Editors’ Choice
The Merchant
Salem
The Merchant is where Salem’s maritime history meets historic chic with a touch of East Asian elegance. Lark Hotels drew inspiration from the property’s original wealthy sea merchant owner and the town’s shipping port history to infuse the hotel with a sense of mystery and charm. Guests can stay in the room specifically requested by George Washington for his triumphant visit to Salem in 1789. The rooms are historic but modern, with super-soft linens, and the food is everything you would expect from a Lark Hotels property—in a word, delicious.
148 Washington St., Salem, 978-745-8100, themerchantsalem.com
Readers’ Choice
The Inn at Castle Hill
Ipswich
If you are looking for a place to unplug (literally), this is it. With television-free rooms and plenty of peace and quiet, and its grand landscape, The Inn at Castle Hill does not disappoint.
The Inn is now making to-go food (including sandwiches and salads) at the Castle Hill Café, which is located inside the Great House and connected to the Castle Hill gift shop
280 Argilla Rd., Ipswich, 978-412-2555, thetrustees.org/the-inn-at-castle-hill/