25 Things To Do This Halloween in Salem, MA 2024

Looking for things to do this Halloween in Salem, MA?

As the leaves start to turn and the air starts to chill, it can only mean one thing – Halloween is coming to Salem! And what better place to get in the spooky spirit than Salem, Massachusetts?

This charming town is home to some of the most enchanting autumn scenery and the spookiest history. Whether you’re a witch or just a lover of all things fall, there’s something for everyone in Salem this Halloween.

How To Get To Salem from Boston

If you’re visiting or living in Boston and want to take a trip to Salem, there are a few different ways to get there.

For starters, you can hop on the commuter rail from Boston’s North Station and take the train all the way to Salem. This is a great option if you want to avoid driving in traffic and want a scenic ride along the way.

On the Newburyport/Rockport Line is Salem Station. From North Station, trains leave. The average one-way fare is $8.00, and the trip lasts for around 30 minutes.

Alternatively, you can rent a car and make the 30-40 minute drive to Salem from Boston. This option might be more convenient if you want to make a few pit stops on your way and have more control over your travel itinerary.

➡️ 🚗 Click Here To Book Your Car Rental! 🚗 ⬅️

You can also take a High Speed Ferry from Boston to Salem, the ride taking roughly 50 minutes. A fun and unique way to get from city to city, make sure you purchase two tickets if you plan on using the ferry to return to Boston as they don’t offer round trips.

➡️ 🚢 Click Here To Book Your Ferry Tickets! 🚢 ⬅️

Regardless of how you choose to travel, one thing is for sure: a day (or two) trip to Salem is something you won’t regret!

---

25 Things To Do This Halloween in Salem, MA

1. The Witch House – The Corwin House

310 1/2 Essex Street

The only building in Salem with direct ties to the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 is the Witch House, which served as Judge Jonathan Corwin’s (1640–1718) residence.

This is one of the best places to learn about the Trials and what life in Salem was like during these times.

2. Take A Stroll Through The Salem Common

N Washington Square

This lush, 8-acre public park is located in the center of Salem and has been a gathering place since the 17th century. Fantastic for strolls, picnics, and admiring the beautiful fall foliage and enjoying some spooky photo ops.

3. Get Your Fortune Told

There are plenty of places around town to get a psychic or tarot card reading. Some of the most notable shops in town are Omen, where you can get readings and participate in seances. Pentagram and Stardust are also great for readings and have spells performed for you. Maison Vampyre also does readings, hosts workshops, charts and commitment ceremonies!

🪄 Omen – 184 Essex Street
🧹 Pentagram – 282 Derby Street R-3
🪄 Stardust – 29 Congress Street
🧹 Maison Vampyre – 1 Derby Square

4. The Salem Witch Museum

19 1/2 N Washington Square

One of the most popular attractions in Salem, and another great place to learn about the infamous witch trials.

Here, you’ll be transported back to the infamous Salem witch trials of 1692 as you explore interactive exhibits and learn about the hysteria that swept through the town. You’ll also have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the victims of the witch trials and discover the truth behind the myth of the witch.

With its engaging displays and informative presentations, the Salem Witch Museum is a must-visit attraction that provides a fascinating glimpse into a dark period of American history.

5. Take A Ghost Tour of Salem

There are many amazing tours you can take while you are visiting Salem for Halloween.

With so many to list, we’ve decided to compile them in another article right here!

Check Out Our Article “The 21 Best Salem Walking Tours for 2023“

6. The House of Seven Gables

115 Derby Street

If you’re looking for a Halloween experience that’s both historically fascinating and hair-raisingly scary, you need to visit the House of Seven Gables.

This sprawling mansion dates back to the 1660s, and made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel of the same name.

It is said to be one of the most unique places in all of New England. Between the creepy yet beautiful architecture and it’s link to Hawthorne’s novel, this is one Halloween experience that will stay with you long after the holiday is over.

There are a few buildings that you can explore, one being the house where Hawthorne was actually born, along with its beautiful gardens.

7. The Salem Witch Village

282 Derby Street

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the spooky history of Salem Witch Village, located in the bewitching town of Salem, Massachusetts.

Discover the legends and true tales of the infamous witch trials that occurred over three centuries ago. This village offers a unique and unforgettable experience that showcases the history of Salem and its dark past.

From touring the Witch Trial Museum to exploring the reconstructed homes of accused “witches,” visitors can delve into the past and gain a better understanding of this eerie chapter in American history.

