The Witch House Salem Massachusetts - A red colonial house stands surrounded by greenery.
1 / 10

The Witch House Salem Massachusetts

4.4
·4k reviews·Salem, United States

Step into history at The Witch House, the only remaining structure with direct ties to the 1692 Salem Witch Trials.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate experience

CrowdLow
Loading map...
The Witch House Salem Massachusetts - A red colonial house stands surrounded by greenery.

The Witch House Salem Massachusetts

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate experience

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into history at The Witch House, the only remaining structure with direct ties to the 1692 Salem Witch Trials.

4.4
(4k reviews)

"It's fascinating that this house still stands. They did say all the items, and furniture, etc were not used by the family."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Buy Tickets at the Gift Shop

Tickets are purchased in the gift shop at the back of the house. Advance booking is recommended during busy periods.

🚶‍♀️ Allow 20-30 Minutes

The exhibit is small; 20-30 minutes is usually enough to read and experience it fully.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Jonathan Corwin House

The Jonathan Corwin House

Downtown Salem

Step back in time in this 17th-century home, the last structure with direct ties to the infamous Salem Witch Trials.

17th-Century Life Exhibits

17th-Century Life Exhibits

Inside the museum

Explore artifacts and learn about daily life in Salem during the time of the witch trials.

Judge Jonathan Corwin's Role

Judge Jonathan Corwin's Role

Throughout the museum

Understand the significance of Judge Corwin and his involvement in the historical events.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

While not always mandatory, booking tickets ahead can save you time, especially during peak season. The museum space is intimate, and it can get crowded.

Embrace the History

This is the only remaining structure with direct ties to the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. Immerse yourself in 17th-century life and the historical context of the trials.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Crowd
Low
When
October afternoons
Why
Experience the Halloween buzz
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Salem - Better Off Alone #salem #sematary #hauntedmound #witchhouse #edit
@scarletvvs
3.8K likes • 22.2K views

🎟️ Buy Tickets at the Gift Shop

Tickets are purchased in the gift shop at the back of the house. Advance booking is recommended during busy periods. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Allow 20-30 Minutes

The exhibit is small; 20-30 minutes is usually enough to read and experience it fully. Reddit

SALEM-TAIR #salem#witchhouse#s4lem#music#xyzbca
@redlightprotein
576 likes • 10.2K views
Welcome to Witch City Wicks in Salem, Massachusetts. We’re located on Essex St. near the historic Witch House, the last remaining structure with direct ties to the Salem Witch Trials.
witchcitywicks
16 likes • 525 views

📸 Photos Allowed

You can take pictures inside the museum, so bring your camera or phone! Reddit

📚 History Buffs Rejoice

Lots of reading involved, perfect for those who love diving deep into historical context. Reddit

“The Witch House” 🧙 Salem, Massachusetts 🎃 c. 1642 The daunting black façade of the Jonathan Corwin House in Salem, Massachusetts is also known as “The Witch House”. Home of Judge Jonathan Corwin who conducted the infamous witch trials of Salem of 1692, it is the only structure still standing in the city with direct ties to the trials. Thought to be built between 1620 and 1642, it was purchased ...
accidentallywesanderson
57.9K likes • 807.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Buy Tickets at the Gift Shop

Tickets are purchased in the gift shop at the back of the house. Advance booking is recommended during busy periods. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Allow 20-30 Minutes

The exhibit is small; 20-30 minutes is usually enough to read and experience it fully. Reddit

📸 Photos Allowed

You can take pictures inside the museum, so bring your camera or phone! Reddit

📚 History Buffs Rejoice

Lots of reading involved, perfect for those who love diving deep into historical context. Reddit

📍 Central Location

Conveniently located in downtown Salem, making it easy to combine with other attractions. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The Witch House for its historical significance and its unique status as the last remaining structure tied to the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. Many appreciate the opportunity to step back in time and learn about 17th-century life and the trials. While some note the exhibits are small and the artifacts are not original to the family, the overall experience is considered worthwhile and educational, especially for history buffs.

"Such an icon to visit! This was the first time I had gone into the little gift shop around back, haven't walked through the museum though. Some neat items for purchase but the real attraction is the house itshelf! So much history and such a beautiful sight!"

Shauna Toretto

"I'm not sure if you should, or could, but tickets in advance because we didn't have to. We walked right in, paid and went straight into the exhibit. It's fascinating that this house still stands. They did say all the items, and furniture, etc were not used by the family. Those items are part of another exhibit at another museum. It's pretty rad to step into a piece of history like that and I highly recommend you visit. It wasn't crowded but the exhibit space is small and I could see it getting crowded."

