Since I moved to Boston six falls ago, I don’t think I have let one Halloween season pass without taking a trip up to Salem. The ghost tours + costumes + witch shops + all are always a sight to see, but I’ve learned that the little town also has so much more to offer than tourist attractions. Sweet coffee shops, delicious cafes overflowing with fall beers and hot ciders, the Peabody Essex Museum, and quaint streets away from the crowds.
[ outfit details ]
Fox Sweater, JCPenney | Puffer Vest, J.Crew (on sale today!) | Skirt, H&M [similar 1; 2] | Tote, C.Wonder [similar] | Wrap Bracelet, Marley Lilly | Leopard Loafers, Steve Madden [similar 1; 2]
[ travel summary ]
who:: definitely visit with friends. preferably ones who do not get claustrophobic in crowds.
what:: the tours are so-so; I think it’s more fun to do the city at your own pace. do try to learn some history while you’re in town, though.
when:: october, of course. the earlier, the better, as the crowds increase the closer you get to halloween.
where:: eat at gulu-gulu cafe | sip pumpkin-flavored coffees at jaho | stay at the hawthorne hotel [pricy, but gives you the full salem experience]
wear:: orange, of course. + comfortable walking shoes!
Tianna Gallinaro says
I’d love to hop over there! It looks so quaint and fun for Halloween!!
xo Tia
Alex Hubbard (@AlexHubbard) says
Wheeee you’re so cute and I mighttttt need to order that vest. Freal. I’m dying looking at it on you.
fizzandfrosting says
What a fun trip! Loving your striped vest and loafers!
Alana (@goodgrlgoneblog) says
So glad you had fun in Salem!! As someone who lived there, October is actually a really tough month for locals, though it represents probably the highest % income for businesses! I definitely recommend people take the train in- parking is no fun, and drives that should be super short take longer because of traffic. Also, isn’t Gulu the best? I’m a big fan of their sister restaurant, flying saucer, as well. I’m so glad to be back in Boston, but sometimes I do miss Salem’s charm…and of course all of the baked goods at A&J Kings…the only place I’ve found to have nut-free sticky buns!
Kallie says
I love Salem. I haven’t been for Halloween in forever. Every year the bf and I say we’re gunna go and just never get to it!! And shut up with that adorable outfit! I love it!!
Sharon says
That striped vest is SO cute layered with the fox sweater! And Salem seems like the perfect place to visit during Halloween 🙂
-Sharon
The Tiny Heart
Kate @ Another Clean Slate says
I grew up in MA and have only been to Salem once- need to get back!
peachypains says
As someone new to the Boston area I always appreciate your insight and spots. Thank you so much for your great tips and recap at the bottom. LOVE IT!
Kelby
http://peachypains.com
shell chic'd says
Kelby thank you so much for saying that! I love when I can actually give both locals and out-of-towners ideas for exploring New England 🙂
amy says
you’re such a great photographer! i love that mustache drink sleeve too 🙂
Little Squires says
Love this post. Been dying to get to Salem this fall.
Laura McCallum says
I’m dying to go to Salem. I live in Scotland and have wanted to go to Salem in the fall for years and years. It gets particularly worse round about Halloween and this post has just made me worse haha. Great pics. I really hope to get over one day. Like your fox sweater too 🙂
Laura xx
Always Maylee says
You look adorable in that fall outfit! Can you believe I’ve lived in MA almost my whole life and have never been to Salem for halloween? I know, I’m kind of ashamed to admit that. My friend used to live in Salem too and I’d visit all the time, but never on halloween! I need to change this asap!
xo, Yi-chia
Always Maylee
Anathalia says
I’ve been to Salem once, this summer, and I loved it! It’s such a pretty town! And you look so cute! 🙂
Salem Style says
Yay Salem!!! You look so cute! I’m glad you got to experience Salem in October. Have you been around the holidays? It’s gorgeous that time of year too. PS I love your tips on the bottom too 🙂
tulleandtrinkets says
I have always wanted to visit Salem! I’m such a sucker for touristy spots like that … especially ones that are a little spooky 🙂 I love your fox sweater!
MsTwirlySkirts says
what a fun fall travel spot! love the stripes by the way! xo
Jessica says
Your outfits are always so stinking cute!
Elissa (@style_wire) says
Love this outfit, Em! It’s definitely one of my favorites you’ve worn.