Hello friends!

If you’re into all things spooky, then Salem, Massachusetts is certainly the place for you to add to your bucket list. I’ve wanted to go for the longest time and recently decided to just…go!

As you can imagine, going in October is certainly for the Halloween aesthetic, but let me state (as I’m sure so many people, including locals) that Salem is spooky all year around. It’s not a themed city. This is simply a city full of history that just so happens to be…spooky 😉

I spent two full days in Salem and wanted to put together a list of places I would recommend for food, shopping, and activities!

Great Places To Eat in Salem

Salem is full of places that you can stop in for a quick bite or a full meal. Whatever you need to help fuel all your exploring, ya know? And if you’re gluten-free, you can absolutely find places that will be safe for you to eat at!

• Gulu-Gulu Cafe – Their gluten-free breakfast sandwich is DELICIOUS! Fantastic coffee, and even gluten-free beer! Actually stopped in twice. The interior is stunning, too! So much awesome art!
• Crave – Great spot for a quick cup of coffee and a breakfast sandwich. Not directly downtown Salem, so this is a great spot if you’re going to be visiting shops on the other side of Salem.
• Dire Wolf Tavern -Plenty of gluten-free options from burgers, sushi, salads, and more. Plus, their drink selection is fabulous!
• Alma’s Cantina – Craving Tacos? While not downtown Salem…(but downtown Boston), this spot is awesome! We ordered the Birria tacos with chips and salsa and had such a great experience. Gluten-free options aplenty! I certainly recommend their blackberry mule, too! Yum!
• Finz – If you’re in Massachusetts…you need to get some seafood (as long as you’re not allergic, of course)! This restaurant is a great sit-down spot that has delicious seafood. Plus, they label what can be made gluten-free and are careful about cross-contamination.
• Blackcraft Coffee – While the signature drinks are not certified gluten-free, you can still enjoy a delicious hot or iced coffee!

Shops You MUST Check Out

I think one of the best experiences I’ve had in Salem definitely had to include some retail therapy at all the wonderful small businesses! If you’re into alternative fashion, and looking for some home decor, and unique gifts, then…you are in for such a treat!

• Black Cat Curiosity Shoppe -Great curiosity shop! Plenty of prints, geodes, candles, and gifts!
• Nocturne– Absolutely stunning shop! Plenty of beautiful alternative clothes and home goods!
• HausWitch – A shop specializing in home healing. You can buy tarot cards, spell kits, and even more home goods
• Roost + Company– Plenty of unique gifts!
• Witch City Wicks – This shop has a lot of beautiful candles and prints. You’re sure to find some great gifts to bring back home, too!
• VampFangs – If you like brands like Killstar, you’re sure to find some delightful fashion items at this boutique. Also, such a great vibe from those working there. Shoutout to Victor for the fantastic chat!
• Blackcraft Cult – Come see Salem’s largest witch! A visit to Blackcraft Cult is an absolute MUST!
• Coven – Another wonderful boutique that also has an online store! This shop has some wonderful and unique clothes with quite a large selection of handbags! And just like all of these shops…the aesthetic is PERFECTION!

Things To Do In Salem

Whether you’re in Salem for a short trip or an extended stay, you can fill your trip with plenty of activities! In the two days that we spent there, we were able to enjoy plenty of tours, museums, and more activities.

• Spellbound Walking Tours – We did the Witches, Voodoo, and Vampires walking tour. Absolutely AWESOME!! Cannot recommend this enough if you’re looking to listen to some history while visiting all these spooky locations!
• The Witch House of Salem – A must-visit for those looking to step inside a historic landmark. This is a self-guided museum visit, so you can take your time reading about all the artifacts around the house.
• Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery – Like classic movie monsters and horror creatures? I would 100% recommend this stop! There are plenty of creatures to look at! Well worth the ticket price! Plus, there’s an awesome gift shop!
• The Satanic Temple – Whether you’re a TST member or not, this is a beautiful gallery that is worth the visit. If you are a member, you do get a discounted ticket! 🙂
• Pentagram – If you’re looking for mediums and tarot card readings…this is the shop that we visited and had such an amazing experience. I always go in a skeptic, but had a few important things confirmed, which left me feeling really good. Would love to come back!

Check Out My Other Travel Blogs!

• Where To Eat Gluten-Free When In New York City 2023
• 2021 Seattle Food Guide (Gluten-Free Options Included)
• Gaijin (Chicago) – Gluten-Friendly Okonomiyaki!

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