Salem, Massachusetts: Where Hauntings and History Meet
When I was a teenager, Salem, Massachusetts, seemed like the ultimate destination for all things spooky and dark. I was at “that age” when I devoured every book and movie about witches, haunted houses, and dark histories. October in Salem, Massachusetts was something of a legend—a mix of history and hauntings that seemed almost too magical to be real. I visited as part of a school trip, which brought the history to life, but it wasn’t during the “peak haunting” Autumn months.
As an adult years later, when I had the chance to visit during Salem’s Haunted Happenings in October, I knew I couldn’t resist. I was ready to walk those cobblestone streets, feel the chill of New England air, and immerse myself in a town full of stories—some real and some imagined — but that was all part of the fun.
When I arrived I found myself just in time to catch a spot on the edge of the street as the Haunted Happenings Grand Parade went by. The streets were alive with a buzzing energy, and the October air was crisp with the scent of dried leaves and wood smoke. The parade was a riot of color and creativity—costumes that ranged from the whimsically spooky to the eerily realistic. There were towering witches with long, crooked noses, with gauzy black cloaks swirling behind them. Ghosts floated by, their sheer fabrics catching the light from the lanterns lining the street. I saw Victorian-era specters in lace and velvet, their faces painted an ethereal white, moving gracefully among the crowd like they had stepped out of another century. Children ran past in costumes that glittered and glowed, their laughter mingling with the haunting melodies played by a brass band in skeleton costumes. It was as if the whole town had decided to let its imagination run wild. I can only imagine how they pull the stops out for the costume balls (which I unfortunately missed). I sadly, also missed the Howl-o-ween costumed pet parade, which I am sure would have been a blast.
During the day, Salem’s streets tell a different kind of story. Walking along Essex Street, on uneven pavement and cobblestones, buildings here have a sturdy, almost stoic presence, with brick facades weathered by time and history. Many are painted in shades of light yellow, deep red, gray, and faded black, with narrow windows framed by dark shutters. Ivy clings to the walls, its leaves turning a fiery orange as if to match the season. The houses of Salem seem to lean in toward the street, their sloping roofs casting long shadows that stretch across the narrow alleys. It’s easy to imagine what this town must have looked like centuries ago.
Then, there are the buildings that bear witness to Salem’s darker past. The Salem Witch Museum, with its stone walls dark and foreboding, and pointed arches that seem almost like eyes watching you as you approach. Inside, the air holds the scent of old wood and candle wax. Dim lighting casts long shadows across life-sized dioramas, where mannequins dressed in 17th-century clothing act out scenes from the witch trials. As the narrator’s voice fills the room, recounting the hysteria and fear that gripped the town, I could almost feel the tension in the air—the way those accused must have felt as they stood on trial. The somber atmosphere and reminder of Salem’s tragic story was a stark contrast to the festive streets outside.
Not far from the museum stands the Witch House, the former home of Judge Jonathan Corwin. Its black, timber-framed structure looms over the street, with small, diamond-paned windows that glint in the weak October sunlight. Each room was a snapshot of 17th-century life: low-beamed ceilings, dark wooden furniture, and a stone hearth blackened from countless fires. I wandered through narrow hallways that twisted and turned, my footsteps causing the wood flooring to creak and echo in the quiet. The atmosphere was heavy, as if the walls themselves remembered the events that had taken place here. For a solo traveler, these moments felt profound—I could imagine how the accused girls and women must have felt here—small, alone, and afraid of what was to come. It is sad to say that the independent, free-thinking, empowered, and expressive women of today would have all been burned at the stake back then. How far we’ve come.
But Salem isn’t all shadows and history. The Festival of the Dead offers a different kind of experience, one that leans into the mystical and the playful. I found myself at a psychic fair, the scent of incense mingling with the sweet, earthy aroma of herbs. The room was filled with tables draped in rich purple and black velvet, with some covered in crystal balls, tarot cards, and ornate candles among other things. The vendors/psychics were also a colorful lot–some fully costumed like gypsies and witches, and others having more of that “I just came from my campsite” vibe. They were all a pleasant bunch. I watched as people lined up to have their fortunes told, their faces a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation. In a city like Salem, the line between reality and the supernatural feels deliciously blurred. It’s a place where you can entertain the possibility that there is more to this world than meets the eye, and that maybe, just maybe, a glimpse into the future is within reach.
