Old Salem Jail - stairs and opened metal door
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Old Salem Jail

4.2
·12 reviews·Salem, United States

Once a notorious penitentiary, the Old Salem Jail now houses luxury condos and a lively arcade bar, offering a unique blend of history and modern Sale...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Old Salem Jail - stairs and opened metal door

Old Salem Jail

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Once a notorious penitentiary, the Old Salem Jail now houses luxury condos and a lively arcade bar, offering a unique blend of history and modern Salem.

4.2
(12 reviews)

"Admire the historic exterior and enjoy arcade games at Bit Bar within the former Old Salem Jail."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤫 Respect Private Residences

Remember, the jail is now condos. Admire from the outside and be respectful of residents.

🚗 Parking Convenience

Use the Passport Parking app for easy payment and time extension at the nearby lot.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Exterior

Historic Exterior

Saint Peter Street

Admire the imposing architecture of the former oldest active penitentiary in Massachusetts.

Adjacent Howard Street Cemetery

Adjacent Howard Street Cemetery

Next to the Jail

A historic cemetery offering a somber contrast and a peek into Salem's past.

Bit Bar Salem

Bit Bar Salem

Ground floor of the Jail

Enjoy retro arcade games and drinks in a unique setting within the historic jail building.

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Planning Your Visit

A Glimpse into Salem's Past

The Old Salem Jail, now a mix of luxury condos and a restaurant, offers a chilling look at Salem's history. Once the oldest active penitentiary, it housed notorious figures. Explore its exterior and imagine the stories within.

Beyond the Bars: Modern Salem

While the jail itself is private, its location is key. It's adjacent to the Howard Street Cemetery and a short walk from downtown Salem's attractions. Plan your visit to include nearby historical sites and the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings at Bit Bar
Why
Lively atmosphere, games
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Haunted History of the Old Salem Jail. Spirits in luxury living The Old Salem Jail is one of the most haunted places in Massachusetts, with a dark past that refuses to fade. Many visitors claim to experience paranormal activity, from ghostly whispers to the sound of dragging chains in empty halls. Former prisoners and guards are said to haunt the building, their restless spirits roaming its cold ...
@.the.war.on.witch
51 likes • 596 views

🤫 Respect Private Residences

Remember, the jail is now condos. Admire from the outside and be respectful of residents. Instagram

🚗 Parking Convenience

Use the Passport Parking app for easy payment and time extension at the nearby lot. Reddit

Looking for the old Salem jail #salem #salemmassachusetts #jail
@whodoesntluvfriedchicken
7 likes • 363 views
Old Salem Jail, Salem MA #salem #salemmassachusetts #massachusetts #adaptivereuse #abandoned #construction #renovation #architecture
building_tales
92 likes • 7.8K views

👻 Haunted History

Learn about its dark past; many claim paranormal activity within its walls. TikTok

🕹️ Arcade Fun

Check out Bit Bar for a unique experience with games and food inside the old jail. Instagram

Forbidden Places is back with its final haunted episode. Blavity’s own @tierramarsh covers the iconic Old Salem Jail. And yes, people live there now 🧐 Follow us for more and check the Guides 📔 section of our IG page for ALL episodes.
travelnoire
287 likes • 27.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤫 Respect Private Residences

Remember, the jail is now condos. Admire from the outside and be respectful of residents. Instagram

🚗 Parking Convenience

Use the Passport Parking app for easy payment and time extension at the nearby lot. Reddit

👻 Haunted History

Learn about its dark past; many claim paranormal activity within its walls. TikTok

🕹️ Arcade Fun

Check out Bit Bar for a unique experience with games and food inside the old jail. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Location

It's a short walk to downtown Salem's shops, museums, and other attractions. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(12 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Old Salem Jail is now a private residence and entertainment venue, with visitors appreciating its historic exterior and the unique atmosphere of Bit Bar. While the jail itself isn't open for tours, its legacy as a former penitentiary and its reputation for hauntings continue to draw interest. Parking nearby is convenient but can incur fees.

