Travel Guide: Salem, MA

I grew up right next door to Salem, in what was once known as Salem Village but is now called Danvers. School field trips were often held at Salem’s historial points, but it wasn’t until I was in my late teens, early twenties, that I really fell in love with this quirky city. It has some of my favorite restaurants, cafes and shops. It also has a world-class museum in the PEM, and my favorite Halloween movie was filmed there (Hocus Pocus, of course). Here is my Travel Guide to what is considered Halloweentown, USA … Salem, Massachusetts.

When to Go

October may be the obvious choice but Salem has events happening all year round. And truthfully, it gets too busy during the Halloween season. I love Salem in September. The city is getting ready to embrace its title as the Witch City, but tourists still haven’t arrived yet. 

Where to Stay

There are three large hotels right in the center of Salem: The Hawthorne Hotel, The Salem Waterfront Hotel, and The Hotel Salem. All three are very different and provide for comfortable accommodations. I have stayed at The Hawthorne several times, including the night before and after my wedding, and there are rumors that it is haunted. I have never experienced this, but many people stay there just for that reason. 

If you’re looking for that paranormal experience but prefer boutique hotels, The Merchant is the place to be. Located in the Joshua Ward House, this beautiful old home was once proclaimed to be one of the most haunted homes in the United States. It could be because prior to the late 1700s, the land was home to George Corwin, the notorious Sheriff during the Salem Witch Trials. 

What to See

It completely depends on what you are interested in. This city has history, beautiful views, monuments, The Peabody Essex Museum, and lots of experiences dedicated to the Salem Witch Trials. 

You can check out the Salem Witch Museum, which tells the story of the Witch Trials through documents from that time. Or head to the Salem Witch House, the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin (1640–1718) and the only structure you can visit in Salem with direct ties to the 1692 Witch Trials. 

Right near the Burying Point, the oldest burying ground in the City of Salem, is the Salem Witch Trials Memorial.

This memorial pays tribute to the 20 victims of the 1692 witch trials. Each victim has their own granite bench engraved with their name, means of execution and execution date. I always make sure to visit this spot to remind myself of what a witch hunt can truly cost a community, and how we all should be very careful before casting stones.

Salem has a presitigious maritime history as well and I love heading down to the waterfront to visit the Custom House, (see more pictures of this beautiful building from my wedding album) and the U.S.S. Friendship. 

Of course you’ll find plenty of haunted houses and experiences and you can even check out some of the filming locations for the cult classic, Hocus Pocus. 

Where to Shop

Again, it depends on the experience you are looking for. If you are coming to enjoy Salem as a pretty city to visit, Modern Millie’s is a fun shop for vintage wear and rockabilly looks, while the Trolley Depot is fantastic for souvenirs. I also love Pamplemousse for its unique items and gourmet finds. If you’re looking for the witchy stuff, you’re in luck. Stores range from the kitschy like The Magic Parlor to the somewhat intense with Hex Old World Witchery, to the modern-day Vogue-loving witch with Hauswitch – my favorite. 

Where to Eat

Gulu Gulu Cafe or Flying Saucer Pizza Co. are my two favorite places to enjoy a meal in Salem. But I also love Sea Level, Rockefella’s (we had our reception right upstairs!), and Front Street Coffee House has the best chai latte around. Boston Burger Co. has the most insane shakes and the menu is constantly changing. When I was there, I got a shake with a full piece of pumpkin pie on top! And I adore Jolie Tea. It is the most adorable little cafe and macaron shop in the area.

Salem is much more than a Halloween destination, it is a place full of rich history that can be enjoyed all year round.

What are some of your favorite day trips in Massachusetts or beyond? We’re always looking for somewhere new to explore so please DM me your travel tips!