Your Guide to Reaching Salem's Spooky Season from North Station
October in Salem is pure magic. With nearly half a million visitors descending on this historic coastal town each Halloween season, getting there from Boston becomes part of the adventure itself. If you're staying at Battery Wharf Hotel Boston, you're perfectly positioned to explore Salem's legendary Haunted Happenings festival—and North Station is your gateway to the witch city. If you are pondering how to get to Salem from Boston's North Station, here is our Train & Ferry Guide:
The Commuter Rail: Your Best Bet for Hassle-Free Travel
The MBTA Commuter Rail is hands-down the most reliable way to reach Salem during October's festivities. Trains depart directly from North Station on both the Newburyport and Rockport Lines, whisking you to Salem in just 30 minutes. At only $8 each way during the week, it's also incredibly affordable. But here's the real game-changer: weekend visitors can snag a $10 Commuter Rail Weekend Pass that provides unlimited travel all day Saturday or Sunday.
During peak Halloween weekends, the MBTA typically adds extra train service to accommodate the crowds. Salem Station sits within easy walking distance of all the main attractions—the Witch Museum, House of the Seven Gables, and the bustling downtown streets filled with costume-clad revelers. Pro tip: parking in Salem is extremely limited throughout October, with some lots completely closed on Halloween night. Taking the train eliminates this headache entirely.
The Scenic Ferry Option: Worth the Splurge
For those seeking a more memorable journey, the Salem Ferry operated by Boston Harbor Cruises offers a spectacular alternative. Running daily from late May through October 31, this high-speed catamaran transforms your commute into a 50-minute coastal cruise. You'll glide past lighthouses, historic fishing boats, and stunning waterfront estates while enjoying views of both the Boston skyline and Massachusetts Bay.
The ferry departs from Long Wharf North (1 Long Wharf) in Boston and arrives at Salem's Blaney Street terminal, just steps from the waterfront attractions. However, pricing is more complex than a simple one-way ticket. The ferry offers special commuter rates during rush hours—with Zone 3 Commuter Rail passes valid for the 7 AM trip to Boston and 5:30 PM trip to Salem. Without a pass, these commuter trips cost $8 one-way or $16 round-trip. Outside these specific times, standard ferry fares are $25 one-way and $45 round-trip, though pricing can vary significantly by season and demand.
The vessel features both indoor and outdoor seating, plus an onboard galley serving snacks and beverages. The ferry's biggest advantage during Halloween season? You'll skip the notorious traffic that clogs Route 1A and Route 114 throughout October. Watching the sunset over Boston Harbor on your return journey adds an atmospheric conclusion to a day of witch trials and haunted history.
Alternative Transportation: When to Consider Other Options
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft offer door-to-door convenience, typically costing under $50 for the journey. During normal traffic, the trip takes 30-40 minutes via Route 1A. However, October traffic in Salem is busier than normal, especially on weekends. What should be a half-hour drive can stretch to 60 minutes or more. If you're traveling with a large group, splitting a rideshare might make financial sense, but expect some delays and surge pricing during peak times.
Driving yourself is possible but problematic. While you'll have flexibility with your schedule, finding parking is again more difficult in October. The MBTA parking garage at Salem Station closes from 6 PM to 11:30 PM on Halloween night. Many visitors opt to park at neighboring stations like Beverly or Lynn and take the train downtown—a smart compromise that combines driving convenience with train reliability.
Making Your Choice
For most visitors, the Commuter Rail strikes the perfect balance of speed, cost, and convenience. It's frequent, predictable, and drops you right in the heart of Salem's Halloween action. The ferry, while pricier, offers an unforgettable experience that's worth considering for at least one leg of your journey—perhaps taking the train out and the sunset ferry back.
From Battery Wharf Hotel Boston Waterfront, you're just minutes from North Station via a pleasant walk or quick ride on the Green or Orange Line. Plan to arrive at North Station 15-20 minutes before your desired departure to purchase tickets and find your platform. Download the MBTA mTicket app beforehand for seamless mobile ticketing.
Salem's Haunted Happenings draws visitors from around the world for good reason. With the right transportation strategy, you'll spend less time stuck in traffic and more time exploring the city's bewitching blend of history, mystery, and Halloween spirit.