"A great and not so busy parking lot 5 mins walk from downtown. I go to Salem a lot and use this location all the time. You've gotta pay though, but that's life 😎"

Christian Dysthe

"The jail is now private residences/condos. Read up on the old jail and then go take a peek to gain a better perspective. It's literally right beside the Howard Cemetery."

Lynn Whisler

"Easy quick parking and can use passport parking app to pay and add more time if needed! Very convenient if your out of change 👌"

Jasmine Rosario

What People Like

Historic exterior
Bit Bar's arcade
Convenient parking app

What People Dislike

Parking fees
Jail interior inaccessible

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Salem Jail is located on Saint Peter Street in Salem, Massachusetts. It's easily accessible by car and is a short walk from many downtown Salem attractions. If arriving by public transport, the Salem MBTA Commuter Rail station is a viable option, followed by a walk or short taxi ride. TikTok

Yes, there is a parking lot nearby that is a short walk from downtown. You can use the Passport Parking app to pay and extend your time, which is convenient if you don't have change. Reddit

The interior of the Old Salem Jail has been converted into private luxury condominiums and a ground-floor restaurant/bar (Bit Bar). While you can't tour the former cells, you can visit Bit Bar for a unique experience. Instagram+1

Many visitors find walking is the best way to explore Salem's historic streets and attractions. The Old Salem Jail is centrally located, making it a good starting point or stop on your walking tour. Reddit

As the jail is now private residences and a commercial establishment, accessibility would depend on the specific areas. Bit Bar, located on the ground floor, is generally accessible. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No tickets are required to view the exterior of the Old Salem Jail. If you wish to visit Bit Bar, the establishment located within the building, standard entry applies, and you'll pay for food, drinks, and arcade games. Instagram

The exterior of the jail can be viewed at any time. Bit Bar, located on the ground floor, has its own operating hours, which typically extend into the evening. It's best to check their specific hours online before visiting. Instagram

There is no admission fee to see the outside of the Old Salem Jail. Parking in the nearby lot does have a fee, and costs will apply if you patronize Bit Bar. Reddit

Official tours of the Old Salem Jail are not available as it is now private property. However, many Salem ghost tours and historical walking tours may pass by the building and share its history. TikTok

The Old Salem Jail, also known as the Essex County Jail, was built between 1811 and 1813. It was the oldest active penitentiary in Massachusetts until its closure in 1991 and has a dark history, rumored to be haunted. TikTok+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can admire the historic exterior, learn about its notorious past, and visit Bit Bar for arcade games and refreshments. It's also right next to the Howard Street Cemetery. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the Old Salem Jail is widely considered one of the most haunted places in Salem, with many visitors reporting paranormal experiences. TikTok+1

Bit Bar is a popular spot located on the ground floor of the Old Salem Jail, offering a combination of classic arcade games, a full bar, and a kitchen. It's a unique place to experience the historic building. Instagram

The jail is located next to the Howard Street Cemetery and is a short walk from many of Salem's main attractions, including museums, shops, and other historical sites. TikTokReddit

Yes, you can take photos of the exterior of the Old Salem Jail. Photography inside Bit Bar is generally permitted, but always be mindful of other patrons and staff. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Bit Bar, a restaurant and arcade, is located on the ground floor of the former jail building. They offer a menu of food and drinks. Instagram

Bit Bar offers a menu that includes pub fare, burgers, and other casual dining options, alongside a wide selection of drinks. Instagram

Bit Bar is generally considered family-friendly, especially during daytime hours, as it offers arcade games that appeal to various ages. Instagram

Besides Bit Bar, the Old Salem Jail is within walking distance of numerous restaurants and cafes in downtown Salem, offering a wide variety of cuisines. Reddit

Yes, Bit Bar serves a full range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The most striking photos are of the jail's historic exterior. Capturing its imposing facade from Saint Peter Street provides a good perspective. TikTok