In addition, the village also features a variety of witch-themed attractions, including fortune-telling, psychic readings, and spell-casting demonstrations.

8. Gallows Hill

7 Lynde Street 

Known for its infamous witch trials in the late 17th century, this site offers a unique and eerie experience for visitors. Gallows Hill offers a theatrical style show and haunted house maze like no other in Salem for Halloween.

The 22 minute long show puts you in the middle of what the Puritans feared, Witches and Ghosts. With it’s use show stage quality spooks and jump scares, this could be a bit intense for younger kids, but it’s all a part of the fun.

9. Attend A Costume Ball

There are plenty of them happening in Salem this Halloween season!

There is the Official Salem Witches’ Halloween Ball, The most magical Halloween party in the world draws guests from all over the world for a night of magic, music, potent rituals, and prizes.

The Hawthorne Hotel also hosts its own Halloween Ball, with every year host an intriguing and unique theme. The famed Endless Night also hosts their Vampire Ball here.

Looking for something for the kiddos to do? The Good Witch of Salem hosts the Children’s Halloween Costume Ball, entirely fun for the whole family!

🪄 Official Salem Witches’ Halloween Ball – October 27th
🧹 Hawthorne Hotel Halloween Ball – October 28th
🪄 Endless Night Vampire Ball – September 9th
🧹 Children’s Halloween Costume Ball – October 21st

10. Take A Witchcraft or Tarot Class

Try to learn a few spells to try out this Halloween season!

There are plenty of places and individuals who offer classes showing off their craft. Witchcraft stores such as the one we mentioned above like Pentagram, Maison Vampyre, and Omen offer classes. Just check their respective sites to see what amazing stuff they have going on!

The Witchery is another great place that offers workshop and HausWitch offers many wonderful classes virtually as well!

11. The Salem Wax Museum

288 Derby Street

Go see their collection of wax figures, including famous witches and spooky characters. There are more than 50 figures on display at the museum, each one representing a different moment in Salem’s history.

You can witness the infamous Salem Witchcraft Trials or get up close and personal with Nathaniel Hawthorne, a famous author who called Salem his home. The wax figures are so lifelike you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

A visit to the Salem Wax Museum is a must for anyone interested in history, literature, or simply the art of wax figures.

12. Tour the Homes of Famous Salem Residents

Aside from Nathaniel Hawthorne’s home, there are many beautiful houses that have been standing for hundreds of years. Even better many of them you can step inside and see what life was like during their time living there.

After seeing the Witch House and the House of Seven Gables, consider checking out the Ropes Mansion, which hosts an art gallery and lovely gardens, or the Yin Yu Tang, a 200 year Chinese styled home re-erected in Salem!

13. Participate With A Ghost Hunt

While there are many ghost tours to choose from, some companies offer actual paranormal investigations with an expert!

Our friends at Gallows Hill offers an After Hours Ghost Hunt at their Lost Museum location. You’ll be get guidance by a local expert and given the proper equipment to conduct a real ghost hunt!

Want to investigate a naval ship? United States Naval Shipbuilding Museum has got you covered! Explore the USS Salem at night with the Greater Boston Paranormal Associates on Friday and Saturday nights.

👻 Gallows Hill – After House Ghost Hunt
👻 Naval Shipbuilding Museum – Paranormal Investigation

14. Watch a movie at the historic CinemaSalem

1 E India Square Mall

Why spend time on your vacation watching a movie? For starters, who wouldn’t want to catch a flick in a theatre that’s been in operation for over 100 years?

Also, during the month of October, CinemaSalem brings back some great classics like the old Hollywood’s Dracula and Frankenstein and great horror hit likes The Exorcist and Friday the 13th.

And everything Friday at 10pm, they host their Night Light event which showcases movies that have been deemed “cult classics” for their questionable content.

➡️ Check Out Their Schedule Here! ⬅️

15. Visit The Witch Dungeon Museum

16 Lynde Street

As soon as you walk into the Witch Dungeon Museum, the atmosphere is already established.

You are in Salem Village in 1692, where you can be sure to have an unforgettable educational experience mixed with a few shivers. You’ll witness the acclaimed presentation of a witch trial that was derived from the original historical transcripts from 1692.

16. Visit the Old Burying Point Cemetery

Orne Street, Marblehead, MA

The oldest cemetery in Salem and one of the oldest in the country is the Old Burying Point Cemetery, commonly known as the Charter Street Cemetery. It was first used in 1637, and many famous people from Salem are buried there.

