A Fall-Lover's Guide to Visiting Salem, Massachusetts, the US's Real-Life Halloweentown

The historic city turns 400 this year—here's how to experience its milestone fall.GettyI love everything about fall: the crisp weather, the changing leaves, the pumpkin spice, the apple picking, and—above all else—Halloween. The haunted holiday is my Super Bowl (I start thinking about what to wear next year on November 1), so it should come as no surprise that I've graced the streets of Salem, Massachusetts, quite a few times.I've enjoyed my trips to the historic city about 45 minutes from Boston in every season, but due to my proclivities for all things ghostly, my most recent visit was last year during October: the city's high season. Famous for its 17th-century witch trials, in which hundreds of people were accused of witchcraft in Puritan Massachusetts and put to a notoriously unfair trial, the city has gained a reputation for haunted thrills, offering museums that let guests explore the infamous history as well as more upbeat Halloween-themed events all October long.View from above of homes on the coast in Salem GettyTourists at the Haunted Happenings event in Salem in October 2025 GettyWhile the city is a dream destination for those seeking spooky thrills, it’s also essential to approach Salem’s festivities with respect. It's fairly small, with just over eight square miles of land and a population of just 45,000, but it received roughly 4.6 million tourists in 2025—about 1.4 million of whom descended in October. This year, the city turns 400, so the festivities are expected to be even more extravagant—and crowded—than usual.If you're planning to head to Salem this fall, being mindful of local resources is essential to enjoying the experience sustainably and ethically.“The biggest thing I always say is that a little planning goes a long way," says Ashley Judge, the executive director of Destination Salem. "Midweek visits are generally easier, and taking the commuter rail or ferry instead of driving into downtown can make the experience much smoother." The city itself is also very walkable, so be sure to explore beyond the crowds at Essex Street: “Some of the best parts of a visit are just a few blocks away from the busiest areas,” Judge adds.Whether you're strolling through its haunted streets or immersing yourself in the history of the witch trials, Salem offers an unforgettable journey into the past. Read on for a guide to visiting Salem this Halloween season, including where to eat, stay, and play while you're in town.How to get to SalemWhere to eat in SalemWhere to stay in SalemWhere to play in SalemHow to get thereThe closest major city is Boston, which is just a 30- to 45-minute drive away from downtown Salem. Travelers can either fly into Boston Logan International Airport or take a train into Boston and then book an Uber or rental car. If you're staying in downtown Salem, I recommend forgoing the rental car—you won't need to drive around much once you arrive, and parking can be difficult.During October (especially on the weekends), don't underestimate the number of people on the road who are also headed in the same direction as you. While I drove straight from NYC on my trip last year, I would recommend taking the Amtrak to Boston and then grabbing an Uber or rental car once there, rather than trying to drive the full distance. (Our drive took almost double the time we thought it would due to constant bumper-to-bumper traffic.)Turner's Seafood is located inside the historic Lyceum Hall. Courtesy Turner's SeafoodThe Haddock Piccata from Turner's Seafood Courtesy Turner's SeafoodWhere to eatThere are plenty of themed restaurants to dine at for those who want to get in the Halloween spirit, including Blackcraft Coffee for your morning fix, Witchside Tavern for classic tavern food, and Hallowed Grounds for drinks like the Boneyard (rum, lemon, chamomile agave, Boar Kräuter, and chipotle-cacao bitters) and Midsommar (aquavit, hibiscus, crème de violette, chamomile agave, lemon, and egg white). Lean into the other side of fall with hard cider from Far From the Tree craft cider house, which uses local apples.For larger meals, I'm a fan of Flying Saucer Pizza Company, which serves up delicious, unique pies with names like Marvin the Martian and Mars Attacks (while not particularly Halloween-themed, the outer space motifs were fun and the location in the heart of Salem was unbeatable).The wall at Flying Saucer Pizza GettyA delicious pie at Flying Saucer Pizza Flying Saucer Pizza/@livelongandpizzaAn essential stop for seafood lovers, Turner’s Seafood at the historic Lyceum Hall blends the best of New England’s fishing heritage with an elegant dining experience. The restaurant is housed in a 19th-century building that once served as a community center, and its interior features dark wood paneling, nautical decor, and a large seafood bar at the center. The menu is a celebration of the region’s coastal bounty: think lobster bisque, fresh oysters on the half shell, and the signature lobster roll with a decadent, buttery finish.For more seafood in a casual setting, The Lobster Shanty offers a down-to-earth, no-fuss haven right in the heart of downtown Salem. Housed in a charming building that feels like a classic seafood shack, it's complete with mismatched wooden tables, a cozy bar, and a warm, friendly vibe that makes you feel like a local from the moment you walk in.For a step outside of New England’s seafood scene, Gulu-Gulu Cafe is a whimsical and artistic gem. It’s a must-visit for those looking for a cozy, European-style café with a quirky twist. Located on Essex Street, it draws in a diverse crowd of artists, locals, and tourists seeking a comfortable yet vibrant spot to relax. The walls are adorned with ever-changing local art, and the eclectic furniture adds to the bohemian charm. Its signature cocktails feature names like the Bog Witch, Devil's Backbone, and Blood Moon.A house overlooking the water in Salem GettyWhere to stayFor an immersive experience in the heart of Salem, The Hawthorne Hotel is the perfect blend of history and luxury. Opened in 1925, the stately Georgian Revival property is considered one of the most haunted hotels in the country; it's said that Bridget Bishop, the first woman executed during the witch trials, owned an apple orchard on which the hotel was built, and guests have spoken about encountering her (and other apparitions) during their