is salem massachusetts a tourist trap

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Boston 25 Now

World’s 2nd biggest tourist trap is in New England, says new study

Salem Witch Museum (Boston25News.com Staff/Boston25News.Com Staff)

SALEM, Mass — Not all tourist traps are made equal.

USA Today recently compiled a list of the Top 100 Tourist Traps worldwide by analyzing millions of Google reviews and tallying when terms like “tourist trap”, “overrated” or “expensive” were mentioned.

The Salem Witch Museum ranked 2nd after over 100 reviewers of 10,939 called it a tourist trap.

The museum has educated visitors by transporting them to the 1600′s, giving them a firsthand look at the horrors of the Salem Witch Hunt and its background. ever since its opening in 1972.

The Salem Witch Museum is open year-round from 10am to 5pm, with extended hours in October.

The full Top 10 is as follows:

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Five Things Every Horror Fan Must Do in Salem, Massachusetts!

My wife and I spent this past weekend in historic Salem, Massachusetts, which is of course known for being the birthplace of the witch. Within 10 minutes of strolling around the area I was already intent on moving there, just as it immediately became set in stone that we found ourselves a new annual tradition.

Adequately described on a corny t-shirt seen in one of the area’s many tourist trap shops, Salem is indeed ‘Disneyland for the Dead,’ meaning that it’s essentially the ultimate happy place for all who put ‘Halloween’ and ‘Horror’ at the tippy top of their ‘My Favorite Things’ list.

Especially around this time of the year, Salem is Halloween Mecca, and to try and put into words what I loved about the area is quite frankly as impossible as trying to adequately convey why I love Trick ‘r Treat so much. More than anything else, it was the intangible and indescribable vibe that spoke to me on so many levels, feeling like I had stepped foot inside a Halloween painting and got to play around for a few days.

If Halloween was a town, it’d be Salem in September/October, and magical is a word that suitably describes that aforementioned vibe. Heavenly also works, as does ‘holy shit, this place is really fucking awesome.’

The sort of small town that you’d expect to see depicted in a movie but not actually be able to visit, Salem is a nice blend of the historic and the new, reflected in the shops and general population of the area. It’s the sort of place that almost feels too good for this world, like an orange bolt of lightning was captured in a bottle and has somehow remained in there for all these years.

Full of both retirees enjoying the relaxing atmosphere and young people who are free to be creative and run their own small businesses, you get the sense that all of the above are happy to be living in Salem, whether it’s a Monday morning or a Saturday night. And from our experience, they’re more than happy to spread that happiness to the many tourists that flock to the area during the Halloween season.

I could write another 1,500 words about this little slice of Halloween Heaven, but at the risk of boring you, I’ve instead decided to write up a little handy guide for anyone who’s planning a trip to Salem – either this year or sometime in the future.

So based on my personal experiences this past weekend, here are five things that I feel every horror fan needs to do, when venturing to the idyllic town of Salem, Massachusetts!

1) SPEND A NIGHT AT THE HAWTHORNE HOTEL!

If you’re going to visit Salem, I would recommended spending at least two days in the area, as there’s so much to see, do and eat. Of course, that means you’re going to have to book a hotel for at least one night, and there’s no better place to spend that night than in the Hawthorne Hotel .

Located right in the heart of Salem, within walking distance of EVERYTHING, the Hawthorne was built way back in 1925 and is considered one of the country’s most haunted hotels, ranked as such by Travelocity. In fact, it was ranked #4 out of the top 10, which essentially means it’s totally inhabited by more than paying guests.

We spent two nights in the Hawthorne and though it’s definitely got that creepy vibe that comes along with old hotels (the coffin-like elevators are particularly unsettling), I can’t say we experienced anything paranormal. I suppose, however, it’s worth noting that our door mysteriously wouldn’t unlock from either side when we were about to check out, trapping my wife inside while I tried – in vain, for about 60 seconds – to open it from the outside.

As I typically do when I stay in haunted hotels, I asked several staff members if they had experienced anything out of the ordinary, and not one of them had any personal accounts to relay. The bartender, who’s been there for nine years, said he’s never seen or heard a single paranormal thing, though he noted that many guests have told him stories.

According to the stories, the 6th floor is haunted by a dead woman and the Hawthorne even has its own version of Room 237, which is Room 325. Those are the most popular paranormal tales about the hotel, and other stories suggest crying noises and the usual bumps in the night.

Again, nothing too unusual was experienced by my wife or myself, aside from the aforementioned door jam and a bar of soap seemingly being pushed off the bathroom sink. An investigation Sunday night took us up to the allegedly haunted sixth floor, which yielded no ghost hunting results.

Haunted or not, the Hawthorne is a lovely hotel, and THE place to stay, if you’re visiting Salem. Who knows, maybe you’ll encounter something that we did not!

2) LEARN THINGS AT THE SALEM WITCH MUSEUM!

It would be downright criminal to take a trip to Salem and not immerse yourself in some of its rich history, and the iconic Salem Witch Museum is the perfect place to do just that. The most popular tourist attraction in the area, the museum is located a stone’s throw away from the Hawthorne Hotel, and it’s open for visitation every single day.

A guided tour through the history of Salem’s Witch Trials, the museum first puts you and your group into a large room surrounded by life-sized dioramas, which light up as an unseen narrator relays the story of Salem’s dark past. The first portion of the tour runs for about 30 minutes, followed by a brief guided walk-through of the museum itself, covering the evolution of the American witch.

While a lot of the tours that are offered up in Salem are pricey, tourist trap kind of deals, the Salem Witch Museum is both cheap (less than $10) and incredibly informative, making it a must-visit in the area. The story of the Salem Witch Trials is one of the most fascinating and horrifying in American history, and no trip to Salem is complete without hearing it told – whether you’ve heard it before or not.

3) HANG OUT WITH HORROR ICONS AT COUNT ORLOK’S NIGHTMARE GALLERY!

When I mentioned on Twitter that I was going to Salem, the response from nearly everyone was pretty much the same; you have to go to Count Orlok’s!

Billed as the only wax museum in the area centered on movie monsters, Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery is just that – a self-guided tour through the history of the horror genre, as depicted by impressive life-sized statues of some of cinema’s most iconic monsters.

Like Salem itself, Count Orlok’s is a blend of the classic and the modern, the walk-through filled with everyone from the Universal Monsters to Trick ‘r Treat ‘s Sam. In between is pretty much every iconic horror character that you can think of, including Freddy, Jason, Pumpkinhead, Carrie, Pennywise, Romero’s zombies and Pinhead (who is incased inside a puzzle box, in one of the coolest displays).

Each statue has a little plaque in front of it with history about that specific actor/character/movie, which is awesome because the museum is not just cool to look at but also very informative. Watching the mother and daughter behind us learn all about horror history together put a huge smile on my face, and I love that Orlok’s brings cinema’s monsters to Salem.

Every October, Count Orlok’s has celebrity guests, and this year they include Dee Wallace and Halloween ‘s Tony Moran. So be sure to check their website to see what’s going on, whenever you’re going to be in the area!

4) EAT & DRINK IN SALEM’S OLD JAIL!

