Salem Day Trip From Boston- Ultimate 1 Day Itinerary
Whether you want to immerse yourself in the lore of witches and ghosts or simply soak in the quaint New England charm, a Salem day trip from Boston is the perfect way to do so!
Often referred to as the “Witch City”, Salem’s history is heavily intertwined with the infamous witch trials of 1692. Today, you can explore museums and landmarks dedicated to this dark part of American history, such as the Witch House and the Salem Witch Trials Memorial.
Like me, you may associate Salem with Hocus Pocus (I mean, us Millennials did grow up watching this every October!) Many of the sights listed in this guide are filming locations from the Hocus Pocus movie.
But beyond its spooky reputation, Salem also offers a charming seaside experience with picturesque views of the harbour, rich maritime history, and delicious seafood restaurants.
One of the things I love about Salem is that it’s a very walkable city and most of the best attractions are within walking distance of one another. For this day trip itinerary I would suggest getting into Salem for 9am as many places will open between 9 and 10 am. Plan to stay until around 5pm, unless you want to do one of the many ghost tours in Salem.
From historic sites to delicious food, here’s everything you need to know for a perfect day trip from Boston to Salem.
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How To Get To Salem From Boston
To get to Salem from Boston, you have several transportation options:
- By Train: The most convenient way to get from Boston to Salem is by taking the train. You can take the Commuter Rail from North Station in Boston to Salem Station, which takes around 30-40 minutes and costs $8.50 one-way. This is how I got to Salem, and it was super convenient! The train was full when I came into Salem, mostly with visitors so this is definitely a popular way to get there. You can pick up tickets from the ticket booth and choose either a one-way or return. There is no ticket booth coming back to Boston, but you can purchase tickets on the train – you will need cash to do so.
- By Car: If you prefer driving, it takes about 45 minutes to an hour to get from Boston to Salem. However, be aware that parking in Salem can be quite difficult and expensive, especially during peak tourist season.
- By Bus: There are also bus options available from Boston to Salem, with fares ranging from $3-$10 one-way. The two main bus companies that operate this route are Greyhound and Peter Pan Bus Lines.
- By Ferry: Another unique way to get from Boston to Salem is by taking the ferry. The trip takes about an hour and leaves from Long Wharf in Boston, with tickets costing $25 one-way. This option gives you a scenic view of both the Boston and Salem harbours. You can book the ferry online in advance.
- By Tour: If you want a hassle-free way of getting from Boston to Salem, there are also guided tour options available. These tours usually include transportation, guided commentary, and a visit to popular attractions in Salem. Prices vary depending on the tour company and package.
Best Time To Visit Salem, MA
Some people may argue that the best time to visit Salem is October, and as a lover of all things spooky, I’d be inclined to agree. However, if you want to avoid the VERY large crowds and high prices that come with visiting during peak season, there are other times of the year that can offer a just as good an experience.
If you’re looking for a quieter trip and don’t mind cooler temperatures, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of March-April or November-December. During these times, you can still experience the history and charm of Salem without the overwhelming crowds. Plus, you may even catch some beautiful fall foliage or spring blooms.
I visited Salem in the last week of September and book my stay over the week days to save money on hotels. However, I do wish I had done more research as some attractions only open on weekends, and there were very few Halloween decorations & events.
If I were to replan my trip, I would most likely go on a weekend in the first week of October. On my recent trip to Salem I left as the weekend was gearing up. And although there were visibly more people, the crowds were still manageable and the atmosphere felt more fun!
Salem Day Trip From Boston Itinerary
1. The Ropes Mansion
If you’re a fan of the cult classic Hocus Pocus, you may recognize the Ropes Mansion as “Alison’s House”. But besides being a recognizable filming location, this historical home boasts a rich history dating back all the way to the 1720s.
The mansion itself is a testament to the architectural elegance of the period, and its well-preserved facade gives you a clear picture of Salem’s wealthy merchant class during the 18th century. The gardens at the back are a quiet retreat and the perfect spot to relax and soak up some Salem history; they are open to the public year-round and free of charge.
Tours of the inside are a bit more exclusive, available only on select weekends from April to October. It’s worth timing your visit to peek inside if you can. The interior has been maintained to reflect the lifestyle of the Ropes family over the centuries, with period-appropriate furnishings and decorations.
