Things to Do in Salem, Massachusetts in October: A Spooky Girls’ Getaway Guide

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A Look at the Best Things to do in Salem, Ma

Why Visit Salem, Massachusetts in October?

If you’re planning a fall getaway, there’s no place quite like Salem, Massachusetts in October. Known as the “Witch City,” Salem transforms into a month-long Halloween celebration filled with haunted happenings, historic sites, ghost tours, and festive events.

Every October, more than a million visitors come to Salem to experience its famous Halloween atmosphere, making it one of the most popular fall destinations in the United States.

From eerie walking tours and witch museums to charming cobblestone streets lined with fall decor, Salem offers the perfect mix of spooky and fun—especially for a girls’ getaway. And that’s exactly what a group of my women from my book club decided would be the perfect fall getaway for us!

The Best Things to do in Salem, Ma

When my friends and I started planning our Salem getaway, we knew we wanted a mix of history, ghost stories, cozy cafés, and maybe just a little bit of magic. What we found was a town that fully embraces Halloween in the best way possible. From haunted tours to witch museums to Hocus Pocus and Bewitched tours, Salem in October is an experience you won’t forget.

Here are the best things to do in Salem, Massachusetts during Halloween season—especially if you’re visiting with friends. Just beware that Salem gets super busy as it gets closer to Halloween. If you dislike crowds, maybe choose to go earlier in the season, and try to avoid the weekends. Also, be sure to check out my other post — The 5 Salem Experiences That Book Up The Fastest in October.

Dive Into Salem’s Witch Trial History – One of the must-do things in Salem, Ma

You can’t visit Salem without learning about the infamous witch trials of 1692. While the town leans into spooky fun today, the real history is emotional, fascinating, and worth understanding.

Plan visits to:

Salem Witch Museum

This is one of the most popular attractions in town, especially in October. The museum uses life-sized dioramas and narration to walk you through the events of the trials. It’s dramatic, informative, and a great introduction to Salem’s past.

Witch House (Jonathan Corwin House)

This is the only remaining building directly connected to the witch trials. Walking through this historic home gives you a glimpse into what life looked like in the 1600s—and it feels especially eerie in fall.

Salem Witch Trials Memorial

This quiet memorial honors the victims of the trials. It’s a peaceful stop and a good reminder of the real people behind the stories.

Take a Haunted Walking Tour (A Must in October)

If you do one thing in Salem at night, make it a ghost tour.

October brings out dozens of tour companies, and they range from historical to theatrical to downright spooky. Walking through dimly lit streets while hearing stories about haunted buildings, lost souls, and mysterious happenings is peak Salem energy.

Some popular options include:

• Salem Night Tour
• Bewitched After Dark
• Black Cat Tours

Most tours last about 90 minutes and are perfect for groups. Wear comfy shoes—you’ll be walking a lot.

Things to do in Salem, Ma: Explore the Witchy Shops and Psychic Studios

Salem is filled with metaphysical shops, crystal stores, tarot readers, and spell supply boutiques. Even if you’re not into witchcraft, browsing these shops is fun and uniquely Salem.

Some favorites:

• The Coven’s Cottage
• Artemisia Botanicals
• HausWitch
• Hex Old World Witchery

Many places also offer tarot readings, aura photography, and psychic sessions. It’s a fun way to lean into the mystical side of your trip with friends.

Experience Haunted Happenings (Salem’s October Festival)

Every October, Salem hosts Haunted Happenings, a month-long Halloween celebration with events happening daily. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Salem, Ma if you visit that time of year.

You’ll find:

• Costume parades
• Outdoor concerts
• Street performers
• Haunted houses
• Pop-up markets
• Food vendors

The energy in town during this time is incredible. People go all out with costumes, decorations, and themed events. It feels like Halloween meets a street festival.

Tip: Weekends get extremely crowded. If you can visit midweek, you’ll have a much better experience.

Visit the Peabody Essex Museum (For a Break From Spooky)

When you need a break from ghosts and witches, head to the Peabody Essex Museum (PEM). It’s one of the best art museums in New England and a great way to balance out your itinerary.

PEM features:

• Global art collections
• Historic homes
• Fashion exhibits
• Seasonal displays

It’s perfect for a calmer afternoon before heading back out for nighttime fun.

Sip Cocktails in Historic (and Possibly Haunted) Bars

One of the best parts of a girls’ trip? Cozy dinners and late-night drinks—and Salem delivers.

Many bars and restaurants are located in centuries-old buildings, which adds to the spooky vibe. And some places even advertise themselves as haunted, which just adds to the fun.

Try:

• Turner’s Seafood – Great seafood in a historic building near the waterfront.
• The Roof at Hotel Salem – Rooftop drinks with fall views—perfect for photos.
• Mercy Tavern – A cozy pub with craft cocktails and seasonal specials.
• Village Tavern – A lively spot that’s fun in the evenings.

Wander Salem’s Historic Streets and Waterfront

One of the simplest (and best) things to do in Salem is just walk around.

