Check out a newer (2020) updated version of this post (PLUS a BONUS 3 more things to know before you go) on my new blog: 9 Things You Need To Know Before Visiting Salem In October
Visiting Salem, Massachusetts in October is pretty much on everyone’s “list”. With good reason! I remember watching Hocus Pocus as many times as I could each October and wishing I could be transported to Salem. I was the same age as Dani when the movie came out and loved it! I can still quote pretty much the entire movie. Once I got older Salem seemed like a classic place to visit in the fall. And it is. Then when I moved to New England 5 years ago, I quickly realized that Salem is great in every season. There are some things you need to keep in mind if you are visiting Salem for the first time in October…
If you are thinking that you will find something like Colonial Williamsburg when you get to Salem, you may be disappointed. Salem is a small city with a population of about 42,000 people. While the historical sights are located downtown so are some great shops and restaurants.
- If you are looking for a more Colonial Williamsburg feel check out Salem’s Pioneer Village.
If you are coming to Salem to experience the craziness that is October, then prepare yourself for lots of people. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a great time with street performers dressed up as angry clowns and all of the costumes you can handle. October is basically a month long celebration in Salem. I always use Salem Haunted Happenings to find out what is happening each week/weekend. I’m not affiliated with them just passing on the information!
- If you have small children and can make it without the stroller, I would suggest leaving it at home. The crowds are kind of crazy and taking a stroller or any kind of ambulatory device will make it difficult to walk around comfortably.
Don’t worry, Salem is a very walkable town. As I mentioned Salem is kind of a madhouse in October and because of this parking rates increase during this time of year. Most garages will cost you about $20 in cash for a day in October. Some spots are metered but if you are planning on spending the entire day or weekend in Salem it would make more sense to use one of the parking garages. Salem is a very walkable town so park for the day and wear comfy shoes!
At many of the popular witch inspired shops, as well as, Wynott Wands and Remember Salem (where you can find a ton of Harry Potter merchandise – highly recommend for fellow Potter nerds) there will be lines to get in the door. These shops only allow a certain number of people in the door so that you can enjoy yourself and aren’t crammed in like sardines. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time because there will most certainly be lines.
As you may have been able to figure out from numbers 6 through 3 on the list Salem is incredibly busy during October. Weekends are the busiest time to go! If you can make it work, I suggest trying to do a day trip or booking a trip for weeknights. There are a ton of events each day/night of the week, so you won’t be missing out.
If you go into Salem in October with the right attitude you will enjoy and love it. When I first moved here people told me they avoid Salem like the plague in October, but I go every single year. It’s FUN! Now, if you are going for some serious history then I would suggest you go at a different time of year (any other time of year, actually).
If you want to brush up on the historical events that made the witch city famous check back next Thursday!
Visiting Salem in October is truly a unique experience. Book accommodations early if you can! Enjoy Salem and the kitsch that comes with an October visit! Salem in October will absolutely ‘put a spell on you.’