While it doesn’t mirror the movie’s interior scenes (those were filmed on sets), it’s intriguing to wander through the rooms and imagine the lives of its former inhabitants.
The Ropes Mansion is hard to miss. Located at 318 Essex Street, it’s a gem in the series of historic houses managed by the Peabody Essex Museum.
The Ropes Mansion is just one of many Hocus Pocus filming locations – the best way to see them in a day is by booking a tour. This 2 hour tour takes you to 5 of the most iconic filming locations and includes a fun Hocus Pocus souvenir! Book online in advance to avoid missing out.
2. The Witch House
The Witch House stands as a solemn reminder of one of the most tumultuous times in American history. Located at 310 1/2 Essex Street, it is the only structure still standing in Salem with direct ties to the Salem Witch Trials of 1692.
This imposing black house, once the residence of Judge Jonathan Corwin, provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the complexities of life during a period marked by fear, superstition, and tragedy.
Judge Jonathan Corwin, a prominent figure in the trials, lived in the house for over 40 years. Today, the house has been preserved and transformed into a museum. It offers a comprehensive look at the events leading up to the trials, the trials themselves, and their aftermath.
The Witch House is one of the most popular things to do in Salem, especially in October, so be prepared to wait in line as the home is quite small inside. The Witch House is open 7 days a week from 10am to 5pm, and admission costs $12 per adult.
If you are visiting in October, tickets MUST be purchased online in advance, and you will be giving a designated time. You can reserve your tickets through the official website.
3. See The Elizabeth Montgomery Statue / Bewitched Statue
No trip to Salem would be complete without stopping by the “Bewitched” statue. This quirky tribute to the iconic 1960s TV sitcom stands proudly in Lappin Park, located at the corner of Essex and Washington Streets. It features a charming rendition of Elizabeth Montgomery, who played the beloved witch Samantha Stephens.
4. Stop By Salem Town Hall
Located in Derby Square, Salem Town Hall is a historic building in the heart of downtown Salem. Built in 1816, it is known for its unique architecture and beautiful clock tower. You will see the Old Town Hall when walking along Essex Street.
If you find yourself recognizing this building, it was one of the filming locations for the cult favourite movie Hocus Pocus, specifically used for the spellbinding Halloween party scene. This building is often one of the stops when taking a walking tour of Salem.
5. Go Shopping
Now that you’ve soaked in all the history and haunts of Salem, how about bringing a piece of that magic back home? The shopping in Salem is amazing! I am surprised I didn’t clean out my entire bank account here!
Salem offers a plethora of quirky, mystical, and downright enchanting stores dotted throughout the town. Some of my favourite gift shops are Moon’s for t-shirts and postcards, Witch City Wicks for the most amazing candles, and the Coven’s Cottage for all tings crystal!
But possibly the most unique store I stumbled upon was Emporium 32 – if you love Halloween, this is the place for you! This curio shop is filled with unique wares, including spooky artwork, vintage hats and handmade jewellery.
In many of the stores in Salem, you will notice witch altars, where you can leave messages or offerings to the spirits. These are sacred so please respect the altars by not taking or touching anything someone else may have left.
I would also recommend walking through the Witch City Mall – this place looks like it’s stuck in the 90’s (it felt very surreal) but you can often find other gift shops here with cheaper prices. I’ve listed some of my favourite souvenir purchases and recommendations below!
- First off, tarot cards. In Salem, tarot decks come in an astonishing variety of designs and themes. Whether you’re seeking guidance, a new focal point for your meditation practice, or just something beautiful to display, a tarot deck from Salem is a must-have.
- Crystals are another big hit in Salem. Want to attract love? Try rose quartz. Need a protective vibe? Black tourmaline is your go-to. The shopkeepers are incredibly knowledgeable and can help guide you to the crystal that best suits your needs.
- And, of course, no trip to Salem would be complete without the iconic witch hat! You can find witch hats of all colours in almost every store – pretty much everyone in October is wearing them! I couldn’t resist and finally bought one, although I’ve not had an excuse to wear mine since.
- Lastly, don’t forget about sage. Known for its cleansing properties, sage is a staple in many spiritual practices, and Salem’s shops offer bundles aplenty. Picking up some sage is a great way to bring a bit of Salem’s spiritual side home with you.
