Whenever we watch a Halloween movie, we find ourselves longing to visit the spooky locations we see on screen. While many of these destinations exist only as sets on a Hollywood soundstage, some are very real — and you can experience them firsthand this October in Salem, Massachusetts.
Founded in 1626, this historic seaside town was the site of the infamous Salem Witch Trials and, decades later, served as the filming location for both Hocus Pocus and Hocus Pocus 2. The beloved 1993 film, directed by Kenny Ortega, follows the Sanderson sisters, portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker, Bette Midler, and Kathy Najimy. Since its release, tourism to Salem has grown significantly, and today visitors can explore many of the actual locations featured in the movie.
Whenever we watch a Halloween movie, we find ourselves longing to visit the eerie locations we see on screen. While many of these destinations exist only as sets on a Hollywood soundstage, some are entirely real — and you can journey to them this October in Salem, Massachusetts.
Founded in 1626, this historic coastal town was the site of the infamous Salem Witch Trials and later became the primary filming location for both *Hocus Pocus* and *Hocus Pocus 2*. The beloved 1993 film, directed by Kenny Ortega, follows the Sanderson sisters, portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker, Bette Midler, and Kathy Najimy. Since its release, tourism to Salem has grown substantially, and today visitors can tour many of the actual sites featured in the movie.
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As a Massachusetts native who has been visiting Salem since childhood, I know the town well. While October marks the peak of spooky season, there are still numerous ways to enjoy a visit. Here’s what you need to know about where to stay, what to do, and how to pack for a Halloween getaway to this charmingly eerie New England destination.
Where to Stay in Salem
October is the busiest month in Salem, and many local accommodations book up quickly. Our recommendation is to explore vacation rentals through platforms like Airbnb. These services still offer several available properties this month, ranging from compact city apartments to homes in surrounding neighborhoods.
Boston lies approximately 17 miles away, making it an ideal base if you’d like to extend your trip into a full New England weekend. Spend a day enjoying the city’s autumn festivities, such as Oktoberfest, then take a short train ride or drive to Salem.
Alternatively, consider staying in nearby coastal towns like Rockport or Newburyport — two of my personal favorites. These picturesque communities provide the same classic New England fall atmosphere while remaining within a 25-mile radius of Salem. The town itself is accessible via train, bus, or car, with travel times under five hours from cities like New York.
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Book Accommodations with Airbnb
Rates vary widely, from around $75 per night to a few thousand dollars.
If you live in the tri-state area and prefer not to travel far, consider visiting Sleepy Hollow, another iconic Halloween movie location. Located 30 miles north of Manhattan in the Hudson Valley, this town was featured in the 1999 film adaptation of *The Legend of Sleepy Hollow*.
What to Do in Salem
Salem offers a wealth of Halloween-themed activities, from guided ghost tours to official *Hocus Pocus* experiences. For streamlined planning, check out Viator, which features more than 50 options including historical walking tours, broom-making workshops, and themed pub crawls.
Great Tour Options
Book Salem Tours with Viator
Access over 50 curated tours.
Viator allows you to browse reviews from fellow travelers, verify free cancellation policies, and view exact tour durations. This transparency helps prevent over-scheduling and ensures you can maximize your seasonal experiences.
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The Wall Street Hotel’s Halloween History Tour
Even if you can’t make it to Salem but find yourself in New York City, the Big Apple offers its own Halloween appeal. The Wall Street Hotel provides guests with complimentary guided tours of Lower Manhattan’s historic landmarks, including Trinity Church and Fraunces Tavern.
The hour-long walking tour combines colonial-era history with atmospheric storytelling, offering plenty of spine-tingling moments for those who enjoy old graveyards and centuries-old architecture. Afterward, unwind at the hotel’s lounge with a specialty cocktail called the *Nightmare on Wall Street*. Rooms start at $580 in October.
What to Bring to Salem
October weather in Massachusetts can be unpredictable, shifting from mild daytime temperatures to chilly evenings. Layer your clothing — lightweight tees and sweaters work well, paired with a sturdy jacket. Retailers like Abercrombie & Fitch offer quick delivery on essentials like scarves, jeans, and outerwear.
Comfort is crucial, especially since Salem’s cobblestone streets weren’t designed for high heels. For a classic New England fall look, opt for chunky sweaters, denim or suede jackets, and comfortable sneakers.
If you want to fully embrace the Halloween spirit, Salem is the perfect place to debut an elaborate costume. Locals and visitors alike embrace creative dress-up throughout the month, so don’t hold back.
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