Macaroni Kid loves Salem

The popular New Jersey parent blog Macaroni Kid took a road trip to Salem this weekend, and they had a great time!  You've been listening to me enough lately... here's what Macaroni Kid had to say about Salem.

Road Trip: Salem, Massachusetts
One of my very favorite trips is going to Salem, Massachusetts in October.  The town is rich with history, tradition, and fun!  This is a trip I highly recommend for families because there is so much to do!  Click for more...

Salem's 13 Ghosts 

Haunted houses aren't exactly kid friendly, from what I have experienced.  But, my kids have been dying to go to one, as they are a bit older. We definitely wanted to see if we could find one in Salem and what we found was perfect! Click for more...

Salem 1630: Pioneer Village 
...Down the path was a blacksmith's cabin, where he demonstrated his trade. Beautiful gardens, thatched huts, and wigwams are also located throughout the three acre plot of land.  It was fun to be taken back in time and this was something our kids really enjoyed.  Click for more...


Cry Innocent: The People Verses Bridget Bishop
You can't make a visit to Salem and ignore the Witch Trial history.  There are reminders everywhere. But, if you are looking for an interesting way to learn about it, going to see Cry Innocent is a must! Click for more...

Thanks, Macaroni Kid, for such glowing reviews of our family-friendly attractions, programs and museums! We hope you come back to Salem soon. 

3-D Frights at Salem's 13 Ghosts!

It's a haunted house time of year!  For a truly unique experience, include Salem's 13 Ghosts at 131 Essex Street on your itinerary this October.  13 Ghosts is not your ordinary haunted house - this is a 3-D experience, and it's a bit freaky.

When I wasn't being scared to scream by ghosts and ghouls hopping out of nooks and crannies, I was admiring how incredible the painting and artwork is.  There is a definite technique and art to creating an effective 3-dimensional experience, and Salem's 13 Ghosts has it.  

Just like at the movie theater, you have to wear the 3-D glasses, and you meet a few ghouls who help you find your way in the maze.  There are a few self-guided moments, including one through a darkened hallway (I was very happy just not entering this hall, but apparently there was a schedule to keep, and I had to go forward), and then there was the room with the river...  even the floors are 3-D in a few of the rooms, and I wasn't sure where to step.  That was about the point when I wanted to ditch the 3-D glasses so I could see what was where, but I was a good sport and kept them on.

Two ghosts wishing us well as we left 13 Ghosts

In addition to the Haunted House, Salem's 13 Ghosts also has a Ghost Tour that is led by costumed guides who tell stories from the town's witch trials history and the Puritan spirits that are said to still haunted Salem today.

Combination tickets are available for the haunted house and the ghost tour, and 13 Ghosts has extended weekend hours in October. Visit Salems13Ghosts.com for more information and to buy tickets online.