A Guide to a Spooky Halloween Trip in Salem

Salem, a quaint city located just an hour outside of bustling Boston, has earned fame for its captivating yet infamous history. It’s best known for the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Today, the town of Salem in Massachusetts has evolved into one of New England’s premier fall vacation destinations, particularly around Halloween, with over 900,000 visitors a year.

The Grand Celebration

The Haunted Happenings festival in Salem, held every October, stands out as one of the world’s largest Halloween celebrations. It’s a colossal celebration that allows visitors to explore the history of the Salem Witch Trials, partake in costume balls, and peruse the witch shops. The event’s highlights include the Howl-o-ween Pet Parade, psychic readings, and séances, along with The Salem Psychic Fair & Witches’ Market. Consider exploring the city on foot through one of the thematic walking tours, offering insights into Salem’s history and the Salem Witch Trials. Additionally, guided ghost tours are a popular choice. You can also hop aboard a trolley for an equally enjoyable experience. For the daring, Salem offers haunted house attractions such as the Haunted Witch Village at The Salem Wax Museum, reputedly Salem’s largest and longest-running haunted attraction.

Immersing in Witchcraft

Downtown Salem is replete with witch shops, most within easy walking distance of each other. During Halloween, The Witchery offers broom-making sessions, bookbinding workshops, and tarot readings. At The Cauldron Black, visitors can partake in spiritual consultations, readings, and rituals, including sessions for evil eye removal. Stardust Salem, Omen, Pentagram, and Hex all stock a wide array of witchcraft supplies like candles, incense, and spell kits.

Exploring Witch Museums

Given its historical significance, Salem houses several witch museums. The Witch Museum offers immersive Halloween-special exhibitions. The Witch Dungeon Museum showcases reenactments of the witch trials based on actual 1692 transcripts. No Salem trip is complete without touring the Witch House, the former residence of Judge Jonathan Corwin, where some examinations of the alleged witches purportedly occurred.

Tips for a Halloween Visit

Savvy planning is key when visiting Salem in October. Accommodations are booked up a year in advance for Halloween, and restaurants often have long waits. So, to ensure a smooth visit, book hotels, activities, and dining reservations well in advance. Staying downtown is ideal, given its proximity to Salem’s popular attractions. Public transportation is recommended, as parking is scarce, and traffic can be heavy. While October is the prime Halloween season, Salem offers festivals year-round, making it a compelling destination anytime.