In Salem, keep it real. It's a city that lives on tourists. Within the first 6 months of living on Brown Street, I did every touristy thing you could and that's just what it was. You're in Salem because the history peaks your interest. You can learn the history from The Witch Museum and the Witch dungeons, The pirate museum etc for a price for each or you can purchase some books at the local shops and take a walking tour on your own. Ask the residents. Take a poke into Laurie Cabot's shops (along with her daughter's shops). Stop by and actually feel the MAGIC. if your looking to shop then don't come around October.