food rivaled what we’ve had on the Las Vegas Strip. The cheese board was exceptional—the best I’ve ever had—featuring honey, strawberry jam, and fresh local fruit to complement the cheeses. The duck was fantastic as well, perfectly prepared with a delicious citrus sauce.”
“The staff were incredibly friendly to both my wife and me, and most importantly, to our pup! We felt right at home from the moment we checked in until the moment we left. The hotel was beautiful and spotlessly clean. It’s also perfectly located, with everything within walking distance. I highly recommend staying at the Hawthorne Hotel when you’re in Salem!”
“The hotel was a perfect blend of antique charm and modern luxury. It’s centrally located in Salem, putting you close to all the top attractions and museums. Our room was spacious and very comfortable. The hotel also features two excellent restaurants in the lobby, both serving delicious food with friendly, attentive waitstaff. Overall, this is one of the best hotels in Salem, and I highly recommend staying here!”
Photo’s of the Hawthorne Hotel
