9 Spooky Things to Do in Salem, MA in October with Kids

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Salem, Massachusetts, is one of New England’s most beautiful and historic coastal towns. It’s also a great place to spend some quality time with your family this October. If you are wondering where to go and what things to do in Salem, MA. in October with kids, we’ve got you covered.

Many of these attractions are open year-round but offer extended hours or special exhibits and events in the month of October to celebrate the Halloween season.

Family-friendly things to do in Salem, MA in October

With Halloween just around the corner, we thought it might be helpful to share a few fun activities and things you can do with your kids in Salem, MA, in October. 

In addition to the museums and attractions, children will love seeing all the people walking around town in their costumes and events on Salem Common. That is one of the best parts of visiting Salem, MA, in October.

There is a lot for everyone to enjoy in Salem in the fall. Whether you’re looking for something spooky or sweet, here’s what to expect in Salem during its most festive season.

Spooky Things to Do in Salem in October

This list includes special events and exhibits that are only available in October. We have also written a post on year-round things to do in Salem, MA with kids, which are also excellent choices in October.

Many regular attractions like the New England Pirate Museum have extended hours and more frequent tours, so they are worth checking out.

Be aware that Salem attracts many visitors in October, and parking can be difficult, so plan accordingly and arrive as early as possible.

Eerie Stories on Salem Sound

This is hands down the best way to see things from Salem. Listen to spooky stories on this hour-long boat ride on Salem Sound.

The company offers tours of all sorts, but for a spooky experience, we recommend the “Haunted History” or “Witchcraft on Water” tour options which would be perfect for an October visit to Salem.

Walking Ghost Tours

Take a walking ghost tour of one of the most haunted towns for older kids who like things that are a little more spooky. Tour guides will tell you about the history of the city as well as show you some of the most famous landmarks.

If ghosts are a little too scary, you can choose a witch tour or a Haunted Salem tour instead.

Salem Mass with kids for Halloween
Photo Credit: Elizabeth Albert via Flickr

Haunted Happenings

The Wax Museum is the center of Haunted Happenings and Haunted Neighborhood in October. This attraction is open all year, but you can purchase special October tickets starting in June. You definitely don’t want to miss out on the fun.

Don’t forget to check out Frankenstein’s Castle, located in the dungeon of the wax museum. It was voted the best haunted house and has extended hours in October.

Halloween Museum

Yes. The Halloween capital of the world has a Halloween Museum, Because of course, it does. The Halloween museum is filled with family-friendly exhibits, costumes, witchcraft, and more.

Kids will also have fun watching Halloween-themed movies and getting their fortune told.

Haunted Witch Village

The Haunted Witch Village is one of two haunted houses brought to you by the Salem Wax Museum. The Salem Witch Village is open year-round, but things get a little spookier during the Halloween season.

This event runs through October from 10-10. Tickets go on sale in June, so be sure to get them early. Remember, Salem is incredibly busy in October and you don’t want to miss out on the fun!

Candlelit Ghostly Walking Tour 

This is a great tour to take if you’re looking for spooky Halloween activities in Salem, MA. 

The ghostly walking tour starts at the Witch Museum. It takes visitors through the historical sights of Salem, such as the sites where witches were arrested or executed, as well as stories about ghosts appearing on Halloween night.

This year-round event has extended hours in October. Purchase your tickets at the Salem Wax Museum or Salem Witch Village’s Haunted Neighborhood

Wicked Wednesday

If you’re looking for things to do during the Halloween season in Salem, the Phillips House hosts a special event called “Wicked Wednesdays.” In true New England fashion, “wicked” means good.

Join in on an evening of history and storytelling, fall crafts, and historical games that the whole family will enjoy.

Haunted Happenings Harbor Cruise

If things like pirate history are your family’s thing, this is a great tour to take. This 75-minute cruise features ghost stories, tarot readings, and pirate tales as well as food and beverages.

It will be fun not only for the kids but the whole family.

Kid-friendly things to do in Salem, MA in October

Ghosts & Legends Trolley Tour

Purchase tickets as early in the year as possible for the Ghosts & Legends Trolley Tour. This event is only available in October, and tickets go on sale months ahead of time, so reserve your seat today.

Children under six are free, but they can’t take up a seat on the trolley and must sit on someone’s lap.

On this unique trolley ride through Salem, you will hear stories about ghosts, witches, and more infused with some humor. The tour runs for 50 minutes, and it is suggested that you arrive 15 minutes ahead of time.

You can find more things to do at the Salem Visitor Center.

Salem Witch Museum with kids

More Fun Things to Do with Kids in Massachusetts in October

Get tickets to the Salem Witch Museum and access to other Boston-area attractions for one price with a Boston CityPASS.

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