About the Organization
First national historic site preserving port that made Salem a world trading center. Wharves, warehouses, and Custom House interpret China Trade and maritime commerce.
Salem Maritime National Historic Site, now part of Salem Maritime National Historical Park, was originally established in 1938 as the first National Historic Site in the United States. The park consists of nine acres of land and twelve historic structures along the Salem, Massachusetts waterfront, together with a downtown visitor center. Set in the urban landscape of Salem, it preserves and interprets more than 600 years of New England's maritime history and the global stories tied to the port that made Salem a world trading center.
What to See
- The historic wharves — including the waterfront that anchored Salem's role in international trade.
- The Custom House — interpreting the maritime commerce and the China Trade that brought wealth to the port.
- Warehouses and historic structures — twelve buildings spread across the nine-acre site.
- Revolutionary-era programs — free programs exploring the history of the American Revolution in Salem and Essex County.
Planning Your Visit
The park is located along the Salem waterfront, with a mailing address of 160 Derby Street, Salem, MA 01970, and a downtown visitor center. A sibling site, Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site, is nearby. Because hours and program offerings can change, confirm current details before visiting at the official National Park Service website, nps.gov/sama.
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