When I planned my trip to Salem, Massachusetts, I expected to see a lot of witchy shops, touristy gift stores, and places selling spell kits and crystals. And yeah, I saw all that—but BlackCraft Salem? That was something else entirely.

Whether you’re into the goth/alt aesthetic, love heavy music, or just appreciate bold, unapologetic branding, this shop is a must. Here’s my honest, first-timer experience at the BlackCraft store in Salem, MA, and why it totally surprised me.

First Impressions Walking Up

You can’t miss it. The exterior is all black with bold signage that feels more tattoo parlor than boutique. And that’s what I loved right away—BlackCraft feels different from everything else in Salem. It’s like Hot Topic grew up, found witchcraft, and opened a shop in the most haunted town in America.

The vibe is moody but welcoming. No judgment here—just cool people who clearly live the lifestyle.

Sign for BlackCraft Salem featuring a pentagram and the phrase 'Believe in Yourself', hanging from a building.

Inside BlackCraft: Dark, Clean, and Seriously Cool

The second I walked through the door, I knew I was going to spend money. The interior is sleek, with black walls, skull decor, dramatic lighting, and racks of clothing that blend occult vibes with modern streetwear. You’ll find shirts that say things like “Believe in Yourself” with inverted crosses and goat heads—and somehow it totally works.

I’m not usually a big clothes shopper, but I picked up a hoodie that I swear is the softest thing I own now. They also had:

  • Graphic tees with anti-authority messages
  • Beanies, candles, enamel pins, tarot cards
  • Limited-edition drops and collabs (some stuff was only available at this location)

It’s more than just a goth shop—it’s a vibe. A lifestyle store that doesn’t feel forced or fake.

Who Shops Here?

Everyone. Seriously. I saw couples in their 20s, older metalheads like me, tourists, and even a family with a teenage daughter picking out her first hoodie. No gatekeeping, no attitude—just people who dig the aesthetic and want something cool and different from your typical Salem witch shop.

BlackCraft Salem vs. Other Witchy Stores

Don’t get me wrong—there are a lot of cool stores in Salem. But BlackCraft is easily one of the most unique. Most shops lean into old-school witchcraft, crystals, incense, and tarot. This one leans hard into alternative fashion, self-empowerment, and rebellion—and it does it in a way that’s both stylish and smart.

It’s also a brand with a bigger reach. They have a cult following online, but visiting the flagship BlackCraft Salem store in person just hits different.

What I Bought

I left with:

  • A hoodie that says “Create Your Own Future”
  • A pentagram coffee mug (yes, I now drink my morning coffee like a badass)
  • A BlackCraft sticker pack I slapped on my laptop as soon as I got home

No regrets.

A logo for BlackCraft Salem featuring a broomstick and the text 'BLACKCRAFT SALEM' in bold lettering on a black background.

Final Thoughts: Is BlackCraft Salem Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Even if you’re not normally into the gothic look, this place is worth a stop. It’s visually stunning, the quality of the gear is legit, and it’s one of the few shops in Salem that feels like a true brand experience, not just a place to buy souvenirs.

If you’re heading to Salem and want to mix things up from the standard haunted tours and historic stops, add BlackCraft to your list.

You might not walk out a full-on goth… but you will walk out with something awesome.


Quick Tips for Visiting BlackCraft Salem

  • 📍 Located at 253 Essex Street, right in the heart of downtown Salem
  • 🕒 Try to go earlier in the day—afternoons get crowded, especially in October
  • 🛍️ Sizes go fast—if you see something you like, grab it
  • 📸 The store is very Instagrammable (but be respectful when taking pics)