While Salem, MA is known for the Salem Witch Trials and the Haunted Happenings which occur in October, there are plenty of other things to do in Salem with kids including the Peabody Essex Museum, the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, the Pirate Museum, high tea at Jolie Tea Company, and games at the Bit Bar. I would recommend avoiding visiting in October when the town is very crowded with visitors looking for all things witchy.