The Magic of Salem
If you follow me on Instagram (@pumpkinandgray) then it comes as no surprise to you that Salem, MA holds the most special place in my heart.
And yes, we even named our daughter after the town. I told you, the love runs deep!
We first visited Salem last Autumn and we were immediately hooked. My husband and I have such a true connection to this special town. Between the history, the people and the energy, it immediately felt like home!
Fast forward a year later and I was lucky enough to collaborate with this amazing city. Something I will forever be so grateful for. We were able to see and explore even more of what Salem has to offer.
Our favorite trip yet!
I wanted to share some of what I consider to be the must see locations in Salem. And as always, message me with any specific questions you may have on planning your trip. I know incredible resources that make planning a breeze and I LOVE helping bring the magic of Salem to others.
Our favorite Salem Spots:
If you are die hard Hocus Pocus fans like we are in my house, then the Hocus Pocus filming locations are a must see while in Salem. You can visit Max & Dani's house over on Ocean Avenue, Explore the Ropes Mansion, which was Allison's home in the movie, check out the building that was used as the high school in the film, which can be found just off the Salem Common, and of course, you must hit Town Hall.
The Ropes Mansion- be sure to check out the stunning garden in the back of the house
The home of Max & Dani on Ocean Avenue
A little Jacob Bailey High School
You absolutely must visit The Witch House when in Salem. This is the location that we feel the most energy and a spot that brings you the most history! The Witch House was the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin and is the only structure still standing in Salem today with direct ties to the Salem witch trials of 1692. It is absolutely gorgeous and you feel the magical history of Salem the moment you arrive.
Another place you must see is the Pioneer Village, located as 310 West Avenue. Here you will find the location where the opening scenes of Hocus Pocus were filmed. Pioneer Village was built in 1930 and is Americas first living history museum. We knew we had to use this beautiful location to take a few of Salems maternity pictures! Such a gorgeous space.
If you are a horror fan, you absolutely MUST visit the Nightmare Gallery! Count Orlok's Nightmare Gallery is a walk through Monster Museum filled with the most incredible life size recreations of the best that horror has to offer. 60 of the most memorable horror film characters from the past and present. An absolutely one of a kind experience!
Now, lets talk food! Salem has some of the best restaurants and coffee houses around. Below are a few of our absolute favorites.
I have to start this list off with the Gulu-Gulu Cafe. We found ourselves here at least once, but usually twice, a day. You can not beat the unique atmosphere of this cafe. The food and coffee drinks are beyond delicious and the hot apple cider just feels like Salem in a mug! And make sure to check out the bathrooms when you visit....you'll see why!
I also have to mention Red's Sandwich Shop. A place where you instantly feel at home. We went to Red's for breakfast where I then had the most amazing and enormous pancakes, delicious coffee and wonderful potatoes. The restaurant is filled with regulars and waitresses who make you feel so welcome. It really feels like you are part of the town when you eat here.
Another place that is a must for my husband and I is the Adriatic restaurant. This has become our special stop when in Salem. The place we visit for our romantic dinner. The food is exceptional and the atmosphere is so cozy and romantic.
The more that you walk around and explore, the more amazing locations that you find. The energy in Salem is unlike anything we had experienced before. The spooky history fills the air, the personalities here are larger than life and the breathtaking scenery and Autumn Foliage will leave you feeling like you are in an Autumn wonderland.
We cannot wait to explore our favorite spot again next year! I was able to post and share a ton from our trip on my Instagram. You can use the hashtag #pumpkinandgraydoeshalloween to see more and click on my Salem MA highlight reel to watch stories from our trip!
Thank you for following along! Again, message me with any questions you might have.
Another thank you to the City of Salem for welcoming us on this trip. This collaboration was a dream come true!
Salem Heritage Trail. You can follow this red line all throughout Salem to explore the historic locations
Stay magical!