In October, you’ll see:

• Fall decorations
• Pumpkin displays
• People in costume
• Street performers
• Candlelit windows

Don’t miss:

• Chestnut Street (beautiful historic homes)
• Derby Wharf (waterfront views)
• Pickering Wharf (shops and restaurants)

Bring your camera—Salem in autumn is incredibly photogenic. The fall foliage was a great treat for us Southern California girls.

Things to do in Salem, Ma: Tour the House of the Seven Gables

Fans of classic literature will love this stop. The House of the Seven Gables inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne’s famous novel and offers guided tours of the historic home.

During October, the house is decorated for fall and sometimes offers special Halloween programming. It’s both spooky and charming.

Things to do in Salem, Ma: Enjoy Seasonal Food and Fall Treats

October in Salem means fall flavors everywhere.

Look for:

• Pumpkin spice lattes
• Apple cider donuts
• Maple pastries
• Seasonal cocktails

Great stops include:

• Gulu-Gulu Café
• Front Street Coffeehouse
• Jaho Coffee & Wine Bar
• Goodnight Fatty (warm cookies at night—don’t skip this)

Late-night cookies after ghost tours = elite girls’ trip moment.

Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Salem, Ma (If You’re Traveling with Family)

If part of your group includes kids—or you’re planning a future family visit—Salem still has plenty to offer.

Some family-friendly options include:

• Salem Maritime National Historic Site
• Salem Willows Park (arcade and carousel)
• Not-So-Scary walking tours
• PEM’s family programs
• Pumpkin patches and fall festivals nearby

During the day, Salem is very family-friendly. In fact, I include it on my list of the best fall trip destinations for families, at least those with a bit older kids. Nights tend to be more adult-focused during October.

Tips for Visiting Salem During Halloween Season

Before you go, here are a few things I wish everyone knew:

• Book Early – Hotels, tours, and restaurants sell out weeks (sometimes months) in advance. October is peak season.
• Use Public Transportation – Parking is extremely limited. Taking the train from Boston is often easier.
• Expect Crowds – Especially on weekends and Halloween week. Go in with flexible expectations and a good attitude.
• Dress in Layers – Fall weather can change quickly—cool mornings, warm afternoons, chilly nights.
• Comfortable Shoes Are Non-Negotiable – You’ll walk more than you think.

Where to Stay in Salem:

There are plenty of cute house rental options if you plan to go in a big group. Just be sure to book early if you’re going during the busy season. Here are some other cute hotel options:

• The Salem Inn – Located in a historic building and includes breakfast
• Hawthorne Hotel – Iconic and centrally located
• Hotel Salem – Trendy and walkable to all the sights

2-Day Salem, MA October Itinerary

Day 1: Classic Salem + Spooky Vibes

• Start your morning with a stroll down Essex Street
• Visit the Salem Witch Museum (book tickets early!)
• Explore the Witch Trials Memorial
• Grab lunch at a local café
• Take an afternoon walking ghost tour
• End the night with a haunted attraction or night tour

Day 2: Markets, Shopping & Hidden Gems

• Browse the Haunted Happenings Marketplace
• Visit Peabody Essex Museum
• Shop for crystals, tarot cards, and Halloween decor
• Walk along Derby Wharf for waterfront views
• Take photos at iconic “Hocus Pocus” filming locations

💡 Pro tip: Salem is extremely busy in October—plan ahead and prioritize your must-do activities. These activities always sell out.

Why Salem, Ma Is Perfect for a Halloween Girls’ Trip

Salem in October is equal parts spooky, festive, historic, and fun. It’s one of those places that fully commits to its identity—and invites visitors to do the same.

You can spend your days learning about witch trials and browsing crystal shops, your evenings on haunted tours, and your nights laughing over cocktails in centuries-old buildings. It’s the kind of trip that creates inside jokes, great photos, and memories you’ll talk about for years.

If you’re looking for a destination that feels magical, mysterious, and completely different from your everyday routine, Salem during Halloween season is it. Going with my girlfriends made it even better!

Best Photo Spots in Salem in October – Added Fun For Your Girls Trip!

If you’re planning a girls’ getaway, don’t miss these Instagram-worthy spots:

• Essex Street (decorated for Halloween)
• Salem Common (fall foliage + historic charm)
• Derby Wharf Lighthouse
• Witch Trials Memorial
• “Hocus Pocus” filming locations

FAQs About Visiting Salem, MA in October

Is October the best time to visit Salem?

Yes! October is the most popular time to visit Salem thanks to its Halloween festivities, though it’s also the busiest.

How crowded is Salem in October?

Very crowded—Salem welcomes over 1 million visitors during the month.

Is Salem worth visiting in October?

Absolutely. The atmosphere is unlike anywhere else, with decorations, costumes, and events happening all month long.

How many days do you need in Salem in October?

2–3 days is ideal to experience the main attractions without feeling rushed.

Can you do Salem as a day trip?

Yes, many people visit from Boston, but staying overnight gives you a better experience—especially at night.

Looking for more East Coast or fall travel recommendations? Check out these other popular posts of mine:

• What to do in New York City – 3 Day Itinerary
• The Best Pumpkin Patches Throughout the U.S.
• Stars Hollow, Connecticut Tour (But in L.A.!)
• Top Things to do in Cape Cod
• Cool Theme Hotels Throughout the U.S.

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