Salem, Massachusetts, is not just a town steeped in the haunting legacy of the 1693 witch trials; it has transformed into a vibrant hub of Halloween festivities and rich cultural experiences. As we explore Salem, we’ll uncover how this historic location has become synonymous with Halloween, drawing crowds eager to participate in a month-long celebration filled with ghost tours, costume balls, and unique markets.

Beyond the spooky allure, Salem boasts a rich tapestry of history, from the somber tales of the witch trials at the Salem Witch Museum to the charming streets lined with 17th-century architecture and contemporary boutiques. We’ll also delve into the modern-day witchcraft community, exploring metaphysical shops and spiritual practices that thrive in this unique environment. We also join GoNOMAD writer Susmita Sepgupta as we visit the town and the Peobody-Essex museum, where an exhibit of carved ship bow heads was on display.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or a Halloween fanatic, Salem offers a captivating blend of the past and present that makes it a must-visit destination in New England.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Today on Go Nomad, we're taking you to a place where the veil between past and present feels just a little thinner and where Halloween isn't just a holiday, it's a way of life.

And with Halloween just a few days away, there's no better time to explore this haunted, historic and surprisingly vibrant town on the Massachusetts coast.

Let's start with the obvious.

October in Salem is wild.

The entire month is packed with events, festivals, ghost tours, costume balls, psychic fairs and pop up markets.

The Salem streets are filled with people in elaborate costumes, some spooky, some whimsical and some downright jaw dropping.

It's like Comic Con meets colonial New England with a dash of the occult.

It's the place to be on any Halloween night.

But Salem isn't just a Halloween gimmick.

It's a town with layers, rich in history, culture, and yes, a bit of mystery.

Walk down Essex street and you'll pass 17th century buildings, quirky boutiques and museums that dive deep into the town's past.

It's sobering, theatrical and surprisingly relevant, reminding us how far hysteria can shape history.

You can also visit the Witch House, a historic house museum that used to be the home of the witch trials Judge Jonathan Corwin.

If you're into paranormal, Salem delivers.

There are dozens of ghost tours, some theatrical, some historical, some led by actual mediums.

One of the most popular is the Haunted Footsteps Ghost tour, which takes you through the dark alleys and hidden corners of Salem's past.

You'll hear tales of restless spirits, tragic deaths and unexplained phenomena.

Whether you believe in ghosts or not, it's a spine tingling way to see a town after dark.

Now, let's talk about the witches.

Both historical and modern, Salem has become a hub for practicing witches, Wiccans and spiritual seekers.

You'll find metaphysical shops selling crystals, herbs, spell books and tarot dec.

Places like Housewich and the Covins Cottage blend modern design with old world magic.

And yes, you can book a tarot reading or an aura cleansing if you're feeling adventurous.

But Salem isn't stuck in the past.

It's a town of artists, chefs and entrepreneurs.

You'll find cozy cafes, farm to table restaurants and breweries that pour pumpkin ales and autumn ciders.

The Peabody Essex Museum is a world class institution in Salem that showcases global art and culture.

One of the exhibits shows the beautiful sculptured figurehead that once adorned the bows of old ships, Susmita said, a reminder that Salem's history goes far beyond the witch trials.

If you're looking for something off the beaten path, check out the Salem Maritime National Historic Site.

It's a quiet, scenic spot that tells the story of Salem's role in early American trade and seafaring.

You can walk along the wharf, visit historic homes and imagine what life was like in the 18th century, long before the town became synonymous with witches.

So whether you're a history buff, a Halloween fanatic, or just someone looking for a unique fall Massachusetts getaway, Salem has something to offer.

It's a place where the past is always present, where every street has a story, and where you might just feel a little magic in the air.

And remember, Halloween is only a few days away.

If you're thinking of visiting, be prepared for crowds, costumes and a whole lot of spooky fun.

Sail them in October and isn't just a destination is an experience.

Thank you for joining us on this episode of the gono, my travel podcast.

If you enjoyed this trip to Salem, be sure to subscribe and share with your fellow travelers.