Salem Witch Museum

Frommer's Review

This is one of the most memorable attractions in eastern Massachusetts -- it's both interesting and scary. The main draw of the museum (a former church) is a three-dimensional audiovisual presentation with life-size figures. The show takes place in a huge room lined with displays that are lighted in sequence. The 30-minute narration tells the tale of the witchcraft trials and the accompanying hysteria. The well-researched presentation recounts the story accurately, if somewhat overdramatically. One of the victims was crushed to death by rocks piled on a board on his chest -- smaller kids might need a reminder that he's not real. The narration is available translated into French, German, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish. There's also a small exhibit that traces the history of witches, witchcraft, and witch hunts.

A Face in the Crowd -- On the traffic island across from the entrance to the Salem Witch Museum is a statue that's easily mistaken for a witch. It's really Roger Conant, who founded Salem in 1626.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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