Wicked things to do in Salem, MA
Updated: Feb 28
Salem is a must-visit destination in the fall for all things spooky. With its chilling history dating back to the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692, Salem offers an unforgettable experience steeped in mystery and intrigue. Below are some top things to do for your Salem October trip!
Venturing to Salem in October promises a weekend filled with enchantment, despite the crowds. It’s a sensation that defies explanation, yet one that I wholeheartedly encourage experiencing. You can’t beat a trip to Salem on Halloween.
If you're a Hocus Pocus fan like me, visiting the film locations in Salem is a top priority. As soon as we arrived in Salem, we made it our mission to explore these iconic spots. Setting out early around 7 am allowed us to beat the crowds and fully immerse ourselves in the magic of the movie. From Max and Dani's house to Allison's house and the town Halloween party location, each site felt like a step into the film's enchanting world.
Here are the film locations with addresses:
Max and Dani's House (Phillips Elementary School): 56 South Washington Square, Salem, MA
Allison's House (Ropes Mansion): 318 Essex Street, Salem, MA
Town Halloween Party Location (Old Town Hall): 32 Derby Square, Salem, MA
School (Phillips Elementary School): 56 South Washington Square, Salem, MA
Salem Witch Museum
The Salem Witch Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the Salem witch trials of 1692. Through interactive exhibits and informative presentations, visitors can learn about the events that unfolded during this dark chapter in history and gain insight into the lives of those involved. It's a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Salem's bewitching past.
🔗 Website link: Salem Witch Museum
Feel free to check out their website
The house of Seven Gables and the Witch House
Continuing your journey through Salem's enchanting landscape, immerse yourself further in its rich history and culture by venturing to additional attractions. A visit to the House of the Seven Gables, made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel, promises a glimpse into the past and a deeper understanding of Salem's storied heritage. Alternatively, explore the Witch House, the only structure still standing with direct ties to the witch trials, and uncover the secrets hidden within its walls. This is a very touristy spot with lots of people trying to take photos. My tip is don’t stand in line. Pose off to the side (picture below) so you don’t waste precious Salem time. Trust me the days go by so fast.
Salem Maritime National Historic Site
History is one of the best parts of visiting Salem. Be sure to stop and checkout this historic site. Step aboard historic ships, stroll along cobblestone streets lined with 18th-century homes, and discover the legacy of Salem's seafaring past. From the bustling waterfront to the charming Derby Wharf, this site offers a fascinating glimpse into Salem's role as a thriving maritime hub.
One of the most fun things we did was Witch Pix.
This is not your average photo studio—it's a gateway to the world of witches and magic! Step inside and transform into a witch, wizard or other characters with their wide selection of witch costumes and accessories. The staff was so friendly and accommodating. They offer many sets to choose from. We did old time Salem and it was everything I needed. They also hand you props along the way to keep the magic in the pictures. I would highly recommend Witch Pix.
Salem Witch Trials Memorial
Visiting the Salem Witch Trials Memorial or Charter Street Cemetery was a surreal experience. Walking through the hallowed grounds, the weight of what happened weighed me down. I couldn't help but feel a sense of sadness. The Salem Witch Trials Memorial serves as a reminder of the injustices and tragedies that occurred during one of the darkest chapters in American history.
Haunted Happenings Market
Don't miss the Salem Haunted Happenings Market during your visit! This market is a highlight of the Halloween season in Salem, offering an atmosphere filled with entertainment, food trucks, and spooky merchandise . As you stroll through the market, you'll encounter a variety of vendors selling everything from handcrafted goods to Halloween decorations and themed merchandise. But the fun doesn't stop there—everyone, from locals to visitors, gets into the spirit of the season by dressing up in Halloween costumes. Some of the best i have ever seen honestly. We dressed as Velma and Shaggy from Scooby Doo. Our favorite part was the food trucks! How the food was amazing. Haunted Happenings Market is a must-visit destination during your Salem adventure.
Salem is an absolute must-add to your bucket list for Halloween, and for good reason. From its haunting history and bewitching charm to its festivities and spirited atmosphere, Salem offers a Halloween experience that's sure to leave a spooky impression. Whether you're drawn to the spine-chilling tales of the past, the enchanting allure of the present, or the thrilling excitement of the Halloween season, Salem has something for everyone. We can’t wait to go back!
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