When it comes to historic getaways, very few places can match the haunting charm of Salem, Massachusetts. Nestled within this beautiful city is the Salem Inn, a collection of three wonderfully restored historic homes that offer more than just a place to stay. Each house tells its own story, immersing guests in a rich, fascinating past while providing the modern comforts that today’s travelers have come to expect.
The Salem Inn: Three Houses, Three Stories
The Salem Inn isn’t just one building but a collection of three distinct properties, each with its own unique character and history. The inn is composed of the West House, the Curwen House, and the Peabody House. All of these homes have been meticulously restored to retain their original beauty while offering modern amenities.
The West House (1834)
The West House is the oldest of the three homes and carries with it a strong connection to Salem’s maritime past. Built in 1834 for Captain Nathaniel West, another well-known figure in the city’s maritime community, the home exemplifies the understated richness of the Federal architectural style. The house has high ceilings, wide plank flooring, and large windows that offer views of Salem’s historic streets.
Staying in the West House isn’t just about enjoying its beautiful architecture; it’s about walking in the shoes of Salem’s past residents. Captain West was one of many who profited from Salem’s worldwide trading port, and as you walk through the halls of this house, you can almost imagine the excitement that would fill the rooms when Captain Nathaniel returned from a successful trip.
The West House is also where some of the Salem Inn’s more paranormal stories come from. Guests who stay in Room 17 have reported spooky encounters, with some claiming to have seen a woman named Katherine, who may have been a former resident or someone connected to Captain Nathaniel’s family. These stories have made the West House a favorite among paranormal fans.
The Curwen House (1854)
The second house that’s a part of the Salem Inn is the Curwen House. Built in 1851 and named after Jonathan Curwen, a wealthy merchant whose family had deep roots in Salem’s early colonial history, the Curwen House stands out for its beautiful moldings, high ceilings, and decorative fireplaces. Stepping into the Curwen House feels like walking into early Salem. Many of the rooms are furnished with antiques, making your stay feel authentic and immersive.
It’s not just about the aesthetics; the Curwen House offers large rooms that cater to big groups. With the combination of historic elegance and modern convenience, the Curwen House is a perfect blend of the past and present.
The Peabody House (1874)
The newest of the three homes is the Peabody House, which was built in 1874 and is named after the influential Peabody family, known for their significant contributions to Salem’s maritime success. The distinctive mansard roof and intricate detailing give the Peabody House a rich appearance, setting it apart from the other two homes.
The Peabody offers spacious and elegant suites, with some featuring fireplaces, kitchenettes, and king-size beds.
Paranormal Activity at The Salem Inn
It wouldn’t be a proper stay in Salem without a few ghost stories, and The Salem Inn is no stranger to tales of the supernatural. Salem itself is often called one of the most haunted cities in America, and The Salem Inn’s history and architecture lend themselves to a mysterious, slightly eerie atmosphere that invites the imagination to run wild.
Room 17 in the West House is the center of these ghostly tales. Many guests who have stayed there have reported strange occurrences: unexplained noises, sudden temperature drops, and even sightings of a ghostly woman in old-fashioned clothing. Known as “Katherine” by some of the inn’s staff and guests, this ghost is believed to be a former resident of the house, though her exact story remains a mystery.
The inn’s haunted reputation is an attraction for many visitors, particularly during the Halloween season when Salem is at its busiest. Whether guests come with hopes of a paranormal encounter or simply enjoy the inn’s historic atmosphere, there’s no denying that The Salem Inn offers an experience unlike any other.
Meet the Owners of The Salem Inn
Forty years ago, Dick and Diane Pabich acquired the 1834 home of Captain Nathaniel West and transformed it into a charming bed and breakfast, marking the beginning of what is now known as The Salem Inn.
Since then, the couple expanded their vision by purchasing and renovating the Peabody House and the Curwen House, growing The Salem Inn into a collection of more than 40 uniquely historic rooms.
Over the past three decades, the Pabich family, along with their three grown children, have played an active role in revitalizing the Salem community through numerous real estate development projects and philanthropic endeavors. One of their recent contributions includes installing a freight farm at Salem High School, aimed at educating students about hydroponic agriculture and fostering good business practices.
Equally devoted to culture and the arts, the Pabich family has left their creative mark in Salem. Some of daughter Jill Pabich’s artwork is proudly displayed at the Peabody Essex Museum, and much of the artwork adorning The Salem Inn is a collaboration between Diane and Jill. Diane and Dick are often on-site at the inn, bringing their personal touch to every guest’s experience. Over a glass of wine or sherry, you might catch Dick reminiscing about his days at Boston College, where he met Diane. He’ll proudly share how Diane was one of just seven women admitted to the College of Arts and Sciences in 1959—a groundbreaking honor that other women wouldn’t experience until 11 years later.
