The Savory Suitcase

Its me, I’m spooky B*tches.

Salem, Massachusetts.

Known for its bewitching history, captivating tales, and shrouded in dark mystery, Salem is a must-visit destination during the spooky season for any self proclaimed spooky enthusiasts. We visited last October, and as lovers of Halloween and history, this was the perfect stop to top off our Ultimate Fall New England Road Trip.

Based on our visit we have put together a one-day itinerary that will guide you through a captivating journey to experience the best of Salem’s witchy wonders, historical sites, and seasonal delights. October is a pretty busy time of year to visit Salem, well all of New England is pretty popular in the fall, so it’s expected that there will crowds, but with some planning and preparation, you can still have a great trip.

Morning: Visiting the Past

The Witch House: The very first stop of the day was at the Witch House, the only structure still standing with direct ties to the witch trials. We recommend stopping here first, so there is no timed entry and you just enter a general admission line. The earlier you get there, hopefully the less time you’ll have to wait. When you enter you’ll step back in time as you enter the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, a key figure in the trials. Experience the eerie ambiance as you learn about the lifestyles and beliefs that contributed to the hysteria.

Salem Witch Village: Spend the rest of the morning browsing the Witch Village. This area is full of shops, restaurants, bakeries and smaller museums. This is a great time to pop in and out of shops, smell some candles, or pick up a book to learn more about the trials. You may also find yourselves the chance to visit the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, to pay respect to the victims whose stories shape the history of Salem.

Afternoon: Unveiling Haunted Histories

Salem Witch Museum: Plan to visit the renowned Salem Witch Museum after lunch. As of this writing they currently have timed entry in October. You can reserve tickets. Immerse yourself in the story of the infamous witch trials of 1692 through a combination of exhibits and dramatic presentations. Explore the history and cultural context of these events that have left an indelible mark on Salem.

The House of the Seven Gables: Continue your exploration with a visit to The House of the Seven Gables, a historic mansion made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel of the same name. Roam through its intriguing rooms and secret passages, absorbing the ambiance that inspired one of America’s greatest literary works.

Pioneer Village : As the afternoon progresses, make your way to the Salem Pioneer Village. Discover America’s first living history museum through interactive exhibits, historic buildings, and scenic waterfront views. After visiting the Witch House, a visit to the Pioneer Village will show you what life was like for most of the town during the time of the trials, rather than the wealthy. The eerie atmosphere of the harbor only adds to the allure of this fascinating site.

Evening: Tours Under the Moonlight

Salem Haunted Happenings: As dusk settles in, immerse yourself in the enchantment of Salem’s Haunted Happenings Festival. Held throughout October, this festival brings the city to life with haunted attractions, street fairs, and eerie entertainment. Join ghost tours, witness psychic readings, and interact with costumed characters that embody Salem’s bewitching past.

The Salem Witch Walk: Originating at the oldest witchcraft store in Salem, the Witch Walk is hosted by Lorelei, who has been a psychic reader and Salem Witch for over 35 years. The Tour takes you through historic streets of Salem, discusses the practice of current day witch craft, and join a blessing honoring the victims of the trials.

Additional Stops: More Spooky Stops if You Have the Time

Saugus Iron Works: Located about 20 minutes from the heart of downtown, the Saugus Iron Works is a interesting stop to add to your time in Salem. Although no direct ties to the trials exists within the house and mill here, the house dates back to only a decade or two after the trials. The style of home built on the property mirrors the black houses with sharp gables seen throughout the town of Salem. We stuck around for the tour with an extraordinarily knowledgeable ranger, and learned a lot about the history of this area of Massachusetts.

Hocus Pocus Filming Locations: A few of the spots that we have mentioned have already covered some of the Hocus Pocus filming locations, but if you are a huge fan of the movie, you’ll want to be sure to add a couple more of the popular spots to your visit. The Ropes Mansion was the exterior used for Allison’s house, The Pioneer village was the opening scene location, Salem Commons, Old Burial Hill Cemetery, Old Town Hall, and Phillips Elementary School all make appearances in the original movie.

Conclusion: An Enchanted Escape

A day in Salem during October is an experience like no other, and really adds a spooky touch to any fall foliage trip. From the historical sites that recount the city’s dark past to the haunted festivities that celebrate its mysterious spirit, Salem offers an enchanting look into the past for those seeking a taste of the eerie and the historical. Plan to embrace the spirit of the season as you unravel the tales of witchcraft, explore centuries-old homes, and revel in the Halloween festivities that make Salem a truly magical destination.