6. Go For Lunch
Now, after all that ghostly exploring and shopping, you must be famished! The Lobster Shanty is your go-to for a casual vibe with some seriously good seafood – their lobster roll is a must-try.
For a dash of the peculiar, don’t miss The Witch’s Brew Café, offering an assortment of brews and bites amidst an enchantingly quirky ambiance.
If you’re shopping along Essex Street, I really enjoyed the fun and casual atmosphere of Rockafellas. Their cocktails were some of the BEST I tried while in Salem, and if you’re visiting during the month of October, they are adorned with Halloween decorations.
7. Get A Tarot Card Reading
Salem isn’t just about the history; it’s also buzzing with psychics, mediums, and tarot card readers. Whether you’re looking for some personal guidance or just curious about connecting with the spiritual world, these readings are a unique way to see into the past, present, and future.
You’ve got tons of options when it comes to reading services, all run by folks who really know their stuff thanks to years of experience. Got questions about love, your career, or just figuring yourself out? The readers in Salem are ready to help you tap into your inner wisdom and find the answers you seek.
It’s no surprise that tarot card readings are a popular thing to do in Salem, but they don’t come cheap! When I enquired about prices, it was $50 for 15-minutes, so I highly recommend doing some research ahead of time to see who will be best suited for your needs and budget.
8. Charter Street Cemetery
The Old Burying Point, also known as the Charter Street Cemetery, is one of the most significant historical sites in Salem, Massachusetts. Established in 1637, it is recognized as the town’s oldest cemetery and serves as a crucial piece of Salem’s storied past.
Here you will find the final resting places of several key figures from the Salem Witch Trials, including Judge Jonathan Corwin and magistrate John Hathorne, an ancestor of the famous American writer Nathaniel Hawthorne.
The Cemetery is free to visit and open year-round. You can opt to take a self-guided tour or join a walking tour to learn more about the history of this cemetery and its inhabitants.
9. Salem Witch Trials Memorial
The Salem Witch Trials Memorial is a poignant landmark in Salem, dedicated to the memory of the 20 innocent people who were executed during the witch trials of 1692.
Situated next to the Old Burying Point Cemetery, where some trial participants are buried, the memorial provides a space for reflection and remembrance. Designed by James Cutler and Maggie Smith, it was unveiled in 1992 to mark the 300th anniversary of the trials.
Each of the 20 victims is commemorated with a stone bench protruding from a low stone wall, engraved with their name, the date of their execution, and the method by which they were put to death.
Take a walk among the stone benches, read the inscriptions, and if you wish, many leave flowers or notes in memory of those who suffered. The memorial is free to visit and is open year-round from dawn till dusk.
10. Walk Around The Salem Maritime National Historic Site
The Salem Maritime National Historic Site is an area that captures the essence of Salem’s rich maritime history. Established in 1938, it is the first National Historic Site in the United States, covering nine acres along the waterfront in Salem, Massachusetts.
The site includes twelve historic structures, a replica of the 1812 privateer brigantine Friendship of Salem, and a waterfront area along Derby Wharf.
Visitors can explore the Custom House, where the famous American novelist Nathaniel Hawthorne once worked. This building offers insight into Salem’s importance as a busy New England seaport in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The Derby House, built in 1762 by Salem’s wealthiest merchant, Richard Derby, for his son Elias Hasket Derby, one of America’s first millionaires, is another significant building within the site.
The Derby Wharf, the longest in Salem at just over a half-mile, played a pivotal role in the city’s maritime activities. It facilitated the loading and unloading of cargo from ships traveling around the world. Today, a light station sits at the end of the wharf, serving as a reminder of the area’s historical significance.
The historic site is quite big, and if you do visit I’d recommend spending a couple of hours here. I fell in love with the iconic New England architecture here. There are SO many beautiful buildings, it’s hard not to stop and stare for a while.
I only ventured into this are on my last night in Salem so we didn’t hang around too long but it was such a beautiful area, it really deserves some dedicated time.
Some areas of the site are open 24/7 and some have dedicated opening times. Check the official website ahead of your trip to help plan your time here. No entry fee is required for the Salem Maritime National Historic Site.
11. Stop By America’s Oldest Candy Company
Next on this Salem day trip itinerary is something a little sweeter – the Ye Olde Pepper Candy Company.
Ye Olde Pepper Candy Company isn’t just any candy store; it holds the title of America’s oldest candy company! Imagine walking into a place that’s been crafting sweets since the early 1800s!
