If you’re a fan of Disney’s Hocus Pocus film, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the movie’s magic than by visiting the Hocus Pocus film locations in Salem, Massachusetts. While the 1993 Halloween classic was partially filmed in Los Angeles, many of the movie’s most iconic scenes were filmed in the historic streets of Salem, known for its rich colonial history, dark ties to the Salem Witch Trials, and beautiful New England vibe. This guide walks you through the key Hocus Pocus filming locations in Salem and nearby Marblehead, offering tips on how to experience them as a tourist.
Why Visit Salem for Hocus Pocus?
Salem is a popular tourist destination, especially in October, when the town fully embraces its spooky past with Halloween-themed festivals, haunted house tours, and witch trial reenactments. Adding Hocus Pocus filming locations to your itinerary offers a mix of Hollywood nostalgia and Salem’s haunted history. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the Sanderson sisters or a first-time visitor to New England, you’ll uncover the magic of Hocus Pocus in real life.
1. Salem Common
Location: Washington Square, Salem, MA
The first Hocus Pocus film location can be found in the center of Salem at Salem Common. In the movie, this massive public park is where Max Dennison rides his bike home from school after his first day in Salem. The park’s tree-lined paths and open green space are perfect for a walking tour.
Salem Common, established in the 17th century, is one of the oldest public parks in America. It was originally a military training ground, and its iconic bandstand and iron fences contribute to its quintessential New England charm.
Tourist Tip: Visit in autumn when the leaves change color, creating a picturesque setting. Be sure to snap a photo near the park’s stately gates, recreating the vibe of Max’s bike ride!
2. Phillips Elementary School (Jacob Bailey High School)
Location: 56 Washington Square, Salem, MA
Near Salem Common is the building that served as the exterior of Max and Allison’s school, Jacob Bailey High School. This building, formerly Phillips Elementary School, is now private property and has been converted into apartments, but you can still admire its historic brick facade.
In the movie, Max and Allison lure the Sanderson sisters into the school and attempt to burn them in a kiln. While the interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage, the building’s exterior is recognizable to fans.
Tourist Tip: Since it’s private property, photos can only be taken from outside. Respect the residents’ privacy when visiting.
3. Ropes Mansion (Allison’s House)
Location: 318 Essex Street, Salem, MA
The Ropes Mansion, located on Essex Street, is where Allison lives in Hocus Pocus. This beautiful colonial home, built in the 18th century, is owned and operated by the Peabody Essex Museum and is open to the public. While only the exterior is featured in the movie, visitors can tour the interior to learn about colonial life in Salem.
The mansion’s garden is an additional attraction, perfect for a relaxing retreat from the bustling streets of downtown Salem.
Tourist Tip: Admission to the Ropes Mansion is free, and it’s open seasonally on weekends. Don’t miss the garden, especially in the fall when the flowers are in full bloom.
4. Old Town Hall (The Halloween Party)
Location: 32 Derby Square, Salem, MA
In Hocus Pocus, the Halloween party where the Sanderson sisters perform “I Put a Spell on You” is held at Old Town Hall. While the interior scenes were shot on a set, the exterior of Old Town Hall is located in Salem’s Derby Square.
Built in 1816, Old Town Hall is the oldest surviving municipal building in Salem. It now functions as a community space and art gallery and hosts events, especially during the Halloween season. The building’s classic Federalist architecture makes it a must-see.
Tourist Tip: Old Town Hall is surrounded by other attractions like the Salem Witch Museum and Peabody Essex Museum, so take time to explore the area.
5. Pioneer Village (Thackery Binx’s Village)
Location: 98 West Avenue, Salem, MA
Pioneer Village served as the filming location for the opening scenes of Hocus Pocus, where Thackery Binx’s 17th-century village is depicted. This living history museum was built in 1930 and is the oldest of its kind in the United States. Visitors can explore timber-framed houses, thatched-roof cottages, and a blacksmith shop, offering a glimpse into early colonial life.
Tourist Tip: Pioneer Village is open seasonally, and tours provide context on Salem’s early settlers. Be sure to check the schedule, as it’s only open on select days.
6. Max’s House (Private Residence)
Location: 4 Ocean Avenue, Salem, MA
Max Dennison’s house in Hocus Pocus, where much of the movie’s action takes place, is a private residence located at 4 Ocean Avenue in Salem. The home, with its picturesque views of Salem Harbor, is a popular stop for fans, but it is not open to the public.
Tourist Tip: Be mindful of the residents when visiting Max’s house, as it is private property. Feel free to take photos from a distance, but avoid trespassing.
7. Old Burial Hill Cemetery (Thackery Binx’s Transformation)
Location: Marblehead, MA
Just a short drive from Salem is Old Burial Hill Cemetery in Marblehead, where Thackery Binx is transformed into a cat by the Sanderson sisters. This historic cemetery dates back to 1638 and is one of the oldest in New England. The gravestones are intricately carved, and the site offers sweeping views of Marblehead Harbor.