One of the true joys of Salem is its diversity of food, which takes your taste buds from Italy to India, China to Mexico. In fact, many of my favorite memories of the weekend are tied to the incredible food and drink we consumed, and if there’s any place I’d have to recommend it’d be A&B Burger .

My wife and I both became vegetarians nearly two years ago so that’s always a deciding factor in where we eat, and we chose A&B Saturday night because of the wealth of vegetarian options. What we didn’t realize until we got there was that the restaurant was originally Salem’s jail, which is quite clear when you’re armed with that knowledge and look at it from the outside.

Like the Hawthorne, A&B Burger is allegedly haunted, with the whole story of the place outlined on the back of the food menu. Our waitress didn’t buy into the stories but she was happy to show us some relics from the jail – including a pair of handcuffs and a couple vintage intake forms.

The only thing we found haunting the building was delicious food and creative drinks, with sweet potato burgers and zucchini fries delivering one of the best dining experiences we had all weekend – and we had MANY dining experiences.

Also noteworthy is the Drunken Pumpkin drink, which is comprised of a glass of pumpkin beer with a shot of vanilla vodka in it (plus cinnamon sugar rim!) and is needless to say my new favorite thing. Vodka + beer may sound kind of gross on paper, but the vanilla taste really couples well with the pumpkin beer, essentially turning the beer into liquid pumpkin pie. I had two. And I felt them both the next morning.

5) VISIT THE LORDS OF SALEM FILMING LOCATIONS!

And finally, no horror fan should visit Salem without checking out the filming locations for Rob Zombie’s under-appreciated Lords of Salem , which was set and shot in the area. Above is the most instantly recognizable location from the film, used as Heidi LaRoc’s apartment building. It’s found where Essex Street meets Hamilton, and was only used for exterior shots.

Other notable locations include the Engine House Pizza Restaurant on Lafayette Street, seen from the outside and inside in one scene, and the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall (above), where Bruce Davison’s character is seen walking around – the latter of which being the main strip where all the shops are located.

A few minutes outside of the main town area you’ll find Greenlawn Cemetery, which is where Heidi sees the creepy masked dude walking a goat. Within the cemetery is the Dickson Memorial Chapel (above), shown off in that same scene – the inside of the chapel in the film, however, appears to have been shot elsewhere.

The coolest location of them all is the Salem Willows Pier (above), where Herman receives a phone call from Heidi. Again, it’s a few minutes away from Hawthorne Hotel and the main town, but I can’t recommend enough that you go there. When we went, a thick fog had enveloped the whole area, which was absolutely beautiful and quite creepy.

In addition to the breathtaking views, there’s also a boardwalk at Salem Willows, outfitted with several places to grab ice cream and carnival food as well as two retro-style arcades. Both arcades have all sorts of vintage games that you likely haven’t seen in many decades, including a 90s Ninja Turtles arcade game that I contemplated stealing. It was too big.

Some other locations are seen in the film’s end credits, including the Witch Trials Memorial and a Salem Cycles location, where you can rent bicycles free of charge. Walking around the area, you’ll also notice other locales that characters briefly walk past, so be sure to watch/re-watch the movie prior to going to Salem and keep your eyes peeled.

*Many thanks to the awesome owners of Silver Moon Comics , J.W. Ocker from Odd Things I’ve Seen and a kind stranger with incredible timing for helping us find all the Lords of Salem filming locations!

On a related note, I somehow never got around to picking up a copy of Lords of Salem so I snagged one at a Target a few miles from the hotel, which made me glad that I never bought the DVD prior. It’s the little things in life that thrill me, and owning a copy of Lords of Salem , bought in Salem, just seems so right.

Other places worth visiting in Salem include Red Lion Smoke Shop (FILLED with weird vintage relics), Jerry’s Department Store (also chock full of strange shit you won’t find anywhere else), the Redline Cafe (their delicious crepes make for a delightful Salem breakfast), Five Hands Curiosity Shoppe (cool owner and a vast array of oddball trinkets), Harrison’s Comics (you could spend all day in there) and Life Alive (Salem’s best eatery for vegans/vegetarians).

If a trip to Salem isn’t on your Bucket List, then I strongly recommend you add it. You won’t want to leave when it’s time to, I can guarantee you of that!

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USA Today names Salem Witch Museum second biggest tourist trap worldwide

• Updated: Sep. 06, 2023, 2:04 p.m. |
• Published: Sep. 06, 2023, 2:03 p.m.
• David Cifarelli | [email protected]

It turns out not everything in the Witch City is worth your money.

The Salem Witch Museum was named the second biggest tourist trap in the world by USA Today .

In July 2023, the outlet analyzed 23.3 million Google reviews of the 500 most popular tourist attractions across 65 countries in six continents.

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USA Today then scanned each review for how many times the terms “tourist trap,” “overrated” or “expensive” came up. Out of 9,240 reviews, the word “tourist trap” was used 113 times to describe the Salem Witch Museum.

“We break down our findings, so you are armed with the information you need before planning to visit a popular tourist destination, and offer tips on how to travel in a way that’s good for your wanderlust and your wallet,” the outlet wrote.

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The Salem Witch Museum, which opened in 1972, offers two presentations on the Salem Witch Trials of 1692.

One is a deep dive into the events of 1692, while the other explores the meaning behind the word “witch” and the evolution of witches’ image throughout history.

The museum is open year-round except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day and in January for several weeks for the museum to prepare for the new season. The museum also sees an influx in visitors during the last two weeks of September and the entire month of October.

“The mission of this organization is to be the voice to the innocent victims of witch-hunts, from 1692 to the present day,” the museum’s website reads . “By interpreting this history through audiovisual displays, guided tours, educational resources, and virtual programming, we strive to bring awareness to the endurance of scapegoating and injustice.”

• Read More: Mass. fall foliage 2023: Lengthy season starts Sept., Yankee Magazine says

Eight of the top 10 tourist traps were in the United States, with three involving paranormal phenomena like witches, ghosts and UFOs. In addition to the Salem Witch Museum, the spots included Calico Ghost Town in California and the International UFO Museum and Research Center in New Mexico.

The Salem Witch Museum was also the only Massachusetts destination to make the list. You can see the whole list by clicking here .

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• Get to Know Me Series

The Best of Salem: A Three Day Itinerary

Explore the must-sees of salem, ma with this three-day itinerary..

Salem is a magical place. It has beautiful architecture and houses from the start of America all the way up to the present day. 

No doubt Salem’s claim to fame is largely due to the historic witch trials, but the little town is so much more than that.

Besides the rich history, Salem offers numerous restaurants, bars, and cafés. 

If you enjoy the macabre or witchy things this is definitely the place for you. There are plenty of metaphysical shops, psychics, ghost tours and mediums for you to get your fix.

If you are a fashion lover there are several boutiques with adorable and unique clothes.

If you are an art lover, Salem is home to the very first art museum in the United States: the Peabody Essex Museum. 

The quaint town has something for everyone.

After visiting, my boyfriend and I absolutely fell in love with this spooky New England town. So much that I plan to make another visit to Salem at some point in my life.

