Salem, Massachusetts, is famous for the horrifying events that took place during the Salem Witch Trials during the 1600s. And because of Salem’s past, there are many spooky, yet amazing activities you can do when visiting this historic town. But not everything in Salem is something you need to do to learn about the hysteria that happened during the trials. So if you are planning a trip to Salem here are the top five places you need to visit when you are there.
#5 – Salem Heritage Trail
The Salem Heritage Trail is a free walking tour that you can do by following the red-painted line on the sidewalk. This trail will guide you through many famous and historic spots that make Salem unique. In the tour, you’ll walk past many museums and cemeteries related to the Witch Trials as well as Salem’s famous statue of Samantha Stephens, from the classic show Bewitched. So take time and learn about Salem’s main historical sites by walking the heritage trail.
Website:https://www.salem.org/heritage-trail/
#4 – Howard Street Cemetery
Visit the dead in Howard Street Cemetery, which was first opened in 1801. This cemetery has been filled with over 300 bodies and gravestones since it first opened and you will see that this burial ground was also associated with the Salem Witch Trials. It is the final resting place of one of the accused and tortured, Giles Corey. So make your way through the cemetery and feel the lost souls of the citizens who were apart of Salem’s history.
Website: https://www.salem.org/listing/howard-street-cemetery/
#3 – The Salem Night Tour
There is nothing spookier than walking the streets of Salem at night. But with the Salem Night Tour, you will be able to visit some of Salem’s most haunted places with your tour group. Hear the terrifying stories from the Witch Trials as you walk around the city in the night light. And as terrifying as these stories are remember, they are true and just make sure to keep your eyes open for any ghost that are still trying to pass to the other side.
Website: http://www.salemghosttours.com/
#2 – House Of The Seven Gables
The House of the Seven Gables is iconic in both American history and literature. This building that was constructed in the 1668s is famous for leading its name for Nathaniel Hawthorne’s book of the same name as the house. In the house, you can explore its architecture, maritime history, and its famous hidden staircase.
Website: https://7gables.org/
#1 – Salem Witch House
The Witch House, home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, is the only structure that still stands in Salem with direct ties to the Witchcraft Trials of 1692. As a leader, Corwin was one of the people who would hear testimonies of the accused “witches.” Corwin ended up sending nineteen people to the gallows. And as you walk around his house make sure you do not mention witchcraft because his soul could still be walking the halls of his house.
Website:https://www.thewitchhouse.org/