17. Explore the Shops on Essex Street

Historic brick and cobblestone street in the heart of Salem that is no longer accessible by car.

Numerous attractions, museums, stores, restaurants, and more which are filled with witch and Halloween-themed goods.

Some of the more notable shops include The Peabody Essex Museum Shop, Vampfangs, Witch History Museum Gift Shop, Hex: Old World Witchery, Black Cat Curiosity Shoppe, and Bewitched in Salem.

18. Grab a Bite at Unique Cafes and Restaurants

When you have places like the Dire Wolf Tavern and Hallowed Ground, a speakeasy, you know you’re in for a good time, good eats, and good drinks.

Many places might not exactly fit the aesthetic of the Witch City, but there are still some great places to check out. These are our recommendations!

🪄 Dire Wolf Tavern – 87 Washington Street
Foodies can expect savor tavern classics with a twist as well as a large sushi menu. This cozy, welcoming pub offers Sunday brunch in addition to a quick, laid-back lunch during the week.

🧹 Hallowed Ground – 87 Washington Street
Just follow the red light in the alley. Get underground to savor specialty drinks and good food.

🪄 Nautical Nutrition – 10 Jefferson Avenue
Specializing in Healthy Meal Shakes, Energizing Teas, and Good Vibes

🧹 The Village Tavern – 168 Essex Street
When a place has offerings such as Prime Ribs Eggrolls, Avocado Fries, Bacon Brie Burger, and Sriracha Steak Tip Mac N Cheese, how can you possibly pass it up?

🪄 Jolie Tea Company – 316 Derby Street
A delight place to enjoy Afternoon Tea experiences, treats and enjoy seasonal blends.

🧹 Harbor Sweets – 85 Leavitt Street
Halloween Chocolate Countdown Calendars and Chocolate Skeletons in Coffins, what’s not to love?

🪄 Odd Meter Coffee Co. – 60 Washington Street
This quirky coffee shop has drinks like Alchemist’s Tonic, Boo Berry Latte, and The Witch’s Wand, definitely worth checking out!

19. Find The Bewitched Statue

This famous statue honors the 1965 television program’s main star “Samantha Stevens” and is situated in Derby Square.

The monument honors the show’s charming blend of magical humor and family values, and just adds to the witchy appeal of the city.

20. Visit the Peabody Essex Museum

161 Essex Street

The Peabody Essex Museum has an extensive collection of beautiful art that celebrates Salem’s rich history and diverse culture. Local and featured artists continuously have displays and many exhibits feature Salem’s witchcraft and maritime past.

As one of the oldest continuously operating museums in the country, PEM houses an impressive collection of art, historical artifacts, and cultural objects. From world-renowned Asian art to the objects of maritime trade, PEM offers an immersive experience for visitors of all ages.

21. Explore Pioneer Village

98 West Avenue

Pioneer Village is the first living history museum in America and was constructed in 1930 to commemorate Massachusetts’ 400th anniversary.

The hamlet, which occupies three acres, is home to dugouts, wigwams, thatched roof cottages, and the Governor’s Faire House, among other colonial architectural styles. A blacksmith shop, culinary and medicinal gardens, and early 17th-century colonial life are all other examples of this.

➡️Please be mindful that the village is only open from June 10 through October 29 during the weekends from 12 – 4pm. ⬅️

22. Filming Locations

Salem has been the filming location for many movies, but it’s most famous is the beloved Disney classic, Hocus Pocus.

There is a good chance you will see many of the places featured in the film on your own, but here is a list to help you remember where each scene took place!

🪄 Pioneer Village – Salem Village – 98 West Avenue
🧹 Phillips Elementary School – Max & Allison’s School – 86 Essex Street
🪄 The Ropes Mansion – Allison’s Home – 318 Essex Street
🧹 Max and Dani’s House – 4 Ocean Avenue
🪄 Old Town Hall – Halloween Party – 32 Derby Square
🧹 Salem Common – N Washington Square
🪄 Old Burial Hill – Cemetery – Orne Street, Marblehead, MA

Bonus: Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery – 217 Essex Street
Although Hocus Pocus was not filmed at this museum, Winifred Sanderson, who was represented in the movie by Bette Midler, is a striking presence there. Count Orlok’s is open as a museum and a haunted house from June through October.

23. Ride on a Historic Schooner or Halloween Cruise

In October, travel to the port in Salem this Halloween if you’re searching for something genuinely distinctive to do.

