Nearly 30 years since the original Hocus Pocus aired in 1993, we’re *finally* getting the sequel we’ve been asking for. Hocus Pocus 2 hits Disney+ on September 30. Like the original, the sequel will focus on sisters Winifred (Bette Midler), Mary (Kathy Najimy), and Sarah (Sarah Jessica Parker) as they are summoned into modern times by teens in Salem, Massachusetts. With the sequel set in the same town, you may be wondering “Where was Hocus Pocus filmed?”
So – here’s the scoop. Plenty of the scenes were literally shot where the story takes place – Salem, MA. Better yet – you can actually visit some of the filming locations in the town. When it comes to the OG movie, parts of the production took place in Salem while other scenes were shot in studios. So how about Hocus Pocus 2? The new movie was primarily shot in Rhode Island, where sets were built, according to Movieweb. The Providence Journal adds that the streets of Federal Hill were made to imitate those in Salem.
But if you’re down for a road trip, you can still visit where the first Hocus Pocus was filmed in real life.
Sanderson Sisters’ Cottage
For the first time ever, one fan will be able to spend the night at a re-creation of the Sanderson sisters’ witchy cottage. The Airbnb features lots of fun details from the movies, such as a replica of the witches’ ancient spell book. During the guest’s stay, they’ll be able to visit some of Salem’s most haunted properties and enjoy a special screening of Hocus Pocus 2.
The fan who books the exclusive, two-person stay on October 20 at this two-bedroom, two bathroom cottage will only pay $31 for the night. The booking opens on Wednesday, October 12 at 1 p.m. EST, exclusively at: airbnb.com/hocuspocus2
Max & Dani’s House
Location: 4 Ocean Avenue in Salem, MA
The home where Max and Dani lived and opened the Sanderson sisters’ spell book is now a private residence. However, fans can still catch a glimpse of the exterior of the home as long as they remain respectful to the homeowners and property.
Allison’s House
Location: Ropes Mansion, 318 Essex Street in Salem, MA
Max’s crush, Allison (Vanessa Shaw), who joined the siblings on their spooky mission, lived in this lovely home. Located in the McIntyre Historic District, the Ropes Mansion is an infamous building and listed on the National Register of Historic Places for having housed Nathaniel Ropes, a famous merchant and attorney in the 1700s. The garden and greenhouse of the mansion owned by the Peabody Essex Museum are open for visitors.
The Town Halloween Party
Location: Old Town Hall, 32 Derby Square in Salem, MA
In Hocus Pocus, Winifred and her sisters sing “I Put A Spell On You” at Old Town Hall. In real life, the filming location is the home of the Salem Witch Museum. The museum is available to the public from 12 to 5 p.m. ET, with the area occasionally being used for performances of the play Cry Innocent, which is based on the Salem witch trials.
Salem Common
According to Salem.org, some of the outdoor scenes in the original film were shot at Salem Common, a park in downtown Salem that was founded in the 17th century. The park hosts a Halloween event each year named Haunted Happenings, showcasing a selection of movies. Obviously, Hocus Pocus often makes an appearance on the event’s big screen.
Salem in the 1600s
Location: Pioneer Village, 310 West Avenue in Salem, MA
The Pioneer Village was built in 1930, but meant to imitate the colonial architecture of the 1600s, complete with thatched roof cottages, wigwams, and more. Visitors are transported back in time in the opening scenes of the film.
The High School
Location: Phillips Elementary School, 56. South Washington Square in Salem, MA.
The old school building is now an apartment complex. Even though it’s not open for public visitation, you can sneak a peak at Max and Allison’s school while walking down South Washington Square.
The Town Cemetery
Location: Old Burial Hill in Marblehead, MA
Only five miles outside of Salem, you can visit the location where they filmed the daytime cemetery scenes.
