Spooky Season in "Witch City" - Salem, MA

Departure Points:

PetSmart, Crossgates Commons - 6:45am
Yankee Trails, Rensselaer - 7:15am

Sun, October 18:

This morning we are off to Salem, Massachusetts to experience the thrills and chills of Spooky Season! When we arrive in Salem, your day is free to explore all Witch City has to offer at your own pace. Check out Derby Square, an exciting marketplace featuring a collection of shops and boutiques, and of course you will need to visit the Haunted Happenings marketplace on Salem Common. There are multiple food vendors, craft & jewelry vendors, candy, collectibles, and so many items that are unique to Salem. Shop, explore, have lunch on your own, and visit everything you can! At approximately 3pm, we’re off to check into our accommodations at the Best Western Plus North Shore in Danvers, MA (978-777-1700) amenities include an indoor heated pool and the rooms feature coffee maker, hairdriver, microwave and mini-fridge. You will have time to freshen up before we return to Salem later this evening. Dinner will be on your own. Later, we'll sail away on a Haunted Happenings Harbor Cruise (new & improved for 2026) aboard the Hannah Glover. Embark on an exhilarating 75-minute Halloween cruise designed to immerse you in all things pirate, with hauntingly captivating tales of the local pirates that once prowled these waters, performed live by Real Pirates Salem! Enjoy eerie decorations, capture unforgettable moments, and take part in complimentary tarot card readings and face painting. Costumes are encouraged! The boat has a heated main deck and an open top deck with plenty of fresh air to enjoy, and you will also find three bathrooms downstairs and a full CASH bar and grill (yes food is available on the cruise) on the top deck! October specials include their infamous Grandma's Spiked Cider, clam chowda and chicken noodle soup to keep your tummies warm. Along with a variety of local craft brews, you'll find wine and fruity island cocktails. Classic backyard favorites are available on the grill. (Food & drink are for purchase, not included) The bus will return to the hotel after our cruise at 8:30pm and the rest of the night will be on your own.

Mon, October 19:

A full breakfast is included at the hotel this morning before we head back to Salem for round two! Upon arrival we will visit Gallows Hill: The Witchcraft and Ghost Experience. Real stories of witchcraft, ghosts, & the supernatural are brought to life during this 30 minute multi-media show. Dare you enter? After the show you will be on your own to enjoy all that this wondrous city has to offer. An optional Haunted Footsteps Ghost Walking Tour ($28pp) will be available this afternoon. Accompany us on Salem's Original ghostly tour and experience why our highly acclaimed stroll has been a "Witch City" institution since 1997. Setting the benchmark for similar tours, Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour is Salem's preeminent activity. Their engaging guides creatively convey Salem's authentic haunted history. Delve into Salem's macabre past as the knowledgeable and charismatic guides regale you with true tales of documented paranormal activity, chilling cemeteries, and centuries old murder. After we have explored all things spooky in Salem we will depart for home at 4:30pm with an approximate arrival in the Capital District at 8:00pm. One stop each way.

FB=Full Breakfast