In New England, the temperatures are dropping and the leaves are changing color. It’s one of the best times of year to visit. Pumpkins, cider donuts, harvest festivals, and now since it’s October, Halloween decorations, are everywhere.

Halloween is Here

Halloween decorations in our area seem to get bigger and better with every new year. I have one neighbor who creates a different skeleton-filled theme every year. This year, the cannons have blown holes in the sides of his house, with skeletons scaling the house as if it were a ship. Last year, about eight adult-sized skeletons were a full-service landscape contracting service hard at work with a mower, leaf blower, hedge trimmer, and rakes. Some of us are already wondering what next year’s theme will be and when he’ll run out of ideas. Talk about pressure!

Salem, MA: The Witch City

Salem, Massachusetts, is infamously known for its witches—specifically the Salem witch trials of the late 1600s. So when it comes to Halloween, no town does it better.

It’s Halloween All Month

October in Salem is synonymous with parades, costume parties, haunted houses, ghost tours, over 200 artisan vendors, live music, theatrical presentations, and psychic readings. The entire city embraces a Halloween theme, making it a festive and eerie place to explore throughout the month.

Tips for Visiting Salem in October

Book in Advance: October is Salem's busiest month, so make sure to book tours, accommodations, and restaurants well in advance. Download the free Destination Salem App for information on various ticket options.

Weekdays vs. Weekends: Salem gets very crowded. NBC10 Boston says about 1.3 million mortals will descend upon Salem in October, and according to Salem’s major, weekends host up to 100,000 visitors. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, but the Halloween atmosphere is liveliest on weekends and Halloween itself. Pick your poison (or is it a potion?)

Parking and Transportation: Finding a parking spot requires psychic abilities, as the city only has about 4,000 parking spaces. Your best bet is to use public transportation, which is a must during October weekends.

• Take the MBTA train from Boston’s North Station using the Newburyport or Rockport lines.

• Take the Salem Ferry from Boston’s Long Wharf.

• If you must drive, park at a satellite lot and take the FREE shuttle bus (see 2024 details here)

Traffic going in and out of the city can be a test for any witch or warlock. I know residents who have worked from home during the last two weeks of October for a number of years (pre-Covid) because there’s no way around the traffic.

Salem Historic Sites

Salem Witch Museum offers a detailed and dramatic look at the 1692 witch trials and the evolution of witchcraft perception throughout history. It features life-size stage sets and narration. It’s a must-see for history buffs and those curious about the dark side of Salem’s past.

The Witch House is the only structure still standing in Salem with direct ties to the Witch Trials. It was the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, one of the magistrates during the trials. It offers a look into 17th-century life and the tragic events that took place.

The House of the Seven Gables is a historic site made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel by the same name. It’s a popular tourist spot year-round but takes on a particularly spooky ambiance in October. During October, there are special Halloween-themed tours.

Old Burying Point Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in the U.S. It is where some of Salem’s notable figures, including Witch Trials Judge John Hathorne, are buried.

The Witch Trials Memorial is dedicated to the 20 innocent people executed during the trials. It is located adjacent to the Old Burying Point Cemetery.

Ghost and Witch Tours

Salem offers many ghost tours and witch walks throughout October, guiding visitors through haunted locations and sharing tales of eerie events. Some popular tours include:

The Salem Night Tour—a walking tour that delves into the city’s haunted history and ghostly encounters.

The Wandering Witches Walk—a tour that explores Salem’s spiritual and witchcraft history. Spend time with a real witch who practices witchcraft.

Salem Witch Hunt Myths & Misconceptions Walking Tour—learn about the causes and events behind Salem’s witchcraft hysteria.

Hocus Pocus Movie Guided Walking Tour—visit spots like Ropes Mansion, which served as Allison's house, and Old Town Hall, where the famous Halloween party scene occurred.

Psychic Fair and Witchcraft Expo

Throughout October, Salem hosts a Psychic Fair and Witchcraft Expo, where visitors can receive tarot card readings, purchase magical items, and learn more about modern witchcraft from local practitioners. This event typically occurs at the Salem Witch Village in the heart of Salem’s historic downtown near Pickering Wharf.

Haunted Harbor Cruise

Take a haunted harbor cruise along Salem's coastline. These cruises mix spooky storytelling with the beauty of the Massachusetts coastline. Some cruises focus on local ghost stories; others are just festive, lighthearted Halloween boat rides.

Get Your Witch or Warlock On

In October, Salem transforms into the Halloween capital of the world, with a perfect mix of spooky fun, history, and festive events. Whether you're there for the haunted attractions or to delve deeper into the city’s rich history, Salem is a must-visit destination this time of year!