Just 45 minutes from Boston, Salem is one of those towns that feels like stepping onto a movie set—part colonial New England, part witchy theme park, and part foodie haven. Known for the infamous 1692 witch trials, Salem has leaned all the way into its spooky reputation, but don’t think it’s all cauldrons and cobblestones. This city has quirky shops, a surprisingly good food scene, and a harbor that’s as charming as it is historic.

Here’s how to spend the perfect day trip in Salem (with a few notes on what I’d do if I stayed overnight).

Getting There + Parking Tips

Driving from Boston takes about 45 minutes, and I recommend making a quick stop in Swampscott on the way. It’s a little seaside town with a beach for strolling, boutique shops, and a laid-back vibe that sets the tone for your day.

Once you’re in Salem, know this: parking is tricky. Garages fill up quickly, especially in September and October, so street parking is your best bet. We parked near Hawthorne Blvd across from the Boys & Girls Club. Bonus: after 6 p.m. street parking is free.

When to go:

• Early to mid-August → lighter crowds, perfect weather.

• September → busy but not unbearable.

• October → fun if you’re into Halloween chaos, but expect wall-to-wall people.

Morning: Stroll Essex Street

Kick off your Salem adventure with a walk down Essex Street, the town’s pedestrian-friendly main drag. This is where you’ll find everything from quirky witch shops to colonial homes with flower-boxed porches.

Don’t miss:

• Wynott Wands: For Harry Potter fans or anyone who secretly wants to wave a wand around.

• Black Cat Curiosity Shoppe: Oddities galore—think unicorn horns, werewolf hair, and curiosities you didn’t know you needed.

• Moons Gift Shop: Tourist central, but a good spot for witchy souvenirs and Salem t-shirts.

• Salem Witch Museum: Even if you don’t go inside, the exterior with its creepy statue nails the Halloween vibe.

Lunch: Gulu-Gulu Café

This artsy café is a Salem staple. Expect live music, eclectic décor, and a menu full of comfort food with a twist.

What I ordered:

• Mocktail Autumn: Cranberry, lemon, cinnamon, and ginger beer—basically fall in a glass.

• Marinated brie (unique and delicious).

• Mac and cheese (housemade and gooey).

• The Philly (shaved beef, onions, peppers, provolone on ciabatta). Perfection, and it comes with a side salad so you can tell yourself you ate a vegetable.

Pro tip: wait times can stretch an hour in peak season, but they’ll text you when your table’s ready. Browse Essex Street while you wait.

Afternoon: History + Chocolate

After lunch, dive into Salem’s history and sweets:

• The Witch House: Former home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, the only structure still standing with direct ties to the witch trials. Admission is $12, but even if you just admire the exterior, it oozes spooky colonial vibes.

• Allison’s House (Hocus Pocus fans, this one’s for you): Tour the gardens for free or pay a fee to go inside. Even if you skip the house, the surrounding neighborhood is full of beautiful colonial homes.

• Salem Common: A leafy park across from the Salem Witch Museum. Fun fact: some outdoor scenes from Hocus Pocus were filmed here.

• Kakawa Chocolate House: Do not leave Salem without stopping here. They specialize in small-batch truffles and sipping chocolates called “elixirs.” Get the flight of elixirs so you can sample multiple flavors—my favorites were the Tzul (milkier chocolate) and the five-spice. They also make incredible sea salt caramel fudge.

• Ye Olde Pepper Companie: America’s oldest candy company. Stock up on chocolate coffins, flavored candy corn, and seasonal truffles.

Dinner: Settler

For dinner, Settler is the star of Salem. It’s one of the top three restaurants I’ve ever eaten at (and I’ve eaten at a lot). Every dish is layered with flavor, and the service makes you feel like family. Reservations are a must.

What to order:

• Homemade sourdough bread with oil pairing.

• Whipped ricotta with grilled sourdough.

• Crispy herb falafel with harissa aioli.

• The carrots with hazelnuts, golden raisins, and tzatziki. They’ll change how you think about carrots.

• Niman Ranch NY Strip with grilled eggplant, olive vinaigrette, and soubise sauce. Melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

• Fresh pasta special with lobster and burst tomatoes (Brad’s order, equally incredible).

• Pistachio gelato affogato. Sorry, Italy—this one stole my heart.

Even the little touches stand out—our chilled veggie side came over ice so every bite was crisp and refreshing. The staff described each dish like a story, which made the meal feel like an experience.

Evening: Mahi Mahi Sunset Cruise

Cap off the day with a Mahi Mahi Sunset Cruise around Salem Harbor. It’s only about 90 minutes, but the views are unforgettable. Watching the sky light up over the water is the perfect way to end your Salem trip. They serve food and drinks on board, but I was still blissfully full from Settler. Book ahead (it usually sells out), and bring a sweater—the sea breeze gets chilly.

Optional Overnight

If you decide to stay, check into the Salem Waterfront Hotel. Nautical-themed, clean, and just a short walk to downtown. Salem comes alive at night on weekends, with bars and clubs open late, so staying overnight means you can join the fun instead of rushing back to Boston.

Final Thoughts

Salem is the perfect Boston day trip if you want a mix of history, quirky shops, and amazing food. Come hungry, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t skip Settler or Kakawa Chocolate House. Whether you visit in the lighter crowds of August or during the festive madness of October, Salem delivers on its spooky-meets-charming reputation.

And if you can swing it, stay overnight—because Salem after dark is a whole new experience.