10 ways to enjoy spooky vibes in the summer in Salem, MA

If you have been subscribed to my newsletter for a while, this might look half familiar. I grabbed this bit of content from an email that went out last September and added to it for the blog!! This was a very popular email, so I decided to expand on it for you guys today.

So, let’s face it. We all want to visit Salem in the fall or over Halloween. It is one of the most common themes I get asked about, the topic that gets the most response on my website and social media, the most popular time of year to come into the witch city. If you happen to be coming into the city during warmer weather, what are some things you can do to channel spooky Salem vibes?? I’m glad you asked. I know not everyone can make it during peak season and I want to throw some ideas onto the table for those folks. For when you want Halloween vibes, but it’s hot out. So here we go.

Virgins and black flame candles

Did you know the movie Hocus Pocus was filmed in multiple places in Salem? They are all easily accessible and I think going on a little tour to the locations used could be a fun way to invite in some witchy and Halloween-esque vibes. If you want a quick run down of where filming happened, it would look something like this: The Ropes Mansion, Pioneer Village, the Old Town Hall, the Salem Common, Phillips Elementary School on the Salem Common and 4 Ocean Avenue.

The Salem Witch Trials

The next suggestion I have for you is an easy one: visit locations around Salem that deal with the witch trials or memorials. The Old Burying Point and Witch Trials Memorial is a good place to start, in my opinion. The area has markers all around a memorial, each listing a victim, cause of death and date of death. The whole area has a very calm vibe and is absolutely worth checking out. Behind that is the old burying point where several notable figures in Salem’s history can be found. You could also check out the memorial at Proctor’s Ledge which was opened last year, after evidence surfaced to suggest that Proctor’s Ledge was the site of the hangings. If a burying point is less your speed, you might consider the Witch House. It is the only standing structure in Salem with direct ties to the witch trials.

How about a little divination?

I have had my tarot cards read at several shops in Salem and think it could be a fun way to channel some October vibes. Make sure you jive with the reader you’re going to use and go into the reading with an open mind. If you don’t want your cards read, simply walking around and poking your head into Salem’s many New Age shops could also do the trick. Pick out some crystals, find some new books to read or buy some incense for your home.

Costume prep is always appropriate

If more traditional Halloween fun is what you’re looking for, maybe grab some props or pieces for your costume early! Salem is home to hundreds of shops, some of which might be good places to do just that.

Walking tours

If you happened to come into Salem with a group of people, a haunted walk or night tour might be a good option. Salem is home to many, many walking tours so you certainly have a bunch to choose from. The most popular are the Salem Night Tour and Spellbound Tour. If you want a Pagan or witchy walking tour, check out Now Age Travel. They offer walks around Salem based around Pagan or New Age themes.

Visit Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery

Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery in Salem is a museum of horror movie props, media and more. Take a walk through and check out some spooky memorabilia.

Attend a dark market or event

Salem has been adding more “dark markets” and events as time goes on, so keep your eyes peeled! You might be able to catch a spooky ball, night market or dark/gothic themed event.

Find your favorite busker

If you’re in the city for a larger event, you might be able to find some of Salem’s buskers on the streets. Find your favorite creepy or costumed ones and grab some pictures! A good example of this is the Salem Arts Festival in June…you will probably be able to find Salem’s Black Hat Society in the area!

Do some early research

If you’re stoked and can’t wait for your fall visit, then use your summer trip to plan ahead. Grab brochures, buy tickets ahead of time if possible and plot out where you want to go in the fall. Coming into Salem in the fall with a plan will certainly save you from some of the chaos.

Catch a movie

If there is a creepy movie in theaters, grab tickets at Cinema Salem! This is especially a good idea if the weather is less than awesome.

Enjoy your visit to Salem and hopefully this blog helps you bring some spooky energies into your trip if that’s what you’re looking for.