A HAUNTED Salem, Massachusetts Travel Guide
If Halloween is your favorite holiday or you’ve been obsessed with witches since your first Hocus Pocus rewatch, Salem, Massachusetts needs to be on your bucket list. Whether you're visiting during October or planning a witchy New England road trip any time of year, this historic town is packed with spooky charm, important history, and fun for every kind of traveler.
Here’s everything you should add to your Salem itinerary.
Must-See Witch Trial History Sites
Salem Witch House: Tour the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, one of the men directly involved in the Salem Witch Trials. It’s the only structure still standing in Salem with direct ties to the events of 1692.
Proctor’s Ledge: This is the site where the executions of the accused witches took place. A solemn but important stop to pay your respects and reflect on the town’s dark history.
Salem Witch Trials Memorial: Walk through this quiet memorial filled with granite benches engraved with the names of the 20 victims. It’s located next to the Old Burying Point Cemetery.
The Burying Point: One of the oldest cemeteries in the country, this is the burial site of several figures involved in the witch trials, including Judge Hathorne.
Salem Witch Museum: This museum gives a dramatic retelling of the 1692 witch trials and explores how fear and mass hysteria led to tragedy. Tickets often sell out in October, so book ahead.
Salem Heritage Trail: Follow the red line on the sidewalks throughout town to easily navigate Salem’s historic sites. It's a self-guided walking tour that makes it simple to explore everything on foot.
Hocus Pocus Filming Locations
Ropes Mansion: Fans of Hocus Pocus will recognize this as Allison’s house. The mansion is beautiful year-round, but extra festive in October with fall decor.
Old Town Hall: You’ll remember this as the spot where the Sanderson Sisters sang “I Put a Spell on You.” It’s also a popular photo op and often hosts events during Halloween season.
Halloween Events and Experiences
Salem Haunted Happenings: Held every October, this is the largest Halloween celebration in the world. Expect street performers, parades, costume contests, haunted houses, psychic readings, and more.
Witches’ Halloween Ball: Hosted at the historic Hawthorne Hotel, this ticketed event includes dancing, live DJs, psychic readings, rituals, and even seances. Costumes are a must.
Where to Stay
Hawthorne Hotel: This historic hotel in the heart of downtown is one of the most iconic places to stay in Salem. Book early if you’re coming in October because it fills up fast.
Final Tips for Visiting Salem
October weekends are extremely busy, so plan ahead and book all tickets and reservations in advance
If visiting in the fall, arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and traffic
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as most of the town is best explored on foot
Don’t miss out on local shops and cafes as they’re filled with witchy finds, Halloween goodies, and cozy fall treats
Salem is one of those destinations that’s magical year-round but truly comes alive during spooky season. Whether you're diving into the history of the witch trials or reenacting your favorite Hocus Pocus scene, this town is a must-visit for anyone who loves a little mystery and magic.