And then came the ghost tours. Walking through the cobblestone streets of Salem under the cover of darkness, with only the flicker of a lantern to light the way, is an experience that sends shivers down your spine as spooky tales are told. The guide led us through narrow alleys and past historic cemeteries, her voice a low whisper as she recounted tales of ghostly apparitions and restless spirits. Imagine standing outside the Old Burying Point Cemetery, the iron gates cold to the touch, peering through the bars at the crooked gravestones that jutted out of the earth like jagged teeth—the air damp and cool, and the rustle of leaves in the trees above sounding eerily like whispers as shadows shifted behind them. I think my imagination was getting into the mood to come out and play.
There are also moments in Salem that offer a gentler kind of magic. The House of the Seven Gables, with its weathered, dark wood siding and diamond-paned windows, sits overlooking the harbor. Inside, the rooms are filled with the scent of polished wood and the faint, musty aroma of history. As I wandered through its halls, I found the small window on the second floor, the one Hawthorne supposedly peered through when he was inspired to write his novel. The view outside was foggy, the harbor shrouded in a light mist, making the world beyond the glass look like a scene from another time. It was a different kind of haunting, one tied to literature and the power of memorable stories.
Another fun event was the Haunted Biz Baz Street Fair which brings a festive energy to the town. Like many fall fairs, imagine rows of vendor tents and air filled with the smell of roasting nuts, caramel apples, and the faint spice of mulled cider and fruit pies. Stalls lined the park, selling handcrafted witch hats, “magic potions” in tiny glass bottles, and autumn-spiced candles. As I walked through the fair, I could hear the cheerful hum of vendors chatting with customers and the occasional burst of laughter from a group trying on absurdly oversized witch hats. It was the kind of atmosphere where conversations with strangers came easily, where you could compliment someone’s costume and end up sharing a table over hot cider. For a solo traveler, this was a great activity to feel connected to the crowd, swept up in the warmth and excitement of the season. Stop by the Salem Common, Charlotte Forten Park, and Derby Square to check out all of the wonderful vendors.
But for all the festive energy, there were quiet moments of reflection, too as I found myself drawn back to the Old Burying Point Cemetery. The gravestones are worn and moss-covered, leaning at odd angles, yet the space has a peaceful feel to it in the daylight. I enjoy these moments—standing in a place where the veil between the past and present feels thin and just letting the quiet seep into your bones. And wondering what the stories of those laid under the stones were really like.
Before heading off to Haunted Happenings in Salem, definitely download the destination Salem App (available in the apple and Google Play stores) to get the full itinerary of events and get real-time updates on events, parking, etc.
For the official full guide of the haunted Happenings in October, click here
Beyond October
Even if you don’t make it to Salem during the Haunted Happenings season in October, many of the historic/haunted spots are open year-round, including:
1. Salem Witch Museum
The Salem Witch Museum is open year-round and offers an in-depth look at the infamous Salem witch trials of 1692. Inside the dark, gothic-style building, visitors are immersed in the world of the trials through a dramatic presentation using life-size stage sets, figures, and narration. It’s an engaging way to understand the fear and hysteria that took over the town, making it a must-visit for history buffs and those interested in the darker side of human nature.
The Ouija Board Museum is a small but fascinating exhibit located in the back of the Salem Witch Museum, is open year-round and offers a unique look at the history of the Ouija board. Featuring a vast collection of boards, planchettes, and other spirit communication devices from various decades, this museum dives into the culture and intrigue surrounding these mystical tools. Visitors can learn about the origins and lore of the Ouija board, adding a different kind of supernatural flavor to their Salem experience.
