There are so many options to buy tickets to events, attractions and lodging when you go on vacation that it can be absolutely overwhelming.   An internet search for Salem will give you a first page list of sponsored things to do. But don’t pick that first listing just like a batter in baseball shouldn’t swing at the first pitch.   Many things to do on that sponsored list are third parties that promise the world and claim they are the best deal. The truth is that is not necess

Salem is known for its many witch museums, tours, attractions and shops, but it has so much to offer that it can be costly to fit everything into your visit. If you are here on a budget, then you probably want to consider doing a mix of activities that you pay for and enjoying some of the free ones. Here is a list of some great places to explore:   1692 Salem Witchcraft Memorials – There are two memorials in Salem. The original  Witchcraft Memorial  is for the 20 people who w

Salem is quite busy in the fall and we get our share of visitors in the spring and summer. But many people have an opportunity to visit in the winter and are always asking what is open?   We are still a vibrant, working community of 43,000 people so many places have regular hours or reduced hours. This blog will give you an idea of what to expect, but keep in mind that it is still winter and hours can change abruptly if there is a major snowstorm or it is brutally cold. Use t

The 1692 Salem Witch Trials were a dark period in our colonial history. Over 200 people were accused of witchcraft, resulting in the executions of 20 people. Five more died while in jail. A few more died after escaping jail or at after they returned home from jail. While many people were opposed to the witch hunt, it took several years for the community to recognize its mistakes. In January of 1697, the jury of the court of Oyer and Terminer (the witchcraft court) wrote a let

The City of Salem has released updated informational resources and a map outlining planned road closures and safety measures for Halloween night, Friday, October 31, 2025. These materials are intended to help residents and visitors plan ahead and enjoy a safe, fun Halloween experience in Salem. For ongoing updates, download the MySalemMA app and turn on notifications, and visit HauntedHappenings.org  for visitor information and event details. Schedule of Public Events on Hall

One of the incredibly fun parts of coming to Salem in the month of October is getting pictures with the buskers. They are all very creative in their costumes and you can tell they put quite a lot of time into their costumes.

Everyone always asks about Pioneer Village here in Salem because it was made famous in the movie Hocus Pocus. The village was featured in...

The Halloween Parade is one of the coolest events of the Haunted Happenings celebration in October in Salem. Event Details The event takes place on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. It starts at Shetland Park and winds through the city, ending at the common (see parade route below). This marks the 28th year of the parade. The parade attracts around 15,000 people who line the streets to watch floats, vehicles, musicians, and all sorts of costumed participants kick off the H

S alem is an incredible city that is nearly 400 years old which is steeped in history that attracts over two million people a year. More than half of them come the whole month of October for the Halloween vibe and it spills into September (aka Septober) and November (aka Octember). This is in addition to the 44,000 people who live here year-round.   There is a lot to enjoy in Salem as there are many events, a Halloween parade, weekend festivals, plays, street buskers, night f

A Local's Guide to Dining in Salem Adriatic Restaurant 155 Washington Street, (978) 594-1832, adriaticrestaurantandbar.com The Adriatic...

There are many accommodations in Salem. We have hotels, BnBs, and Air BnBs. The hotels are well known and have plenty of marketing and...

Here are some answers to many frequently asked questions that may not be covered by one of our other blogs. If you have a question not...

Everyone always asks us about the weather in Salem for the time of year they are planning to visit. Honestly, it is hard to say because...

What is there to do with children?   We’re glad you asked. We get this all the time about Salem. Well, parents know their kids better...

One of the inquiries we always receive is what restaurants have vegan options? Well, just about every restaurant has some sort of vegan...

How to choose a Walking Tour in Salem? You searched on the internet for walking tours in Salem and you’re overwhelmed with all the tours...

One of the more frequent questions we get asked all the time is about traveling to Salem. It is fairly easy from November to June, but...

The 1692 Salem Witchcraft Trials were one of the darkest periods of time in the American colonies in the 17th century. A little town...

Coming to Salem? We have arranged a suite deal for those needing accommodations.The Sonesta Select Boston Danvers hotel is pet friendly...