It's Halloween all year in Salem, Massachusetts! But the REAL magic of America's beloved Witches' city comes alive during the month of October. That's because there are certain things you can only see in Salem during Halloween. The city's historic yet infamous ties with All Hallows Eve were formed in 1692 during the tragic Salem Witch Trials. Over three centuries later, Salem, with its modest population of 44,000, welcomes more than half a million Halloween devotees each year. Thrill-seeking travelers, history lovers, aspiring witches, and horrortok influencers all make the pilgrimage to Salem for the world's largest annual Halloween celebration, Haunted Happenings.
Those looking for the best places to stay in Salem, Massachusetts, for the fall have a harvest table of properties to choose from. That being said, here are the 10 best hotels with Halloween activities for those staying in Salem for the spooky season.
The recommendations in this article are made according to extensive research focused on Oregon during the Fall. Every hotel has secured an overall rating above 8.0 and offers competitive rates compared to other similarly rated hotels. Each accommodation option puts travelers at the heart of the Halloween activities, events, and festivities.
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Photo By Fletcher6, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons The Hawthorne Hotel in Salem, MassachusettsHawthorne Hotel Salem
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Image by David Mark from Pixabay The House of Seven Gables in Salem, MassachusettsHampton Inn Salem Boston
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Photo by Wangkun Jia from Shutterstock Shops lining Essex Street in Salem, MA, USAThe Hotel Salem
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Photo By NewtonCourt, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Boats Moored In The Harbor In Salem, MassachusettsSalem Waterfront Hotel & Suites
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Photo By Fletcher6, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Federal Street District of Salem, Massachusetts.The Daniels House
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Photo by Aiden Craver on Unsplash Harvest season in Salem, MassachusettsThe Northey Street House
The Hawthorne Hotel
The Hawthorne Hotel, located in the heart of downtown Salem, is renowned for its enchanting Victorian decor and rich history. Not only is it located close to the Witch House and Salem Witch Trials Memorial, but it's also host to the annual Hawthorn Halloween Ball. This timeless 93-room hotel has been a Salem icon since 1925 and was named the Best US City Center Historic Hotel in 2015. With a legacy of hosting US presidents and Hollywood stars, it's an iconic stay for travelers looking for things to do on Halloween.
Hawthorne Hotel Salem
- Amenities
- Fitness Center, Restaurant, Free Wi-Fi, Free Parking
- Price
- $$
The Hampton Inn Salem Boston
Looking for a modern hotel in the heart of Salem, MA? The Hampton Inn Salem Boston offers spectacular Harbor views in close proximity to Salem's best portside eateries. The property is conveniently located within walking distance of popular Salem attractions, like the House of Seven Gables. Travelers looking for pet-friendly hotels in Salem for the Howl-o-ween Pet Parade are welcome to bring their furry friends along.
Hampton Inn Salem Boston
- Amenities
- Indoor pool, Valet parking, EV charging station, Heated pool
- Price
- $$
- Address
- Hotel Chain
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Hilton
The Howl-o-ween Pet Parade hosted by Salem's Main Streets is free for spectators. Costumed travelers and pets looking to take part in the parade can do so for a nominal fee. Pet registration costs $5 for locals and $10 for visitors.
The Hotel Salem
Located on the lively Essex Street pedestrian mall, The Hotel Salem stands out as one of Salem's premier boutique hotels. Once a high-end clothing store, the property features a mid-century modern design with '50s and '60s vintage touches. Its location makes it ideal for travelers in search of the full retail shopping experience. This iconic Salem accommodation option has one of the busiest Halloween calendars, with parties and weekend events like "Oktoberfest," "Prohibition Ball," and "Nightmare on Essex Street" to look forward to.
The Hotel Salem
- Amenities
- Banquet Facilities, Complimentary Breakfast, indoor heated pool, fitness center
- Price
- $$
The Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites
The Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites is a contemporary gem offering a luxurious stay on the historic Pickering Wharf. This property is ideal for discerning travelers looking for luxury accommodations in Salem for Halloween. Horror movie fans won't want to miss the Wicked Night on The Wharf costume ball. It's all things red carpet, horror, and glamour combined. The event also features live bands, DJ entertainment, and more. Just one of the reasons why Salem is one of the top destinations for Halloween on the East Coast.
Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites
- Amenities
- Indoor Pool, Restaurant, Fitness Center, Free Parking
- Price
- $$
Tickets to Wicked Night on The Wharf: Hollywood Horror Night are available on presale at $175. Travelers should note that the event is strictly 21+, and ID is required upon entry.
The Salem Inn
How about a stay at a haunted hotel for Halloween? While the owners dismiss any unusual activity, the staff and guests are adamant that The Salem Inn is one of Massachusetts' most haunted hotels. Three spirits, including an eccentric lady, a friendly boy, and a spectral cat, roam the corridors. Room 17 is a paranormal hotspot, with guests often experiencing eerie sightings and sounds. The hotel is within walking distance of Salem's best eateries and attractions such as the Salem Witch Museum.
The Salem Inn
- Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi, Air Conditioned, Fireplace, Complimentary Breakfast
- Price
- $$$
- Address
The Merchant Hotel
Built in 1784 and located near the Peabody Essex Museum, The Merchant Hotel is another haunted hotel in Salem with a rich history. The historic property, with modern features, showcases its original intricate woodwork and staircase and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. But it's the spirits of Sheriff George Corwin and his Salem Witch Trial victims that roam the halls. The hotel offers guests the chance of a chilling encounter surrounded by luxury, comfort, and stylish modern fixtures.
The Merchant
- Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi, Parking, Complimentary Breakfast, Express Check-Out
- Price
- $$
The Daniels' House
The Daniels House, built in 1667, is Salem's oldest B&B—predating the Witch Trials. It's another one of Salem's most haunted B&Bs, showcasing a 9 ft. fireplace, vintage portraits, and hex marks carved into intricate woodwork. Guests also report sightings of a ghostly cat, as well as flickering lights and mysterious apparitions in the Great Room. The property is ideal for families and road trip travelers coming to Salem for Halloween, with secure parking and easy access to the Salem train station.
The Daniels House
- Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi, Complimentary breakfast, Fireplace, Business center
- Price
- $$
- Address
Ghost hunters coming to Salem for a genuine scare should not miss the Chamber of Terrors: Halloween Horror show. The walkthrough tour runs exclusively throughout October and promises a terrifying thrill.
The Coach House
Lovers of all things fall-inspired looking for places to enjoy the fall foliage in Massachusetts will love this Pinterest-perfect property. The Coach House offers the quintessential Halloween aesthetic for the modern witch. The newly renovated property has eleven units and self-check-in service and is just under a mile from downtown Salem. Built by Captain Ephraim Augustus Emerton in 1879, this boutique hotel now stands as an Instagram-ready backdrop, with meticulously decorated rooms and luxurious amenities.
The Coach House
- Amenities
- Room Service, Air Conditioned, Free Wi-Fi, Disinfection of High Touch Surfaces
- Price
- $$
The Northey Street House
Travelers looking for peace and quiet during the busy Salem Halloween festivities will love The Northey Street House. Built in 1809 for a fine cabinetmaker, the bed and breakfast features antique furnishings and tastefully decorated rooms that preserve its history. Centrally located, the property offers a quick commute to the beach and downtown Salem. During October, guests are offered a spectacular view of the iconic Salem Halloween fireworks display.
The Northey Street House
- Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi, Terrace/Patio, Fireplace, Laundry facilities
- Price
- $$
- Address
The Broom & Board
Families or group travelers journeying to Salem for Halloween will adore this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom vacation home. The Broom & Board is ideally located just a 6-minute walk from Salem Common and a short drive from Salem Harbor. A 10-minute walk to the Salem station allows travelers to explore the sights and sounds of the Witches' city at very little cost. Enjoy all of the comforts of home just minutes away from all the Halloween events, parades and parties which are among the best Halloween festivals in the U.S.
The Broom & Board
- Amenities
- Laundry facilities, Grill, Free parking, Garden
- Price
- $$