You may not believe your eyes when driving up NY State Route 22 through southern Washington County (click for map). Here, in the unspoiled rural community of Salem, NY, you’ll find a remarkable confluence of art and agriculture, crowned by the giant orange sculptures atop Cary Hill. This is the work of Mark di Suvero, whose dramatic sculptures can also be seen on the National Mall in Washington DC and currently on loan to Salem Art Works (SAW).
As eye-popping as the sculptures are, they complement rather compete with the lush, rolling hills of the surrounding countryside. Salem is the place for the best maple syrup in the spring, the most succulent sweet corn in summer and the most vibrant fall foliage, thanks to our unusually high concentration of sugar maples.
In the New York county with more historic covered bridges than any other (four), Salem boasts three, all of which span the clear waters of the Battenkill River. Legendary for its trout fishing, “The Kill” is also a popular playground for canoeists, kayakers, tubers and rope swing enthusiasts.
History buffs will want to visit the Revolutionary War Cemetery, the final resting place of 101 soldiers – more than any other in the county – with a total of 1,034 stones dating back to 1769.
And if shopping is your sport, Salem abounds with intriguing opportunities you won’t find in any mall. From fine art to fiber arts, pick your own fruit and vegetables, to hand reared and organic meat, cheeses, antiques and more, Salem is a unique destination. Spend the night at one of our many B&Bs and see what it’s like to live in the country for a night or two.
Art, agriculture, history, recreation…you’ll find it all here in Salem. Come visit!