Kristen Rich

"It’s a 17th century house now turned museum with a great deal of information about the witch trials and day to day life during that time. Tickets were only $12 so if you like old buildings or would be interested in the actual history behind the area definitely go for it. You buy the tickets in the gift shop at the back of the house"

Jarod Armstrong

What People Like

Direct link to witch trials
Historical immersion
Affordable ticket price

What People Dislike

Small exhibit space
Non-original artifacts

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Witch House is located in downtown Salem, Massachusetts, easily accessible by car or public transport. Many visitors opt to take the train to Salem Station, which is a short walk from the attraction. Parking can be challenging, especially in October, so consider alternatives like ride-sharing or public transit. TikTok

Limited street parking is available, but it fills up quickly, especially during peak season. There are several paid parking lots and garages in the downtown Salem area. TikTok

Yes, Salem Station is conveniently located within walking distance of The Witch House, making it a popular choice for visitors arriving by train. TikTok

Taking the commuter rail from Boston is a popular and convenient option for a day trip to Salem. It avoids parking hassles and drops you right in the heart of the city. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are reasonably priced, often around $12, making it an affordable historical experience. It's recommended to check the official website for the most current pricing. Reddit

While not always required, purchasing tickets in advance is a good idea, especially during the busy October season, to avoid potential queues and ensure entry. Reddit

Tickets are typically purchased at the gift shop located at the back of The Witch House. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. TikTok

As a historic building, accessibility may be limited. It's advisable to contact The Witch House directly for specific information regarding accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find exhibits detailing 17th-century life and the historical context of the Salem Witch Trials. While the furniture and artifacts are not original to the Corwin family, they are part of a curated collection that brings history to life. Reddit

Most visitors spend about 20-30 minutes touring The Witch House, as it's a relatively small but informative exhibit. Reddit

Yes, photography is permitted inside The Witch House, allowing you to capture the historical ambiance. Reddit

It can get crowded, especially during peak times like October. Visiting on a weekday morning can offer a more intimate experience. Reddit

The Witch House is the only structure still standing in Salem with direct ties to the 1692 Salem Witch Trials, having been the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the dark, historic house is iconic and makes for striking photos, especially with the atmospheric Salem backdrop. Inside, you can capture the period details and exhibits. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. For professional photoshoots, it's best to inquire with the museum directly about their policies and any potential fees. Instagram

Late afternoon or early evening can offer beautiful lighting, especially during the fall. However, the house's dark facade is striking at any time. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Witch House offers a fascinating, albeit somber, historical experience for families. While the subject matter of the witch trials can be intense, the museum presents it in an educational and accessible way. Focus on the aspects of 17th-century life and the architecture to engage younger visitors. TikTok

Consider discussing the historical context beforehand to prepare children for the themes. The relatively short tour time (20-30 minutes) is also ideal for keeping children's attention spans in mind. The gift shop offers a chance for a small souvenir to remember their visit. Reddit

📚 History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about American history, The Witch House is an unmissable destination. As the sole surviving structure directly linked to the 1692 Salem Witch Trials, it offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with this pivotal period. Instagram+2

Take your time to read the detailed exhibits and absorb the information about Judge Corwin and the trials. The museum provides a deep dive into the social, legal, and cultural context of the era, making it a highly rewarding experience for anyone interested in the darker chapters of colonial history. Reddit

👻 Halloween & Spooky Season Visitors

If you're visiting Salem during October for its famous Halloween atmosphere, The Witch House is a must-see. Its dark, historic facade perfectly complements the spooky ambiance of the town. Instagram+1 While the museum focuses on historical accuracy rather than sensationalism, standing within the walls of a place so intrinsically tied to the witch trials adds a layer of authentic historical chill to your visit. TikTok

Be prepared for crowds during this time, and consider booking tickets in advance. It's a great starting point to understand the historical roots of Salem's reputation before exploring other, more modern attractions. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of The Witch House

The Witch House, also known as the Jonathan Corwin House, stands as a tangible link to one of America's most infamous historical events: the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Built around 1642, it is the only structure in Salem with direct ties to the trials still standing today. It served as the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, who was one of the magistrates involved in the examinations and trials of those accused of witchcraft. Instagram+2

Visitors can explore the house and learn about the daily life of a 17th-century magistrate and his family. While the furnishings and artifacts within the museum are not original to the Corwin family, they are carefully curated to represent the period accurately, offering a glimpse into the domestic sphere of the time. The museum provides detailed information about the historical context, the legal proceedings, and the societal impact of the trials, making it an essential stop for understanding Salem's complex past. Reddit

The house itself is a significant architectural example of early colonial New England. Its dark, imposing facade has become an iconic image associated with Salem's witch trial history. Stepping inside offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past and understand the gravity of the events that unfolded in this historic town. Instagram

Experiencing The Witch House Today

Today, The Witch House operates as a museum, offering guided and self-guided tours that delve into its rich history. The experience is designed to be educational and immersive, allowing visitors to walk through the rooms where significant historical decisions were made. TikTok The museum staff are often praised for being helpful and knowledgeable, ready to answer questions and provide deeper insights into the exhibits. Reddit

While the museum is relatively small, the depth of information provided ensures a meaningful visit. Many visitors find the $12 ticket price to be a worthwhile investment for the historical perspective gained. Reddit The gift shop at the back of the house offers a selection of unique items, though the house itself remains the primary attraction. Reddit It's a place where history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike can gain a deeper appreciation for Salem's pivotal role in American history. Instagram

It's important to note that while the house is steeped in history, some visitors mention that the artifacts and furniture are not original to the Corwin family but are part of a separate collection. However, this does not detract from the overall historical significance and the opportunity to stand within a structure that witnessed such pivotal moments. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2