A Guide To Halloween In Salem
Related: Best Family Halloween Events Around Boston
Know Before You Go - Transportation
Given the popularity of Salem as Halloween approaches, traveling to and from by car can be a little tricky. There are plenty of public transportation options including the Commuter Rail and the Salem Ferry. More information is available at the MBTA website.
A Little History
The town of Salem was founded in 1626 and is most famously known for its witch trials, lasting through the spring and summer of 1692. During a time of heavy Puritanism, the Salem Witch Trials manifested societal misgivings about unexplained events and illnesses in the community at the time. The resulting trials polarized the community and still leave a mark today.
Salem Visitor Center and Essex Street Pedestrian Mall
Two New Liberty Street
Salem, MA 01970
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
When you first arrive in Salem, stop and visit the Salem Visitors Center for conveniences such as an information booth (which provides area maps, tour schedules and the like) and restrooms. The Visitor Center also includes rotating exhibits highlighting area history. The Essex Street Pedestrian Mall, conveniently located just around the corner, is a popular tourist area has points of interest perfect for day trips including restaurants, vendors, and shops.
The House of Seven Gables
115 Derby Street
Salem, MA 01970
Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through October 31.
website
Included in the National Registry of Historic Places, the House of Seven Gables also known as the Turner-Ingersoll mansion is the oldest surviving wooden mansion in New England and has rich connections to Salem's history. Nathaniel Hawthorne, a cousin to the Turner family, was so inspired by the home he wrote a novel by the same name. Do you remember the story of a woman with a large embroidered 'A' on her chest? Hawthorne also authored "The Scarlet Letter."
Salem Witch Museum
Washington Square North
Salem, MA 01970
978.744.1692
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with extended hours in October.
Admission: Adults: $9, Senior: $7 and Children (6-14): $5.50
website
Do you believe in witches or supernatural forces? Well, the Salem Witch Museum may help make up your mind by bringing you back to the Summer of 1692 and the Salem Witch Trials. The museum offers a comprehensive history to help people better understand the terrifying events where men and women were hanged – accused of practicing witchcraft.
Additional Information
Visit Haunted Happenings, the official website for Halloween in Salem, to find out more about local events and spook filled fun such as the Derby Street Carnival and the Pumpkin Festival on the Salem Common.
Cristy is a Boston-based blogger in constant pursuit of fun activities in the city. Read more of her work at http://bostonurbansafari.blogspot.com
