Salem’s claim to fame are its famous 17th century witch trials in which no one was actually burned, but 19 people were tried and mostly men were convicted and sentenced to death by hanging.

Alongside historic tours, expect boo-tiques vending crystals, tarot cards, and Harry Potter themed goods. Crow Haven Corner and Hex have both more than earned their reputation. The coven cred attracts many people who identify with or as witches and the witch-allied, resulting in a very robust LGBTQA+ community.

Halloween here is next level hijinks.

House of the Seven Gables

If the magic of witches doesn’t bind your heart, the House of the Seven Gables (this entry’s map location) for Nathaniel Hawthorne’s eponymous book and the Peabody Essex museum might.

Eating

The town also boasts excellent sea food restaurants including fried faves at the seaside Clam Shack and upscale casual Finz Salem (l, d; $$$).