If you’re visiting Salem on as a first-timer or as a returning visitor I’ve compiled the perfect three-day itinerary for you to see and taste the best parts of Salem. 

Day 1 

Pioneer village.

Head over to the Pioneer Village to get an idea of what life would have been like for the settlers of Salem. 

BONUS: this is a film location for the famous movie Hocus Pocus and was the home of Zachary Binx before he was turned into a cat. 

When we visited it was rainy and the place was quite run down. But our tour guide was awesome and funny so that made up for the dreary weather. 

The Witch House

This is the only standing structure in the present-day that had any ties with the Salem Witch Trials. The home was owned by Judge Jonathan Corwin who investigated the trials.

Dinner at Boston Burger, Howling Wolf Taqueria or Red’s Sandwich Shop

We mostly ate at our Airbnb to save money but there were places I wanted to try if we had more time. These include the Boston Burger Company , Red’s Sandwich Shop , and the Howling Wolf Taqueria .

Evening Walking Tour

Take a walking tour to get acquainted with Salem and an overview of its history. 

I did not want to go on a ghost tour or anything super cheesy or touristy so I booked a tour with Hocus Pocus Walking Tours .

I am so glad I did because our guide Susan and her husband were friendly and courteous. They also provided historic information and insight on more than just the witch trials and gave an overall history of the town. 

Ice cream at Melt

Seriously, the best ice cream ever and it’s homemade!

Salem’s Maritime Historic Site

This historic site along the harbor features 8 buildings associated with Salems Maritime history as well as the Friendship of Salem which is a replica tall ship.

Jaho Coffee & Wine Bar

This was recommended to us by our tour guide at Pioneer Village and he didn’t disappoint!

This is also right next to the Salem Maritime site.

The coffee was great and I picked up a pastry that was delicious! 

BONUS: They have wine…need I say more.

House of Seven Gables

This 17th-century house was made famous from the National Hawthorne novel “The House of the Seven Gables (also conveniently located near the Salem Maritime Historic Site).

The house was built in 1668 for Captain John Turner I, the head of one of the most successful maritime families in the New England colonies

Also on the property are other homes that range from the 17th – 19th centuries. 

Dinner at a Seafood Place

When you are near the sea you have to eat seafood. We ate at Sea Level Oyster Bar and it was good. But we were told by our walking tour guides that Turners is the best seafood in Salem. Next time that is where we will be heading.

Salem Willows Park & Arcade

Head over to Salem’s front park and hit the arcade. This is a decent-sized arcade and the prices were fair. They also have pizza, popcorn and ice cream on-site. 

You can also take a walk through the park and head out to the pier. 

Day 3 

Ugly mug diner.

This was the BEST BREAKFAST I HAVE EVER HAD IN MY LIFE!! Really, I mean it. It was packed so prepare to wait. Also, the coffee was so good I started ordering it and shipping it to my home in Pennsylvania. You can order it from Atomic Coffee here.

Peabody Essex Museum

I have to admit that I did not get a chance to go to the museum when I visited, but I really wanted to! I am an art nerd so this is right up my alley but alas I didn’t have time. 

Walk the Salem Heritage Trail and Do Some Shopping

I like walking and window shopping so between the consistent rain during our stay we did walk through the town a little bit. 

I didn’t get to do as much shopping as I wanted to but I didn’t find a unique top at a boutique that I really like. 

Other Things To Do…That I Didn’t Get Time For

Of course, there are other things I didn’t get to do while I was in Salem besides more food and visiting the Peabody. Hopefully next time I can get to some of these but in the meantime, YOU can check them out on your trip!

Schooner FAME Boat Ride

Take a boat ride on an 1812 pirate schooner replica. Really bummed I missed this one too since I am such a history nerd. 

Ropes Mansion Tour

Another Hocus Pocus film location. This was Allison’s house in the movie. I didn’t make it to the mansion because they have limited tour schedules. 

The Pickering House

If you haven’t guessed by now I really love house tours so this is one I wouldn’t mind checking out.

See a Psychic

I am ashamed to say that while I was in the Witch City I didn’t see a single psychic or Tarot reader. This is one I regret and will not miss if I get another chance. 

The Black Veil Studio of Tattoo & Art

I found this shop on Instagram and was blown away by how talented these artists are! You do have to schedule in advance which is why I didn’t get a chance to get some ink done. 

The Satanic Temple

I know this isn’t for everyone, but if you have an open mind the Satanic Temple has an art gallery and a huge life-size statue of Baphomet that you can sit on for some wicked photo ops

Tourist Trap and Spooky Tacky Attraction Warning

Word to the wise…there were a lot of what I would say tourist traps and cheesy attractions/tours in Salem. In my opinion, there are more tacky tourist traps than legitimate attractions so just because of not wasting money or time on these. 

Let me know what you think of these tops spots in Salem in the comments below.

Till next time,

Rachel 

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I think you meant Nathaniel Hawthorne. Autocorrected to national Hawthorne.<3

I was super excited to read your article. I have been wanting to take a trip to Salem. With limited time off this sounds just perfect! And skipping the cheesy and touristy traps is exactly what I want to miss. Thank you!

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Is Salem the Scariest Town in America — or Just a Big Tourist Trap?

Picturesque (but scary!) Salem Harbor (Getty Images)

Salem is supposed to be witch central, but really it’s more like capitalism central. Banking on the spooky history of the witch trials that took place there in the late 17th century, Salem is making the most of its mystique. There are dozens of tours and activities to choose from (all walkable), and just about everyone is vying for your attention — and your money.

The Salem Maritime National Historic Site visitor center (2 New Liberty Street), a nice-looking and organized place, should be everyone’s first stop. The folks there are helpful in getting you oriented and seeing what is happening and being featured for that day.

Museum Place Mall (Getty Images)

When my friend Alli and I arrived in Salem early Friday afternoon on Columbus Day weekend, the first attraction we hit was a movie — because of course one needs more sitting after being in the car all day. “The History of Halloween 3D” (tickets are $9 for adults, and $7.50 for seniors, children, and students) is shown in a local indie movie theater, CinemaSalem , located in a shopping mall called Museum Place Mall; it also features a Mexican place called iTaco and has the faint smell of incense. As the name indicates, this 35-minute movie is in 3D, offers an up-close-and-personal history of the holiday and its commercialization, particularly as it reflects on Salem, which is de facto Halloween central. It was a bit corny but provided good context and history.

Related: You Can Buy Your Very Own Ghost Town (Just in Time for Halloween)

The Salem Open Market is like a witch bachelorette party. ( New England Open Markets /Flickr)

On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the main street of Salem, Essex Street, turns into an outdoor market , selling wares and food. It was like one big bachelorette party to which everyone wore a witch costume. In other words, great people (and witch) watching, but incredibly congested.

Salem at night is a completely different story. The crowds clear away, and you’re left with beautiful cobblestone streets and crisp air and the smell of being close to the water. Plus, there’s a certain kind of beauty about seeing groups holding candlesticks.

