If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
Whenever we watch a Halloween movie, we find ourselves itching to visit the spooky spots we see on screen. And
while many of these locations are actually just sets on a Hollywood soundstage, some are very real — and you can book an actual trip there this October, like Salem, Massachusetts.
Founded in 1626, the tiny seaside town was the site of the infamous Salem Witch Trials and, centuries later, became the filming location for Hocus Pocus and Hocus Pocus 2. The first film, released in 1993, is a Kenny Ortega classic that follows the Sanderson sisters, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, Bette Midler, and Kathy Najimy. Since the film’s initial release, tourism to Salem has increased significantly (you can read more about that here), and today, fans can visit some of the real-life locations featured in the beloved movie.
As a Massachusetts native who has been going to Salem since I could ride my first broomstick (or, as mortals would say, walk — but in the spirit of the 31st, let’s pretend I was flying around), I know the ins and outs of the town. While October is peak scary season in Salem, there are still plenty of ways to visit. Below, I’ll break down where you can stay, what to do, and what to bring for a Halloween getaway to this little spooky settlement in the Bay State.
Where to Stay in Salem 2026
Since October is the busiest time of year in Salem, a lot of local accommodations are already booked up. That’s why we recommend going the Airbnb route. The easy-to-use booking site still has several places available for stays this month, and while some options are smaller rentals right in Salem, you can also look just outside the city for more options.
Boston is roughly 17 miles from Salem, and that would be my top choice if you want to make an entire New England weekend out of the trip. Stop in the city for your fill of festive fall activities, like Oktoberfest, then rent a car or hop on the train to Salem afterward.
You also have the option of staying in quaint seaside towns nearby, like Rockport or Newburyport — two of my favorites — which offer the same quintessential New England fall feeling while keeping you within about 25 miles of Salem. Salem is relatively easy to get to, too. If you’re coming from a location like New York City, you can take the train, bus, or drive and get there in less than five hours, making it an easy weekend getaway.
EDITOR'S PICK
Book Accommodations with Airbnb
Prices can range anywhere from $75 per night to a few thousand.
But if you live in the tri-state area and don’t want to venture too far, you also have the option of staying in another iconic Halloween movie location: Sleepy Hollow. Just 30 miles from Manhattan, the Hudson Valley town is depicted in the 1999 film that shares the same name.
What to do in Salem 2026
From ghost tours to the official Hocus Pocus tour of Salem, there are endless ways to get your fill of every trick and treat the town has to offer. To make booking as easy and seamless as possible, we recommend checking out Viator. The platform has everything from walking tours of the sites where the Salem witch trials took place to broom-making workshops and pub crawls.
GREAT TOUR OPTIONS
Book Salem Tours with Viator
50+ tours to choose from.
On Viator, you can also see what other travelers have recommended and read their reviews, check whether your chosen attraction offers free cancellation in case you change your mind at the last minute, and see the exact length of each tour. That way, you can avoid overcommitting yourself — or make room to book as many experiences as possible during your trip.
What to Bring to Salem 2026
If you’ve never been to Massachusetts in October, take it from me: The weather can be a little unpredictable. It can be warm during the day and suddenly dip to freezing temperatures at night, so we suggest dressing in layers. An easy place to stock up on everything you’ll need is Abercrombie & Fitch, thanks to its fast shipping and affordable options, including jackets, scarves, tees, and jeans.
BEST FOR FAST SHIPPING
Abercrombie & Fitch Velvet Denim Jacket
Comes in multiple size options. Shop more Abercrombie & Fitch selects here.
Another word of advice: Prioritize comfort. The cobblestone streets that line Salem aren’t exactly stilettos-friendly; high heels were less of a priority back in 1626.
For classic coastal New England fall dressing, think chunky sweaters, cool jackets in denim, leather, or suede like the one above, and a pair of casual kicks. But if you want to take things a little further and fully embrace the Halloween spirit — which plenty of people do — you can go all out with a costume. Check out some of our guides on what to be this year here.
Click here to read the full article.
