Salem Ranked Among Nation's Best 'Heritage Haven' Travel Destinations

SALEM, MA — Salem's mix of colonial and Gothic architecture, maritime influence and history associated with the 1692 Witch Trials helped make the city one of the top 10 U.S. Destinations with a "foreign feel," according to a poll from the travel website Turn the Paige Travel.

Turn the Paige Travel commissioned a survey of 3,023 travelers to discover which of these towns they would most like to visit with Salem ranking No. 8 in the country — the highest of any Massachusetts city or town.

Boston's North End (88) and New Bedford (125) also make the list of the country's top 140 "heritage havens."

The French Quarter of New Orleans ranked No. 1, Savannah, Georgia was No. 2, San Antonio was No. 3, Sitka, Alaska was No. 4 and Sleepy Hollow, New York was No. 5.

"Traveling the world isn't always feasible, but that doesn't mean you can't experience international charm right here at home," Turn the Paige Travel founder James Paige said. "Our survey highlights the most beloved towns across America that transport visitors to faraway places through their architecture, culture, and traditions.

"These destinations prove that you don’t need a passport to embark on a global adventure."

According to the site: Known for its witch trials, Salem also offers a mix of colonial and Gothic architecture, giving the town a European medieval feel with a rich history of trade and maritime influence. The city's 17th and 18th-century English architecture preserves its colonial maritime heritage.

The Salem Maritime National Historic Site highlights its past as a major port, while the House of the Seven Gables showcases early English-inspired architecture. The town has 18 First Period houses, reflecting the building traditions of England's early settlers.

Walking through Salem’s historic district, with its Georgian and Federal-style homes, feels like stepping into a British colonial town, making it an ideal destination for history and architecture lovers.

A map of the 140 "heritage haven" destinations can be found here.