A spooky band playing at Gulu-Gulu Café ( Dex /Flickr)

We ducked into the Gulu-Gulu Café to grab some food and decide what to see of the Salem Haunted Happenings , aka October in Salem, aka their Super Bowl — the month-long celebration of Halloween and fall in New England.

Pro tip: Book in advance for anything in October in Salem. I think even if Samantha Stephens from “Bewitched” (Salem favorite and subject of a local statue) came back and wanted to squeeze in a last-minute tour, they wouldn’t do it. If you do make a last-minute trip, you won’t necessarily get to see the main attractions, but you can still have a great time.

Is that a ghost spotted in the cemetery during a tour? (Salem Historical Tours)

The wonderful people at Salem Historical Tours took us on their Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour (90 minutes; day tours are $10 for adults, $6 for kids; evening tours are $14 for adults, $10 for kids; both offer discounts for students and military). We couldn’t have been happier.

Related: Visit If You Dare! The Most Terrifying Haunted Houses in America

The jovial guide, Giovanni Alabiso, took us to the big Salem hits, one of which is the Old Burying Point, in the Charter Street Cemetery. It dates from 1637, making it one of the oldest cemeteries in Salem — and the country. We also hit the Gardner-Pingree House, the site of a notorious murder that inspired writers Nathaniel Hawthorne and Edgar Allen Poe, among others. Giovanni also filled us in on all the spooky and nonhaunted histories, even telling us which local restaurants and hotels were haunted (Rockafellas restaurant and The Hawthorne Hotel ) and which weren’t (ghosts don’t dig the Holiday Inn, apparently).

The House of the Seven Gables was built in 1668. ( James Walsh /Flickr)

Our last activity of the night was the best: the House of the Seven Gables (115 Derby Street; $15 per person per tour). The farthest away from the center of the action — it’s about a half mile from the visitor center — it forces one to go past the harbor and to see more of the quaint areas of town.

Our reservations were at 8:20 p.m. for the Legacy of the Hanging Judge tour and 9:10 p.m. for the Spirits of the Gables. Both tours were walks through houses — Hawthorne’s birthplace, dating back to around 1750, and the House of the Seven Gables (built in 1668, it was owned by a cousin of Nathaniel Hawthorne and is said to have inspired his book of the same name). The first tour was all about how Hawthorne ancestors hung the innocent women accused as witches, with re-enactor appearances by Hawthorne, accused witches, and the judge relative, among others. The spirits tour brought to life the characters from “The House of the Seven Gables” novel.

After these tours I was slightly creeped out. My friend was a pillar of strength, of course, but I was slightly terrified to walk back through the eerily quiet streets (by then it was about 10 p.m.) to the car garage.

Related: 5 Spooky Cities That Go All Out for Halloween

We drove the 15 minutes away to the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Boston-Peabody (1 Newbury Street, Peabody; two-night minimums on the weekends in October ; $199 to $229 per night). It was the closest we could reserve to get to Salem, but it ended up being a brilliant choice — quiet, clean, and relatively inexpensive. Plus, no ghosts. Nothing scary about that.

Watch: Spooky Halloween Cocktails

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20 Epic Things to Do in Salem, MA in October (Halloween 2024) 🎃

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Looking for things to do in Salem MA in October 2024? Considering a Salem Massachusetts Halloween experience? You couldn’t have chosen a better destination for spooky New England fall fun!

While there are so many things to do in Salem at any time of the year, October is when things get especially witchy, magical, and memorable.

I have visited Salem many times and in many seasons, and as an avid lover of New England, I’m here to tell you how to have the most epic Salem October experience.

In this guide, I include the best things to do in Salem Massachusetts in October , such as The Witch House, Hocus Pocus film sites, and the House of Seven Gables, plus my personal tips for visiting Salem in the fall.

You’ll even find a ready made Salem itinerary at the end, if you’ve got a few days to explore.

Let’s dive in, witches!

Table of Contents

Is Salem MA Worth Visiting in October?

Yes! Salem MA is definitely worth visiting in October.

Most infamously known for its witch trials and witchcraft hysteria of the 1690s, Salem attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, the vast majority of them arriving in October. From Salem’s dark history to modern-day witches, Salem Massachusetts remains a fascinating city. 

Undoubtedly, the near-perfect fall weather, stunning fall foliage, plus the addition of Salem’s “ Haunted Happenings ” events and the overall atmosphere means that the best time to go to Salem is October.

However, everyone else thinks so, too!

This is without a doubt a CRAZY time of year in the area. The crowds get incredibly thick as the leaves turn gold, and you’ll definitely be waiting in line for some of Salem’s top attractions. Parking is a challenge, and you’ll need to book accommodation well in advance.

Still, visiting Salem MA in October (especially near Halloween) is something many travelers want to check off their New England bucket list.

So if you’re ready to brave the crowds, read on. And if you’re keen to visit at another time of year, the same great activities and recommendations still apply. Hint hint: these are the best things to do in Salem Massachusetts in ANY SEASON!

PS scroll all the way to the end of this post for my ready made Salem weekend itinerary so you won’t have to worry about missing a thing!

Can You Do a Day Trip to Salem?

You can absolutely do a day trip to Salem and this is an excellent option in October, especially if you haven’t booked Salem accommodation well in advance.

My recommendation is to stay in Boston and take the train into Salem for a spooky October day trip. When you take the train you will avoid the nightmare that is trying to park in Salem in October. You’ll take the MBTA Commuter Rail from North Station and be in Salem in under an hour, ready to start your Salem day trip adventure.

Tips for Visiting Salem in October – Witch City Wisdom

As someone who has traveled to Salem in October, I have learned what to expect during this pinnacle of Salem’s high season. Here are some of my best tips for making the most of your visit:

• Plan ahead . Book accommodation well ahead of time (a year in advance when possible) and book all your tours and tickets ASAP.
• Go in September or better yet, November! Yep, you heard right! You can still have an incredible Salem experience if you don’t go in the month of October. In fact, the town has found tourism has begun soaring more than ever beginning in summer and continuing through fall. So if you’re keen on having Salem *a bit more to yourself* consider going after the foliage season has died down.
• Start EARLY in the day. I visited Salem in fall 2022 and took the earliest train from Boston that I could. This gave me a good hour to walk around a fairly empty downtown Salem and—as a blogger—it was the only way I was able to grab some photos without people in them! The early bird definitely gets the worm in this case! Set your alarm clocks and fly!
• Get into the spirit and dress up! It’s spooky season and this is Witch City, after all! Don a witch hat, step into something sparkly and stunning. If you’re looking for an excuse to wear a costume to Salem or to dress a bit more wild, go for it. You definitely won’t be alone!
• Have patience. There’s going to be crowds if you visit Salem during October. Give yourself plenty of time to get where you’re going, have patience and grace with others, and always keep your sense of humor about you!

Best Things to Do in Salem MA in October

1. take a walking tour.

Salem has such a rich and complex history. To make the most of your experience, it’s important that you get a good overview of the town’s past. The best way to do that is through a walking tour of Salem, Massachusetts. There are plenty to choose from! I think the best tours in Salem MA not only offer history connected to the Witch Trials, but will also cover other elements of Salem’s story.

