Salem, Massachusetts, is one of America's oldest and most fascinating cities. Settled in 1626, Salem is known as The Witch City because of the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Today the Salem community works to preserve the past as it look into the future. The history of America comes alive in Salem, and it is easy to explore. The Salem Heritage Trail links all of Salem's historic sites together on a red line painted on the sidewalk. The heritage trail is 1.7 miles long and self-guided. It can take as much time as you would like to spend! As a walk around the city, allow an hour and a half. If you plan to stop in at the attractions, you could spend a few days exploring the Heritage Trail. Don't forget to look up when you are on the Heritage Trail: One of Salem's greatest assets is the breathtaking architecture. The architecture of Salem is presented to visitors on the self-guided McIntire Historic District trail. The trail will lead you through the historic Chestnut Street neighborhood. Chestnut Street is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful streets in the world, and it has been designated a Registered National Historic Landmark. Most of the homes on the walk are private. The Stephen Phillips Memorial Trust House on Chestnut Street is open to the public seasonally. Salem's African American Heritage comes alive in the trail published by the National Park Service. The brochure, available at the National Park Service visitor center, highlights sites of importance in Salem and outlines the roles played by African Americans in Salem and in America. From abolitionist to soldier to seaman to caterer, the stories of Salem's African Americans bring their history alive.