Phillips Library

We really enjoyed the origami exhibit. My kids liked making their own creations, and I loved the beautiful displays of various origami art in fabric as well as paper

This beautiful museum, recently renovated and expanded, has a collection focusing on the seafaring days when Salem and New England were a commercial empire in their own right. A wonderful permanent collection is enhanced by a wide variety or temporary exhibits. A small but fun kids area rounds out this world class museum. For a wonderful experience reliving the days of sail check out the Peabody Essex.

PROS: Inexpensive, located in Downtown Salem, excellent collection
CONS: none

Since the Peabody Essex Museum (PEM) was massively renovated several years ago, it has become the center of high culture on the North Shore of Massachusetts. While I personally wish that more of the exhibits centered on painting and sculpture, there are always revolving exhibits, often centering on cultural/ethic art and artifacts. The museum also features many films and music/dance performances. The museum is free for Salem, MA residents.

This is a wonderful museum. Focuses on maritime history as well as the asian and oriental themes too. Has a beautiful new glass lobby with a hip little cafe area to grab a bite to eat. Each section of the museum has an attendant to assist you with any questions you might want to ask. Also,,don't forget to visit the "chinese house", a real house brought over from china.

After the PEM spent millions of dollars to renovate, I expected to be bowled over by the changes. The museum looks beautiful, but the actual exhibits aren't especially impressive. I was, however, flabbergasted by the $13 adult admission fee. And worse, the layout of the museum is downright labyrinthine. My husband and I got lost several times and ended up in some kind of conference room at one point. Our $26 should have at least bought us a better map of the museum. However, I will readily admit, the Yin Yu Tang house (for an additional $4 per adult) is spectacular. I could have spent all day in there. But sadly, in the end, the entire experience of the museum is definitely not worth the price.