Salem is one of my favorite places in the states, even before I went as an adult. Even as a kid, I found it interesting and knew I had to take my husband there. Then, the stars aligned and I was able to go in October. It’s definitely something you should do at least once, especially if you love Halloween.
There’s a few things you do need to know if you plan to head there in October. It’s not like going during any other time of year, it’s unique, crowded, but well worth it.
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Salem in October
Crowds
Now I’ve already teased that there will be crowds and I’m sure if you’re planning a trip to Salem in October, you know this, but it’s a reality so I would be remiss if I didn’t say it again. I definitely recommend heading in early if you’re not staying there. We arrived in Salem from Boston by 8a.m. and had the place basically to ourselves. If you can go on a weekday, even better.
Characters
This was such a fun surprise. There’s loads of people dressed up to celebrate the season. Just walking the street is an experience and you can snap photos with anyone and everyone.
They’re not even really asking for money, which shocked me. People just love Halloween. Of course, there are tip jars and you should put money in them in my opinion if you take photos but no one is pushy about it. Everyone just loves having a good, spooky time.
Booked Out Tours
Since there are crowds, there will be tours booked out. Because of this, certain tours are only allocated so many tickets and they are released in increments. If you want to do the Salem Witch Museum (which you should!) you’ll have to set an alarm and book them as soon as they are released. There’s only so much room in there and therefore only so many tickets for each time slot.
Top-Notch Decorations
As to be expected, the decorations are worth the visit alone. Walking the tiny streets and seeing how people decorate for the season is an experience.
Limited Parking
Alright, the last thing you really need to know about Salem in October is limited parking. If you’re driving, be sure to get there early to find a spot and if you can, use public transportation.
You can find all the parking lots, costs, and availability at this website with the interactive parking map.
Things to Do In Salem in October
Now that we’ve gotten done with what you really need to know, let’s talk about all the fun things to do in Salem in October, because there’s loads!
Hocus Pocus Movie Locations
I love Hocus Pocus and I can’t believe I never realized how much of the movie (basically all of it) was filmed in Salem. You can visit town hall, houses from the movie, parks, and more. Join a tour if you want to make sure you get them all in. Alternatively, you can head to the visitor center and they can give you a map of all the locations.
Historic Walking Tour
It’s no secret that Salem has a lot of history but it’s more than just the witch trials. That’s really only a very small amount of the history of Salem. Take a walking tour and find out more about the cities rich history including the witch trials.
Check out one of these walking tours:
History Tour | Movie Tour | Boos & Brews | Night Tour
Witch Museum
The Salem Witch Museum is a must-do. It’s a little old but it’s really a classic and no visit to Salem is complete without it. Make sure if you visit Salem in October to book tickets as soon as they are released.
Shop the Cutest Shops
You really can’t go wrong with any shop in Salem but there’s a few that can get lines. Yes, lines. The main one that gets a line is Black Craft Salem as it’s very photo worthy with a giant witch flying from the ceiling. Remember, there’s crowds. So if you want to visit some of the “must-sees” then make sure you, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, get there early.
Head here to find shops in Salem:
Shopping in Salem
Eat a Lobster Roll
While in Salem, do not forget that you’re in prime lobster roll location. Have some lunch at a lobster joint, you won’t regret it.
House of Seven Gables
Another museum you can visit is the House of Seven Gables. Famous for being featured in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, you can tour the home. You can also just take photos outside if you don’t have time for another tour. This one also books out in October and they don’t release tickets in groups so plan ahead.
Visit a Psychic
I mean, why not? They’ll probably be some on the streets if you visit Salem in October so why not sit down for a look into the future.
Learn Maritime History
Believe it or not, the most famous thing about Salem was only about 15 months. There’s actually a whole lot of other history to Salem and it starts with the Maritime. If you take a historic walking tour you’ll learn not only about the witch trials but also other history of the town. When you really think about it, 15 months is not much of a history lesson so why not get more?
Do Something Witchy
This last one might seem like a repeat but stay with me. When I say “do something witchy” I’m talking beyond the usual. Take a broom-making class (yes, that’s a thing), dress in witchy costumes and get your photo taken, you get what I mean now. I’ve included a few below so you can pick the best one.
Witchy Tours:
Broom Making | Dress-Up Photoshoot | Learn Spells | Scavenger Hunt
Final Thoughts on Visiting Salem in October
While all of this is a lot of fun, it’s important to remember two things: the witch trials were real and several people died. Don’t skip out on visiting and paying respect at the cemetery. The second thing to remember is people live in this town. While most have embraced the spooky vibes, it’s still not an invitation to sit on their porch or trespass for photos. Don’t lose yourself in all the spooky fun that you forget to be kind.
