Essex National Heritage Area

Mooring Rental at Bakers Island Light Station
2023-08-17 12:00 - 2023-08-18 12:00, 2023-08-18 12:00 - 2023-08-19 12:00, 2023-08-19 12:00 - 2023-08-20 12:00, 2023-08-20 12:00 - 2023-08-21 12:00, 2023-08-21 12:00 - 2023-08-22 12:00, 2023-08-22 12:00 - 2023-08-23 12:00, 2023-08-23 12:00 - 2023-08-24 12:00, 2023-08-24 12:00 - 2023-08-25 12:00 (America/New_York) and 4 more dates | Bakers Island Light Station, Bakers Island, Salem, MA, 01944, United States
Rent the mooring off of Bakers Island Light Station, for a day trip or for camping/overnight stays (separate booking required)

Rent a mooring off of Bakers Island Light Station.
Mooring is located on the northwest side of Bakers Island off the stone beach. Day trips ashore are allowed provided boaters sign-in with on-island volunteers stationed at the Light Station. The 10-acre light station is open for walking or swimming off the beach; the rest of the island is private and does not allow visitors. Overnight camping is available for an additional fee by visiting Hipcamp listing here.
Check-in for the mooring is between 12:00noon and 6PM. Guests renting the mooring must call or text the Bakers Island Light caretakers as to the estimated time of arrival on their way to the mooring (phone number will be provided after booking).
IMPORTANT INFORMATION IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO COME ASHORE: When arriving at the mooring, RENTERS CANNOT LEAVE THEIR BOAT UNTIL THE CARETAKERS ARE ON THE BEACH READY TO RECEIVE THE DINGY AND THE GROUP. Failure to notify the caretakers of your arrival PRIOR TO LANDING on the beach could result in notification to the Salem Harbormaster. The Bakers Island Homeowners Association takes their privacy very seriously, and Bakers Island caretakers must vouch for legitimate guests of Essex Heritage before landing. THE NAMES OF ALL GUESTS WHO ARE COMING ASHORE MUST BE REGISTERED WITH THE CARETAKERS.
NO ONE IS ALLOWED TO LAND ASHORE AFTER 6PM. There are no exceptions. Late arrivals will need to stay on their boat until 8AM the next morning. The Bakers Island caretakers must be contacted regarding arrival prior to landing on the beach.
DINGHIES ARE REQUIRED to get ashore. All mooring renters must have their own dinghy to get ashore. If they do not have their own transportation from boat to beach, they will not be able to land.

Salem Witch Hunt: Myths & Misconceptions Walking Tour
2023-08-18 11:45 - 12:55, 2023-08-18 13:45 - 14:55, 2023-08-19 11:45 - 12:55, 2023-08-19 13:45 - 14:55, 2023-08-20 11:45 - 12:55, 2023-08-20 13:45 - 14:55, 2023-08-25 11:45 - 12:55, 2023-08-25 13:45 - 14:55 and 4 more dates | Salem Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Learn the true causes and events behind the Salem Witch Trials in our documentary film, then discover the myths during our walking tour.

The Salem Witch Trials happened over 300 years ago, and it has been dramatized in books, documentaries, movies, and even TV shows. Over the years it has been presented so many times in so many ways that the line between fact and fiction gets blurred.
Our walking tour seeks to debunk any misconceptions you might have about the Salem Witch Trials, by sharing historic images, documents, and locations to uncover these myths and discover the truth behind this infamous time period in Salem’s history.
All walking tour tickets include entry to our documentary film Salem Witch Hunt: Examine the Evidence which features authentic dialogue taken from court transcripts and commentary by renowned Salem Witch Trial scholars. Scenes depicted in the film were shot at actual locations associated with the Witch Trials of 1692. (Film is shown 11:00am,1:00pm and 3:00pm) You can choose to see the film before or after your walking tour.

FAQs
How long is the tour and where does it go?
The tour lasts 60-70 minutes, and travels less than 1 mile around downtown Salem. The tour includes stops at the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, and the site of the original 17th century jail.
Where does this tour leave from?
All tours leave from in front of the Salem Armory Visitor Center at 2 New Liberty Street.
Do I have to bring my printed ticket?
You may print out your ticket(s) OR show the confirmation email to the staff at the desk using your phone.
What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?
For detailed information about parking in Salem CLICK HERE
Is this tour handicap accessible?
Not entirely, a few of the areas that the tour goes are uneven, narrow, or dirt paths that are not easily navigated with wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Please also be aware that the tour lasts 60-75 minutes and does not include places to sit so be prepared to stand the entire time.
For any questions and information please call (978)224-2036 or email KathrynR@EssexHeritage.org
PLEASE NOTE: We will only cancel the tour due to extreme rain, so be prepared for any kind of weather as October temperatures can be unpredictable, and this tour takes place entirely outdoors. Ticket holders will be notified by email or cell if we decide to cancel last minute.
Refunds will not be issued if you miss your tour due to parking or traffic; Traffic is heavy in October and parking is extremely limited, please plan in advance to arrive in time. The city keeps an updated list of available parking for each day HERE

2023 Boat Tour to Misery Island
2023-08-19 11:00 - 14:00, 2023-08-26 11:00 - 14:00 | Salem Ferry Dock, 10 Blaney St, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Journey on Essex Heritage’s landing craft Naumkeag to Great Misery Island in Salem Sound.