2. The Witch House
Also known as the Jonathan Corwin House, The Witch House is the only structure still standing in Salem with direct ties to the witch trials. Open year-round, this historic home offers a self-guided tour through its period rooms, providing a glimpse into 17th-century life and the mindset of those involved in the trials. The house itself has a haunting atmosphere, with dark wood beams, low ceilings, and artifacts from the era that give visitors a sense of the fear and superstition that once ruled the town.
3. Halloween Museum
The Halloween Museum is a fun, immersive experience dedicated to everything Halloween. Located on Essex Street, this museum isn’t focused on Salem’s witch trials or history but rather on the celebration of Halloween itself. Inside, you’ll find a colorful, family-friendly array of Halloween-themed displays, including life-sized props, vintage Halloween costumes, and spooky animatronics. The museum takes a lighthearted approach, with glowing jack-o’-lanterns, spooky sound effects, and interactive exhibits that capture the playful spirit of Halloween.
Visitors can walk through themed rooms that evoke the atmosphere of haunted houses, classic horror films, and trick-or-treating memories. It’s a great spot for those who love the fun and whimsical aspects of Halloween. The museum also offers photo opportunities, allowing visitors to step into scenes filled with pumpkins, witches, and ghouls for that perfect Halloween snapshot.
4. Hocus Pocus Filming Locations
For fans of the cult-classic 1993 film Hocus Pocus, Salem is a treasure trove of filming locations. Several key scenes were shot in and around Salem, and visiting these spots feels like stepping into the movie. Here are a few of the most iconic Hocus Pocus locations you can explore:
- Ropes Mansion (318 Essex Street): This historic house, which we’ll explore in more detail below, served as the exterior of Allison’s house in the movie. In real life, it’s a stunning Georgian Colonial mansion with beautiful gardens. Fans will recognize its iconic white facade and lovely windows, where Max and Dani first meet Allison during the Halloween party scene.
- Old Town Hall (32 Derby Square): This building is featured in the scene where the Sanderson sisters perform “I Put a Spell on You.” The hall’s Federal-style architecture is instantly recognizable, and it’s one of the most photographed Hocus Pocus locations in Salem. Today, it hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year.
- Pioneer Village (98 West Avenue): Featured as the setting for the 1600s scenes at the beginning of the film, Pioneer Village is a living history museum that represents Salem’s early settlement. It gives visitors a glimpse into colonial life with its thatched-roof cottages and timber-framed houses. While it’s open seasonally, it’s a must-visit for fans when it’s accessible.
- Salem Common: This large public park was used for several scenes in the film, including when the kids first encounter the Sanderson sisters. It’s a lovely green space with historic charm, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a reenactment of your favorite movie moments.
Many Hocus Pocus fans come to Salem specifically to trace the steps of the Sanderson sisters, and these locations make for a fun, nostalgic tour of the city.
5. Ropes Mansion
Ropes Mansion, located at 318 Essex Street, is one of Salem’s most beautiful and historic homes. This Georgian Colonial mansion, built in the 1720s, is known not only for its architectural beauty but also for its stunning gardens and, some say, its ghostly inhabitants. It’s famously recognized as Allison’s house in Hocus Pocus, making it a must-see for fans of the film.
The Peabody Essex Museum operates the mansion, and it’s open to the public seasonally for self-guided tours. Inside, the house is furnished to reflect the life of an affluent family in the 18th and 19th centuries, with period furniture, decorative arts, and a collection of artifacts that offer a glimpse into Salem’s past. The interior has a timeless quality, with grand fireplaces, intricate woodwork, and an elegant staircase that curves up to the upper floors.
The Ropes Mansion is also known for its gorgeous garden, which is free to explore year-round. The garden is designed in the style of an 18th-century colonial garden, featuring a variety of flowering plants, herbs, and trees. It’s a peaceful retreat amidst the bustle of downtown Salem, and when the flowers are in bloom, it’s a picturesque spot for a quiet stroll.
As for the ghostly rumors, legend has it that Abigail Ropes, a former inhabitant, haunts the mansion. Visitors and staff have reported strange occurrences like unexplained noises and flickering lights, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this historic house.
