10 Best Things to Do in Salem MA in October

Salem in October is wild in the best way! The whole town leans into spooky season with haunted houses, costumed crowds, and Halloween events on every corner.

It’s also the perfect time to soak up New England fall vibes while exploring historic sites tied to the witch trials.

If you’re planning a visit, there are so many things to do in Salem MA in October that it can be hard to narrow it down. I’ve put together this list of the absolute must-sees from iconic attractions and creepy walking tours to spots every Hocus Pocus fan will recognize.

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Best Things to Do in Salem, MA in October

1. Visit the Salem Witch Museum

The Salem Witch Museum is hands down the most popular attraction in town, especially in October. It’s a great place to start your visit since it gives you an overview of the 1692 witch trials and the hysteria that shaped Salem’s history.

The main presentation uses life-size sets, lighting effects, and narration to tell the story of how the trials unfolded.

It’s a little theatrical (some parts feel a bit dated), but it does a good job of setting the scene for everything else you’ll see in Salem.

There’s also a smaller exhibit called “Witches: Evolving Perceptions” that looks at how the image of the witch has changed over time.

October is peak season, so be prepared for long lines and crowded rooms! If you’re visiting on a weekend, it’s best to go first thing in the morning or later in the day to avoid the biggest rush.

Tickets are released the previous day at 10 pm, and you need to be quick with your booking if you want to visit! They don’t offer tickets at the door in October, so make sure to set your timer the night before.

2. Explore the House of the Seven Gables

This historic house is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Salem, Massachusetts in October. It’s best known as the inspiration for Nathaniel Hawthorne’s famous novel, but even if you’re not a literary fan, the house and its gardens are worth exploring.

The guided tour takes you through the 17th-century mansion, complete with secret staircases and stories about the families who lived there.

Outside, you can wander the seaside gardens, which look especially pretty with fall colors and crisp October air.

You’ll also get access to several other historic buildings on the property, including Nathaniel Hawthorne’s birthplace.

If you’re visiting during Salem’s Haunted Happenings, this spot tends to be a little calmer than the busy museums downtown, making it a nice break from the crowds.

3. Visit the Witch House (Jonathan Corwin House)

The Witch House is the only building in Salem with direct ties to the 1692 witch trials that’s still standing today.

This was the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, one of the magistrates involved in the trials, and stepping inside feels like walking straight into history.

The house itself is a striking example of 17th-century architecture with its dark, gabled exterior that fits Salem’s October vibe perfectly.

Inside, you can take a self-guided tour through rooms filled with period furnishings and artifacts that give you a glimpse of what life was like in Puritan New England.

It’s one of the smaller attractions in town, but because of its historic significance, it’s often on the list of must-see things to do in Salem, MA in October. Try to visit early in the day to avoid waiting in line!

4. Join a Haunted History or Ghost Tour

If you really want to experience Salem’s spooky side, a ghost tour is a must! These walking tours take you through the town’s historic streets after dark, mixing chilling ghost stories with real history from the witch trials and beyond.

You’ll stop at some of Salem’s most famous landmarks and hear tales of haunted houses, mysterious sightings, and tragic events from centuries past.

It’s such a fun way to see the city lit up at night, especially in October when the Halloween energy is at its peak.

With so many options to choose from, this is easily one of the most popular things to do in Salem, Massachusetts in October. Tours often sell out during Haunted Happenings, so book your spot as early as possible!

These are the top-rated ones:

• History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour
• Bewitched Walking Tour of Salem
• Salem’s Best Ghost Tour

5. Attend Salem Haunted Happenings

Salem Haunted Happenings is the ultimate reason to visit in October! This month-long festival completely takes over the town with parades, street performers, haunted houses, costume contests, and countless Halloween-themed events.

The energy is unreal, especially on weekends when Essex Street turns into a full-on party with thousands of visitors in costume.

There’s something for everyone, from family-friendly activities to late-night ghost tours and psychic fairs. If you want to experience Salem, Massachusetts in October at its busiest and most festive, this is where it all happens.

Just know the crowds can get intense as Halloween gets closer, so plan ahead if you’re not a fan of shoulder-to-shoulder streets.

6. Stop by the Ropes Mansion

Fans of Hocus Pocus will instantly recognize the Ropes Mansion as Allison’s house from the movie!

