Attractions and Activities

While I generally do not support the over-saturation of tourism, much of Salem's economy rests on the month of October. And it's not just the business: buskers dressed as horror icons tend to fill Essex street during the month, travelling performers set up their acts in the museum square, and the killer sax player holds down the vibe with nothing but a backing track.

I would be a hypocrite if I didn't mention I patron these places, but for a few select spots, it's just not a trip to Salem for me without it. For more information, the ☕ emoji you'll see next to listings will signal there's tea on the business, links included.

Museums and Attractions

Count Orlock's Nightmare Gallery- Insanely cool horror movie wax museum. No scares, just amazing  displays. 

Gallows’ Hill Theatre- Both shows are great if you like fun house activities.

New England Pirate Museum- Great 20-minute presentation on a part of Salem’s nautical history. Must  go! 

Real pirates! Salem- An amazing museum on the wreck of the pirate ship, Whydah. An absolute must go! 

Philips mansion- 100% preserved mansion, including the exact furniture owned by the family. Amazing  display of history and absolutely a must see. 

Ropes Mansion- Allison’s house from Hocus Pocus. If they’re offering indoor tours through the PEM,  jump for it. You can also visit the garden for free, which is amazing in the summer(Don't be like me, and accidentally crash a wedding ceremony though.) 

The Peabody Essex Museum- Could spend half a day here, it’s an amazing world class museum. 

Salem Customs House- Must see if you can get in, only open on the weekends.

Salem Witch Museum- The first thing we go to when we enter the city, it just sets the whole mood. You can’t not go. Sure, it is a bit campy, but the second part of the tour is really well done and worth staying for.

Salem Maritime site- The friendship! Go on a Sunday! 

Salem Pioneer Village- It’s the village from the opening scene of Hocus Pocus! Well worth the price, see it in its original site before it moves!

Salem Witch Trials Memorial and Burying Point- It's the whole point of coming. Pay your respects, ogle the tombstones, but stay on the path, the staff are emphatic about that. A must see. 

The House of Seven Gables Settlement- An amazing spot to visit, and they offer a ticket option to just see the garden and gift shop, which is world class. we  try to go every time! 

The Witch House- Absolute Must see, it's an icon of the city. 

Witch Dungeon Museum- They start the show with a reenactment of a trial transcript, awesome place to see. 

Witch History Museum- Decent tour, if you go here first you can get a discount on the pirate museum  and the witch dungeon museum! 

The Witchery- make your own broom and book classes! Expensive, but really fun! 

The Daniel’s house- cute bnb, great history tour! The Guide is really knowledgeable and passionate about the subject!

Tours: 

Salem Trolly- Take the full loop around the city first, it’s a great ride and tour, and free quick  transportation the rest of the day. 

Salem Witch Walk- One of the best walking tours in the city IMO.

Satanic Salem Walking Tour- one of the best in the city

Mahi Cruises Habor Tour- always a good boat ride, if you go in October, try and take the haunted happenings cruise.