Salem, Massachusetts is at the top of the list for destinations during spooky season. The city screams Halloween in every nook and cranny. It is an absolute wonder and definitely worth a trip. Here’s my tourist guide to navigating Salem.
WHAT TO DO
Salem Trolley Tour
8 Central St, Salem, MA
Hop aboard the Salem Trolley before venturing out on your own. This hour tour will give you a brief overview of Salem and what it has to offer including a brief history on the witch trials, Revolutionary war, pirates and more.
Purchase tickets in person and the line forms around 8 Central St.
Chestnut Street
Chestnut street is acclaimed as one of the most beautiful streets in America. It is part of the McIntire Historic District which encompasses a plethora of historic structures. A popular time to visit is at the peak of fall when the foliage creates a beautiful array of colors.
Salem Heritage Trail
The Salem Heritage Trail is a painted redline in Salem to help with exploration through the city. Here are a few stops on the Heritage Trail:
- Witch City Mall
- First Church in Salem
- Salem Witch House
- The House of Seven Gables
- Ye Olde Pepper Companie
- Salem Maritime National Historic Site
- Peabody Essex Museum
- Salem Witch Museum
- Bewitched Statue
- Ropes Mansion
- Witch Dungeon Museum
- Old Town Hall
- Old Burying Point Cemetery
- Salem Witch Trials Memorial
- Salem Common
- Statue Roger Conant
Self-Guided Hocus Pocus Tour
The cult classic, Hocus Pocus, was filmed in Salem. There are several locations that can be visited. Refer to the following guide to learn more.
A Guide to Hocus Pocus Film Locations in Salem
Pioneer Village
98 West Ave, Salem, MA
Pioneer Village is a recreation of the city of Salem in 1630.
The Satanic Temple
64 Bridge St, Salem, MA
Salem is home to the international headquarters for the The Satanic Temple. Venture inside to learn about the history and founding of The Satanic Temple as well as view the Baphomet statue.
Proctor’s Ledge Memorial
7 Pope St, Salem, MA
Located in a residential neighborhood lies a memorial to remember a few women who were hung after accusations of witchery.
Haunted & Historical Guided Tours
There are several different tours that you can partake in when visiting Salem. I would recommend the Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour at night to learn about reported stories and history of haunted happenings in Salem.
WHERE TO EAT
Ledger Restaurant & Bar: Great brunch location with indoor and outdoor seating. I recommend the eggs benedict and cannot forget to ask about their daily donut!
The Lobster Shanty: New England is known for their seafood, so what better place to get a delicious lobster roll with a side of delicious cole slaw.
Jaho Coffee Roaster & Wine Bar: Served in cute, pink cups. Here you can get your bubble tea, coffee, or cocktails to go. The black sugar milk boba tea was a dream.
WHERE TO STAY
Hawthorne Hotel: It is infamous for being one of the most haunted hotels in America. If you want to experience moving furniture, ghostly noises or orbs, then this is the place to stay. Remember to book ahead of time especially if you’re visiting in October.
Thatch: In October, it is a little difficult to find a hotel near Salem. People book hotels months in advance. I decided to stay in Boston and decided to try a hostel. The company, Thatch, handles several short-term stays and you’re able to book a private room. Some rooms come with a private bathroom, so I would recommend this if you’re looking for a more reasonably priced option.
BOSTON TO SALEM COMMUTE
There are two ways to get from Boston to Salem.
- Commuter Rail: Utilizing the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) subway map to get to the North Station and from the North Station, hop onto the Commuter Rail to Salem.
- Ferry: A ferry from Long Wharf to Salem is operated by Boston Harbor Cruises.