You can take photos inside Bit Bar, the establishment on the ground floor. However, the residential units are private property and should not be photographed. Instagram+1

When visiting Bit Bar, be considerate of other patrons and staff. Avoid intrusive photography. The exterior can be photographed freely. TikTok

Given its history, many visitors focus on capturing the eerie or historic atmosphere of the building, often incorporating elements of Salem's witch trial lore. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds for exterior shots. Evening can be atmospheric, especially if Bit Bar's lights are on. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts

The Old Salem Jail is a must-visit for anyone interested in the paranormal. Numerous accounts of ghostly whispers, apparitions, and unexplained phenomena have been reported within its former walls. TikTok+1 While you can't tour the cells, the building's reputation alone is enough to draw thrill-seekers. Consider joining a Salem ghost tour that might include stories or a drive-by of this infamous location. The adjacent Howard Street Cemetery also adds to the eerie atmosphere. TikTok

🕹️ Gamers & Foodies

If you're looking for a unique dining and entertainment experience, head to Bit Bar on the ground floor of the Old Salem Jail. Instagram This spot combines a full bar and kitchen with a vast collection of classic and modern arcade games. It's a fun, lively atmosphere perfect for a casual outing, offering a chance to experience the historic building in a modern, engaging way. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by early American history and architecture, the Old Salem Jail offers a glimpse into the past. Though now private residences, its exterior showcases the design of an early 19th-century penitentiary. TikTok Researching its history as the oldest active jail in Massachusetts and its role in housing various inmates, including notorious figures, will enrich your visit. Instagram Its location next to the Howard Street Cemetery also provides context for Salem's historical landscape. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Jail's Notorious Past

The Old Salem Jail, also known as the Essex County Jail, has a long and often grim history. Built between 1811 and 1813, it served as the oldest active penitentiary in Massachusetts until its closure in 1991. TikTok Its walls have held a variety of inmates, from common criminals to more infamous figures. TikTok videos and Instagram reels often highlight its reputation as one of the most haunted locations in Salem, with tales of paranormal activity stemming from the suffering of its former prisoners and guards. TikTok+1

Beyond its reputation for hauntings, the jail also housed notorious guests, including mafia figures and, reportedly, the Boston Strangler. Instagram This dark past contributes to the chilling aura that surrounds the building, even after its transformation. Understanding this history adds a layer of depth when viewing the structure today. TikTok

Adaptive Reuse: From Prison to Luxury

In a remarkable example of adaptive reuse, the historic Old Salem Jail has been transformed into a modern living space. Following a significant renovation, the building now features 23 luxury condominiums. Instagram This project aimed to preserve the historic facade while creating contemporary living environments. The ground floor has also been repurposed, housing Bit Bar, a popular establishment that blends classic arcade games with a full-service bar and kitchen. Instagram

This transformation is a testament to how historic structures can be given new life. While the cells and prison routines are gone, the building's imposing architecture remains, offering residents and visitors a unique connection to Salem's past. The contrast between its former function and its current use is striking and a point of fascination for many. TikTokInstagram

Experiencing the Jail's Legacy

While direct access to the jail's interior as a former prison is not possible, visitors can still engage with its legacy. The most common way to experience the Old Salem Jail is by viewing its historic exterior. Its imposing structure on Saint Peter Street is a significant landmark in Salem. TikTok Many visitors are drawn to its reputation for paranormal activity, making it a point of interest for those exploring Salem's haunted history. TikTok+1

For a more interactive experience, Bit Bar offers a unique way to be within the building's walls. Patrons can enjoy retro arcade games and refreshments, all while surrounded by the historic architecture. Instagram Additionally, the jail's proximity to the Howard Street Cemetery provides an opportunity to explore another facet of Salem's historical landscape. Reddit Learning about the jail's past before visiting can enhance the experience, allowing you to appreciate the stories held within its walls. TikTok

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