There’s something undeniably magical about Salem, MA. From the moment you approach this historic coastal town, you feel it—a mix of colonial charm, a hint of spookiness, and a vibrant energy that draws travelers back year after year. Our first visit had us wandering cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old homes, exploring quirky shops, and following the scent of fresh pastries through hidden alleys. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just here for a little Halloween fun, Salem has a way of making every trip feel like an adventure. We’re here to share all our favorite spots, tips, and hidden gems to make your visit unforgettable.
Transportation In Salem
If you’re planning a trip to Salem, here’s our biggest piece of advice: don’t drive into Salem. Traffic can be overwhelming, especially during peak seasons, and the streets are filled with pedestrians, making it more stressful than it’s worth.
Instead, we recommend staying in Boston and using mass transit to get into Salem. We tried both Uber and the train system and had great experiences with each. The train is especially convenient and just $16 round-trip per person from TD Garden in Boston to Salem and it drops you right in the heart of town!
Once you arrive, you’ll find that Salem is incredibly walkable. Everything you’ll want to see is within a reasonable distance, so there’s really no need for additional transportation. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes, because you’ll be doing plenty of exploring on foot.
Time Of Year To Go
If you’re planning a trip to Salem in October, timing makes all the difference. We recommend visiting before the first weekend of the month. The weekdays before the first weekend provide manageable crowds, little to no wait times for many of the experiences, and plenty of space to really enjoy the sights.
Once the first weekend hits, the crowds pick up dramatically, so going a bit earlier in the month gives you all the spooky charm of Salem without the stress.
Must Do Activities In Salem
The Black Veil Shoppe Of Drear & Wonder:
No trip to Salem is complete without a stop at the Black Veil Shoppe of Drear & Wonder. Co-owned by identical twin brothers Ryan and Matthew Murray, this shop is self-described as “black & grey for the grim hearted,” and it’s every bit as enchanting as it sounds. Beyond being a shop, the space also serves as the brothers’ private tattoo studio, giving it an even deeper creative energy.
Inside, you’ll find a carefully curated collection of art, clothing, jewelry, and designs from a variety of artists and makers. We could have spent hours exploring every corner. Our personal favorite discovery? The custom prints showcasing Ryan and Matthew’s hauntingly beautiful artwork. It was so stunning that we couldn’t resist taking one home as a keepsake.
While their sister shop is located in the heart of downtown Salem, this location is just a short 20-minute walk away.
Pro tip: Take Federal Street to Boston Street along the way. Not only is it a scenic stroll, but it also gives you a chance to admire some of Salem’s most beautiful historic homes—a perfect complement to the shop’s atmospheric vibe.
The Witch House:
The Witch House, also known as the Jonathan Corwin House, is the only structure in Salem with direct ties to the infamous Witch Trials of 1692. Judge Jonathan Corwin lived here during that time, and stepping inside offers a fascinating look at 17th-century life in New England.
With its dark timber frame and steep gables, the house itself is striking. Inside, you’ll find period furnishings, artifacts, and exhibits that shed light not only on the Witch Trials but also on daily Puritan life.
Unlike the haunted attractions around town, The Witch House is rooted in real history, making it an essential stop on any Salem itinerary.
The Witch House requires you to make reservations at 8 AM the day you plan to visit and the time slots go very fast in October. So be ready to book at 8 sharp to get the good times.
Essex St Shoppes & Buskers:
No trip to Salem is complete without a stroll down Essex Street, the city’s lively pedestrian mall that perfectly blends history, charm, and entertainment. This bustling stretch is where you’ll find many of Salem’s most unique shops, along with street performers who bring the area to life.
The shops along Essex Street offer a little something for everyone. boutiques filled with handmade jewelry, bookstores packed with mystical reads, quirky souvenir spots, and specialty stores that lean into Salem’s witchy vibe. Try Wynott Wands to live your best wizarding life.
Adding to the experience are the buskers, local musicians, magicians, and performers who set up along the street. Their energy adds a festive, almost carnival-like atmosphere, drawing crowds and creating an unforgettable backdrop to your shopping adventure.
Because Essex Street is pedestrian-only, it’s also one of the most walkable and family-friendly areas of Salem. It’s the perfect place to grab a coffee, wander at your own pace, and enjoy some people-watching while taking in all the sights and sounds.
If you are feeling adventurous take 10 minute detour to wander down to Wharf St and visit Coven. This little shop is full of witch themed trinkets and garments. Great for outfitting any witch!
Where To Eat
While Salem is best known for its history and Halloween spirit, we were pleasantly surprised by the number of great little spots to grab treats, small bites, and a drink or two.
We started at Caramel, a charming French patisserie that felt like a slice of Paris in New England. From delicate macarons and buttery croissants to elegant cakes, everything in the case was as beautiful as it was delicious.
Next, we couldn’t resist stopping at The Lobster Shanty to try their much-talked-about Lobstertini. It’s definitely Instagram-worthy and exactly what you’d imagine—a quirky, lobster-infused cocktail that’s more fun than refined. What truly stood out here, though, was their savory clam chowder, which we ranked as the second-best chowder we had during our entire Boston trip.
When it came to dinner, we actually recommend hopping on the train back to Boston. Salem shines for its snacks and atmosphere, but Boston’s dining scene is unbeatable. One standout meal we had in Boston was at The Q, where we enjoyed one of the best Chinese dinners we’ve ever had. Flavorful, authentic, and absolutely memorable. Make sure you get the Signature House Fried Rice, simply amazing! Check out our instagram for an exciting video of our trip
https://www.instagram.com/share/BASk5nm71r
In Conclusion:
Salem isn’t just a town—you can feel its stories, its history, and its charm in every corner. From wandering the Essex Street shoppes and catching a street performer to stepping inside the Witch House or grabbing a sweet treat at Caramel, there’s always something to surprise and delight you. And while it’s famous for its spooky past, Salem proves it’s more than just witches and haunted tales—it’s a place full of flavor, culture, and unexpected experiences. Lace up your walking shoes, bring your curiosity, and get ready to fall in love with this enchanting New England town.
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