The museum is lovely and would have liked to spend more time there. We went primarily to see the Witch Trial exhbition. Unfortunately the way the ticketing online went, it appears you can see it but when we arrived were told it was at capacity. They did offer a refund, which was nice but we refused it. the American exhibit on first floor was as far as we got but it was really impressive. Allow enough time to really enjoy this place.

The PEM is a wonderful way to spend a few hours (you could probably spend most of the day here) and a great way to escape the crowded streets if you are in Salem during Halloween-time. Admission was reasonable ($20) and they had a promotion for Bank of America cardholders while we were there (Free entry with BOA card). There are many different exhibits, plus a cafe. Bonus points for a great clean bathroom if you are in Salem for the day as a tourist.

Very nice museum with thoughtful exhibits that are well put together. We really enjoyed the Witch Trials Restoring Justice exhibit. It was nice to be able to have a quiet moment of respect and reflection for a tragic event in the midst of peak tourism time where everything was a bit more fun and silly.

When planning our trips we alway look at reviews to try and decide what to see and definitely what is worth the money. This museum is worth the price of admission just like all the other reviews we saw. The Native American section and the witch exhibit both tied to the area nicely. What we did not expect were the Japanese, Chinese and other art areas that had so many neat pieces to view but with no seeming ties to the area. Just a really nice art museum. Make this your first stop to get the true historical facts behind the trials and see all the original artifacts on display. Then go enjoy the rest of the shops and museums from there for their entertainment value.

Excellent museum, much larger then we thought so we didn't give ourselves enough time to thoroughly enjoy. But that means we will go back for another visit. Didn't realize we had to buy tickets in advance to see the 200 year old Yin Yu Tang (Chinese) house - we wanted to see if it was similar to ones we have visited in China, Vietnam and Cambodia. Most of these types of houses in Asia have been lost due to modernization, which is sad. So next visit we will purchase tickets ahead of time. We loved all the Asian exhibits - especially the hand painted wallpaper from China.

The only downside of a family visit here is that the little ones (ages 1-4) will fatigue after the kids play space, Bats exhibit and garden. This may limit complete exploration by the adults, but incentivize them to return sans kids. Wonderful museum. Loved the maritime exhibit today. Our two year old tired before we could see the entire place but it was a great family outing.

I had time to spare so why not visit the museum. I came within an hour of closure so I was able to get a discounted rate, but I also had to rush the exhibits a little bit. There was such a good variety of art. There is a Japanese exhibit, Chinese and Indian exhibits. I've never seen Indian art in a museum and I liked that. Along with other cultures there was the 'Black Atlantic' exhibit which was interesting as well, because again it's not something I've seen in a museum to that extent. So I really appreciated that. There was also an open room which reminded me museums in Paris. Visiting PEM museum is something you'll regret. If I wasn't pressed on time I'd easily spend another 45 minutes exploring.

Came from the UK to do the witchy stuff in Salem, it was very cold outside so decided to spend a couple of hours here to get warmed up, so glad we did as there was some really interesting things old and modern, highlight for me was the Prayer bead with the Coronation of the Virgin in Heaven and Judgment Day, WOW it blew me away. overall a great experience and great to see lots of children around the museum. had a great cup of tea there too

I have had a membership to the Peabody Essex Museum for a very long time. My first exposure to the PEM was a school trip in the late 1960’s. I absolutely loved the East India Marine Hall which at the time to me it was the centerpiece of the museum. Fast forward to the 1990’s, I am starting a family and get drawn again to the PEM for a kid’s hand on experience about Salem. This little visit got my children hooked on Salem and for years to come we visited the PEM, went to Halloween events and continued to have many spring, summer, fall excursions to PEM and Salem itself. My children are now grown and they are bringing their children to Salem and the PEM. Gem of a museum. The curators of the museum somehow get the best exhibits/shows which is also a major draw. Go to the Peabody Essex Museum. You will not be disappointed.

The current exhibit Our Time on Earth presents a number of radical suggestions to combat climate change and will certainly generate conversation. We also took the opportunity to tour the Chinese House (free with admission but timed tickets). The courtyard cafe is also very nice for lunch or a snack.