Story originally appeared on Timeshares Only.
Looking for places to go this Halloween? Get spooky on vacation to Salem, Mass this year to feel the spirit. Salem, Massachusetts is the hallmark of fall festivities. The famed city is known for the Salem Witch Trials that took place in 1692 and has kept up the spirit of Halloween ever since. Take a look at the best things to do in Salem during Halloween season. Well also show you some places to stay while youre visiting.
Salem Walking Tours
With all of the rich and complex history that Salem has, you must take a walking tour through Salem. Take a 2.5 hour Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking tour with the experts by making a reservation here . Visitors are led by a local guide to some of the most famous landmarks in Salem, like Covens Cottage, the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, Hamilton Hall, and more. Not only will you get a glimpse of some Salem haunts, but youll also learn about the citys past as a Native American settlement, and its place in history during the American Revolution.
If youre more interested in just learning more about the Salem Witch Trials on vacation, make time for the Salem Witch Trials Historical Walking Tour. Youll get a better understanding of the history of the Salem witch trials, including the most common misconceptions. A tour guide brings guests to main historic sites, and youll hear stories from accusers and victims during that time.
Visit the Salem Witch House
While some Salem walking tours may take you to visit the Salem Witch House, guests can take a look on their own as well. Its best to go in the morning before the crowds start to swell. Once home to Jonathan Corwin, a judge that served during the witchcraft trials in 1692, it is one of several “haunted” locations in New England. The black house is eerie looking just on its own but is also the site of family tragedy and turmoil. Guides within the house can share fascinating facts and stories about the Corwin family, as well as the witch trials which took place.
Frankensteins Castle Haunted House
Thrill-seekers can delight in some extra spooky activities on vacation to Salem, Mass as well. Visit Frankensteins Castle, hosted by the Salem Wax Museum & Salem Witch Village. Head into the Salem Wax Museums dungeon to enter Dr. Frankensteins notorious winding dungeon hallways. Guests go through curving hallways to see the mad doctors quest in creating immortal life.
Peabody Essex Museum
With a rotating selection of exhibits, this fall the Peabody Essex Museum is showcasing original witch trial documents and possessions of individuals involved in the Salem with trials. Ongoing exhibits include Japanomania! Japanese Art that Goes Global, Fashion and Design, as well as Maritime Art.
The Peabody Essex Museum in Salem also displays a serene 5,000-square-foot garden with almost 300 varieties of shrubs, 60 trees, 37 flower species, and an 11-foot cascading water feature for auditory relaxation. Sit and enjoy the natural landscaping designed for an acoustic break from your trip at the museum.
Check Out Famous Hocus Pocus Movie Sites
Did you know a majority of the scenes in the beloved Hocus Pocus movie were filmed in Salem? Max and Danis home is located on 4 Ocean Ave, and it really has the iconic tower from Maxs attic bedroom.
Salems Pioneer Village was the set of the opening scenes of the movie, and is now a reconstruction of what the village may have looked like in the 1600s. The Sanderson sisters cottage was also built as a set here, however no longer exists.
The scenes from the Town Hall party where all of the adults are dancing the night away also took place at the Old Town Hall right in the heart of Salem. While youre exploring the downtown areas shops and restaurants, the Old Town Hall cant be missed.
Finally, Allisons home takes place at the historic Ropes Mansion. The property is apart of the Peabody Essex Museum, featuring beautifully manicured gardens and traditional New England architecture.
Where to Stay on Vacation to Salem Mass
On your spooky October vacation to Salem, Massachusetts, check out our favorite locations and rentals. While there are inns and hotels near Salem, we recommend staying further away and making Salem a day trip on your Massachusetts vacation. The coast is famous for its beautiful beaches and scenery that cant be beat.
