For the first time since 2019, The House of the Seven Gables will host April School Vacation Week. From April 18 to 22, kids and their families are invited to take part in fun new activities just as the colorful gardens spring to life. Everyone will have a chance to thoroughly explore the nooks and crannies of the National Historic Landmark District’s 2.5 campus as they complete scavenger hunt challenges, find out about life on board sailing ships and try their hand at recreating some of the site’s historic architecture. Bonus — there will be prizes!
Participation is free with the cost of a grounds pass ($8) or guided tour admission ($12). Parents are welcome to join their kids and play along, especially if the children are younger. Salem residents and children under the age of 5 are admitted free of charge, as always.
The lineup of activities is as follows:
Navigating History Scavenger Hunt
From April 18 to 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sign up at the Admission Desk and receive a compass, along with some instructions. Then, set off on your scavenger hunt adventure. Most of the points of interest are outdoors, but those participating may also explore Nathaniel Hawthorne’s Birthplace and the Counting House. Those navigating this historic site will pass through 350 years of history — in manageable, bite-size pieces. Museum staff will be on hand to answer questions or help with navigation questions. Once the scavenger hunt is successfully completed, return to the front desk and claim your prize!
Two New Hands-On History Programs
Life on Board
Tuesday, April 19, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Families learn all about the many types of jobs sailors had while aboard a sailing ship in Colonial, post-Revolutionary War New England.
Constructing History
Thursday, April 21, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This older program has been refreshed and revised. Participants will learn about architecture on the historic site and in Salem. All participants will have a chance to construct their own architectural detail.
About The House of the Seven Gables Settlement Association
The mission of The House of the Seven Gables Settlement Association is to be a welcoming, thriving, historic site and community resource that engages people of all backgrounds in our inclusive American story. For more information visit www.7gables.org.
Stories are at the core of what we do at The House of the Seven Gables. They are not just a part of our past, but also our present and future. In 2021, we look forward to exploring the lore of our historic site and surrounding community with a special series of lectures, programs and events.
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