Old Salem Jail
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
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Old Salem Jail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

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.
"Admire the historic exterior and enjoy arcade games at Bit Bar within the former Old Salem Jail."
🤫 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Exterior
Saint Peter Street
Admire the imposing architecture of the former oldest active penitentiary in Massachusetts.

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
Ground floor of the Jail
Enjoy retro arcade games and drinks in a unique setting within the historic jail building.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Glimpse into Salem's Past
Beyond the Bars: Modern Salem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 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.
👻 Haunted History
Learn about its dark past; many claim paranormal activity within its walls.
🕹️ Arcade Fun
Check out Bit Bar for a unique experience with games and food inside the old jail.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 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.
👻 Haunted History
Learn about its dark past; many claim paranormal activity within its walls.
🕹️ Arcade Fun
Check out Bit Bar for a unique experience with games and food inside the old jail.
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
It's a short walk to downtown Salem's shops, museums, and other attractions.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
Yes, the Old Salem Jail is widely considered one of the most haunted places in Salem, with many visitors reporting paranormal experiences.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
Bit Bar offers a menu that includes pub fare, burgers, and other casual dining options, alongside a wide selection of drinks.
Bit Bar is generally considered family-friendly, especially during daytime hours, as it offers arcade games that appeal to various ages.
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.
Yes, Bit Bar serves a full range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
The most striking photos are of the jail's historic exterior. Capturing its imposing facade from Saint Peter Street provides a good perspective.
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.
When visiting Bit Bar, be considerate of other patrons and staff. Avoid intrusive photography. The exterior can be photographed freely.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
🕹️ Gamers & Foodies
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Jail's Notorious Past
Beyond its reputation for hauntings, the jail also housed notorious guests, including mafia figures and, reportedly, the Boston Strangler. 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.
Adaptive Reuse: From Prison to Luxury
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.
Experiencing the Jail's Legacy
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. Additionally, the jail's proximity to the Howard Street Cemetery provides an opportunity to explore another facet of Salem's historical landscape. Learning about the jail's past before visiting can enhance the experience, allowing you to appreciate the stories held within its walls.
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