6. Good Witch of Salem Shop
The Good Witch of Salem Shop is a charming, family-friendly boutique that celebrates the positive and whimsical side of witchcraft. Located in downtown Salem, the shop aims to be a welcoming space that encourages curiosity and learning, particularly for children and families. Unlike some of Salem’s more intense attractions, this shop focuses on the playful, educational, and magical aspects of witchcraft.
Inside, the shop is brightly lit and filled with an array of enchanting items. You’ll find everything from colorful spell kits, crystals, and candles to storybooks, magical potions, and whimsical costumes. The decor is cheerful and inviting, with a bit of sparkle and a lot of magic. The Good Witch of Salem offers themed events and workshops, including storytelling sessions, craft activities, and seasonal events like pumpkin decorating and potion-making classes.
The shop also features a wide range of products that promote positive energy and mindfulness, such as affirmation cards, self-care items, and journals. It’s a space designed to inspire creativity and imagination, encouraging visitors of all ages to explore the world of magic in a fun and uplifting way. Whether you’re looking for a magical gift or a unique experience for the kids, the Good Witch of Salem Shop is a delightful stop on your Salem adventure
7. Nocturne
Nocturne is a gothic-inspired boutique located in the heart of Salem, offering a carefully curated selection of dark, enchanting goods. Stepping inside, you’re greeted with an ambiance that is both mysterious and elegant. The shop’s interior is dimly lit, with black walls and velvet-draped displays that set the mood for a truly gothic shopping experience.
The store specializes in a variety of items, from macabre home decor to unique jewelry, occult-inspired art, and apothecary goods. You might find candles in the shapes of skulls, tarot cards, antique-style mirrors, and taxidermy pieces that add a touch of Victorian eeriness to the collection. It caters to those who have a fascination with the dark and the mysterious, making it a favorite among goths, witches, and fans of the macabre.
Nocturne also showcases local artists’ work, so you’re likely to discover one-of-a-kind items that capture the essence of Salem’s darker side. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece for your home or a special gift for someone who loves the eerie and unusual, Nocturne offers a shopping experience that feels like a blend of an old-world apothecary and a Victorian curiosity shop.
8. Wynott’s Wands
Wynott’s Wands is Salem’s answer to Diagon Alley—a magical wand shop that feels like it came straight out of a Harry Potter novel. The moment you step through the door, you’re transported into a world of whimsy and magic. The shop’s interior is wood-paneled and dimly lit, with shelves lined with wands of all shapes, sizes, and designs, each displayed in ornate cases. The atmosphere is delightfully mysterious, with antique decor, brass fittings, and the soft glow of candlelight.
The wands at Wynott’s are handcrafted and beautifully detailed, made from various woods and materials, and each comes with its own story and personality. The shop’s staff, dressed in period-appropriate attire, guide visitors through the wand selection process, making it a personalized and immersive experience. In addition to wands, Wynott’s also sells other magical accessories like spell books, potion bottles, and charms.
It’s not just a store—it’s an experience that invites you to step into a magical world. Whether you’re a die-hard Harry Potter fan or simply looking for a unique souvenir, Wynott’s Wands offers a touch of enchantment to your Salem visit.
9. Haunted Happenings Mini-Tours
Several ghost tour companies in Salem offer year-round haunted walks and tours of the city’s most haunted sites. These tours take you through dimly lit alleys, historic cemeteries, and haunted buildings, all while guides share chilling tales of ghostly apparitions, tragic events, and paranormal activity. Tours often feature locations like the Old Burying Point Cemetery and the Joshua Ward House, believed to be among the most haunted places in Salem. Some tours even offer late-night experiences, perfect for those looking to dive into the supernatural side of Salem without the Halloween crowds.
10. The Salem Wax Museum of Witches & Seafarers
Open throughout the year, the Salem Wax Museum offers a glimpse into both the city’s dark past and its maritime history. Life-sized wax figures bring to life the stories of the infamous witch trials, as well as tales of pirates, sailors, and merchants who once roamed Salem’s streets. The museum provides a mix of history and spookiness, making it an interesting stop for those who want to learn more about the broader context of Salem’s eerie reputation.
11. Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery
For fans of horror movies and the macabre, Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery is a year-round attraction that showcases a collection of life-sized monsters, creatures, and horror icons from classic and contemporary films. It’s a museum dedicated to the artistry of horror, with exhibits that range from the Universal Monsters to more modern movie villains. Walking through the darkened gallery, surrounded by detailed recreations of famous creatures, is a delightfully creepy experience for horror enthusiasts.
12. The House of the Seven Gables
While not strictly spooky, The House of the Seven Gables has an undeniably eerie charm, especially given its ties to Nathaniel Hawthorne’s gothic novel of the same name. Open year-round, this 17th-century mansion offers guided tours that delve into its history, architecture, and literary connections. With its dark wood exterior, labyrinthine interior, and secret passageways, the house captures the imagination and evokes the kind of haunted feeling that makes it a beloved part of Salem’s eerie atmosphere.
13. Witch Dungeon Museum
Offering a combination of live reenactments and historical exhibits, the Witch Dungeon Museum provides a dramatic glimpse into the witch trials. Open year-round, it starts with a live performance of a trial based on actual transcripts from 1692. After the performance, visitors are led into the dungeon area, where they can see recreations of the cells where the accused were held. The dark, cramped spaces and stories of what happened here add a somber and unsettling element to the visit.
14. Salem’s Historic Cemeteries
Salem’s historic cemeteries, such as the Old Burying Point Cemetery and the Howard Street Cemetery, are open to the public throughout the year. Walking among the weathered gravestones, many of which date back to the 1600s, can be a haunting experience. The Old Burying Point Cemetery is particularly famous, as it is the final resting place for several figures associated with the witch trials. The atmosphere is both peaceful and eerie, with moss-covered stones and ancient trees casting long shadows over the burial ground.
15. The Salem Night Tour
Available throughout the year, the Salem Night Tour is an evening walking tour that combines history and hauntings. Tour guides lead groups through the darkened streets of Salem, sharing tales of the witch trials, notable ghost sightings, and the town’s darker legends. The tour covers various locations, including the sites of old gallows, haunted houses, and historic buildings. It’s an atmospheric way to explore Salem after dark, when the town’s spooky ambiance is at its peak.
16. Psychic Readings and Witch Shops
Salem is home to a vibrant community of modern witches and psychics, and many of the witch shops and psychic studios are open year-round. Visitors can step into these shops to browse a vast array of crystals, herbs, spell kits, and magical tools. Many also offer psychic readings, tarot card sessions, and aura photography throughout the year. Shops like Crow Haven Corner and Hex provide an opportunity to engage with the mystical side of Salem in a more personal, interactive way.
17. Salem Museum of Torture For an intimate look into the dark side of history. The museum features a rare collection of authentic instruments of torture along with life-size displays of the world’s most cruel and unusual punishments. Maybe skip this one if you’ve got young kids with you.
Salem is more than just witches and haunted happenings
While all the Salem “witchery” can get a bit touristic, there is more to this town than just the spooky side. While you’re here, don’t miss checking out the murals on Artist’s Way (I LOVED the compass mandala on the street!), The Peabody Essex Museum (natural history), Emporium 32 for some fantastic antiques and oddities shopping, and when you’re hungry, head to Flying Saucer Pizza or Fatties Cookies. 😊
Where to Eat
For some great restaurant recommendations in Salem, I’d like to give a shout-out to a great blog called Taste Filled Travel for writing this excellent article on where to eat when visiting Salem. They’ve got some tasty recommendations for all tastes. Enjoy!
Whether you’re looking to dive into the witch trials’ history, walk with ghosts, or explore the supernatural in a more modern context, Salem offers a range of spooky experiences no matter when you visit. The town’s unique mix of history, folklore, and modern witchcraft culture ensures that the eerie charm of Salem is never out of season. Happy Travels!