About
The Peabody Essex Museum, often called PEM, stands at 161 Essex Street in Salem, Massachusetts. It is one of the oldest continuously operating museums in the United States, and its long history shows in the range of its holdings.
What you will find inside
- Asian art, one of the museum's best-known strengths, with outstanding collections across the galleries.
- Maritime history, reflecting Salem's long connection with the sea and trade.
- Contemporary works, which sit alongside the older collections and show how the museum has continued to collect.
Historic houses and gardens
Beyond the galleries, PEM is known for its historic houses and gardens. Visiting them gives a sense of how people lived in the region in earlier centuries, and the grounds offer a quieter pace between exhibitions.
Salem itself is a short walk from the museum, with its streets of old buildings and its waterfront, so a visit can easily become a half day or more. Plan for time to move between the indoor collections and the historic properties.
For current details on opening times and tickets, you can call the museum at +1-978-745-9500 before you go.