Our Favorite Haunts 🍷🦇
Salem is a city that knows how to raise spirits—literally and figuratively. Whether you’re looking for a craft cocktail in a historic setting, a waterfront view with your drink, or a secret speakeasy hidden in plain sight, Salem’s bar scene has something for every kind of night owl (or creature of the night). These are some of our favorite places to sink our fangs into a great drink—starting with our top pick, Ledger!
Ledger: A Cocktail Experience to Die For
If we’re grabbing a drink in Salem, Ledger is always at the top of our list. Housed in a stunning 19th-century bank, this spot blends historic charm with an inventive cocktail menu that never disappoints. Their drinks are expertly crafted, their whiskey selection is top-tier, and their espresso martinis? Deadly. Whether you’re sipping in the main dining area or cozying up at the bar, Ledger is where we love to toast to the night.
Rockafellas: Where History Meets a Killer Cocktail
With its grand building and ghostly past, Rockafellas is a must-visit for a drink with a side of Salem history. Their craft cocktail menu is always on point, and their outdoor seating is perfect for people-watching on Essex Street. From seasonal spooky drinks to a solid lineup of beer and wine, this spot is always a great choice for a lively atmosphere and a little haunted energy.
Hallowed Ground Speakeasy: A Hidden Gem for the Undead
Want to feel like you’ve stepped into another era? Hallowed Ground Speakeasy, tucked inside Dire Wolf Tavern, is a dimly lit, intimate bar that serves killer Prohibition-style cocktails. The vibe is dark, moody, and sophisticated, making it the perfect place for a vampire (or anyone with great taste) to enjoy a drink in peace. If you love a secret, this is one of Salem’s best-kept ones.
Longboards: Laid-Back Drinks by the Water + Vampire Lounge
For a more casual, relaxed vibe, Longboards on Pickering Wharf is a go-to. Their cocktails are refreshing, their beer selection is solid, and their patio by the water is one of the best places to sip a drink on a warm night. But the real magic happens upstairs, where Longboards transforms into the home of the infamous Vampire Lounge—Salem’s premier Goth nightlife—on the third Saturday of every month. If you're looking for a place to embrace the night and dance with fellow creatures of the dark, this is it.
Finz Patio: Drinks with a Killer View
Speaking of waterfront spots, the patio at Finz is a must for anyone who loves a drink with a salty breeze and ocean views. Their cocktail menu leans on the fruity, fresh, and fun side—perfect for sipping in the sun while watching the boats drift by. It’s a great place for a laid-back drink before diving back into the chaos of downtown Salem.
Rooftop at Hotel Salem: A High-Stakes Hangout
For a drink with a view of the whole city, the rooftop bar at Hotel Salem is the spot. It’s the only rooftop bar in town, and whether you’re there for a sunset cocktail or a late-night drink under the stars, the vibe is always on point. If you want a little elevation with your libation, this is the perfect place to drink above the mortals below.
Patio at Village Tavern: A Lively Outdoor Scene
If you love live music, a big drink menu, and a buzzing atmosphere, the patio at Village Tavern is always a fun time. They’ve got huge cocktails (seriously, some come in goblets), great frozen drinks, and a solid selection of beers. It’s loud, lively, and always full of energy, making it a great place to start or end a night out in Salem.
Salem’s Cocktail Scene: A Little Something for Every Creature of the Night
Whether you’re craving a sophisticated cocktail in a haunted setting, a laid-back drink by the water, or a secret speakeasy vibe, Salem has the perfect place to quench your thirst. Next time you’re in town, be sure to check out these killer bars and patios—and if you're looking for a truly immersive gothic experience, don’t miss Vampire Lounge upstairs at Longboards every third Saturday of the month.
Where’s your go-to spot for a drink in Salem? Let us know in the comments!