How to choose what to do in Salem, MA

Hi everyone. Happy Monday and welcome back to the blog. Today I wanted to chat about how to choose what to do in Salem, MA, especially when you want to go everywhere. Before I get into it, just keep in mind there is no right or wrong way to visit Salem or plan your trip. The city has something to offer for everyone and going without a plan can be just as enjoyable as going with one. There is no way set way. The following are just a few tips to help you narrow down what to do if you’re having trouble with that. I hope it helps!

Please also keep in mind that if you’re visiting Salem from a distance or out of state, COVID-19 based travel restrictions may apply to you. Be sure to do the appropriate research ahead of time to keep yourself and Salem’s locals safe.

First, consider the size of your group and who is with you

Are you bringing the kiddos to Salem? If so, you’re likely going to be seeking family friendly content and attractions. Salem does have some of that available and there are even walking tours gearing towards the younger ones. If you have a large group with you, there are also a few things to consider when it comes to finances, group based activities, accommodations and more.

The following links might help you gather some ideas:

Are you on a time constraint?

Are you just in Salem for just a day or a few hours? Or do you have an entire weekend? If you have the time and funds to stay in Salem at least one night, that is what I’d go for. However I know that isn’t always an option. If you are short on daylight, I’d suggest the following:

Hop the Salem Trolley. This is a quick way to sight see and get to peek at some of Salem’s major landmarks and historic areas. This is way faster than trying to walk around to all of them from one side of the city to the other or route it out on your own.
Grab food you can eat on the go while you walk versus dining in. Eating a sandwich while on foot will save you time compared to sitting down inside Rockafellas for drinks and a meal, for example.
Buy tickets ahead of time where you can. This will help you schedule the limited time you have so you aren’t waiting around and can make the best use of your day.

What time of year are you visiting?

This one should be pretty obvious: If you’re visiting Salem in the fall, book everything super early. This applies extra to 2021. So many people had to cancel their 2020 visit so 2021 is going to be absolutely nuts assuming COVID is more under control by then. Pick the high priority items that you’re most drawn to from the list and book those. Then fill in the blank spaces from there.

On that note about yearly timing, be sure to recognize seasonal closures. Not all of Salem’s attractions operate year ’round and some businesses take a break in November after the October rush of tourists. This might help narrow your list down right off the bat for you.

Salem is more than Halloween. What topics are you most interested in?

Salem is SO much more than just Halloween town. You can visit the city to experience attractions and history coming from many different angles. Here are just a few (with links) to get you started.

Visit Salem as someone into history
Learn about the Salem Witch Trials ft. local historian Jen Ratliff
A photo tour of the Proctor’s Ledge Memorial, Salem MA
Behind the scenes at the House of the Seven Gables
Visit Salem as someone into the metaphysical
Book a tarot card reading from me
How to pick a tarot reader in Salem, MA
My experiences having my tarot cards read in Salem, MA
Visit Salem as a creative
Salem’s So Sweet 2021
The most Instagrammable places in Salem, MA — Part III (2020)
How to start your own blog
Salem Arts Festival
Visit Salem with your partner
SalemMAWedding.com
10 Date night ideas in Salem, MA
Visit Salem from the water
The Schooner Fame — Salem, MA attractions reviews
Five ways to enjoy the nautical aspect of Salem, MA

I hope this helps! The above info is by no means all inclusive. It is just meant to get the ideas kicking around. Have fun, be safe and enjoy!! <3