As you explore the inn, Diane will happily show you the antiques that her husband has meticulously refinished for each guest room, adding another layer of history to your stay. Diane, Dick, and the rest of The Salem Inn staff look forward to welcoming you. They’re always available to answer any questions you may have about Salem, the inn’s history, or their personal favorite spots around town.
Questions and Answers of the Salem Inn
Is breakfast included with the stay, and what does it typically include?
A: Yes, breakfast is included with your stay at The Salem Inn. The inn offers a complimentary continental breakfast each morning, which typically includes a selection of fresh pastries, cereals, fruits, yogurt, and hot beverages like coffee and tea. The breakfast is served in a cozy, inviting breakfast room, providing a pleasant start to your day before you explore Salem.
Does The Salem Inn offer parking, and is it complimentary?
A: Yes, The Salem Inn offers complimentary parking for its guests. This is especially convenient given the inn’s central location in downtown Salem, where parking can be challenging during peak tourist seasons.
How close is The Salem Inn to popular Salem attractions like the Salem Witch Museum or the House of the Seven Gables?
A: The Salem Inn is conveniently located within walking distance of many of Salem’s most popular attractions. The Salem Witch Museum is just a 5-10 minute walk from the inn, and the House of the Seven Gables is about a 15-minute walk. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Salem’s historic sites, museums, and waterfront without needing to drive.
How far in advance should I book a stay at The Salem Inn during peak seasons like October?
A: To secure a room at The Salem Inn during peak seasons like October, it’s recommended to book several months in advance—ideally, 6 to 12 months ahead. October is especially busy in Salem due to Halloween events and Haunted Happenings, so early planning will ensure availability and provide the best selection of rooms.
What are the addresses of The Salem Inn?
Here are the addresses for all three houses that make up The Salem Inn:
- West House:
7 Summer Street, Salem, MA 01970 - Curwen House:
331 Essex Street, Salem, MA 01970 - Peabody House:
15 Summer Street, Salem, MA 01970
How can I contact The Salem Inn?
- Phone Number: (978) 741-0680
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.saleminnma.com
You can reach out to them for reservations, inquiries, or additional information about your stay.
Reviews of The Salem Inn
“Everything about this experience was incredibly smooth! From booking a room to checking in and reserving breakfast, everything was organized seamlessly. My sister and I stayed in The Bowditch Room (C23) in the Curwen House—spacious, spotless, and full of charm! The Curwen House is conveniently located diagonally across from the Ropes Mansion and just a short walk from The Witch House and Essex Street. We parked upon arrival and didn’t need the car again until we left. We’ve already booked our stay at The West House for 2023 and can’t wait to return!”
“My husband and I stayed in the main house and were lucky enough to find street parking right in front of the inn. Our visit was at the end of July, beginning of August, and we loved our room and bathroom—it was clean, spacious, and comfortable. The hotel’s location is perfect, within walking distance of so many incredible places to eat and explore! We had questions about the best way to travel into Boston for a day, and the front desk staff were super helpful, directing us to the commuter train, which was also just a short walk away. We had an amazing visit!”
“My husband and I recently stayed in Room 2 of the Peabody House, and we absolutely loved it. The house is filled with character, and despite its historic charm, it had all the amenities we needed for our four-night stay. Free parking and complimentary breakfast were just a couple of the perks. The king-size bed was incredibly comfortable, and the A/C worked like a dream—especially with the hot and muggy weather during our visit. We were cozy and slept wonderfully after long days of exploring Salem. The bathroom was huge, with a walk-in shower, and our room even had a nice kitchenette. Though there were other guests staying in the building, we never heard a peep from them. The Salem Inn is within walking distance to almost everything, so we only used our car twice in four days. I would definitely stay here again!”
“Our stay was absolutely delightful! The inn’s location couldn’t be better—right next to the pedestrian mall, which is filled with great restaurants and shops. Our room was spacious and comfortable, and we especially loved the superb walk-in shower. The front desk staff were incredibly helpful; my spouse, who prefers to avoid stairs, received excellent guidance on the easiest ways to navigate the inn. What really stood out for me were the thoughtful touches—the complimentary happy hour wine in their charming courtyard, the sherry offered in the parlor, and the included breakfast. Although the breakfast service was a bit inconsistent, since it was complimentary, it’s hard to be too bothered by it. Overall, it was a great stay!”
Photos of The Salem Inn
