October in Salem: Your Spooktacular Guide to Witches, History, and Haunting Adventures!

By Helen

Heading to Salem this October? Get ready to join 1.2 million others in celebrating the spookiest of seasons! Here are some tips and tricks to keep the magic alive and avoid a disastrous day.

Cemetery in Salem, Massachusetts

Getting to Salem (Don’t Drive!)

Driving is a total nightmare during this busy season. With around 4,000 public parking spots, extensive road closures, and new license plate readers for easier ticketing, officials are urging you not to drive. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives:

  • Public Transport Options
    • MBTA Commuter Rail: The easiest way to reach Salem is via the local MBTA Commuter Rail. Catch the train from North Station on the Rockport/Newburyport line, and enjoy a scenic 30-minute ride into Downtown Salem. Expect more seats on weekend ferries and increased commuter rail service, including a $5 round-trip deal from Beverly to Salem to encourage riders to park at Beverly Station.
    • Salem Ferry: Board at Long Wharf in Boston, and the ferry docks conveniently at Derby Wharf in Salem, close to top attractions like the Salem Maritime National Historic Site and the Peabody Essex Museum. The MBTA is beefing up their weekend service in anticipation of the crowds.
  • Ride Sharing – Planning to use Uber or Lyft? Here are some recommended drop-off locations:
    • From the South: Riley Plaza, 1-21 Margin St, Salem, MA 01970
    • From the North: Old Salem Jail, 161 Bridge St, Salem, MA 01970 (then walk up St. Peter’s Street)
  • Parking Information – Try to get to Salem super early
    • For comprehensive parking information, visit salem.org/parking.
    • For an interactive city map, click HERE.

Keep It Comfortable!

Dress for the Weather
October can be unpredictable. While daytime may be warm, evenings can get chilly. Layer up and bring a waterproof jacket.

Footwear Matters
Cobblestones add charm but can be tricky in the wrong shoes. Expect to do a lot of walking and waiting in line, so choose comfortable footwear!

 Have a Plan

October in Salem is like a candy store for adults—so much to see and do that you’ll want to plan your itinerary before you get swept up in the spooky chaos! If you don’t want to be stuck outside the Salem Witch Museum, The House of the Seven Gables, or the Peabody Essex Museum like a ghost waiting for a ticket, be sure to buy them in advance. 

And don’t miss out on ghost tours, haunted houses, or Halloween-themed events—because who doesn’t want to get scared half to death while sipping cider? If you have a walking tour, harbor tour, or other must-see attractions on your list, check their websites for October reservation policies. 

And here’s a tip: aim for three activities a day—this way, you can squeeze in some leisurely snack breaks, maybe even a pumpkin spice latte, while you dodge tourists dressed as witches!

Know Where to Go

Bathroom Breaks: Need to find a restroom? You’re in luck! Facilities are available at the South Harbor Garage, Central Wharf, Salem Regional Visitor Center (Wednesday – Sunday, 10 AM – 4 PM), and Artists’ Row. Plus, during October, the city sets up banks of porta-potties at various spots like Derby Street, Salem Common, Hawthorne Boulevard, Lynde Street, and outside the National Park Service visitor center.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to check out the restroom finder on the Destination Salem app! Your bladder will thank you!

10 Things to Do in Salem

FOOOOD – After all that walking, you’ll need to refuel. Note that NO ONE takes reservations in October!

Cider, Doughnuts, Apple Picking and Fun:

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