The First Church, UU is a granite "castle-like" building located at 316 Essex Street at in the historic area of downtown Salem. They are located between the Ropes Mansion also known as Alison's House in the movie Hocus Pocus and the House of Judge Corwin of the Salem Witch Trials also known as The Witch House.
Founded by English Puritan settlers of the Massachusetts Bay Colony in August 1629. The First Church in Salem is one of the oldest churches in North America, organized and governed by the congregation. During its long history the theological position of the Church has changed, most significantly in the early 1800's when Unitarianism was embraced. You can learn more about the Church's history at firstchurchinsalem.org
By Air
The best airports are Boston Logan Airport on the northern side of Boston. The airport is about 18 miles from Salem. There are Uber and Lyft services that go from there to Salem. The Train services goes from the airport to North Station in Boston where you can connect to the MBTA commuter rail service to Salem via Rockport or Newburyport lines. Visit MBTA.com for more information. Manchester/Boston Airport is north of Salem by about an hour. Car rentals are available there.
By Train
Trains to Boston come into South Station. From there the subway system connects you to North Station where you can grab the train to Salem.
Take the MBTA Commuter Rail Rockport/Newburyport Line to Salem. Walk 10 minutes from the station, or take the MBTA #450 or 456 Bus to the Summer Street stop, which is in front of the Church Visit MBTA.com for more information.
By Ferry
For those staying in Boston, there is a ferry from Boston's Long Wharf. It is about a 50 minute boat ride with beautiful views of Boston and Salem, and the New England shoreline. There is a snack bar on board. You can buy ferry tickets at CityExperiences.com
By Car
Driving from I-95/128/Rt. 114/North Street: Follow signs for 114 East all the way into Salem. Then follow the next set of direction. Turn right on to Essex Street. We are between The Witch House and Ropes Mansion on your right behind a black wrought iron fence.
Parking at the Church
There is no public parking at the site of the church. We suggest parking at the Sewall Street or Crombie Street lots. They are within walking distance and are within one to three blocks away. The MBTA lot is also a short walk away.
Building Accessibility
The accessible entrance is located at the Office entrance to the right of the building. There you will find our elevator which is fully ADA compliant.
Transportation Around Town While Here
Salem is a very walkable city and there are also lots of ways to get around town. Here is a list of local sources. Uber and Lyft are also very active in the city.
- Salem Skipper: This is an on-demand, city-wide ridesharing service that operates like a shared Uber/Lyft at an affordable rate. Book via the mobile app, with more details available at Mobility Services - Salem, MA.
- Taxis: Local services like Salem Taxi (978-741-2235) and Witch City Taxi (978-234-4044) are available, often offering senior discounts
