Today on the blog we have a little something different. I got this idea from a fellow blogger and I liked how easily I could adapt this to fit Salem, MA and budgeting for a Salem trip. So the following is a little list of “is it worth it?” or “save versus splurge” if you will. I have two options, one cheaper than the other, followed by my thoughts on the matter. Keep in mind this is just my two cents and you’re more than welcome to comment with your own ideas and input! This isn’t to cast any attraction in a bad light or make it seem like one is negative. It is simply a comparison of where I’d personally spend my money (or not) in Salem.
Ubering into Salem versus taking the train
This one comes up a lot in my Facebook group and it honestly depends on where you’re coming into Salem from. If you’re flying into Boston Logan Airport and need to get into Salem, my vote goes to Uber. If you’re staying along the north shore, say in Rockport for example, then hop the train. It’ll bring you right into downtown Salem and back.
Staying at a hotel in Salem versus staying outside of Salem
This depends on a few factors, but overall my answer would be to stay in Salem if you can afford it. It removes the headache of shuttling back and forth in and out of Salem, makes parking a no brainer and removes a ton of stress.
Related: Which Salem, MA hotels have parking?
Hopping the trolley versus walking the Heritage Trail
Easy peasy. The Trolley, hands down. Sure, the Heritage Trail is great. However, the ability to sit down and be shuttled around Salem’s landmarks after you have been walking all day is great, the guides narrate the information for you and overall it’s 100% worth it in my opinion.
Related: The one Salem, MA attraction that I recommend every time
Visiting Salem during peak season in October vs. another time of year
This is another one that comes up a lot in my Facebook group. Sure, the crowds are intense and there is a lot going on, however in my opinion it’s entirely worth experiencing Salem during October at least once.
Which meal to go light on
If I could pick a meal to go light on or skimp, I’d choose lunch. Salem has many delicious restaurants and it’s kinda hard to go wrong, but I’d save my food budget for a yummy breakfast and dinner.
Free tour of The Ropes Mansion or paid tour of The Witch House
In my opinion, I’d go for the Witch House. However, checking out the gardens behind the Ropes Mansion is a good idea if you ask me. They’re gorgeous in bloom.
Paid tour of The Witch House or paid tour of The House of the Seven Gables
Another easy one for me…The Gables. Every time I have toured the property I have learned something new, noticed something new and generally had an amazing time.
Related: Behind the scenes at the House of the Seven Gables
Witch Dungeon Museum versus the Salem Witch Museum
If it came down to choosing between these two, I’d go with the Salem Witch Museum personally.
October performances at the House of the Seven Gables or an October showing of Cry Innocent
As much as I love the Gables, the one goes to Cry Innocent. Cry Innocent is a mock witchcraft trial from the 1600’s where you as an audience member are part of the trial process.
Visiting the Old Burying Point and Witch trials Memorial or visiting Proctor’s Ledge
This one doesn’t come down to money because they are both free…however I’d go to the burying point and memorial over Proctor’s Ledge, personally. Proctor’s Ledge is done well and worth checking out, but is a bit of a hike from the main downtown area. If I were on a time crunch and could only do one – that would be my call.
Related:
City of Salem votes to close Charter Street Cemetery during Oct. 2019
A photo tour of the Proctor’s Ledge Memorial, Salem MA
I hope this helped!! If you have thoughts of your own feel free to comment below. Enjoy!! <3
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