Salem, Massachusetts may be one of the spookiest towns in America. Best known for the witchcraft trials of 1692, October is a particularly good time to visit Salem when the “Halloween Capital of the World” comes alive.
Beginning October 1, Salem kicks off a full calendar of Haunted Happenings that range from a Haunted Harbor Cruise, reenacted scenes of the Witchcraft Hysteria, Costume Galas (for both adults and pets) and a ‘Mourning Tea,’ which celebrates the dearly departed. Salem in October has something for everyone – for the entire family, adult-only events, and those seeking wheelchair accessible vacations. Vendors fill the streets with the most unusual wares in a place where it’s not uncommon to see people in costume month-long.
Salem also has specialty museums, a rich maritime heritage, green city parks, and superb seafood. With a wheelchair rental in Salem, MA, visitors can follow the Salem Heritage Trail, a Red Line along the sidewalks to navigate through Salem’s sites. The Witch History Museum, The Salem Witch Museum, Cry Innocent, the Tall Ship Friendship and the fascinating collection of art and history at the Peabody Essex Museum are all worth visiting on a handicapped accessible vacation. As some of Salem’s sites date back to the 17th century, they either have limited accessibility or no accessibility. The outside of Salem Pioneer Village 1630 is wheelchair accessible, while the first floors of the Derby House (home of America’s first millionaire) and the Narbonne House can accommodate standard wheelchairs up to 26” in width. Derby House and Narbonne House recommend that you call at least three days in advance (978 740-1660).
If you’re looking to learn more about Salem’s rich history during your handicapped accessible vacation, the Salem Regional Visitor Center shows a 27-minute film “Where Past is Present,” on the history of Salem. The Salem Maritime National Historic Site shows an 18-minute film “To the Farthest Ports of the Rich East,” on Salem’s maritime history. Both films are free and accessible for a wheelchair rental in Salem, MA.
Visit salem.org for more information on handicapped vacations for visitors with special needs and to request a visitor guide that identifies all of Salem’s wheelchair accessible attractions, museums, restaurants, shops and tours.
Special Needs Group offers a variety of rentals including scooters, powerchairs, oxygen equipment, and wheelchair rentals in Salem, MA, as well as in Boston. Call your travel agent to order your equipment today!
Interesting Fact: Nathaniel Hawthorne was born “Nathaniel Hathorne” but changed his name to disassociate himself from his ancestor John Hathorne, a judge at the Salem Witch trials.
Cruise Information: Carnival, Celebrity, Crystal, Cunard, Holland America, Princess, Royal Caribbean all sail from Boston.