stays. Beyond the paranormal, Hawthorne's elegant rooms offer views of Salem Common, and its restaurant, Nathaniel's, serves refined American cuisine you'll want to come home to.With its picturesque location along Salem’s harbor, The Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites is a tranquil escape away from the hustle and bustle of Halloween festivities. The hotel combines modern luxury with nautical charm, offering spacious rooms with stunning views. The Regatta Pub serves seafood dishes, making it the perfect retreat after a day of exploration.Hawthorne Hotel guest room The Hawthorne HotelFor something even more rooted in the past, step back in time at The Daniels House Inn, a 17th-century colonial home turned B&B that exudes historic charm. As one of the oldest buildings in Salem, it offers guests a peaceful, personalized stay with antique-filled rooms and a homemade breakfast. Just a short walk from Salem’s key attractions, it's ideal for those looking to escape the crowds while still being in the heart of the town.For a more boutique experience, The Merchant boasts both modern luxuries and historical flair—you can even sleep in the same room where George Washington once stayed! Its location—smack dab in the center of Salem’s most captivating streets—makes it the perfect home base for discovering hidden gems around town. After a long day of wandering, you can unwind in your room, sipping tea from a locally owned shop and feeling the gentle hum of the city around you.If you're booking a last-minute trip to Salem like I was last year, you may have to stay slightly outside of the city. Personally, I found it easy to take an Uber to and from my hotel to avoid having to figure out parking, but you can also drive in and out yourself if you're up for the challenge. The SpringHill Suites Boston Peabody is just an 18-minute drive from Salem, making it a great budget-friendly and no-frills stay if you're looking to step away from the festivities at night; plus, the city of Boston is just a 45-minute drive if you'd like to experience both spots in the same trip.For larger groups or those who prefer a bit more privacy, consider booking an Airbnb or vacation rental instead of a hotel. There are plenty of great options to choose from no matter what type of stay you're looking for—just book quickly before they're all gone.Browse Traveler-recommended Airbnbs in Salem:The entrance to the Witch House PexelsCrystals at Botanica of Salem Botanica of salem/@botanicaofsalemWhere to playWalking through the streets of Salem during October feels akin to navigating Disney World on a peak summer weekend, so there's plenty to see and experience just by wandering around. Expect to see dozens of actors dressed up as characters from your favorite scary movies, dodge tour groups with lanterns, and spot Halloween decorations on every stoop, windowsill, and storefront.Again, this is Salem, so if you're anything like me, you'll want to fully embrace the spooky history of this incredible city. Luckily, there's Salem Haunted Happenings—the festival run by the city that transforms the town into a Halloween wonderland throughout the month of October. From the famous Witches’ Halloween Ball to live performances, ghost tours, and costume parades, the festival offers an event for every type of visitor. Just be sure to check the events calendar before you plan your visit so you know what to expect when you arrive!Halloween-themed candy at Ye Olde Pepper Companie Jamie SpainA visit to the Salem Witch Museum is a non-negotiable. You'll get a gripping peek into the 1692 witch trials, where exhibits use life-sized figures and atmospheric lighting to bring history to life. Nearby, The Witch House—home of the late Judge Jonathan Corwin, best known for his involvement in the trials—provides an even deeper understanding of Salem’s witchcraft history. Another iconic landmark, the House of the Seven Gables, is well-known as the inspiration behind Nathaniel Hawthorne’s eponymous 1851 novel, and travelers can wander through the mansion’s meticulously preserved rooms.The Peabody Essex Museum provides a broader cultural view of Salem, featuring art, history, and a rich collection related to the town's maritime and witch trial history. Just nearby, the Salem Witch Trials Memorial features 20 stone benches engraved with the names of those who perished, serving as an important reminder of the city's past.As one of the oldest cemeteries in America, Burying Point Cemetery is an atmospheric place of reflection. Located next to the Witch Trials Memorial, the cemetery is the final resting place of some of Salem’s most infamous figures, including Judge John Hathorne. It’s particularly haunting during Halloween, with ancient gravestones standing as silent witnesses to Salem’s history.The Salem Farmers Market is open every Thursday from June through October. Boston Globe/GettyFor something a bit different, stroll through the Salem Farmers Market, where the harvest is bountiful and the local vendors are eager to share their wares. Here, the air smells of fresh bread, roasted pumpkins, and earthy herbs. You’ll find everything from handwoven baskets to organic vegetables, all made and grown by nearby artisans and farmers. Supporting this market means supporting the heart of Salem’s community, and it’s the perfect place to pick up a few seasonal goodies to take home.If you're on the hunt for something witchy, try Botanica of Salem for occult science supplies like candles, crystals, and literature, or Salem Bespoke Boutique to design your own witch hat—just be sure to make an appointment. Salem will also be selling special-edition Salem 400+ witch hats in October, with proceeds benefiting the HAWC domestic violence organization.Browse Traveler-recommended tours and experiences in Salem:Paris Wilson is a former commerce writer at Condé Nast Traveler where she covered retail and booking content. Wanting to escape the harsh Michigan winters, she made her way down to Tallahassee, Florida to attend college. She spent four years at Florida A&M University’s School of Journalism and Graphic Design where ... Read MoreJamie Spain is Condé Nast Traveler's Travel Bookings Editor where she covers hotels, stays, and deals. She currently lives in New York City and has been in the industry for over six years, previously covering entertainment, lifestyle, and product reviews. You can find her past work in Good Housekeeping, People, ... Read More