Set sail on a recreation of a historic privateer schooner for an interactive sailing trip off the Salem coast. This adventure, which is great for families, keeps you interested by giving you the chance to assist with duties like raising the sails and navigating the boat.

Additionally, the crew tells tales about Salem’s past and the part played by privateers.

➡️ ⛵ Book Your Schooner Ride Here! ⛵ ⬅️

You can also book a Halloween themed cruise with Haunted Happenings Harbor Cruise by Mahi Cruises

Everything you love about Halloween is included in this entertaining 75-minute trip, but on a boat! The ideal blend of festive music and live stories about local pirates, haunted islands, and living creatures that still wreck havoc on ships are included, along with haunted décor, eerie picture opportunities, complimentary tarot card readings, face painting, and haunting décor.

There is plenty of room for everyone, a heated main cabin and an open top deck. Check out our complete bar on our upper deck, which has strong cocktails, Grandma’s Spiked Hot Apple Cider, and local craft beers.

There are kid-friendly sodas, drinks, juices, and hot chocolate available! We keep food simple. Favorites from the backyard grill, such as hamburgers, dogs, and vegetarian burgers, are all prepared to order. Enjoy a cup of chicken noodle soup or clam chowder, two dishes that are sure to make your stomach grumble.

➡️ 🎃 Book Your Halloween Cruise Here! 🎃 ⬅️

24. Stay At A Haunted Hotel

Salem draws in thrill-seekers and history aficionados alike with its terrifying stories of Salem Witch Trials, but did you know this dark past has lead to claims of paranormal activity?

Salem in Halloween is considered to one of the spookiest places in America and just rifled with mystery and history. So it’s no wonder a few ghosts are lurking around. And if you want to try your luck in seeing one, these are the best hotels to stay at!

Hawthorne Hotel
The Hawthorne Hotel, which is located in the center of Salem’s historic downtown is on the land that once belonged to Bridget Bishop. For those who are not familiar with the details of the witch trials, Bridget was the first woman to be executed at the town’s Gallows Hill in 1692 for witchcraft. Makes sense she would be keeping an eye on her land. Rooms 325 and 612 have been reported to have the most activity.
➡️ BOOK YOUR STAY HERE! ⬅️

The Salem Inn
This hotel is one of the most haunted in Massachusetts, according to staff and visitors, who have a quite the experience to share. The 19th-century property is reportedly home to no less than three ghosts, one of them being a phantom cat! Those who stay the night in Room 17 have reportedly heard a variety of strange noises, making it one of the most active areas for paranormal activity!
➡️ BOOK YOUR STAY HERE! ⬅️

The Daniels House Bed & Breakfast
The Daniels House Bed & Breakfast, which dates back to around 1667, is not only one of the oldest residences in Salem, but also one of the oldest bed and breakfasts in all of Massachusetts. A ghostly gray cat, a man in Puritan clothing, and an intriguing female spirit all live at the reputedly haunted bed and breakfast. The Daniels House also provides tours that dive into Salem’s intriguing history and mystique in addition to offering a peaceful and historically immersing stay.
➡️ BOOK YOUR STAY HERE! ⬅️

The Merchant
Another eerie property in Salem with a dark past is The Merchant. It was one of the earliest brick residences erected in the city, having been completed in 1784. The building’s darker past, however, comes from its association with Sheriff George Corwin, a cruel character who played a significant role in the Salem Witch Trials. Within the confines of The Merchant, Corwin questioned and tortured the accused, and it is rumored that the ghosts of his victims, including Giles Corey, still linger there.
➡️ BOOK YOUR STAY HERE! ⬅️

25. Salem Haunted Happenings Festival

This exciting event runs throughout the month of October and includes plenty of spooky fun!

Known as the biggest Halloween extravaganza on earth! More than 500,000 people are expected to attend the celebrations, parades, vendor fairs, strolling tours, museums, attractions, and special activities in Salem.

Everyday something fun and amazing is happening, from the Haunted Happenings Marketplace, a Haunted Magic Show, Cabaret shows, and special Museum exhibits.

➡️ Check Out There Site For A Full Calendar! ⬅️

---

---

Conclusion: 25 Things To Do This Halloween in Salem, MA

There you have it, 25 fun things to do in Salem this Halloween season! The town of Salem truly comes alive during this time of year, so make sure to take advantage of all the spooktacular activities.

Whether you’re interested in witchcraft and ghosts or simply want to enjoy the beautiful autumn scenery, there’s something for everyone in Salem. So pack your bags, put on your best witch hat, and head to Salem for a Halloween you’ll never forget!