Discover 330 years of Salem’s history as you experience this collection of historic buildings located on Salem Harbor. When you arrive at The House of the Seven Gables – which constitutes its own national historic district on The National Register of Historic places – professional guides will warmly greet you for an unforgettable historical experience. Outside, spectacular seaside gardens await you. Inside of The House of the Seven Gables, also known as the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion, you will discover a mysterious secret staircase where you least expect it! Built in 1668, this is the oldest surviving 17th century wooden mansion in New England. The House of the Seven Gables inspired author Nathaniel Hawthorne to write his legendary novel of the same name. Hawthorne’s birthplace is also at the historic site, as well as spectacular seaside gardens, a modern visitor center and a museum shop.