Even if you’re not a superfan, it’s worth swinging by to see the beautiful colonial mansion and gardens, especially in October when the front steps are often decorated with pumpkins and fall flowers.

The house itself isn’t open for tours, but the exterior alone makes it one of the most photographed spots in Salem. The gardens in the back are free to walk through and offer a quiet break from the bustling streets nearby.

This is a quick stop, but it’s such a fun addition if you’re already exploring the historic district.

7. Attend a Hocus Pocus Filming Locations Tour

If you grew up watching Hocus Pocus, this is the ultimate way to relive your favorite scenes. This tour takes you to filming locations around Salem, including the Town Hall where the Sanderson sisters crashed the Halloween party and Max and Dani’s house.

Along the way, your guide will share fun behind-the-scenes facts about the movie and point out other historic landmarks you might have missed.

Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, it’s a great way to see more of Salem without trying to find all the spots on your own.

This is one of the most popular tours in town during October, so be sure to reserve a spot if it’s on your list.

8. Check out the Peabody Essex Museum

The Peabody Essex Museum is a nice change of pace if you need a break from all the Halloween crowds.

It’s one of the oldest continuously operating museums in the country and has a surprisingly diverse collection, from maritime artifacts and Asian art to contemporary exhibits.

One of the highlights is the Yin Yu Tang house, a 200-year-old Chinese home that was carefully relocated and rebuilt inside the museum. It’s such a unique experience and feels completely different from the spooky vibe you’ll find elsewhere in Salem.

If the weather turns chilly or rainy, this is also a great indoor option to add to your Salem itinerary.

9. Visit Old Burying Point Cemetery and the Salem Witch Trials Memorial

Old Burying Point Cemetery is one of the oldest in the US, and wandering through its crooked headstones feels especially eerie in October.

This is where you’ll find graves of some key figures from Salem’s history, including Judge John Hathorne from the witch trials.

Right next door is the Salem Witch Trials Memorial. It’s a simple but moving tribute with 20 stone benches inscribed with the names of those who were executed in 1692.

It’s a quick stop, but one that really reminds you of the town’s tragic past.

10. Take a stroll through Salem Common

Salem Common is a lovely little park right in the heart of town, and it’s a great spot to take a breather between museums and tours.

In October, the trees are full of fall colors, and there’s often seasonal decor or events happening on the lawn during Haunted Happenings.

It’s also a nice place to people-watch as costumed visitors wander by, especially if you’re visiting on a busy weekend.

Grab a coffee from a nearby café and enjoy a few quiet minutes before diving back into the Halloween chaos!

Where to Stay in Salem in October

Finding accommodation in Salem during October can be a challenge if you don’t plan ahead!

This is by far the busiest time of year, and hotels often book out months in advance thanks to Haunted Happenings.

If you’re visiting for the Halloween season, it’s best to reserve your stay as early as possible to get a good location and decent rates.

Here are a few great options to consider:

• Hawthorne Hotel – A historic hotel right in the center of Salem with classic rooms and plenty of charm. Perfect for staying close to all the October events.
• Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites – A modern hotel with spacious rooms and an indoor pool, located right on Pickering Wharf near shops and restaurants.
• The Hotel Salem – A stylish boutique hotel on Essex Street with a rooftop bar. You’ll be steps away from shopping, dining, and all the Halloween action.
• The Merchant – A beautiful boutique property with luxurious rooms and a quiet location just a short walk from downtown.

Where to Eat in Salem in October

October in Salem is hectic, and so are the restaurants. Many spots don’t take reservations, so be prepared for longer waits during peak times, especially on weekends. If you can, try to eat earlier or later than the usual lunch and dinner rush.

Here are a few great places to check out:

• Red’s Sandwich Shop – A casual local favorite for breakfast or lunch with big portions and plenty of classic diner options.
• Flying Saucer Pizza Company – A quirky spot for creative pizzas and fun decor, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Ledger Restaurant & Bar – Upscale American cuisine in a historic building that used to be a bank. Great for a nice dinner out.
• Finz Seafood & Grill – Fresh seafood and waterfront views at Pickering Wharf. Ideal if you’re craving New England classics.
• Gulu-Gulu Café – A cozy café with sandwiches, crepes, and a solid beer selection. Good for a lighter bite or a coffee break.