It's no question that watching Hocus Pocus is one of the ultimate Halloween activities—a rite of passage, even! It's one of the best (and most nostalgic) Halloween movies out there, having given us many of the iconic quotes that we all still say today. "It's just a bunch of hocus pocus!" 🧙‍♀️ The classic film will definitely be played throughout the month of October, and now that there's a modern day sequel—yes, we're talking about Hocus Pocus 2—there's even more reason to dive into the magical film.
To refresh your memory: The first movie follows a group of teenagers on a dangerous quest to stop a coven of evil witches from achieving immortality. Unlike the Sanderson Sisters, this film is undying—which is to say it will always live on in our hearts. The second film takes place over three decades later, following a group of teen girls who have the unfortunate pleasure of stumbling upon the infamous Salem candle, lighting it and waking up the Sanderson sisters once more.
After watching the adventures of Max, Dani, Allison, and Binx for the zillionth time (and our new favorite group: Becca, Izzy, and Cassie), you might start to wonder: Where are the Hocus Pocus movies filmed? Many of the most famous scenes were shot on location 28 years ago in Salem, Massachusetts—and you can actually see them with your own eyes. But the sequel has added some more stunning sites to the list! Read on to learn about all the real-life Hocus Pocus filming locations that anyone can visit.
Salem, Massachusetts: 1600s
You might recognize the exterior of this village from the opening scene set in the 17th century. This rustic, colonial backdrop was where Thackery Binx searched for his sister Emily before the Sanderson sisters infamously turned him into a black cat. This clip was shot in Pioneer Village, which is known as America's first living history museum. The village is open to the public on weekends from 12 to 4 p.m. through the month of October. If you're taking a Hocus Pocus tour, this is the place to start!
Max and Dani's House
Yes, you can see the real-life location where the Sanderson Sisters were resurrected—if you dare! This private residence located at 4 Ocean Ave in Salem dates all the way back to 1870. Visitors probably shouldn't go knocking, but you can take a stroll by the house and admire its iconic exterior.
Allison's House
You'll definitely want to make Allison's house a stop on your Hocus Pocus tour. Owned by the Peabody Essex Museum and known as Ropes Mansion, this opulent residence resumes house tours on July 24 and continues weekends through October 30. For an added bonus, check out the gorgeous Colonial Revival garden located in the back to get some gardening inspiration.
Max and Allison's High School
Formerly known Phillips Elementary School, this abandoned school building was converted into Jacob Bailey High School in 1993 for the filming of Hocus Pocus. While the building now houses apartments and is not open to the public, it's still visible from Salem Common public park across the street. Visitors are welcome to snap pictures!
The Salem Halloween Party
Legend has it you can still hear Winifred's voice singing "I Put A Spell On You" echoing from the building where the town's Halloween party took place. Find out for yourself, because you can visit the Old Town Hall that is now home to The Salem Museum. The space is open from 12 to 5 p.m. daily through October 31.
The Cemetery
You might recall Max's encounter with a pair of bullies in the cemetery on his way home from school. Those shots were filmed at Old Burial Hill in Marblehead, Massachusetts, only a short drive from Salem. The historic cemetery—a burial site of an estimated 600 Revolutionary soldiers—is extremely picturesque and features panoramic views of Old Marblehead, the harbor, and the sea. Are you brave enough to check it out? It's open to the public!
Samuel Skelton High School
Hocus Pocus 2 did not disappoint with its stunning visuals and vibrant scenery. Many of the scenes in the film's sequel took place at the local high school in Salem—but were actually shot at La Salle Academy, a private preparatory school in Providence, Rhode Island. The state alone is a gorgeous place to visit anytime of year. So, if you ever find yourself over at "The Ocean State," you could pass by the campus grounds to see where the magic really took place.
