The city of Salem, Massachusetts, holds a significant place in history as one of the infamous sites for the Salem Witch Trials in 1692. This dark period saw numerous accusations of witchcraft and resulted in the execution of several individuals. Today, Salem has transformed into a hub for witchcraft enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and those curious about the occult. Pagan and witchy interests have found a welcoming home in Salem. The town embraces its historical past and now offers a wide range of witch-themed attractions, shops, and experiences. From walking tours that delve into the history of the witch trials to witchy-themed museums, Salem provides an immersive experience for those interested in exploring the pagan and witchcraft communities.
Tip: I planned to visit Salem in the middle of the week so that I could miss a majority of the tourist crowd, and thankfully we found parking relatively easily in the Witch City Mall parking lot. With that said, it’s really easy to see how parking in Salem on a busy weekend could be complete nightmare.
Though Salem wasn t the first or only town in Colonial America to be performing witch trials at that time; the overall horrific extent and severity of the witch hunt that plagued Salem caused a level of mass hysteria that became known around the globe for its injustice and blatant example of religious extremism. Witches in Salem and around the world follow various forms of peaceful, Pagan traditions that encompass a variety of spiritual practices that have never involved performing magic or spells with negative intent or worshipping Satan.
From walking tours that delve into the history of the witch trials to witchy-themed museums, Salem provides an immersive experience for those interested in exploring the pagan and witchcraft communities. The city is also known for its numerous witchcraft and metaphysical supply stores. These shops offer a vast array of products, including crystals, herbs, spell books, and magical tools.
Salem, Massachusetts Travel Guide: Witchy Things to do During a Day Trip to Salem, Mass
Salem, Massachusetts is unofficially known as the Halloween capital of the USA due to its extravagant fall celebrations, year-round witchy attractions, and of course; the horrific, dark history that gave the town its tragic claim to fame.
Visiting Salem has been a HUGE Halloween bucket-list goal of mine ever since I first watched Hocus Pocus as a kid and simultaneously fell in love with the quirky charm of Max Dennison, child-luring voice of Sarah Sanderson, and the overall allure of the spooky, Halloween-loving City.
Ideally, visiting Salem would be perfect for a Halloween weekend getaway, but if you’re like me and only have one day to spend in the Witch City; here’s my guide to how to make the most of your 24-hours or less in Salem, Mass.
Have fun, Creeps!
First, a quick look into Salem’s history
Salem is most well-known for the gruesome tragedy of the Salem Witch Trials, which took place in the town from 1692-1693.
During that time, over two hundred of Salem’s citizens were accused of witchcraft and approximately thirty were charged as guilty. Of the thirty people who were found guilty, twenty of them received the death sentence.
Though Salem wasn’t the first or only town in Colonial America to be performing witch trials at that time; the overall horrific extent and severity of the witch hunt that plagued Salem caused a level of mass hysteria that became known around the globe for its injustice and blatant example of religious extremism.
How to get to Salem from Boston
By car
I personally chose to rent a car and drive from Boston to Salem, which ended up being a very short 45-minute mostly-highway trip. It was super convenient!
Tip: I planned to visit Salem in the middle of the week so that I could miss a majority of the tourist crowd, and thankfully we found parking relatively easily in the Witch City Mall parking lot. With that said, it’s really easy to see how parking in Salem on a busy weekend could be complete nightmare.
If you’re planning to spend time in Salem on a weekend in October, I highly recommend either taking public transportation or making a list of the local parking lots and garages ahead of time so that you can save yourself some time and stress during what could be a very chaotic parking hunt.
Commuter rail
If public transportation sounds like a better fit, thankfully Boston’s train system, the ‘T’, has you covered.
Salem Station is on the T’s Newburyport/Rockport line, and departs from Boston’s North Station. The trip should cost you $8.00 each way, and normally takes only about 30 minutes to get to Salem (as long as there aren’t delays!).
Ferry
If you’re interested in taking more of a scenic route up to the Witch City; Boston Harbor Cruises seem to be a very well-recommended option!
A ferry from Boston’s Long Wharf to Salem operates every summer and fall and costs $25.00 per adult for a one-way ticket.
Though I haven’t personally ridden the ferry at Boston Harbor, I’ve heard that it’s a great way to experience views of the Massachusetts coastline!
Things to do in Salem
With only having one day to explore the city, I tried to cram in as much as possible. Visiting Salem could have easily been a two-day trip with all there is to do in town, ESPECIALLY during October when the festivities are in full force. But regardless, we definitely made the most of our time in the Halloween capital.
Here’s my full list of creepy things to do in Salem, Massachusetts.
Visit Proctor’s Ledge
Proctor’s Ledge is the official site where nineteen of the accused were executed in 1692.
Though this site has been known for quite a while as the location of the witch trial executions, the stone memorial that stands at the site today was only recently erected in 2017, and now includes engraved names of all nineteen victims who were executed by hanging.
I personally chose to rent a car and drive from Boston to Salem, which ended up being a very short 45-minute mostly-highway trip. It was super convenient!
Visitors can find everything they need to practice spellcasting, divination, and other magical arts. Many of these stores also offer classes and workshops on various aspects of witchcraft and pagan traditions. In addition to the shops, Salem hosts the annual Salem Witches' Halloween Ball. This event attracts witches and pagans from across the country who come together to celebrate their beliefs and practices. The ball features live music, performances, and costume contests, creating a vibrant and magical atmosphere. The pagan and witchy community in Salem also extends beyond just the tourist attractions and events. The city is home to numerous covens and pagan groups that meet regularly to practice rituals, share knowledge, and support one another. These communities provide a sense of belonging and connection for those who identify as witches or pagans. Salem's embrace of its witchy reputation has made it a haven for those interested in exploring their spiritual path. Whether it is for the historical significance, the unique shopping experiences, or the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, Salem has become an iconic destination for pagans and witches alike..
Reviews for "Ancient Meets Modern: Pagan and Witchy Shops in Salem's Bustling Marketplaces"
- Karen - 2 stars - I was really excited to visit Pagan and Witchy Tops in Salem, but I was sorely disappointed with my experience. The store was extremely crowded, making it difficult to browse through the merchandise. The staff seemed overwhelmed and uninterested in helping customers. The prices were also quite high for the quality of the products. Overall, I felt like the store was more focused on making a quick buck from tourists rather than providing a genuine and enjoyable shopping experience.
- Mike - 1 star - I cannot recommend Pagan and Witchy Tops in Salem. The store was disorganized and chaotic. There was no clear layout, and it was hard to find what you were looking for. The staff was unhelpful and seemed annoyed when I asked for assistance. The selection of tops was underwhelming and not worth the trip. Save yourself the frustration and skip this store.
- Sarah - 2 stars - I had high hopes for Pagan and Witchy Tops, but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The store was cramped, making it difficult to move around and fully explore the items they had to offer. The customer service was lacking, with the staff giving off an unfriendly and unapproachable vibe. The prices were also higher than I anticipated, especially considering the quality of the products. Overall, I left the store feeling disappointed and will not be returning.