“I smell children!” – Hocus Pocus
Visiting Salem, Massachusetts with your children? There are many fun and non-scary things for them to do! Save this guide with helpful links of kid-approved activities and restaurants. My three little ones had a blast following this guide while strolling around Salem in their witch costumes!
I want candy!
A family favorite activity is visiting America’s oldest candy company: the Ye Olde Pepper Candy Companie. They are most famously known for making Gibralters, which were the first commercially sold candies in America. They also make Black Jacks candies using the original recipe from the 1800s! The old-fashioned fudge and saltwater taffy are very popular as well. Visit their website for seasonal opening hours. The Salem flagship store is located on 122 Derby Street.
“It’s just a bunch of Hocus Pocus.”
Salem is famously known as the filming location of the popular Halloween movie Hocus Pocus, so why not take your kids on a self-guided tour of all the recognizable places?! Save this ultimate guide that provides exact addresses and helpful descriptions of each filming location.
Plan to finish your self-guided tour at the historic Salem Common. This beautiful public park has a large playground, paved walkways, and picnic tables- perfect for families with little ones! Local’s tip: There will be an outdoor screening of Hocus Pocus 2 this October. Visit this website for more information.
Follow the red-brick road…
The Salem Heritage Trail is a self-guided walking tour that is great for families with children, especially when visiting for the first time. Similar to Boston’s Freedom Trail, there is a red line painted on the brick sidewalk that guides you throughout the city. Save this map and pack your supportive footwear before you go!
Guided Tours for Kids.
The teacher-led “Salem Kids Tours” is highly recommended for families who prefer to go on a guided tour. They offer two different tours: the Salem Kids History Tour and the Slightly Spooky Tour (for older kids). Important information: Tours are recommended for children ages 6-14, and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Current ticket prices are the following: $18 for adults and $13 for children ages 5-15. Visit their website to book your tour.
Experience Salem in 1630.
Take your little ones to the oldest living history museum in America: Pioneer Village. It is a fun and interactive experience for only $5! The outdoor museum is open weekends from June to October. Visit their website for current hours. Fun fact: Opening scenes of Hocus Pocus were filmed here.
The House of Seven Gables.
A “must-do” when in Salem is visiting the beautiful House of Seven Gables. The museum offers two different tickets: a grounds pass and a guided tour. Important tip: The grounds pass does not provide access inside of the mansion. If you do not mind skipping an interior tour, then the grounds pass may be the best option for families with younger children. Visit their website for ticket reservations.
Bewitched!
Visit the picturesque Lappin Park and see the iconic Bewitched statue. The statue looks friendly and is not spooky, so it is the perfect photo-op for a memorable family picture. A second spot for a fun family photo is in front of the historic Witch House. Its interior is open for self-guided tours, however, it may be too scary for little ones. Tickets are sold at the door and check their website for seasonal hours.
Time to eat.
Take your family to eat at the kid-friendly Flying Saucer Pizza Company. Their extensive menu includes gluten-free and vegan options, as well as build-your-own pizzas, perfect for the pickiest eaters. Another family-friendly restaurant popular among locals, especially for breakfast, is Red’s Sandwich Shop. Important tip: They close at 1:00pm (2:00pm on Sundays). Check the restaurant’s website before visiting.
Enjoy exploring Salem with your family!