Journey on Essex Heritage’s landing craft Naumkeag to Great Misery Island in Salem Sound. Along the way, hear stories about the rich history of the harbor and how the Misery Islands acquired their unique name. When you arrive, you’ll have 2 hours to explore the trails, open meadows, rocky shoreline, and hidden coves on the island. The Misery Islands are managed by The Trustees. More information about the islands as well as a trail map can be found HERE
Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
What You Need To Know Before You Go! Frequently Asked Questions
How much does this cost?

Adults: $39
Children (4-12 yr): $29
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! (A discount code will be provided on membership confirmation letter.)

How long is the trip?
About 3 hours round-trip (30-minute trip to and from the islands, and 2 hours on Great Misery Island)
Are there restrictions on who can go?
YES. All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.

What should I wear?

Rubber-soled shoes.
Flip-flops not recommended; NO heels.
Comfortable clothing.
IMPORTANT: It’s colder on the water and there is no shelter from the weather on our open boat. Bring an extra layer!

What if it rains or is stormy?
Boat trips depend on the weather. Naumkeag has no rain or sun cover on it. You will be exposed to the elements going to and from the island.
What is the Cancellation Policy?

If Essex Heritage cancels the boat trip: If it is too rainy or stormy or the seas are too rough, and Essex Heritage has to cancel the boat trip, you will be fully refunded the cost of your ticket
If ticket holder cancels: If you cancel because you think it is too sunny, rainy, windy or whatever, but the boat still goes, tickets are non-refundable.
If the boat leaves the dock but cannot land on the island: In the very unlikely event that the boat arrives at Great Misery Island but cannot disembark passengers, you will still have experienced a pleasant boat ride and harbor tour. In this case, you will receive a refund for 50% of your ticket cost(s) (full refunds will only be given if the boat doesn’t leave the dock.)

How will I know if my tour has been cancelled?
Essex Heritage staff will do our best to email all ticketed passengers in advance if your trip has been cancelled. We will also keep an updated weather advisory line at (978) 998-2188.
Is there food or drinking water?
No, we do not have any food or drink available while on board. You are free to bring your own, but please take everything back with you. If you carried it on then you must carry it back.
Is smoking allowed?
Smoking is NOT permitted on the boat or anywhere on the island.
Are there bathroom facilities?
The bathroom facilities are VERY limited. There are bathrooms at the Salem Ferry dock, but there are no bathrooms on the boat. Once on the island, there are bathrooms along the trail.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are NOT permitted on our boat, with the exception of certified service animals defined by Title II and Title III of the ADA.
Questions?
Please call our Bakers Island Line at (978) 212-9227, if no one answers right away please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
For information about the Misery Islands please visit the website of The Trustees, the regional organization that manages them: https://thetrustees.org/place/misery-islands/
Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.

2023 Boat Tour to Bakers Island Lighthouse
2023-08-20 13:00 - 15:30, 2023-08-27 13:00 - 15:30 | Salem Ferry Dock, 10 Blaney St, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Adventure to a place like nowhere else!

Climb aboard Naumkeag, Essex Heritage’s landing craft for a trip to Bakers Island Light Station. Enjoy a 30-minute cruise from Salem past rugged coastline, harbor islands, and five lighthouses to Bakers Island. The light station is a 10-acre property that has been in use aiding in maritime navigation for almost 250 years. The site features an 1820 light tower, two keepers houses, and historic trails. During your visit you will have the chance to explore the natural landscape, learn about the history of the light station, and relax on the island setting.
Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
What You Need To Know Before You Go! (Frequently Asked Questions)
How much does the trip cost?

Adults: $39
Children (4-12 yr): $29
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! (A discount code will be provided on membership confirmation letter.)

How long is the trip?
About 2.5 hours round-trip
Are there restrictions on who can go?
YES. All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.

Please Note: The lighthouse cannot be climbed at this time.
What should I wear?

Rubber-soled shoes.
Flip-flops not recommended; NO heels.
Comfortable clothing.
IMPORTANT: It’s colder on the water and there is no shelter from the weather on our open boat. Bring an extra layer!

What if it rains or is stormy?
Boat trips depend on the weather. Naumkeag has no rain or sun cover on it. You will be exposed to the elements going to and from the island.
What is the Cancellation Policy?

