The Midnight Bookseller
Everyone loves a good bookstore—and even more so one that makes a genuine effort to connect with the neighborhood. The Midnight Bookseller offers an immense and varied selection of literature on fantasy, academia, and occult topics, with a rich program of events.
Enchanted
Laurie Cabot, business partner Chris, and Penny Cabot own Enchanted. Cabot is a high priestess, author, and founder of the Cabot Tradition of the Science of Witchcraft and the Witches’ League for Public Awareness, and is known as the “official witch of Salem.” Enchanted sells oils, candles, chalices, among other magical necessities—this metaphysical supply store is a must-visit for deepening one’s understanding of the craft.
Hawthorne Hotel
Named after Nathaniel Hawthorne and famously featured in Bewitched, the iconic Hawthorne Hotel remains as charming as the day it opened. The third and sixth floors, particularly rooms 325 and 612, are rumored to be haunted. No one I know has ever seen any apparitions, but I appreciate the folklore, and people still flock to these rooms to catch glimpses of or potentially hear the ghosts. Even if you don’t have a paranormal encounter, the service and food here are excellent.
What do the locals suggest?
“While the rest of the country is celebrating America’s 250th, Salem, MA is celebrating its 400th anniversary of unique history this year,” says Salem-based witch Natasha Rusilko, who hosts retreats and events in the area. “Besides the obvious Witch Trials history, Salem also has a rich maritime and Revolutionary history.” Rusilko also notes, however, that to locals, this year feels like any other day or time in Salem. “We live in the history every day; some of us live and work in historic buildings dating all the way back to the 1600s,” she says. “For practicing witches like myself, we also have the Salem Witch Fest in August. Whether you’re here for the witches or the history, Salem has you covered.”
“Salem brings out the witch in all of us,” says astrologer Liz Simmons, noting that there’s no other city that caters to witches from all backgrounds and experience levels. “Everyone can find something here to help them in their journey, like a tarot deck that calls them out or unique herbs to amplify the power of their spells. I think that’s the best part of Salem—this place validates your magic and power in ways you’d never expect, but need.” Simmons suggests several places that are worth exploring, beginning with a walk down to Pickering Wharf. “So many people miss this part of Salem because they don’t venture out beyond Essex Street. I highly recommend stocking up on magickal supplies at The Cauldron Black—it’s one of my favorite stores in Salem!” If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, Simmons notes a trip to the Salem Willows at the northern tip of the city is worth the trip. “Any local would tell you that the arcade and popcorn from E.W. Hobbs are the true hidden gems in Salem,” she says. “The Willows might be a little off the beaten path, but honestly, this is the perfect place to retreat if the crowds are too intense.”
Tarot reader Zhana Levitsky suggests a few other local favorites: “Witches are naturally drawn to Salem because there is a wound from history here that healers and magic workers are drawn to transform and reclaim it. This becomes collective healing and celebration. It’s truly alchemical!” She cites the kitschy vintage-era arcades at The Willows (get your fortune read to you on the eerie Zoltan machine), as well as swimming, camping, and exploring the lighthouse at Winter Island as particularly idyllic choices. Levitsky also suggests visiting the Ropes Mansion Gardens for a picnic and photos, and if you’re looking for a perfectly spooky Instagram post, Chestnut Street is the place to do it.