Tourist Tip: Old Burial Hill is open to the public and free to explore. Be sure to respect the historic gravestones, some of which are centuries old.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Magic of Hocus Pocus in Salem
Salem, Massachusetts, offers a perfect blend of spooky history and Hocus Pocus nostalgia, making it a must-visit destination for fans of the film. From wandering the historic streets featured in the movie to exploring centuries-old cemeteries and colonial homes, you’ll find plenty to enchant you during your visit. Be sure to plan ahead, as Salem gets especially busy in October, and many of these sites have limited hours or require advance tickets. Whether you visit in the fall or during the quieter off-season, the magic of Hocus Pocus and the history of Salem will cast a spell on you.
By visiting Hocus Pocus film locations and embracing Salem’s rich history, you’ll not only relive your favorite moments from the movie but also gain a deeper appreciation for this fascinating town’s past. So pack your broomstick (or your walking shoes) and prepare for an unforgettable journey through the real-life locations of Hocus Pocus!
Hocus Pocus Film Location Reviews
“As a huge fan of Hocus Pocus, Salem Common was the perfect first stop on my tour of the filming locations. The park is beautiful, especially in the fall when the leaves turn vivid shades of red and orange. I could almost see Max Dennison riding his bike through the tree-lined paths! It’s also a peaceful spot for a picnic or just walking around and taking in the scenery. If you’re a fan of the movie or just love classic New England charm, this is a must-see.”
“It was unbelievable seeing the old school building that was Max and Allison’s high school in Hocus Pocus. Although it’s now converted into apartments and you can’t go inside, just standing there and taking photos of the iconic brick facade felt like stepping into the movie. It’s a bit of a bummer that it’s not accessible to the public, but still a fun stop for fans. Plus, it’s so close to Salem Common that it’s an easy detour!”
“Ropes Mansion was one of the highlights of my Hocus Pocus tour! The house is absolutely gorgeous, and knowing it was used as Allison’s home made it even more special. We were able to tour the inside (free of charge!), which was a wonderful bonus, as you get a feel for Salem’s rich colonial history. The gardens in the back are stunning and a perfect spot to relax. Highly recommend for any Hocus Pocus fan!”
“It was awesome to see Max Dennison’s house in person! The house is in a quiet residential area, and while you can’t go inside since it’s a private home, it’s so recognizable from the movie that it’s worth the visit. We took some photos from across the street to avoid disturbing the residents. The view of the harbor from the house is amazing. Definitely one of the coolest spots on the Hocus Pocus tour!”
Questions and Answers about the Hocus Pocus film locations
Can you visit Max Dennison’s house from Hocus Pocus?
Yes, you can see the exterior of Max’s house, located at 4 Ocean Avenue in Salem. However, it is a private residence, so it’s not open to the public. Visitors can take photos from a respectful distance.
Was the Halloween party in Hocus Pocus filmed at a real location?
Yes, the exterior of the building where the Halloween party takes place was filmed at Old Town Hall, located at 32 Derby Square in Salem. The interior scenes, however, were shot on a set.
Where is the cemetery where Thackery Binx was turned into a cat?
The cemetery scenes were filmed at Old Burial Hill in Marblehead, Massachusetts, which is about a 15-minute drive from Salem. It is one of the oldest cemeteries in New England and is open to the public.
Is the Witch House featured in Hocus Pocus?
No, the Witch House is not in the movie, but it’s still a popular attraction in Salem. It’s the only structure in Salem with direct ties to the Salem Witch Trials of 1692, and visitors can tour the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, who played a key role in the trials.
What’s the best time to visit Salem for Hocus Pocus fans?
October is the most popular time to visit Salem, as the town fully embraces Halloween with festivals, events, and spooky tours. However, the town can be quite crowded, so it’s best to plan in advance. Visiting during the off-season is also a good option for those looking for a quieter experience.
Do you need to buy tickets to visit the Hocus Pocus filming locations?
Most of the filming locations are publicly accessible, so no tickets are required. However, some locations, like the Ropes Mansion and Pioneer Village, may have specific visiting hours or offer tours that require tickets. It’s best to check ahead.
Is parking available near the Hocus Pocus film locations?
Yes, parking is available in downtown Salem, though it can be limited, especially in October. Many filming locations are within walking distance of each other, so it’s best to park once and explore on foot.
Is Pickering Wharf featured in Hocus Pocus?
While Pickering Wharf wasn’t used as a filming location in Hocus Pocus, it’s a popular area to visit in Salem. Located on the waterfront, it has shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
Can you take a guided tour of the Hocus Pocus film locations?
Yes, there are several guided tours in Salem that include stops at the Hocus Pocus filming locations, especially in October. You can also explore the locations on your own by following online maps or resources.
How far is Marblehead from Salem?
Marblehead is about a 15-minute drive from Salem and is home to Old Burial Hill Cemetery, which was featured in Hocus Pocus. It’s a scenic coastal town worth visiting in addition to Salem.
Can I visit the set used for the Sanderson Sisters’ house?
Unfortunately, the Sanderson Sisters’ house was not a real location but a set built for the movie. However, Salem has many historic houses with similar colonial architecture that can give you the same eerie, historic vibe.
References:
1. Destination Salem: Hocus Pocus Locations
2. Peabody Essex Museum – Ropes Mansion
3. Salem Maritime National Historic Site
4. Old Burial Hill Cemetery
5. Pioneer Village
6. House of the Seven Gables
7. The Witch House