This 2-Hour Salem History Walking Tour is one of the highest-rated Salem day tours in the area. Lead by a local guide, the tour takes you to all the iconic sites of Salem, including landmarks like the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, the Burying Point, the McIntire Historic District, Hamilton Hall, and Pickering House. You’ll hear about the Salem Witch Trials as well as the city’s past as a Native American settlement and its role in the American Revolution.

Another option, The Salem: History & Witchcraft Day Tour , is more focused on the trials themselves. You’ll visit important sites like the Old Burial Ground Cemetery and Witch Trials Memorial, and you’ll hear the stories of the accused witches from your local guide; this is considered one of the top Salem MA witch tours.

2. Visit the Salem Witch Museum

The Salem Witch Museum is one of the essential things to do in Salem, Massachusetts in October. This is actually known as the most visited attraction in Salem, and with good reason.

The first part of the Salem Witch Museum tour is truly bewitching, pun intended. You are shown into a large theatrical-type space and seated in the center with many other guests. Once everyone is seated, you are shown a presentation that lasts approximately 20 minutes. This is a masterful (and a bit frightening) storytelling operation that shares a dramatization of the Salem wittch hunt through a combination of tableaus, dramatic lighting, and spine-tingling narration.

While there are no physical actors, the tremulous narrator, alongside voice actors and sound effects, brings these mannequined tableaus into vivid life. Recently, I read an article calling the Witch Museum a tourist trap. I strongly disagree. My husband and I found it riveting and intense; in fact, it is much more emotional than a regular museum. Its simple and even slightly vintage approach works. Nothing modern or fancy is needed to tell this story. Connecting you with the characters of the witch trials, it makes you acutely aware of the horrible things which happened here.

Following the presentation, you enter the modern witch museum, which examines the way witches have been viewed throughout history. With knowledgeable and entertaining guides, it’s a good way to cap off your visit.

** Click here to buy your ticket to the Salem Witch Museum in advance and avoid the line! **

3. Tour the Salem Witch House

Not to be confused with the Witch Museum, the Salem Witch House is absolutely worth a visit. Though Salem is full of history, this building is unique in that it is the only still-standing structure with direct ties to the witch trials —plus it just looks incredibly spooky and Salem-esque! This house was once home to Jonathan Corwin, who served as a judge in the witchcraft trials of 1692. The Witch House was also the site of family tragedy and Judge Corwin himself was known as being pretty harsh and unyielding, so it may come as no surprise that this is one of several possible haunted places in New England .

Inside the Witch House, you can take a self-guided tour. There is plenty to see and study, and information lining the walls shares the history of both the witch trials and the time period in general.

With so much detail, you can really imagine what it was like to live in a home such as Judge Corwin’s.

There are a few guides within the house who are extremely knowledgeable and readily answer any of your questions.

Salem travel tip : I recommend arriving to the Witch House early in the morning to avoid any crowds and have this fascinating house almost completely to yourself.

4. Check out famous Hocus Pocus film sites

If you’re visiting Salem, MA in October, the season is just perfect to reminisce about your favorite Halloween movie.

I’m talking about Hocus Pocus, that classic Halloween film that features 3 of everyone’s favorite witches: Mary, Sarah, and Winifred Sanderson.

I have loved this movie since it came out in 1993 and Salem is filled with locations where scenes were filmed. I wrote an entire guide to the Hocus Pocus sites in Salem so you can follow along and check them all out!

5. Take a Candlelit Ghost Tour

If you are visiting Salem in October, going on a ghost tour is a must!

To learn more about the local haunts, join in on one of many Salem ghost tours. There are many different options to choose from, but my husband and I went with this Candlelit Ghostly Walking Tour through the Salem Wax Museum.

Armed with tiny lanterns, we followed our guide to sites around the town of Salem and learned a bit of the “hidden” history. This Salem ghost tour had haunted tales, ghostly rumors, and was just the right level of spooky! And, in my opinion, there’s something really fun about wielding your own little lantern light on a dark night in Salem!

You can buy tickets for this walking tour at the Salem Wax Museum. You’ll visit sights including haunted houses, the most “haunted building in Salem,” the site of the old Salem prison, and more.

Want more choices? Check out this list of the top ghost tours in Salem for more detailed information on different ghost tours in Salem, including top kid-friendly ghost tours.

5. Catch the fall foliage

If you’re visiting Salem in October, you’re bound to see some of the gorgeous autumn foliage. The changing leaves add to the beauty of this town and definitely help to set a magical atmosphere.

Though peak foliage varies each year, you’re almost certain to catch some good color during October. And of course, New England is world famous for its beautiful fall foliage. Considering using Salem as your starting point for an epic fall road trip through the region.

6. Take part in the Haunted Happenings: so many Halloween events!

Clearly, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Salem year round. But only in October can you join in on the famous Haunted Happenings. Salem has got so much on the calendar for October 2024! When planning your visit, be sure to check this calendar to see if any of these special events coincide with your trip.

There are magic shows, cabarets, and the Haunted Happenings Marketplace which is held in Salem Common, featuring live music, street performers, food trucks, and more!

Looking for the metaphysical? There are crystal workshops, presentations on myth and ritual, spiritualism tours of Hammond Castle in nearby Gloucester….the list goes on.

As Halloween approaches, there is also a slew of Halloween balls: epic parties you won’t want to miss. You might just “ dance, dance, dance, until you die! “

7. Explore the Witchy Shops

Part of the fun of traveling to Salem, Massachusetts is simply wandering around the town and enjoying its many unusual shops and businesses.

This photo above is from an amazing (but also sort of frighteningly intense) shop in downtown Salem. Immediately I walked in and felt like “there is an energy in here.”

The shop is inside an old bank, and is called BlackCraft Cult . The decor is just so striking and the merchandise fits so well in this setting. It’s worth a visit.

There are campy souvenir stores, of course, but there are also small magical shops that have a much more authentic feel. These are truly worth a visit due to their enchanting interiors and the unique array of goods inside. If you’re interested in a palm reading, tarot, or other services, there are plenty of options to be found throughout Salem as well. 

There are also stores that celebrate local arts and crafts or culinary goods. And many, many delicious restaurants, breweries, and bars . I recommend:

• Turner’s Seafood – literally the best meal I have ever had in Salem, and in the coziest restaurant.
• Howling Wolf Taqueria – Awesome Mexican joint with very affordable prices. Great margaritas. The food was excellent and the restaurant very crowded–showing just how popular it is!
• Gulu Gulu Cafe – Great for a tasty cup of coffee or a yummy breakfast or lunch. The interior of the cafe is very quirky, and I just love their canine logo.
• Mercy Tavern – A cozy, newer spot in town which felt off the beaten path, and served up delectable dishes. My husband had a juicy cheeseburger while I had outstanding New England clam chowder (complete with crab cakes), and we both enjoyed a local cider from Far From the Tree . Apparently their mac n’ cheese is also to die for!

8. Wander through the Old Burying Point Cemetery

There are many Salem points of interest you will come across during your stay. The town of Salem is not huge, and as you explore, you’re bound to find dozens of places in Salem Massachusetts that intrigue you.

