Things To Do In Salem MA In October During The Halloween
In the autumn, New England is a fantastic place to visit. It's a great place to celebrate the fall season because of its spectacular fall foliage, pumpkin patches, and rich American history. However, none of New England's destinations are as well suited to this season as Salem, Massachusetts. This is the place to be if you want to get into the spirit of the season.
There are numerous things to do in Salem MA in October. It's undoubtedly one of the best Halloween towns in the world, and even if you're not a huge Halloween fan, there still plenty of things you could do as a tourist destination. In this article, FindCouponHere gladly brings you the spooky list of the most amazing things to do in Salem in October.
History of Salem Town, Massachusetts
A group of young girls in Salem Village, Massachusetts, claimed to be possessed by the devil and accused several local women of witchcraft in the spring of 1692. As hysteria spread throughout colonial Massachusetts, a special court convened in Salem to hear the cases; Bridget Bishop, the first convicted witch, was hanged that June. Eighteen others followed Bishop to Gallows Hill in Salem, and over the next few months, 150 more men, women, and children were charged.
The Massachusetts General Court declared a day of fasting in January 1697 to commemorate the tragedy of the Salem witch trials; the court later ruled the trials were illegal, and the leading justice, Samuel Sewall, publicly apologized for his role in the process. However, the community's damage persisted even after the Massachusetts Colony passed legislation in 1711 restoring the condemned's good names and providing financial restitution to their heirs.
Things To Do In Salem MA In October
Despite a traumatic past in this town, it still thrives and is preserved to this day with many unique things to do in Salem on Halloween for everyone to enjoy. Now this place has become a historical tourist destination as they believe that Salem in October, during the Halloween season, is full of abnormal activities. It is believed that the ghosts of those who died unjustly in the old Witch Hunt still exist. Loitering here and will join the living people during this festive event.
Take the Salem Walking Tour
Starting our Best things to do in Salem ma in October list is the walking tour. Walking tours are available both during the day and at night and are a recommended activity for those who choose to visit Salem in October. Some focus on the larger historical aspect of Salem, while others concentrate on the Witch Trials and stories of the town's resident spooks. In October, Salem (MA) offers even more walking tours to coincide with Haunted Happenings.
Each tour will have a guide, but if you've been here many times, you probably won't need to hire one. This is a gentle experiential activity, allowing you to experience the atmosphere of the town as well as visit the famous sites firsthand. This activity also helps you better understand the history of the place and is also suitable for those who do not like the hustle and bustle of party places.
Visit The Witch House At Salem
Second, one of the most exciting things to do in Salem MA in October is the infamous Witch House. The Witch House in Salem was the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin and was located a short walk west of the main downtown area. It was built in 1675 and served as a venue for some of the preliminary hearings for the Sale Witch Trials. It has now been converted into a museum, which houses objects and artifacts from the time of the Witch Trials.
In addition to providing insight into the trials, the house depicts how the wealthy lived in the 17th century. The Witch House in Salem is open to the public all year and can be explored on a self-guided tour. Inside the museum, photography is not permitted. This place is a must while visiting Salem MA in October as it is still containing many historical documents related to the Age of Witch Hunt that especially witch lovers cannot ignore.
Visit the Salem Witch Museum
The Salem Witch Museum is another experiential activity you will need in your Salem Massachusetts things to do in October list. Located on Salem Common, and houses an exhibition about the Salem Witch Trials of 1962. The exhibit consists of lifesize sculptures that depict the steps and progression of the trials.
The first section of the Salem Witch Museum tour is truly enthralling, pun intended. You are led into a large theatrical-style space and seated in the center with a large number of other guests. After everyone has been seated, you will be shown a 20-minute presentation. Following the presentation, you will enter the modern witch museum, which will examine how witches have been perceived throughout history. Believe us when we said you won’t be disappointed to have this as one of the best things to do in Salem.
Take A Look At Hocus Pocus Filming Locations
No other film captures Halloween as well as Hocus Pocus. It's my favorite Halloween movie of all time! The movie was shot in Salem, and you can see the exact locations where it was shot! The classic 1993 Halloween film starring Bette Midler and Sarah Jessica Parker was set and filmed in Salem. This is one of the most amazing things to do in Salem MA in October if you haven’t done it then you haven’t visited Salem yet.
Fans can go to the Hocus Pocus filming locations in Salem at any time of year. These locations include the film's various houses, the school, and the Old Town Hall, where Winnie Sanderson cast a spell on the adult residents of Salem. If, on the other hand, you visit Salem, Massachusetts in the fall, you can take the Salem "Hocus Pocus" Movie Locations Walking Tour.
Explore Witchy Stores
And what is more fun than ending your Things to do in Salem MA in October list than buying some souvenirs or house decorations at the famous Witch town? Wandering around Salem in October, and enjoying its many unusual shops and businesses is part of the fun of visiting. On any given day, you might come across someone dressed as a witch or wizard. There are numerous theme shops selling everything from spell books to palm readings to crystals and more. Visit Old Town Hall, a historic and iconic building that dates back to 1816.
Otherwise, there are campy souvenir shops, but there are also small magical shops with a much more authentic feel than souvenir shops elsewhere. These are well worth a visit because of their enchanting interiors and unique selection of goods dedicated to the Halloween season only. If you're looking for a palm reader, tarot reader, or other services, there are plenty of options in Salem.
Where To Stay While Visiting Salem In October
Beautiful boutique hotels in historic buildings can be found in Salem's downtown area. However, it goes without saying that Salem in October is extremely busy, especially around Halloween. You will need to book your lodging months in advance. There are many different booking apps that will come in handy in times like these but we recommend Booking.com as they have affiliation with a lot of motels and hotels from budget to luxury.
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With big discount deals anytime in the year, you could surely save some for your visit to Salem this Halloween. Take advantage of their discount to save half the price when you use the app or 50% OFF when you book rooms at their affiliates. When you stay at Salem, via Booking.com, we recommend:
- LUXURY – Northey Street House: Elegant guest house with high-quality linens, tasteful decor, and sublime beds. A garden is available to guests, and breakfast is included in the rate. The hotel is a short walk from the center and in a tranquil setting.
- MID-RANGE – The Daniels House Bed and Breakfast: Used to be a historic site before the Witch Hunt, today, it has been transformed into a cozy and comfortable lodging while retaining its witchy spirit. The interiors are lavishly appointed with vintage upholstery, furniture, and trinkets, and the garden is ideal for unwinding.
- BUDGET – Hawthorne Hotel: There's no spookier place to stay while visiting the town than one of the town's most haunted hotels! This is the ideal home away from home, with period features and a characterful dining room with an open fire.
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