Top 4 Things to Do in Salem, MA: Must-See in Witch City
![The Salem Witch House The Salem Witch House](https://spellboundtours.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6242/2023/07/The-Salem-Witch-House.jpg?w=1000&h=1000&zoom=2)
Salem, Massachusetts, a city steeped in history and mystery, offers a unique blend of chilling tales, historical landmarks, and captivating attractions. Known as Witch City, Salem’s rich past is intertwined with stories of witch trials, supernatural occurrences, and paranormal phenomena. This guide will take you on a journey through some of the must-see places in Salem, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s intriguing past.
1. The Salem Witch House: A Portal to the Past
The Salem Witch House, located at 310 Essex Street, is an essential stop for any Salem visitor. Built in the 1600s, it’s the only building still standing with direct ties to the Salem Witch Hysteria. The house, which belonged to Judge Corwin, one of the judges in the Witch Trials, offers a fascinating look into life during this tumultuous period.
The Witch House boasts incredible displays about life in the 1600s, making it a top pick for any history enthusiast. From the eerie lore surrounding the house to the detailed exhibits on corpse medicine, the Witch House is a treasure trove of historical insights.
2. Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery: A Tribute to Horror
Salem’s most fun museum, Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery, is a must-visit for any horror film fan. This wax museum type experience features life-like figures of iconic monsters and villains from the dawn of cinema to the present day.
From classic Universal Monsters to modern horror icons, the Nightmare Gallery is a thrilling journey through the history of horror cinema. Each figure, crafted by Hollywood special effects artists, is disturbingly lifelike, making for a truly immersive experience. Whether you’re a fan of Vincent Price’s The Abominable Dr. Phibes or the Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus, the Nightmare Gallery has something for every horror aficionado.
3. Salem Willows: A Hidden Gem
The Salem Willows, a beautiful stretch of land along the waterfront, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Once home to an asylum, the Salem Willows now features a miniature boardwalk with excellent beach-style pizza places, arcades, and antique mechanical amusement devices.
It’s a little slice of Coney Island in Salem, making it a must-visit for families and fun-seekers. From the legend of Dead Horse Beach to the delicious popcorn bars at Hobb’s Popcorn, the Salem Willows is a place of hidden delights and intriguing history.
4. Broad Street Cemetery and The Salem Witch Museum: A Journey into Salem’s Dark Past
The Broad Street Cemetery and The Salem Witch Museum are two must-visit locations that offer a deep dive into Salem’s dark past. The Broad Street Cemetery, a beautiful graveyard, is the final resting place of Sheriff Corwin, a key figure in the Witch Trials. This often-overlooked site is a peaceful place to contemplate the events of the past, with beautiful antique carvings and curiously personal epitaphs on many of the grave markers.
The Salem Witch Museum, housed in a gothic-looking old church, offers a spooky narrated show of wax figures that tells the story of the Witch Trials in an easily digestible fashion. The museum also features a new exhibit titled Witchcraft A Changing Perspective, which explores the evolving understanding of the Witch Hysteria and the roles that real witchcraft and political witch hunts play in our lives today.
Spellbound Tours: Your Guide to the Supernatural
Spellbound Tours, the top-rated ghost tour in town, offers the best way to learn about Salem, the Witch Trials, and paranormal phenomena. Whether you’re interested in the Voodoo, Vampires, and Ghosts Tour or just looking for some unique insights into Salem’s history, Spellbound Tours is the perfect way to experience the city’s supernatural side. With a deep understanding of the city’s history and a passion for sharing the intriguing tales of Salem’s past, Spellbound Tours offers an experience that is both educational and entertaining.
Salem, Massachusetts, is a city that invites exploration, from its historical landmarks to its tales of the supernatural. Whether you’re a history buff, a horror film fan, or just looking for a unique travel experience, Salem has something to offer. And remember, if you’re looking for the best way to experience the city’s supernatural side, you can’t go wrong with Spellbound Tours.