As Massachusetts goes through the phases of reopening, we have compiled some answers to frequently asked questions that have been inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Travel Advisories

Are there any travel restrictions for visiting Salem?

As of March 22, 2021, there is a travel advisory in effect for MA. Visitors and returning residents are advised to either self quarantine for 10 days upon arrival in MA or take a COVID-19 test and quarantine until they receive a negative result. Fully vaccinated individuals are exempt from these recommendations. Click here for more information.

Do I need to wear a mask?

Everyone in Massachusetts over the age of two is required to wear a mask or face covering while indoors in public areas and outdoors when physical distancing of 6 ft. or more is not possible or while attending an event (including outdoor walking tours). Learn more at mass.gov/reopening.

What if I have a medical condition that prevents me from wearing a mask?

According to the state’s mask mandate, face coverings should not be worn by children under two and anyone who is unconscious, incapacitated, has trouble breathing, or is otherwise unable to remove masks on their own. Those with medical conditions that may place them at a higher risk for COVID-19 are encouraged to continue to stay home for their safety. Businesses may provide alternatives for guests who cannot wear masks (like curbside pickup for instance) but they reserve the right to refuse entry to customers who are not wearing masks. As any of these orders change we’ll also be posting updates on salem.org/covid19.

Are businesses open?

Salem’s downtown businesses. Please note that masks are required indoors while in public areas and outdoors when distancing is not possible or while attending an event, including outdoor walking tours. Additionally businesses may have modified hours of operation, capacity limits, or require reservations. We recommend confirming details with the businesses you are planning on visiting.

Is there indoor dining?

Salem’s restaurants are open for indoor and outdoor dining (weather permitting). We recommend checking with individual restaurants for specifics. Masks are required at all times in restaurants (including when dining outdoors) whenever you are not eating or drinking.

Are bars open?

Currently alcoholic beverages may only be ordered while seated at a table after food is ordered. Bars may open only for additional restaurant seating. Visit mass.gov/reopening for additional updates.

Are retail shops open?

Most retailers are open for in-store shopping and browsing, and many offer online shopping or curbside pickup. Visit Salem.org/shop for a full list of stores.

Where can I find information on getting married or eloping in Salem?

Information on getting married in Salem is available on salem.org/weddings.

What do I need to know about bringing a group to Salem this year?

Each tour operator using a bus or other vehicle (such as a trolley, harbor cruise vessel, or duck boat) must limit occupancy at all times to 50% of the tour, vehicle or vessel’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the relevant municipal record holder.

Occupancy limitations for boat tours using vessels with open deck space that can be used to accommodate passengers shall be determined in accordance with the formula used to set charter boat occupancy limits, outlined in the Workplace Safety and Reopening Standards for For-Hire and Charter Vessels.

• Tours of spaces for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record must limit occupancy based on the Indoor and Outdoor Event guidance on the Reopening Website
• All occupant counts and calculations shall include customers and workers
• Groups of passengers should be separated on the vehicle by empty seats. If that is not possible, vehicles should stagger open rows
• Tour operators must limit group size in walking tours to groups of no more than 10 persons
• Guides and guests should maintain 6 feet of distance and wear face coverings

Find more information on group tours under Massachusetts’ phased reopening guidelines here.

Thank you for wanting to visit Salem. Join us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for regular updates.

We can’t wait to see you soon!