One such place is the Old Burying Point Cemetery, also known as the Charter Street Cemetery. With some notable figures buried here (including accused witch Martha Corey), it is worth it to spend some time exploring the very, very old graves here. This cemetery is the oldest in Salem, established in 1637. 

Witchcraft judge John Hathorne is also buried here. Hathorne was known for being harsh and perhaps not always entirely impartial. Though Hathorne never expressed regret later in life for the outcome of the trials, his descendants seemed to have distanced themselves from the family name, including his famous literary great-grandson, who added one letter to his surname to become Nathaniel Hawthorne.

*Please note: Reservations are now required to visit this historic cemetery. Head to their website for more information .

9. Pay Your Respects at the Salem Witch Trials Memorial

Just next to the Burial Point you will find the Salem Witch Trials Memorial. This is a simple stone memorial that was created in 1992 to memorialize the victims of the trials.

The witch hysteria saw 20 innocent people executed. Here, they can be remembered, with stone benches carved with each victim’s name, as well as date and manner of death. There are often flowers, little trinkets, and other items set upon the stones, left in tribute to the victims. It’s a somber and quiet spot to remember the people who were so cruelly executed during the Salem witch trials.

While this is certainly an emotional stop, it is one of my favorite places in Salem. There is something realy simple and gentle about the space.

I recommend reading The Crucible before your trip to Salem. Alternatively, watch the film version starring Daniel Day Lewis. While not necessarily historically accurate, the inclusion of real victims as characters in the play brings the events alive in stark, vivid detail. It helped me feel more connected to the victims and their story, in the powerful way that good art should.

10. Pop Into the Peabody Essex Museum

Though not necessarily “witch-related,” the Peabody Essex Museum is a great stop during any visit to Salem, and something of a hidden gem. During a visit a couple of years ago, my husband and I were able to catch the fantastic “It’s Alive!” exhibit that was on display. This was a vintage sci-fi and horror film poster exhibit of the collection of Kirk Hammett, guitarist for Metallica. My husband, a sci-fi fan and author, was especially excited for this exhibit, but I ended up loving it too!

It was really thought-provoking to see the evolution of sci-fi and horror film posters and marketing approaches over the years.

If you visit the Peabody Essex Museum , there will certainly be something to captivate you. There are many fascinating rotating exhibits here as well as more permanent collections. The museum building is also quite lovely all its own. In fall 2023, the Peabody Essex Museum is currently showcasing exhibits on the Witch Trials as well as one on bats. So fitting for the spooky season!

11. Step Into the House of the Seven Gables

Are you a literary fan? If so, you may be interested in seeing the House of the Seven Gables , a structure intimately connected with one Nathaniel Hawthorne. But even without this particular interest, the house is absolutely worth a visit.

A guided tour is lead by a remarkably knowledgeable guide, and you’ll learn more about the history of the house (including how it architecturally evolved over the years).

The best part of all? You get to climb up a secret passageway, a hidden staircase in the walls.

Psst: You’ll also find out just what the heck a ‘gable’ is, if you don’t already know!

12. Stay in a Haunted Hotel, if you dare!

Now, many might believe if you want the true Salem experience, you need to stay in an inn or hotel with a history of paranormal activity . The choice is yours!

Though The Salem Inn , where I have stayed, does have some stories of ghostly experiences in the main inn, I was quite relieved that my stay was spirit-free! As a matter of fact, the stay was really lovely. My husband and I stayed in the beautiful old Currwen House, once belonging to a maritime family.

Our room was perfectly decorated in an old-fashioned style, and it was very comfortable. We especially loved our whirlpool tub.

In the mornings, we enjoyed a fabulous continental breakfast, complete with the most delicious mini cinnamon rolls.

If you’re looking for quality lodging in Salem that has a vintage touch, The Salem Inn is a perfect choice.

Want some more options? Check out my posts on where to stay in Salem MA and top vacation rentals in the area.

13. Take a Sunset Sail on a Historic Schooner

Don’t forget about the water during your time in Salem! Take a break from pounding the cobblestones and hop onto a historic schooner for a relaxing sunset sail on the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy views of Salem’s coastline while you feel the breeze in your hair. You can even BYO adult beverage! Click here to book this sunset sail Salem trip. 

If you’re not as keen to head out onto the water, don’t miss checking out the Salem Friendship tall ship in the harbor. This beautiful vessel is a replica of the original 1797 Salem-built tall ship. Operating as a merchant ship, the Friendship was eventually captured by the British during the War of 1812.

14. Pose with Samantha at the Bewitched Statue

If you grew up in the mid 60’s, (or you’re a fellow child of the 80’s/90’s who grew up watching Nick at Nite, like me) you likely were a fan of Bewitched , the beloved television show that starred Elizabeth Montgomery. Montgomery played Samantha, a young, just-married witch whose husband Darren has no idea about her magical powers. 

The statue was donated by TV Land and dedicated in 2005. A few of the show’s episodes were set in Salem, and according to Roadside America , the show may have contributed to a resurgence of interest in tourism to the town. 

The statue is easy to find, located in Lappin Park, at the corner of Washington and Essex Streets. It’s definitely worth stopping by to grab a photo with Samantha!

15. Hop Aboard the Salem Trolley Tours

One of the best ways to get around Salem MA and to see all the top Salem attractions is to hop on the Salem Trolley !

Touring eight miles around Salem, you’ll see all the top sights in Salem, and you can get off the trolley at any stop if you’d like to explore the area a bit more. This Salem trolley tour is just one hour start to finish and a trolley ride is always one of those fun things to do in Salem for kids but honestly? Who doesn’t love riding on a trolley?!

16. Explore Salem Pioneer Village

Would you like to see more of what 17th century colonial life in Salem was really like? Then visit the Pioneer Village , three acres of living history museum in Salem. An amazing representation of Old Salem MA, you’ll see thatched roof cottages, a blacksmith shop, and more in this incredible recreation of historical Salem. This should be on the list of things to do in Salem in October, for sure.

Hours: The village is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 12-4 from June 10-October 29 only!

PS: This is another of the Hocus Pocus film sites in Salem; the site of Thackery Binx’s house in the witch village!

17. Admire Salem’s gorgeous historic homes

No Salem Massachusetts October adventure is complete without seeing some of its absolutely gorgeous old homes!

You’ll need to walk away from the downtown area of Salem and explore the residential streets a bit. (Make sure you are respectful of private property and quiet. The residents of Salem will appreciate this as you explore the town they call home!)

Head down Essex Street from the Witch House and you’ll immediately be struck by stunning facades and lovely architecture. The surrounding streets, such as Chestnut Street, boast the same beauty. Here are photos of some of my favorite Salem homes.

18. Spy the epic Halloween decorations

Halloween is awesome in many destinations, but Salem really does it up!

Some of the streets boasting the best historic homes will also be the same places to find the spookiest and best decorations. My personal favorite is the stately yellow home nicknamed The Yellow Elephant. Also known as The James Braden House, this is one spot where they do not mess around with Halloween decor! Giant skeletons seem to be ransacking the house as a preponderance of gourds spills down the stairway. Truly, truly epic.

