Hundreds of thousands of tourists hop on their broomsticks every October and travel to Salem, Massachusetts. The town holds a rich history, having been the site of the infamous 1692 witch hunt hysteria. The city later gained more national recognition because of the Disney movie Hocus Pocus, which was filmed on location in 1993. I first visited Salem in October 2021. I instantly loved the town’s history and New England charm. Luckily, I decided to attend college in the wonderful “Bay State,” which made visiting the city a staple in the fall. As a Halloween girl at heart, I have accumulated some of my favorite spots and can’t-miss destinations in Salem!
- The Salem Witch Museum
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The Salem Witch Museum is an absolute must for learning about the historical implications of the tragic witch trials. The museum retells the trials through a series of still frame sets surrounding a room. As the narrator speaks, different stages of the room are lit up. The second exhibit features the historical implications of using a scapegoat and pieces of media that relate to the historiography of the witch icon. Tickets cost $17.50 and are available to purchase day-of on the museum website.
- Charter Street CemeteryÂ
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The Charter Street Cemetery has a storied history. Not only does it hold graves of pilgrims who came to America on the Mayflower, but it is also the site of the Salem witch trial victim memorial. The memorial contains stones with the names of the 20 victims who were wrongfully killed. It’s a crucial part of the history of Salem.
- Lulu’s Bakery and PantryÂ
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If you need a warm drink or a snack on your walk through the chilly seaport town, I advise checking out Lulu’s Bakery and Pantry, which has a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. They also have many yummy seasonal options like pumpkin chai lattes, seasonal treats, and more! My favorite is their hot apple cider! The cafe has a warm and cozy vibe– perfect for a fall day!
- Pioneer Village
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The pioneer village is a history museum that features life examples in the 1600s. There are a handful of houses built in the pioneer style. The interiors of the home feature instruments and tools that were used at the time. Entry is $5. It is also a fun place to take pictures! Notably, the opening scenes of Hocus Pocus were filmed in the Pioneer Village.
- The Ropes MansionÂ
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The Ropes Mansion was renovated into a colonial style mansion in the 1800’s and was owned by the three Ropes sisters. The mansion features beautiful gardens in the back of the house, which are open to the public free of charge. The gardens feature a large fountain, multiple footpaths and a beautiful copper beech tree. The mansion is also connected to Hocus Pocus! The mansion serves as Allison’s house in the movie!
That wraps up my favorite spots in Salem, Ma! While it’s great to visit during the fall months, it’s also beautiful during the summer months! Whether you go for the food, the history, or the connection to Hocus Pocus, make sure to visit some of these spots and take lots and lots of pictures!
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