Salem’s Hidden Gems 

There’s a lot to love about Salem, Massachusetts. The art and culture scene, the waterfront historical sites, unique shopping options, annual festivities, world-class museums, and warm, welcoming residents make Witch City a hub of activity year-round. The city is like an onion that you can keep peeling and finding hidden treasures the further you explore. 

In past articles, we have explored the art and culture scene, dove into Salem’s maritime history, and examined various museums across the city. This month, we are looking deeper for those hidden gems you may have missed on your first trip to Salem. Salem has many unique hidden gems, from haunted hotel rooms to Hollywood movie shoot locations.

Movie & TV Locations

If you are a big or small screen admirer, Salem has been the site of many movies and television shows over the years. 

Hocus Pocus

Disney’s 1993 cult classic, Hocus Pocus, features many shoot locations around Witch City. If you are a fan of the quirky and lovable Sanderson Sisters, you’ll want to visit their shoot locations. Start with the opening scene, which was filmed in Pioneer Village, a living history museum located at Salem’s Forest River Park. Additionally, if you travel to the Ropes Mansion, you will view the home that was Allison’s house. Then take a quick trip to Old Town Hall for the memorable “I Put a Spell on You” scene.

Bewitched

Followers of the TV classic Bewitched will also want to hunt down a few hidden gems in Salem. Segments were filmed in the city when the show’s set burned in California. Travel to iconic locations like The House of the Seven Gables, where Samantha attended a witches’ convention with her husband, Darrin. In 2005, TV Land brought a statue of Samantha to Lappin Park by the intersection of Washington and Essex Streets, and today the statue is one of the most photographed locations in Salem.

Haunted Spaces  

If the paranormal intrigues you, the Salem Inn is a hidden gem you will want to visit. According to guests, Room W17 at the Salem Inn is believed to be haunted. There have been reports of “strange happenings” like things moving mysteriously and unknown shadows. Check it out yourself next time you are in town. 

Can’t get enough about possible hauntings in Salem? Take part in the History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour. Guests will visit the Burying Point Cemetery and Witch House and pass through Salem’s historic McIntire District while hearing about hauntings. 

Waterfront Beauty

Salem’s waterfront is beautiful and historic, with schooners and a replica tall ship in the harbor. But many visitors don’t realize that there are some quiet nooks and crannies where you can enjoy the waterfront while relaxing. Winter Island Park is one such hidden gem to explore. It occupies the southern third of Winter Island, an approximately 54-acre peninsula on Salem Neck at the mouth of Salem Harbor. Enjoy a BBQ, picnic, the scenery and the sounds of a busy harbor. 

Salem, Massachusetts, has many hidden gems to explore. Come back for more ideas of places and activities as we continue to dive into the unique places and events around Salem.