If Essex Heritage cancels the boat trip: If it is too rainy or stormy or the seas are too rough, and Essex Heritage has to cancel the boat trip, you will be fully refunded the cost of your ticket
If ticket holder cancels: If you cancel because you think it is too sunny, rainy, windy or whatever, but the boat still goes, tickets are non-refundable.
If the boat leaves the dock but cannot land on the island: In the very unlikely event that the boat arrives at Bakers Island but cannot disembark passengers, you will still have experienced a pleasant boat ride and harbor tour. In this case, you will receive a refund for 50% of your ticket cost(s). (Only full refunds will be given if the boat doesn’t leave the dock.)

How will I know if my tour has been cancelled?
Essex Heritage staff will do our best to email all ticketed passengers in advance if your trip has been cancelled. We will also keep an updated weather advisory line at (978) 998-2188.
Is there food or drinking water?
There is limited food and drinking water available for sale at the Light Station. You are free to bring your own, but please take everything off the island with you. If you carried it on then you must carry it back.
Is smoking allowed?
Smoking is NOT permitted on the boat or anywhere on the island at all.
Are there bathroom facilities?
The bathroom facilities are limited. There are bathrooms at the Salem Ferry dock, but there are no bathrooms on the boat. Once on the island, there are composting toilet facilities at the Light Station.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are NOT permitted on our boat, with the exception of certified service animals defined by Title II and Title III of the ADA.
Questions?
Please call our Bakers Island Line at (978) 212-9227, if no one answers right away please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.

Wild Edibles at Bakers Island Light
2023-08-25 10:00 - 14:00 | Salem Ferry Dock, 10 Blaney St, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Join naturalist and wild foods enthusiast Russ Cohen on a special edible excursion at Bakers Island Light.

Explore Wild Edibles at Bakers Island Light Station
Come join naturalist and wild foods enthusiast, Russ Cohen on a special edible excursion out to Bakers Island Light Station, a historic property owned by Essex Heritage.
This 4-hour special trip includes the boat ride aboard Naumkeag and a walking tour of the property with expert Russ Cohen pointing out special species along the trails including the kind you can snack on! Before departing for the main land, enjoy sumac-ade (a natural alternative to Kool-Aid) and a wild goodie or two made by Russ Cohen himself! The wild edibles tour includes over 3 dozen species of edible wild plants that have existed on the island for some time. Also expect to encounter at least six of the additional native wild edible species that were planted last summer.
Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
Tickets
Please read all the information listed below before purchasing your ticket(s).

Adults: $39
Children (4-12 yr): $25
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! Not a member? Sign up here: essexheritage.org/membership

What You Need To Know Before You Go! Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the trip?
About 4 hours round-trip.
What should I wear or bring with me?

Rubber-soled shoes.
Flip-flops not recommended; NO heels.
Comfortable clothing.
IMPORTANT: It’s colder on the water and there is no shelter from the weather on our open boat. Bring an extra layer!
Wild edibles may be available to nibble and sip on during this adventure but, it won’t be a full lunch. There will be a scheduled break for lunch, so please pack a sandwich or snacks, plus water, if you will need it.

Are there restrictions on who can go?
Yes. All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.

What is the trip like?
It is an adventure aboard Essex Heritage’s landing craft Naumkeag…

Arrive at our stone beach.
Disembark and follow special host Russ Cohen as he points out the native and invasive species that inhabit the 10 acres owned by Essex Heritage.
Enjoy an hour and half of guided discovery and explore the edible options while learning about living off the grid.
Please Note: The lighthouse cannot be climbed at this time.

What if it rains or is stormy?
Boat trips depend on the weather. Naumkeag has no rain or sun cover on it. You will be exposed to the elements going to and from the island.
What is the Cancellation Policy?

If Essex Heritage cancels the boat trip: If it is too rainy or stormy or the seas are too rough, and Essex Heritage has to cancel the boat trip, you will be fully refunded the cost of your ticket
If ticket holder cancels: If you cancel because you think it is too sunny, rainy, windy or whatever, but the boat still goes, tickets are non-refundable.
If the boat leaves the dock but cannot land on the island: In the very unlikely event that the boat arrives at Bakers Island but cannot disembark passengers, you will still have experienced a pleasant boat ride and harbor tour. In this case, you will receive a refund for 50% of your ticket cost(s). (Only full refunds will be given if the boat doesn’t leave the dock.)

How will I know if my tour has been cancelled?
Essex Heritage staff will do our best to email all ticketed passengers in advance if your trip has been cancelled. We will also keep an updated weather advisory line at 978-998-2188.
Is smoking allowed?
Smoking is NOT permitted on the boat or anywhere on the island at all.
Are there bathroom facilities?
The bathroom facilities are VERY limited. There are bathrooms at the Salem Ferry dock, but there are no bathrooms on the boat. Once on the island, there is only one composting toilet facility at the Light Station.
Questions?
Please call Essex Heritage’s Visitor Information Desk (located in the National Park Service Visitor Center) at 978-224-2036. The Visitor Information Desk is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 AM-4 PM.
Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.
