Meet real witches, eavesdrop on a psychic reading and indulge your sweet tooth at America’s oldest candy company. The magic happens in Salem, Massachusetts.
EAT – RESTAURANTS IN SALEM, MA
Red’s
Head to Red’s for all your comfort-food needs. Opened in 1945, Red’s is the second oldest restaurant in Salem. If all-day breakfast isn’t a big enough selling point, maybe the pancakes will be, “BIG” being the keyword. Best described as over-the-plate big, the pancakes at Red’s are large enough to feed more than just one. But don’t miss out on one of their most-popular lunch items – the Thanksgiving-inspired Homestyle Sandwich.
Ye Olde Pepper Company
Calling all candy lovers! Welcome to the oldest continuously operating candy company in the United States. Ye Olde Pepper Company offers classic and modern sweets in one locale. So whether you’re opting for the historical Gibralter candy they’re known for or more of a modern-day classic like the chocolate turtle, you can’t go wrong.
PLAY – THINGS TO DO IN SALEM, MA
Hex Old World Witchery
Feeling a little magic curious? Hex is a one-stop shop for all those looking to dip their toe into the craft. From informational books to tarot cards and pendulums, Hex has something for everyone. Don’t be alarmed by Robert, the resident skull at the center of the working witches’ altar, though. That’s right, visitors can leave their own messages and offerings for the dead at the shop’s altar which the witches of Hex then ritually burn throughout the year.
Salem Witch Museum
Dive deep into the rich history of witches in a two-part presentation at the Salem Witch Museum. The first of two presentations covers the infamous 1692 trials, while the second focuses on the European witch trials and the way the image of the witch has evolved over time. If you’ve ever wondered why witches fly on broomsticks or where exactly the whole green-face thing came from, this is the day-trip destination spot for you.
The Rebecca Nurse Homestead
Take a step back in time while visiting the Rebecca Nurse Homestead. At the age of 72, Rebecca Nurse was the oldest woman to be executed in the name of witch hysteria. Her house, which is the only house of an accused witch still open to the public, stands as a historic reminder of those innocent lives lost. And wWhile it’s not confirmed, it is widely believed that Rebecca Nurse is currently buried somewhere on the property in the family cemetery that’s still there today.
STAY – HOTELS IN SALEM, MA
Hawthorne Hotel
Whether you’re a literary buff, maritime fan, or paranormal investigator, the Hawthorne Hotel is a must-stay. Named after the writer Nathaniel Hawthorne, the hotel boasts a rich history. Founded by the citizens of Salem in 1923, the hotel lives up to Salem’s famed ghost tales, claiming to have a visitor of its own who roams the third and sixth floors. The general manager might not consider it officially “haunted,” but the hotel does have a famous witch in its past – ‘Bewitched,’ that is. That’s right, Elizabeth Montgomery herself stayed at the hotel while filming the series in 1970.
Looking for more Boston Area Getaways?
Check out the other episodes of Eat Play Stay for more great spots for day trips and weekend getaways near Boston.
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