Salem Maritime National Historic Site

Description:

• An entertaining introduction to Salem's seagoing history, this complex includes an exciting attraction: a real live ship. The Friendship is a full-size replica of a 1797 East Indiaman merchant vessel, a three-masted 171-footer that disappeared during the War of 1812. The tall ship is a faithful replica with some concessions to the modern era, such as diesel engines. The guided ranger tour includes a tour of the ship.

  With the decline of merchant shipping in the early 19th century, Salem's wharves fell into disrepair. In 1938, the National Park Service took over a small piece of the waterfront, Derby Wharf. It's now a finger of parkland extending into the harbor, part of the 9 acres that make up the historic site. On adjacent Central Wharf is a warehouse, built around 1800, that houses the orientation center. Tours, which vary seasonally, explore Salem's maritime history. Yours might include the Derby House (1762), a wedding gift to shipping magnate Elias Hasket Derby from his father, and the Custom House (1819). Legend -- myth, really -- has it that Nathaniel Hawthorne was working here when he found an embroidered scarlet "A." If you prefer to explore on your own, you can see a free film and wander around Derby Wharf, the West India Goods Store, the Bonded Warehouse, the Scale House, and Central Wharf. Check ahead for lectures and other special events that focus on topics related to Salem's seagoing legacy.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010