You’ll find this gem at 170 Federal Street. 

19. Wander around Salem Common

If you’re looking for a leafy, shady park to stroll around in, Salem Common will not disappoint. This is a lovely spot with paths, a playground, a scenic cupola gazebo, and more. In October, it’s also the spot where you’ll find lots of fair-style food trucks. This is a very fun spot to stop by on your visit to Salem, and, as a bonus, it’s also another of the Hocus Pocus filming locations. 

Read Next: Top 25 Things to Do in Salem MA with Kids

20. Grab a drink overlooking the rooftops of Salem

Finally, end your trip by toasting with some tasty spirits at this chic rooftop bar. Located atop the Hotel Salem, The Roof is known for its nice views, Mexican dishes, and its strong drinks. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy after a day of exploring. I really enjoyed my Mexican Street Corn Dip paired with a “Dark and Stormy”. A perfect cocktail for October in Salem, no?

Salem Massachusetts Weekend Itinerary (3 Days)

Only have three days in Salem MA? Follow my ready made Salem MA itinerary to get the best bang for your buck!

Salem Massachusetts 3 Day Itinerary – Day 1

For the first day, I suggest beginning on The Salem Trolley: day tours are available in person on the same day, and run April through November. Plus, it’s only a one hour tour, so it leaves plenty of time to get on with your Salem weekend trip.

You’ll be able to see where some of the most popular Salem sights are located, like the House of the Seven Gables, Charter Street Burial Ground, the Salem Witch Museum, the historic waterfront, and more.

This will help you get a great visual on the town and the places you’ll be seeing during your weekend in Salem!

• The Salem Trolley
• Salem Witch Museum
• Salem Common
• Red’s Sandwiches
• Peabody Essex Museum
• The Salem Witch Trials Memorial
• Old Burying Point 
• Tavern Restaurant
• Optional Ghost Tour, if you’re still going strong!

Weekend Itinerary Salem – Day 2

Hopefully you’ve gotten a great night’s rest and you’re ready and raring to go for your second day of Salem explorations, but today will be at a slightly lower pace than yesterday if you follow this Salem MA itinerary exactly.

To begin, let’s fuel up with a nice light breakfast and a great cup of coffee, shall we? Head to Jaho Coffee & Tea for specialty lattes, delicious boba drinks, scrumptious pastries, and of course, a fantastic cup of coffee if that’s all you need in the morning!

PS if it’s noon or after when you’re leaving Jaho Coffee, check out Enchanted of Salem , in the same plaza. It’s a very cool little magic shop where you can find crystals, tarot cards, crystal balls, spell kits, and so much more. Now it’s on for more must see Salem sights!

• Jaho Coffee
• Salem Maritime National Historic Site
• Daniel’s House Inn
• Mercy Tavern
• The House of the Seven Gables
• Ye Olde Pepper Companie
• Go Sailing on a Historic Schooner
• Sea Level Oyster Bar

Itinerary for Salem Massachusetts – Day 3

If you are lucky enough to get a long weekend in Salem, your 3rd day is going to be even more of the can’t miss Salem attractions! To begin your day, let’s do breakfast at Red Line Cafe , one of the cutest coffee shops in Salem.

Crepes are their specialty, and you really can’t go wrong whether you order one that’s sweet or savory. Either way, that and a delicious coffee or tea will fuel you well for your last day in the Witch City!

• Red Line Cafe
• Witch History Museum
• Wicked Good Books
• Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery
• Bewitched Sculpture
• Gulu Gulu Cafe

There are so many things to do in Salem, MA to discover its mystery and magic. If you want to be even better prepared for your visit, check out my suggested books below. Happy travels!

Suggested Salem Reading:

More Salem & Massachusetts Travel Planning:

• Fall in Boston: Where to Go and What to Do
• 8 Great Things to Do in Marblehead, MA
• The 10 Absolute Best Things to Do in Boston

Pin to save this Salem travel guide for later !

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8 New England Tourist Traps to Steer Clear Of and 3 To Visit Instead

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New England is a super stunning and therefore popular destinations in the US North East, mainly during the fall as it is a prime spot to watch the foliage turn yellow and red. However, with popularity in travel comes tourist traps, aka, places that might not deserve your time as much as advertised. Here are 8 New England places that many Americans and visitors consider tourist traps.

1. Salem Witch Museum, Salem, Massachusetts

The Salem Witch Museum might sound intriguing, but it has received criticism for presenting the tragic witch trials in a manner that some visitors feel exploits the historical events. The exhibits, which include dated mannequins and lackluster presentations, along with a consistently overcrowded parking lot, make for a less than stellar experience. Many reviews also suggest that the museum spreads misinformation about the real events of the Salem witch trials.

2. Plymouth Rock

Plymouth Rock is often envisioned as a grand symbol of new beginnings, but visitors frequently find themselves let down by its surprisingly small size. Located in Pilgrim State Memorial Park, the rock is historically significant but may not meet the expectations of those looking for a monumental site. The experience tends to be underwhelming for many, making it a less recommended stop in New England.

3. Faneuil Hall, Boston, Massachusetts

Faneuil Hall, while iconic, is often criticized by locals for its high-priced, low-quality food options targeted at tourists. The historic site is in the heart of Boston and attracts many visitors, but if you’re looking to experience genuine local cuisine, there are better places nearby that offer delicious meals at more reasonable prices. Many suggest skipping the hall in favor of exploring other culinary delights in the city.

4. Union Oyster House, Boston, Massachusetts

The Union Oyster House in Boston may be one of the oldest restaurants in the United States, but locals compare eating there to an overpriced tourist trap, akin to buying an overpriced pastry near a major tourist landmark. You might be better off visiting a less famous but more beloved local restaurant where the food is both delicious and reasonably priced.

5. Boston Tea Party Museum

The Boston Tea Party Museum, intended to be an interactive and educational experience, unfortunately comes off to many as an over-commercialized version of the historic event. The museum is often described as not offering genuine artifacts or informative displays but rather focusing on entertainment, which might not justify the high admission price for those seeking an authentic historical experience.

6. New England Aquarium

While the New England Aquarium offers a chance to see a diverse range of marine life, frequent complaints about it being too crowded can significantly detract from the experience. The space is often described as too small for the number of visitors it accommodates, leading to a less enjoyable visit where guests may feel rushed and unable to appreciate the exhibits fully.

7. Holy Land, Waterbury, Connecticut

Holy Land USA in Waterbury was intended as a religious-themed park but has been described by visitors as uneventful and eerie due to its lack of traditional amusement park rides and attractions. The park features a chapel and stations of the cross but lacks the engagement factor, leading many to suggest visiting other more vibrant religious or historic sites.

8. Misquamicut State Beach

Misquamicut State Beach in Rhode Island, despite its popularity, is often criticized for its entrance fee and the additional costs incurred within, such as dining and attractions. The beach itself can become extremely crowded, diminishing the quality of a visit. The area is commercialized, with many spots urging visitors to spend more, which can lead to a less relaxing beach day.

9. Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a splendid alternative to the typical tourist spots. With its breathtaking landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, the park offers a genuine connection with nature. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply enjoying the scenic views, Acadia provides a memorable and authentic experience far removed from the commercial pressures of more crowded tourist attractions.

10. White Mountains

The White Mountains are a perfect escape for those looking for peaceful natural beauty and an array of outdoor activities. Whether you’re into hiking, skiing, or just taking in the panoramic views, this area serves as a refreshing break from the hustle of commercial tourist sites. The region’s vast natural landscapes invite visitors to relax and explore at their own pace.

11. Newport Mansions, Rhode Island

For a taste of American history blended with architectural beauty, the Newport Mansions in Rhode Island are well worth visiting. Unlike the typical tourist traps, these mansions offer a detailed glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of America’s Gilded Age, with well-preserved interiors and stunning gardens that transport visitors back in time in an immersive and educational environment.

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Mary and Eric

We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.

We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.

With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.

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The World’s 2nd Biggest Tourist Trap is in Massachusetts

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Not only is Massachusetts a state where people want to relocate and raise a family the Bay State is also high on tourist lists for a vacation getaway. Whether you are looking to explore Boston, the Berkshires, and everywhere in between, Massachusetts is a destination state.

When planning a vacation, you don't want to end up at an overcrowded attraction that ends up making you feel disappointed. USA Today published an article that lists the top 100 tourist traps worldwide. Here's a breakdown of the methodology according to the article:

In July 2023, we analyzed 23.2 million Google reviews of the 500 most popular tourist attractions in the world, spanning 65 countries in six continents. For each attraction, we asked a simple question: How frequently do the reviews mention the terms “tourist trap,” “overrated” or “expensive”? We compared attractions to one another by measuring the relative frequency of these mentions, dividing the number of mentions in each case by the total number of reviews for that attraction.

Massachusetts is Home to the Second Biggest Tourist Trap Worldwide

It turns out that the second biggest tourist trap worldwide is the Salem Witch Museum in Salem, Massachusetts. Of the 9,240 reviews the attraction received, 113 flagged the Salem Witch Museum as a tourist trap.

While there's very little doubt that the Salem Witch Museum becomes a hot attraction with tourists leading up to Halloween, exploring the museum during other times of the year could help if you are trying to avoid big crowds when visiting the attraction and Salem in general. Here are some of the most recent reviews of the museum as provided by Trip Advisor :

Have you visited the Salem Witch Museum? What was your experience like? You can check out the other attractions that made the list along with the top tourist traps worldwide by going here .

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Heading to Salem, Massachusetts This Spooky Season? Check Out Our Recommendations

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Happy Spooky Season!

Now that it's finally socially acceptable to celebrate the Halloween holiday, I decided to head out to the mecca of haunted places in the United States: Salem, Massachusetts.

Salem, Massachusetts: What You Need to Know For Your Trip

A few weeks ago, USA Today named Salem Massachusetts one of the biggest tourist traps in the world, which I personally think is a bit dramatic. Whether it's because of the actual interest in the history of the Salem Witch Trials or the lovers of Disney's Hocus Pocus, Salem is crawling with visitors year-round.

I headed out to Salem this weekend to kick off Spooky Season. During my stay I learned a whole lot and took down some notes for my next trip. Here are a few things to keep in mind when visiting the historically haunted town:

• Wear comfortable shoes. There's lots of walking and cobblestone roads. I saw lots of heels and uneven walking. It didn't look comfortable at all.
• Be Prepared to Wait. I thought heading to town in September would give me easier access to museums and shops. I was wrong. There were lines for the museums, which is a given, but we were also waiting in line to get into souvenir shops.
• Parking is a Hassle. By 12 pm on a Saturday all the parking lots were filled. This was towards the end of September, I can only imagine what it's going to be like in October. Take the T or a rideshare into town to get you to the Salem fun faster.
• Plan ahead. All the restaurants I tried to get into didn't take reservations. And as I mentioned before, there were lines for everything. Grab your tickets ahead of time for tours and maybe eat before you land in Salem.

With that being said, we still had a great time! I would highly recommend booking one of the walking tours (they do them in the day and night time) and stopping by the monument of those who were accused of witchcraft and of course visiting the Hocus Pocus filming locations.

Hocus Pocus Filming Locations Are a Must!

I'm a huge fan of the 1993 Disney Cult Classic Hocus Pocus. The movie (which stars Bette Midler, Thora Birch, and Sarah Jessica Parker) was filmed all across Salem. Pioneer Village will transport you back in time, it can also be seen in the opening scene of the movie!

You can easily visit Alison's house ( Ropes Mansion , pictured below) to take pictures outside or pay for an actual tour.

Max Denison's house is a little off the beaten path and is located in a residential area, plus, the house isn't a set. A family lives there and while we heard they are super friendly and welcoming to guests taking photos of the filming location, it's still a little strange to spend too much time taking pictures outside.

Looking to stay closer to home for your haunts? Check out 50 of the most haunted places right there in New York...if you're brave enough!

Your Ghost Guide to The 50 Most Haunted Places in New York State

We're narrowing it down even further and found 6 allegedly haunted spots in the Hudson Valley. Have you been to any of these?!

6 Haunted Places in the 845

Old cemeteries in ulster county new york, more from wzad-wczx the wolf.

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Massachusetts is Home to One of the World’s Most Overrated Tourist Traps in Existence

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Massachusetts is home to a LOT of attractions throughout the state. If you're planning a vacation, you certainly want to visit all the top spots that can make for the perfect trip. But what if one of those spots is one that perhaps has been hyped up as something unbelievably amazing, but then turned out to be very horribly disappointing? Like, maybe, a tourist trap? Unfortunately, Massachusetts is home to one of the most overrated tourist traps, not just in the U.S., but in the world.

' USA Today ' has released their list of the  Top 100 Biggest Tourist Traps Worldwide.  By sifting through 23.2 million Google reviews of the top 500 tourist attractions in the world, 'USA Today' was about to compile their top 100 list. Sure enough, the Bay State has one of the world's most overrated tourist traps sitting at #2 on the list. It's a place that gets tons of visitors, not just around the Fall months, but throughout the year. The 2nd biggest tourist trap is the world is the Salem Witch Museum in Salem, MA.

Of course, the Salem Witch Museum is a tourist spot that is there due to the  Salem Witch Trials , which took place in colonial Massachusetts in 1692. For practicing witchcraft, also known as the devil's magic, more than 200 people were accused of practicing such and 20 people were executed.

It seems odd that an amazing spot with so much to offer in terms of fascinating historical elements and knowledge wouldn't be anywhere near a list that seeks out the biggest tourist traps in the world, but here we are. We think maybe 'USA Today' didn't quite get the research right when it comes to this one.

As for the biggest tourist trap in the world, that goes to the Four Corners Monument which connects the four corners of Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah.

So, before your next vacation, perhaps you want to see what people are saying about these attractions. Or, maybe they're just tourist traps...Or, maybe people have nothing better to do than to go on the internet and write negative reviews just because they can. Who knows? Enjoy your vacations, everyone!

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