Salem Maritime National Historical Park

Salem Maritime National Historical Park preserves the wharves, buildings and stories of one of America’s most influential early ports. Its sites explain how Salem traders and sailors brought the riches of the Far East to America, and visitors can see the replica tall ship Friendship at the waterfront. Several buildings can be explored on free self-guided visits staffed by National Park Service rangers or volunteers.

Highlights include the 1762 Derby House, a Georgian merchant’s home furnished to reflect the 20 years Elias Hasket and Elizabeth Crowninshield Derby lived there, seen on small ranger-led tours. The 1675 Narbonne House covers nearly 300 years of family history and displays artifacts from roughly 150,000 excavated from its backyard. The U.S. Custom House, built in 1819 for the U.S. Customs Service, along with the Public Stores and Scale House, round out the waterfront.

What to Know

• Derby House tours are free but limited to eight people and require reservations.
• Reservations can be made at the Salem Visitor Center on the day of your visit.
• The Narbonne House is unfurnished and self-guided.
• Check with the Visitor Center for current tour schedules and film times.