With Halloween fast-approaching, I’m often asked what to see, eat, and do while in Salem. By far the busiest time of year for this haunted New England town, you often want to make the most of your trip.
Every year, I go to Salem as part of a fall tradition, visiting a few of my favorite spooky and historical spots. Planning a trip yourself this month? My suggestions on what to do are below:
HOW TO GET THERE
If you’re coming from Boston, skip the car. Head to North Station and take the train to Salem instead. Round trip – about $14, with a train or two leaving every hour, depending on time of day.
Another fun option is to take the ferry to the Salem Harbor from Long Wharf. A bit more costly, but as an avid ferry commuter, I personally find travel by boat the best.
WHAT TO DO
Easiest in list form…
- Visit the Salem Witch Museum – to learn the history fo the Salem Witch Trials
- Snap a photo in front of The Witch House (see above) – the only structure still standing in Salem with direct ties to the Salem witch trials of 1692
- Walk by the Ropes Mansion, where Hocus Pocus was filmed (if you’re a fan of the movie, if not, it most likely won’t interest you)
- Stop by Crow Haven Corner – Salem’s oldest witch shop
- Walk through the Witch Trials Memorial – more often than not, there is a man that sits there all day and he’ll “lend” you his printed guide of each person buried in the memorial – I actually recommend borrowing it so that you can read more about each person and their story. Of course, give him a tip once you’re done.
- Stop by Haus Witch – for beautiful home goods and healing items
- Walk by the Salem Maritime National Historic Site for some nautical vibes by the water
- Tour the House of Seven Gables – for a bit of New England literature history
- And, very touristy, but once it starts getting dark, head to the Salem Witch Village and go through their Haunted House — it’s only about a 5-minute walk thru, but a fun way to end the day.
WHERE TO EAT + DRINK
- The Counter at Hotel Salem
- Sea Level Oyster Bar
- Red’s Sandwich Shop
- Jaho Coffee + Tea
- Notch Brewery + Tap Room
- Melt Ice Cream
- Beers at East Regiment Beer Co
SHOULD YOU DRESS UP?
I never dress up in costume while in Salem, but will at least where all black with some fun festive jewelry. You’ll often see folks dressed as witches or other Halloween characters, so if you want to throw on a witch hat or wear your Halloween costume, you will 1000% not be judged for doing so, it is basically encouraged.
