Salem Willows Park

Send to Friend

Write Review

Report Error

Parks & Nature

Official Website: Salem Willows Park
Location: 171-185 Fort Avenue, Salem, MA map
Phone:(978) 745-0251
Ages: Toddlers, Kids, Teens, Adults
In/Outdoor: Outdoor
Cost: Free

Others to Consider: Francis William Bird Park, Stage Fort Park Beaches, Walden Pond State Park, Duxbury Beach Park, Memorial Drive - Closed to Traffic Sundays

At the tip of land that juts into Salem Bay is Salem Willows Park, a wonderful destination for an afternoon of picnicking and outdoor activities.

Enjoy beautiful shaded seaside grounds, scenic ocean views, public pier for fishing, a bandstand for concerts, picnic areas, beaches, children's rides, activities and many eateries.

History of Salem Willows
Salem Willows is renowned for the European white willow trees planted here in 1801 to form a shaded walk for patients convalescing at the old smallpox hospital. Later the area became a park. During the first half of the 20th century, Restaurant Row on the park's north shore served fresh seafood favored by locals and visitors alike. The last of these once popular restaurants was closed in the late 1940's.

Carousel:
A carousel with carved flying horses was another special attraction at Salem Willows which then, as now, operated as an entertainment center. Although the entertainment and flying horses are gone, visitors still flock here during the summer to enjoy the sunshine, the arcade and the park's ample picnic grounds and recreational facilities.

Salem Willows provides a seaside promenade popular throughout Essex County, Boston and beyond. The area also possesses residential and historical importance. A 'tenting ground' established in the mid 19th century gave way to summer cottages which are now the center of a distinctive year-round neighborhood.

Winter Island:
Beyond this neighborhood, across a causeway, lies Winter Island. Over the years it has served a multitude of purposes including fish drying, shipbuilding, and public recreation. Since the 1640's a fort there -- now known as Fort Pickering -- has defended the mouth of Salem Harbor. From the Civil War until 1971 most of Winter Island was under Federal authority. It was used most recently as a Coast Guard base.

Fort Lee:
Inland on the high ground in the center of Salem Neck, lies Fort Lee. Fort Lee is a star-shaped mound of earth designed to be used as a lookout to guard against coastal attack. Originally built in the 1740's, Fort Lee protected Salem's sea approaches during the war of 1812 and athe Civil War. In September 2001, Historic Salem, Inc. added Fort Lee to its list of Most Endangered Historic Resources. The fort once had a commanding view of Salem Willows, the harbor entrances and Winter Island, but is now overgrown and neglected. It was also known as Cannon Hill as it had four Civil War cannons on the embankment at one time.

Willow Park Amenities & Eateries:

Sun Line Cruises, (978) 741-1900
(Seasonal - starting this year June 15th, 2002)
Salem's most comprehensive cruise company. Offering service to Misery Island, Gloucester's Rocky Neck Art Colony and Marblehead. Coastal, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Attitude Adjustment and Sunset cruises. All the info is on their web site.

E.W. Hobbs, Inc.:
(Seasonal) (978) 745-7691
Since 1883. Operated over a century by four generations of the Hobbs family. Try their famous popcorn and taffy! Ice Cream, Sodas, frappes, burgers and hot dogs are available, too.

Salem Willows Arcade:
(Seasonal) (978)745-0251
From the latest to the old classics, hundreds of games offering fun for the whole family. Play the Midway and win tickets for prizes. Join the fun!

Willows Variety & Deli - Open Year Round:
153 Fort Avenue, (978)744-1300
Family Variety and lots more! Daily breakfast and luncheon specials. Groceries such as novelty Ice creams, Soda, Juice, Milk, full service Mass State lottery, toys and candy. Feel free to come down to the Salem willows in the winter to treat yourself to the unobstructed ocean views.!
Restaurant Row (Take-out & Fast Foods)

Cappy's Seafood:
(Seasonal) 175 Fort Avenue, (978) 745-8461

Ocean View House of Pizza:
(Seasonal) Fort Avenue,(978) 744-7452

Willow House:
(Seasonal) 177 Fort Avenue, (978) 744-6797