When you step inside, it’s like taking a step back in time. The shelves are laden with all manner of confections from gibraltars and blackjacks to more familiar candies.
And if you’re scratching your head wondering what gibraltars are, you’re not alone. I was too! They’re actually the very first candy made by the company, a simple yet delightful concoction of sugar and cream of tartar, coming in lemon and peppermint flavours.
12. See Max And Dani’s House From Hocus Pocus
For fans of the cult classic film “Hocus Pocus,” a visit to Salem is incomplete without stopping by the iconic house of Max and Dani Dennison, located at 4 Ocean Avenue.
This was by far one of my absolute favourite places to visit in Salem. The whole moment just felt so surreal that I actually here! I have left this location for last as its away from all other sights listed above and requires a 20-minute walk or quick drive.
Although the house remains a private residence, therefore you cannot go inside, you can freely view and photograph the exterior from the street.
When visiting, please remember to be respectful of the property and the neighbourhood, keeping noise to a minimum and not trespassing on private land. Parking is available on nearby streets, but you should be mindful of any residential parking restrictions.
13. Go On A Salem Ghost Tour
End your day trip to Salem by taking a nighttime ghost tour through the city’s infamous haunted locations. There are several different options for ghost tours in Salem, each with their own focus and style.
This 2-hour guided walking tour can be booked either during the daytime or nighttime. The nighttime option is led by lantern light, giving a spooky vibe to this historical tour. Along the tour you’ll stop by the Witch House, Ropes Mansion and Salem Witch Trials Memorial.
For something spookier, this 75-minute nighttime ghost tour stops at the Old Burying Ground as well as lesser-known haunted places such as the Saint Peter’s Episcopal Church.
If you’re looking for a tour that goes beyond the focus of the witch trials, this 90-minute Salem walking tour dives even deeper to off-the-beaten path haunted locations. You’ll stop at locations such as the Old Salem Jail Lot and Gardner Pingree House.
Other Things To Do In Salem
Salem Witch Museum
The Salem Witch Museum is an absolute must-visit for anyone intrigued by the rich and somewhat dark history of Salem. This museum takes you on a deep dive into the Salem Witch Trials of 1692, where fear, superstition, and tensions led to one of the most infamous witch hunts in history.
Through their immersive exhibits and narrations, you’ll get a firsthand look at the events and circumstances that led to this tragic period, as well as its lasting impact on the world’s view of witchcraft and justice.
The museum is open year-round with extended hours in October. Admission is $17.50 per adult and tickets can only be purchased online the day of your visit.
Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery
If you’ve got a taste for the macabre or just love a good monster movie, Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery is a must-see in Salem. This place isn’t your typical museum; it’s a tribute to horror, featuring life-size figures of iconic monsters and villains from the silver screen.
Walking through, it feels like stepping into the shadows of a horror film – from classic vampires to modern-day nightmares, it’s all here. The attention to detail in each exhibit is jaw-dropping, making it a must-visit for horror fans. Fair warning though, it might just leave you checking over your shoulder as you leave!
House of the Seven Gables
The House of the Seven Gables, also known as the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion, stands as a testament to colonial American architecture and literary history.
Built in 1668, it is best known for inspiring Nathaniel Hawthorne’s 1851 novel of the same name. Today, the house operates as a museum offering a glimpse into 17th-century life in New England.
Tours of the property reveal its secret staircases, carefully preserved rooms, and the history of the families who lived there.
Peabody Essex Museum
The Peabody Essex Museum (PEM), founded in 1799, is among the oldest continuously operating museums in the United States. It boasts a vast and varied collection including more than 1.8 million works of art and cultural artifacts.
PEM’s collections are renowned for their comprehensive coverage of Asian art, Maritime art, and early American architecture, alongside Native American, African, Oceanic, and Indian art pieces.
Final Thoughts: Day Trip To Salem From Boston
There’s no denying that Salem, Massachusetts is a unique and fascinating destination to visit year-round. But as mentioned earlier, October brings a whole new level of spooky to Salem. The town is known for its various haunted attractions, including ghost tours, psychic readings, and haunted museums.
These activities might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you’re really looking to dive into the Halloween spirit, Salem is the place to be. From haunted houses to eerie walking tours, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to test your bravery and get into the Halloween spirit.
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