18 Washington Sq, On Salem Common, Salem, Massachusetts, United States | (727) 241-5756
Historic (and possibly haunted) hotel with classic decor throughout
Located right next to Salem Common in the center of town
Handsome rooms with flat-screen TVs
Restaurant and tavern serve classic New England dishes and pub fare
Popular Sunday jazz brunch
Beautiful ballroom ideal for weddings
A la carte breakfast offered every morning
Many rooms have lovely views of Salem Common
Small fitness center
Free Wi-Fi and parking
Pet-friendly
Bathrooms are tiny
Fitness room only has three machines
The historic Hawthorne Hotel is a quaint property that exudes classic charm in the heart of downtown Salem, Massachusetts; the hotel has seen its share of VIPs and dignitaries over the years. Rooms include plush furniture and handsome floral textiles. There is a tiny fitness center on site, but the lavish ballroom and two on-site restaurants are major highlights (as is the hotel's own ghost story -- for many guests). It might be worth comparing rates with the Salem Waterfront Hotel and Marina, which features lovely sea views and a slightly more chic vibe.
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Scene
Historic hotel with spooky reputation exudes 1920s charm
The historic Hawthorne Hotel has a spooky reputation and is considered one of the nation's most haunted hotels -- there are reports of a wandering woman, crying baby sounds, and faucets turning on by themselves. Ghosts aside, the hotel has a rich history
dating back to its opening in 1925. Named after Salem native (and "Scarlet Letter" author) Nathaniel Hawthorne, the property was originally a meeting house for the Salem Marine Society, where captains were able to provide relief for their families while
Location
On Salem Common, near shops and restaurants
The Hawthorne is right in downtown Salem, Massachusetts, adjacent to Salem Common, and across the street from
the Peabody Essex Museum and the Salem Witch Museum. The Peabody Essex Museum includes two popular restaurants, Atrium and Garden Restaurant, though there are other dining
Rooms
Antique decor with modern comforts
The rooms here are richly decorated but aren't the largest. Economy Rooms start at a miniature 100 square feet (nine square meters), though Standard and Superior Rooms generally have ample space. All rooms include flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, air-conditioning, and locally crafted mattresses and linens, though not everyone will appreciate the somewhat frilly decor. The bathrooms are small, though they are clean, and have light granite vanities, stand-up showers or shower/tub combos, and high-end toiletries. Some rooms feature one-and-a-half baths. Most of the rooms offer pleasant views of downtown Salem or the park next door, though some look onto the back of the hotel. The electrical outlets appear sparse on first glance, though there are some hidden within the lights next to the bed.
Features
Two popular restaurants, Sunday jazz brunch, and a small fitness room
The star of the hotel's features are its two restaurants, which are popular with locals and tourists alike. Nathaniel's (Nat's) is a more formal dining setting, which serves contemporary and classic New England fare with a seasonal emphasis, while the hotel's tavern serves up-market casual pub food along with beer, wine, and cocktails. On Sundays there is a well-liked jazz brunch. The hotel serves an a la carte breakfast, but it's not included with room rates. There is ample space for corporate functions and a beautiful
banquet room with antique charm, high ceilings, and stunning windows -- perhaps why the hotel is known for hosting numerous weddings a year. The hotel also participates in annual special Halloween events in Salem. There is a tiny fitness room with three machines and Wi-Fi is free throughout. The hotel is pet-friendly, and free coffee and tea are available in the lobby throughout the day.
