Salem Witch Board Museum
Explore the fascinating history and lore of Ouija boards at Salem's unique museum, featuring one of the world's largest collections.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more curator time
Salem Witch Board Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more curator time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the fascinating history and lore of Ouija boards at Salem's unique museum, featuring one of the world's largest collections.
"The owner John is incredibly knowledgeable and enthusiastic about his collection, making it even more interesting."
🎯 Ask the Curator Questions
John is incredibly knowledgeable and loves to share stories! Don't be shy to ask him anything. :speech_balloon:
📸 Photo Opportunities
The owner is happy to take your photo with the boards! Capture your spooky memories. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
World's Largest Ouija Board Collection
Main exhibition hall
Marvel at an unparalleled collection of Ouija and spirit boards, showcasing their evolution and diverse designs.
The Owner's Engaging Stories
Throughout the museum
Hear captivating tales and historical insights from the passionate curator, John Kozik.
Hollywood's Influence on Ouija Lore
Explanatory displays
Discover how movies shaped public perception and the misunderstood history of these iconic boards.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Unlock the Secrets of the Ouija Board
Meet the Passionate Curator
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ask the Curator Questions
John is incredibly knowledgeable and loves to share stories! Don't be shy to ask him anything. :speech_balloon:
📸 Photo Opportunities
The owner is happy to take your photo with the boards! Capture your spooky memories. :camerawithflash:
💰 Admission Fee
Expect a small entry fee, usually around $10. It's well worth it for the unique experience. :moneywithwings:
📍 Location Insight
Find it on historic Essex Street, often inside Remember Salem. Easy to find! :round_pushpin:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ask the Curator Questions
John is incredibly knowledgeable and loves to share stories! Don't be shy to ask him anything. :speech_balloon:
📸 Photo Opportunities
The owner is happy to take your photo with the boards! Capture your spooky memories. :camerawithflash:
💰 Admission Fee
Expect a small entry fee, usually around $10. It's well worth it for the unique experience. :moneywithwings:
📍 Location Insight
Find it on historic Essex Street, often inside Remember Salem. Easy to find! :round_pushpin:
💡 Beyond the Hype
Learn the real history and dispel myths about Ouija boards, thanks to the museum's focus. :bulb:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Salem Witch Board Museum for its unique focus, extensive collection, and especially the passionate and knowledgeable curator, John Kozik. Many highlight his engaging storytelling and the educational value of understanding the misunderstood history of Ouija boards. While small, it's considered a worthwhile and memorable stop in Salem.
"I had so much fun here. The owner was so fun and had so much knowledge on the boards. I love history and horror movies so I knew a lot of answers to the questions he asked, my husband was teasing me raising his hand and saying oh me pick me I know the answer 😄we had such a blast there. When i walked in I had a certain perspective on the board because of the way I was raised however after hearing his perspective I was definitely seeing things differently. The history was very interesting and not to mention how many different things he was actually a part of. If you are into interesting history or horror this is definitely worth checking out."
Vanessa Rodriguez
"Such a great museum! If your into Witch Boards and history...John knows everything there is to know! There are some amazing pieces and stories he can tell you! Plus you can buy and old board! Thank you for sharing your passion!"
Randi Beadle
"Loved the museum. Definitely worth the admission cost. Our guide explained everything and showed us news stories and boards from back where we live in KC so that was fun. He was so interesting and lively. Highly recommend it!"
Kelsey Cotter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Salem Witch Board Museum is conveniently located on historic Essex Street in Salem, Massachusetts. It's often found within the Remember Salem shop. Many visitors find it easily accessible on foot while exploring downtown Salem.
Parking in downtown Salem can be challenging, especially during peak seasons. It's recommended to look for public parking garages or lots a short walk away from Essex Street. Consider using ride-sharing services if you're staying further out.
Absolutely! The Salem Witch Board Museum is centrally located and within walking distance of many other popular Salem attractions like the Witch Trials Memorial and the Museum of Torture.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission typically costs around $10 per person. This fee grants you access to the unique collection and an engaging experience with the curator.
While advance tickets might not always be necessary, it's a good idea to check their official website or social media, especially during busy periods like October. This ensures you don't miss out.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check their social media or website for the most up-to-date information. They are generally open during regular business hours, but confirm before your visit.
The museum focuses on the history and lore of Ouija boards. While generally family-friendly, the subject matter might be more engaging for older children and adults. Parental discretion is advised.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find one of the world's largest collections of Ouija and spirit boards, dating back to their origins. The museum delves into their history, cultural impact, and the role of Hollywood in shaping their reputation.
Visitors frequently praise John Kozik, the owner and curator, for his extensive knowledge and engaging personality. He often leads tours and shares fascinating stories about his collection. +1
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the museum. The owner is even known to happily take photos of visitors with the boards.
While not a hands-on interactive museum in the traditional sense, the experience is highly interactive through the curator's storytelling and the visual display of the boards. You'll learn a lot!
Unlike many other Salem attractions focusing on witch trials, this museum offers a deep dive into the specific history and cultural impact of Ouija boards, a niche yet fascinating topic. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Essex Street and the surrounding areas in downtown Salem offer a wide variety of dining options, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants. You'll find plenty of choices to suit your taste.
It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the museum to protect the exhibits. There are usually no food or beverage services within the museum itself.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire collection is visually interesting! The owner is also happy to take photos of you with the boards, making for unique souvenirs.
Generally, photography is permitted for personal use. However, it's always a good practice to ask the staff if you plan on using flash or professional equipment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations: Discuss the museum's theme beforehand to set expectations. The owner's passion can make the history come alive, and he's known to be friendly and accommodating. It's a good alternative to more intense witch trial attractions if your family is looking for something different.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
Key recommendations: Engage with the curator, John Kozik, who has deep knowledge of the boards and their alleged connections to the spirit world. Many visitors find the stories behind certain boards particularly chilling and intriguing.
📚 History Buffs
Key recommendations: Take your time to read the exhibits and listen to the curator's explanations. You'll gain insights into how games and popular culture can reflect and shape societal beliefs and anxieties.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fascinating History of Ouija Boards
Hollywood's Impact significantly altered the public's perception of Ouija boards. Films like 'The Exorcist' cemented their association with demonic possession and fear, leading to decades of blacklisting and misunderstanding. The museum aims to educate visitors about this shift, showcasing how cinema played a crucial role in shaping our cultural narrative around these talking boards.
Visitors often leave with a newfound appreciation for the historical and cultural significance of Ouija boards, moving beyond the sensationalism. The museum's curator, John Kozik, is lauded for his ability to present this history in an engaging and informative way, making it a truly memorable experience.
Meet John Kozik: Curator and Storyteller
Kozik's enthusiasm is infectious, making even those initially skeptical about Ouija boards captivated by the museum's narrative. He often shares personal stories related to his collection and the boards themselves, creating a deeply personal and memorable experience for visitors. Many reviewers mention that they could have spent all day listening to him.
His dedication to preserving and sharing the history of these unique artifacts is evident, making the Salem Witch Board Museum more than just an exhibition – it's a personal journey guided by an expert.
+1Beyond the Spooky: Educational Value
Visitors learn about the spiritualist movement, the patent history of the Ouija board, and how it transitioned from a parlor game to a symbol of the supernatural in popular culture. The museum challenges common misconceptions and offers a more nuanced understanding of these objects.
This focus on history and cultural impact makes the museum a valuable stop for anyone interested in social history, the evolution of games, or the intersection of technology and belief. It's a chance to learn something new and surprising in the heart of Salem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit