Where to Stay in Salem, Massachusetts in October

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Where to Stay in Salem, Massachusetts in October

Are you trying to figure out where to stay in Salem, Massachusetts in October?

Salem is the unofficial Halloween capital of the United States, and it’s an extremely popular place to visit in October. This small city located 30 minutes north of Boston, Massachusetts has a history dating back nearly 400 years. It was one of the wealthiest and most important trading ports in early America.

However, Salem is most famous (or infamous) for the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. Over the course of a year, the town was consumed by witch hysteria and more than 200 people were accused of practicing witchcraft. At least 25 people died either by hanging or in jail as a result during this notorious time in history.

For better or for worse, Salem has capitalized on its association with witches and general spookiness and made itself into a premier Halloween destination. On a lighter note, witch-themed movies and TV shows like Hocus Pocus and Bewitched were filmed in Salem, which made it an even more popular place to visit.

Is October a good time to visit Salem, Massachusetts?

October is by far the best time to visit Salem because of all the events that happen and the overall atmosphere. However, be warned that the crowds can be terrible in Salem during October.

I visited Salem in October, and despite the crowds, I had a great time. There is nothing like visiting the Witch House or the House of Seven Gables, browsing Salem’s many witchcraft and occult stores, or taking an evening ghost tour in the crisp fall air. There are parades, festivals, and more happening in October.

I do recommend visiting earlier in the month if you can because things get progressively more crowded and crazier as it gets closer to Halloween. If you can visit during the week and avoid the weekend, you’ll also have a better time because the crowds are much worse on weekends during the month of October.

Best Hotels in Salem, Massachusetts

While it’s definitely possible to visit Salem as a day trip from Boston, I highly recommend spending at least one or two nights in Salem to get the full experience. There’s a lot to do in town and you can easily fill two full days sightseeing and exploring Salem, especially during October when there’s a lot going on.

Historic downtown Salem is very walkable, so this is where I recommend staying.

Tip: Book your Salem hotel as early as possible! October is an extremely popular time to visit, and most hotels are fully booked. Try to make your booking at least six months in advance for the best availability.

Here are my top picks for where to stay in Salem in October:

Best overall: Hawthorne Hotel
Best luxury: The Merchant
Best B&B: The Daniels House Bed and Breakfast

And here’s a full breakdown of the best hotels in Salem, Massachusetts:

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Hawthorne Hotel

The Hawthorne Hotel is often ranked as one of the most haunted hotels in America, so of course it tops the list for where to stay in Salem, Massachusetts in October. Regardless of where you stand on ghosts, this historic hotel is a great place to stay. But be sure to book early, because this one always sells out!

The hotel is located in the heart of Salem’s historic downtown, within easy walking distance of shops, restaurants, and popular sites. Just be aware you might be sharing your room with a ghost (just kidding…)

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The Salem Inn

Another historic hotel that is perfect for your October trip is The Salem Inn. This boutique hotel is actually spread out across three historic buildings in downtown Salem (including some said to be haunted!) You’ll be just steps away from popular attractions like the Witch House and the Essex Street shopping area.

Guests staying at this hotel will enjoy rooms with period touches like fireplaces. A hearty, complimentary breakfast is served each morning at the inn’s breakfast room. Free parking is also available.

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The Merchant

The Merchant is an outstanding boutique luxury hotel in Salem, Massachusetts. Located in the heart of historic downtown, the stunning hotel was once a stately home, a tavern, and a rare book, before being restored and converted into a stylish hotel that preserves its classic New England charm and history.

The rooms at this hotel are well-appointed with a touch of whimsy. Guests will enjoy the cozy bar and lounge and outdoor terrace. Breakfast is complimentary every morning during your stay.

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Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites

Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites is another one of the best hotels in Salem in October. As the name implies, this hotel is located on the waterfront just a couple of minutes on foot from downtown.

The Salem Maritime National Historic Site is close by, and you also have easy access to shopping, dining, and other attractions in Salem. The hotel has a heated indoor swimming pool and a fitness center.

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The Hotel Salem

The Hotel Salem is another one of the best places to stay in Salem in October. This boutique hotel is nestled in the downtown historic district of Salem, close to attractions like the Salem Witch Museum. You’ll be in the heart of Essex Street, which is lined with shops and restaurants and a very lively place to be.

The hotel itself is modern and stylish, with comfortable guest rooms that have all the amenities you could want. There’s also a great rooftop terrace where you can enjoy drinks and a bite to eat.

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Hampton Inn Salem

Although it’s lacking the historic charm of some of the other hotels on this list, the Hampton Inn Salem is a good place to stay if you are looking for a modern and new hotel in downtown Salem.

This sleek hotel is within easy walking distance of all of Salem’s top attractions. It offers amenities including an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and complimentary breakfast every morning.

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The Daniels House Bed and Breakfast

Finally, one of the best places to stay in Salem in October is The Daniels House Bed and Breakfast. If you are looking for that quintessential New England B&B charm, you’ll find it in spades here. This cozy and quaint bed and breakfast is housed in a historic Salem home that dates back to 1667.

It’s located just a couple minutes’ walking distance from the shops, restaurants, and attractions of downtown Salem. A complimentary breakfast is served each morning and free parking is available.

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