Salem, Massachusetts is a great vacation destination no matter the time of year. Though many enjoy Salem attractions in the fall, it doesn’t mean Salem is a ghost-town the rest of the year–pun intended. However, if you are a true Halloween lover, it’s time to plan the ultimate fall getaway as soon as possible!
Even though a visit to Salem in October is the quintessential Halloween-lover’s vacation, going near the end of September may give you a chance to skip the lines and crowded streets. However, if you love being smack in the middle of creepy chaos, you’ll want to check out all of the witchy things to do in Salem in October.
Witchy Salem Attractions
Salem is the place to visit for anything and everything witchcraft related. Below are a handful of Salem attractions perfect for a witchy weekend away this fall.
1. The Burying Point
If you’re intrigued by old monuments and the etchings on gravestones, visiting The Burying Point is a must-go activity during your visit to Salem in October. The gravestones scattering the vast burial ground are all connected to some of the most infamous Salem Witch Trials. The well-known Judge Hathorne and Judge Gedney–both huge decision-makers during the trials–have gravestones visitors can view and read. Whether you spend five minutes walking through or hours learning about those who lay beneath the ground, it is a witchy atmosphere you don’t want to miss.
2. Ropes Mansion
For the Hocus Pocus fans out there, a visit to the Ropes Mansion may be at the top of your list of things to do in Salem. Though the Ropes Mansion may be recognized as the famous house from Hocus Pocus, the story behind it actually is a little darker. Built in 1727, the Ropes Mansion housed three generations of Ropes and currently is open to the public for tours. During the American Revolution, mobs used to throw mud and rocks at the house because the family was Loyalist. Over the years, there have been talks of ghosts haunting the home and many guests visit in hopes of experiencing paranormal activity in person.
3. OMEN
When it comes to experiencing the supernatural, OMEN is a place you’ll want to add to your list of things to do in Salem in October. This lounge–or parlor, as it’s called–has spirit mediums available who connect visitors with those who have passed away. It’s recommended for visitors to bring an item from their loved one with them to help the spiritual connection. OMEN is also more than an interactive, supernatural experience. There are products such as crystals, potions, and spell candles available for those who wish to connect with spirits on their own.
4. The Witch House
Walking into the vicinity of The Witch House will immediately cover you in goosebumps. There is a spooky aura that automatically takes hold when visitors arrive at Judge Jonathan Corwin’s home. Corwin was known to be one of the top judges to investigate and accuse those of being witches during the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. However, his family too was impacted by accusations when fingers pointed at his family members–such as his mother-in-law, Margaret Thatcher. Corwin passed away rich and without an ounce of remorse for those he sent to The Gallows. This is one of the reasons ghosts of those accused are said to haunt his home; you too can explore The Witch House in search of these witchy spirits.
5. The Gallows
When someone was accused of witchcraft, they were sentenced to death in The Gallows. The Gallows should be on your list of things to do in Salem because of the interactive, theatrical experience that takes place. From June until October, The Gallows come to life with witchy projections, ghastly holograms, and 4D special effects that bring you back to the haunting past. Specifically when you visit Salem in October, there are combination tickets available that include the main show as well as side special events. If your trip to Salem is a short one, a quick visit to The Gallows is sure to be a spine-tingling experience you’ll never forget.
