New England Pirate Museum
Explore the thrilling history of New England pirates with interactive exhibits, artifacts, and a replica ship. A unique maritime adventure!

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
New England Pirate Museum
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the thrilling history of New England pirates with interactive exhibits, artifacts, and a replica ship. A unique maritime adventure!
"Definitely a hidden gem in Salem! I highly recommend going and taking a trip to the past!"
🎯 Go for the Guided Tour!
Docents are super knowledgeable and make the history come alive. Highly recommended!
🎟️ Combo Tickets Save
Bundle with other Salem museums for a better deal.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pirate Ship Experience
Inside the museum
Step aboard a replica pirate ship and immerse yourself in the life of a sea rover. A truly interactive part of the exhibit.

80ft Cave Exploration
Inside the museum
Venture into a dimly lit, 80-foot cave, adding an adventurous and slightly spooky element to your visit. Watch your step!

Historical Artifacts & Wax Figures
Throughout the museum
Discover genuine artifacts and lifelike wax figures that tell the stories of New England's notorious pirates and privateers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Guided Tour
Combo Tickets for Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go for the Guided Tour!
Docents are super knowledgeable and make the history come alive. Highly recommended!
🎟️ Combo Tickets Save
Bundle with other Salem museums for a better deal.
🔦 Watch Your Step in Cave
It gets dark in the 80ft cave, so be careful!
📸 Capture the Vibe
Great for photos, especially the ship and cave!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go for the Guided Tour!
Docents are super knowledgeable and make the history come alive. Highly recommended!
🎟️ Combo Tickets Save
Bundle with other Salem museums for a better deal.
🔦 Watch Your Step in Cave
It gets dark in the 80ft cave, so be careful!
📸 Capture the Vibe
Great for photos, especially the ship and cave!
🛍️ Gift Shop is Basic
Don't expect too much from the souvenir shop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the New England Pirate Museum as an interesting and educational hidden gem, particularly highlighting the engaging guided tours and interactive exhibits like the pirate ship and cave. While some find the gift shop disappointing, the friendly staff and rich historical content make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in maritime history.
"An incredibly interesting museum about some super cool New England pirates!
Definitely a hidden gem in Salem! I highly recommend going and taking a trip to the past!
We got the general admission ticket so we just explored it on our own, it sounded as though the guided tour was totally worth it though!
It seems as though they’ve done lots of renovations and work to this wonderful museum, definitely worth going back if you weren’t too impressed before! 🏴☠️"
Arianna Ham
"It's a pretty small museum with a modest exhibit, but you can tell they care. The docent spoke well and knew the info."
Heather Marie
"All employees were extremely nice and friendly. Lots of information was offered and our guide had a great understanding of information. There were many displays and artifacts to look at. The tour was slightly shorter than expected, but still an extremely enjoyable experience."
Kathryn Raynes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The New England Pirate Museum is located at 274 Derby St. in Salem, MA. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. If you're using public transport, the Salem MBTA Commuter Rail station is a short walk away.
Parking in Salem can be challenging, especially during peak season. There are several public parking lots and street parking options, but arrive early or consider using a rideshare service if you're visiting on a busy day.
Yes, the museum is centrally located and within walking distance of many other popular Salem sites, including the Witch Dungeon Museum and the Witch House.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last tour starting at 5:00 PM. It operates seasonally from May through October. Always check their official website for the most current hours.
Ticket prices vary, but general admission allows for self-guided exploration. Combo tickets are available if you plan to visit multiple museums, offering a cost-effective option.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for guided tours, is recommended, particularly during the busy Halloween season or weekends. This helps ensure you get your preferred time slot.
Look out for combo ticket deals that include admission to other Salem attractions. Sometimes, special event pricing may apply.
Guided tours are informative but can be slightly shorter than expected. However, they provide a wealth of information about New England's pirate history.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find historical artifacts, lifelike wax figures depicting pirates, a replica pirate ship you can board, and an 80-foot cave to explore. It's an immersive dive into maritime history.
Yes, the museum is generally considered family-friendly. The pirate ship and cave exploration are often highlights for younger visitors, making history fun and engaging.
While the main exhibits are generally accessible, the cave section might be challenging due to its dark and uneven terrain. It's best to inquire directly with the museum about specific accessibility concerns.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions once you're inside. The exhibits offer great photo opportunities!
The museum offers an interesting and educational experience, with a focus on the adventurous and sometimes gritty history of New England pirates. It's considered a hidden gem by many visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically have a restaurant or cafe. However, Salem has a wide array of dining options nearby, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants.
You'll find everything from seafood and classic American fare to international cuisine within a short walk of the museum. Salem offers a diverse culinary scene.
📸 📸 Photography
The replica pirate ship, the dimly lit cave, and the wax figures of pirates are all excellent subjects for memorable photos.
While general photography is usually permitted, flash photography might be restricted to protect artifacts. It's best to confirm on-site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the cave can be dark, most children find it thrilling rather than scary. The museum's focus on adventure and storytelling makes it a great way to introduce kids to maritime history without overwhelming them. It's a welcome alternative to the witch-centric attractions, offering a different, equally captivating, side of Salem's past.
🏴☠️ History Buffs & Maritime Enthusiasts
This museum is a testament to Salem's rich maritime heritage, which extends beyond its more infamous witch trial history. It's a chance to explore the adventures of New England sea-robbers and understand their role in the region's development. The well-maintained exhibits and friendly staff contribute to a rewarding and educational experience for serious history enthusiasts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of New England Pirates
Through a combination of historical artifacts, informative displays, and engaging wax figures, the museum brings these characters to life. The experience is designed to be immersive, allowing guests to feel as though they've stepped back in time. The museum's commitment to showcasing this unique slice of history makes it a valuable stop for anyone interested in maritime lore and the rugged spirit of early New England.
Interactive Exhibits: Ship and Cave
Adding to the adventure is the 80-foot cave exhibit. This dimly lit, atmospheric space provides a thrilling experience, evoking the hidden coves and secret hideouts of pirates. While it adds a unique dimension to the visit, guests are advised to be cautious due to the darkness and uneven surfaces. These interactive features transform the museum from a passive viewing experience into an active exploration of pirate life.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit