Are you a fan of the iconic 1993 Disney movie Hocus Pocus? If so, a trip to Salem, Massachusetts should be on your bucket list! Many of the charming and spooky locations featured in the film are real places you can visit in Salem. One of the most recognizable is Pioneer Village, located at 310 West Avenue in Salem, MA. This historical site played a crucial role in setting the scene for the movie’s opening.
Binx in human form at Pioneer Village, Salem MA
Pioneer Village: Where the Magic Begins
In Hocus Pocus, Pioneer Village is where we first meet Thackery Binx in his human form before he is transformed into a cat. This historically significant site, built in 1930, holds the distinction of being America’s first living history museum. Spanning three acres within Forest River Park, Pioneer Village offers visitors a glimpse into 17th-century colonial life. As you explore, you’ll encounter replicas of various colonial structures, including wigwams, thatched-roof cottages, and even a simple Governor’s Mansion. Costumed interpreters bring the past to life, demonstrating traditional activities like tending herb gardens and blacksmithing.
To reach Pioneer Village from downtown Salem, driving is recommended, or you can enjoy a pleasant thirty-minute walk. It’s advisable to check the Pioneer Village website (https://www.pioneervillagesalem.org/) for the most up-to-date opening hours as they can vary. While you’re there, be sure to explore the scenic Forest River Park, offering beautiful views of Salem Harbor, filled with boats and wildlife.
Beyond Pioneer Village: More Hocus Pocus Locations
Salem’s Hocus Pocus magic extends beyond Pioneer Village. A short distance away, at 4 Ocean Avenue, you’ll find the instantly recognizable house of Max and Dani Dennison. It’s an easy walk from Forest River Park, but remember that parking in this residential area is permit-only. Please be respectful as this is a private residence.
Max and Dani's House in Salem, MA, a Hocus Pocus filming location
Continue your Hocus Pocus tour at The Ropes Mansion, located at 318 Essex Street. This impressive Georgian Colonial mansion, dating back to the 1720s, served as the exterior for Allison’s house in the movie. Known as one of Salem’s most haunted locations, The Ropes Mansion has a rich and sometimes eerie history. It also boasts stunning formal gardens, open to the public year-round, providing a tranquil space to relax. The house itself, owned by the Peabody Essex Museum, is open for tours on weekends.
Ropes Mansion in Salem, MA, used as Allison's house in Hocus Pocus
Old Town Hall, at 32 Derby Square, adjacent to the pedestrian mall, is another key location. The exterior of the adults’ Halloween party scene was filmed at this historic hall, built in 1817. Today, Old Town Hall hosts the Salem Museum and performances of Cry Innocent. If you visit between mid-June and mid-October on a Thursday afternoon, you can experience Salem’s Farmers’ Market surrounding the building.
Phillips Elementary School, on Washington Square South, provided the exterior for Max and Dani’s school in the film. Although no longer accessible to the public, it can be viewed from Salem Common.
Finally, many outdoor scenes were filmed in Salem Common, Washington Square. This public land, dating back to the 1600s, is rumored to have haunted tunnels beneath it. Fittingly, Hocus Pocus is often screened in Salem Common during October as part of the town’s Halloween celebrations.
Salem Common in Salem, MA, a prominent Hocus Pocus filming location
Experience the Magic of Salem
Visiting Salem and exploring these Hocus Pocus filming locations, starting with Pioneer Village on West Avenue, offers a unique and enchanting experience for fans of the movie. Step into the world of Max, Dani, and the Sanderson sisters and discover the real-life magic of Salem, MA.
