This trip combined two things I love 1) beautiful scenery and 2) ease of travel. Let me start with the #1 question “Can you walk from the Salem ferry warf into downtown Salem and if so- is it a long hard walk?.” Yes- you can absolutely walk. It is a beautiful flat walk through a gorgeous neighborhood with plenty of directional signs . Along the walk are historic sites and old structures worth enjoying. It’s maybe 10 minutes before you start hitting the “chaos” of the city. #”2 Is the ferry ride enjoyable ?” Yes- you can sit outside or inside. The views are gorgeous- it’s almost like a tour. In closing let me note, the ferry was clean, safe, and though it had a lot of passengers , it was NOT jammed packed . Treat yourself- avoid a nasty overcrowded subway or a cab/ Uber ride along a boring old highway. Take the ferry where you can enjoy the trip, enjoy a beverage and walk leisurely into Salem .