Salem Willows is an oceanfront neighborhood and amusement park in Salem, Massachusetts. It is named for the European white willow trees planted there in 1801 to form a shaded walk for patients convalescing at a nearby smallpox hospital. The area became a public park in 1858, and in the twentieth century became a summer destination for residents of Boston's North Shore, many of whom escaped the heat of the city on newly popular streetcars. Many establishments on Restaurant Row, the park's north side, served fresh seafood, while a carousel with carved flying horses was another special attraction at an amusement park that survives to this day. Although the last of the original restaurants closed in the 1960s, there are still numerous take-out stands to choose from. It has several arcades, one containing a few rides. There are two small beaches located on the Willows which is a common place for tourist to go and see the surrounding cities and towns. The beaches are also a common place to watch the 4th of July fireworks since you can see three sets of fireworks; Salem, Beverly, and Marblehead. The willows also has a famous popcorn stand, Hobbs which known around the North Shore as one of the best places to get popcorn or and ice cream.
Interesting Salem Willows history; Home of America’s first ice cream cone.