A popular destination in the fall, Salem, Massachusetts is known for the 1692-1693 witch trials. There are many spooky sightseeing tours that you can check out all year long, but they are especially popular leading up to Halloween. Top historical attractions include the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, Witch House and the Witch Dungeon Museum. Plus, there are many Halloween events to experience in October.

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The best way to reach Salem on Amtrak is to book tickets to Boston’s North Station or South Station. Downeaster trains stop at the North Station while the Acela, Northeast Regional and Lake Shore Limited trains stop at the South Station.

The Amtrak trip to Boston is especially easy if you are traveling from cities on the Northeast Regional route (from Virginia to Massachusetts). Or if you live in the Midwest or Upstate New York, the Lake Shore Limited route will get you to Boston, including from Chicago and cities in Indiana and Ohio.

Once in Boston, there are several car-free options for reaching Salem:

• Book tickets on the 50-minute ferry that departs from 1 Long Wharf.
• Board the Newbury/Rockport line commuter train at the North Station. Travel time is about 40 minutes to Salem.
• Go on a private day trip that departs from Boston and stops in Cape Anne and in Salem.

Day trips are doable via ferry or train. Otherwise, Airbnbs and bed and breakfasts are options if you want to stay in the walkable town.

More Information

• Salem Event Calendar
• Best things to do in Salem
• Guide to Boston’s Amtrak Stations
• 9 best Amtrak routes to ride in the fall

Top photo credit: Jennifer Boyer via Creative Commons license