Most people think of Salem, Massachusetts, as the ultimate October destination, filled with witch hats and orange leaves. But we "Four Fine Friends" recently decided to see the "Witch City" in a different light—specifically, the bright white light of the biggest snowstorm the area has seen in 20 years!

What is normally one of the most walkable, charming towns in New England transformed overnight into a glistening, frozen labyrinth. Those historic, narrow brick pathways we love so much became a puzzle of waist-high drifts and narrow shoveled trenches. Navigating the town felt less like a leisurely stroll and more like a high-stakes game of "Don't Fall in the Snowbank." Yet, despite the sub-zero challenges, Salem’s warmth managed to shine through the frost.

Cozy Eats: Fueling the Trek

When the wind is whipping off the Atlantic, you need serious sustenance. We found our sanctuary in two of Salem's most iconic spots:

• Life Alive Organic Cafe: If you need a vibrant "reset" for your body, this is the place. Their warm grain bowls and steaming lattes were the perfect antidote to the icy weather. The interior is a colorful, bohemian oasis that made us forget about the gray skies outside.
• Gulu-Gulu Cafe: This quirky, bohemian hangout is a Salem staple for a reason. Whether you're there for a savory crepe or a massive mug of coffee, the vibe is always "stay a while." It’s the kind of place where you can dry your mittens and watch the snow pile up against the window with a smile.

Tunes & Taps: East Regiment Brewing

After an late afternoon of navigating the snowy maze, we found the ultimate reward at East Regiment Brewing. This craft brewing spot is "very cool" in every sense of the word, featuring a rustic, industrial vibe that feels both historic and modern.

The highlight of the night was the live music. We have to give a massive shout-out to Dylan Moore, whose set provided the perfect soundtrack for the evening. There’s something special about sipping a well-crafted local beer while listening to great live tunes as the world outside is buried in white. It turned a potentially "stuck" weekend into a memorable highlight.

The Salem "Next Time" List

While we loved the snowy drama, we couldn't help but look at the buried historic markers and think about what lies beneath. Salem’s history, from the infamous Witch Trials of 1692 to its era as a powerhouse of the maritime spice trade, is written in its architecture.

We’re already dreaming of a return trip where the Heritage Trail (the red line painted on the sidewalk) isn't hidden under three feet of powder! We want to see the House of the Seven Gables without needing snowshoes and wander the McIntire Historic District when the gardens are in bloom.