Hi everyone, happy Monday and welcome back to the blog. ChatGPT this and ChatGPT that…we have been hearing about this new AI technology pretty much non-stop for the last several months, it seems. So I sat down and decided to ask it about Salem to see what type of information it could provide to me based on what the internet knows about Salem. I have to say, I was honestly pretty impressed.

“When planning a trip to Salem, it’s essential to consider the timing of your visit. The city experiences peak tourist seasons during Halloween and the summer months. If you prefer a less crowded experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall when the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are more manageable. Keep in mind that if you want to experience the city’s Halloween festivities, October is the prime time to visit, but accommodations may be in high demand.”

10/10 right out of the gate. I asked ChatGPT to tell me about planning a trip to Salem, MA and that was the first thing it supplied. I seriously couldn’t agree more.

Salem is at peak through the fall, beginning in September and carrying through the first week or so of November. If you want to avoid those crowds, consider visiting us “off season”. There is something going on, year round. In fact, one of my favorite festivals, the Salem’s So Sweet festival, happens in the winter in February. We also have an arts festival in June, maritime festivals and events, a film festival, a spirits and comedy festival, Pride events, food trucks festivals and so much more. I promise, it’s not all focused on Halloween. I have created an entire “off season” guide to Salem called Salem’s Other Seasons. If you’re visiting us in the winter, spring or summer, it will help you plan your visit and enjoy all that the witch city has to offer.

“Salem offers a wide range of attractions and activities to explore. Start by visiting the Salem Witch Museum or the Witch House to learn about the history of the witch trials. The Peabody Essex Museum is a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts, with its extensive collection of maritime artifacts and world-class exhibitions. Additionally, consider taking a walking tour of the city to discover its historic sites, such as the House of the Seven Gables or the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. Don’t forget to explore the unique shops, boutiques, and restaurants in the downtown area as well.”

This is also extremely solid advice. I know many people visit us here in Salem because they are drawn to the spooky stories, to the Halloween vibes, the history of the Witch Trials, the green faced witches and jump scares. I get it. I promise I do. However, Salem is SO much more than Halloweentown. Salem has a rich maritime history and deep ties to the sea and trade. Salem is the birthplace of the National Guard. Salem is home to the Peabody Essex Museum, which has the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating and collecting museum in the United States. Salem is where Parker Brothers Games first began. Salem has inspired many TV shows, movies, books and video games. There is so much more going on here than Halloween and if you DO choose to visit us in the winter, spring or summer I promise you’ll find plenty of history to discover.

“Salem is located about 16 miles north of Boston and can be easily accessed by car, train, or ferry. If you’re flying into the area, Boston’s Logan International Airport is the nearest major airport. Once in Salem, the city is compact and easily walkable, but there are also options for public transportation, including buses and a commuter rail that connects to Boston. When it comes to accommodation, Salem offers a range of options, from boutique hotels and charming bed and breakfasts to vacation rentals. It’s advisable to book your accommodation well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best options and rates.”

The last bit of wisdom that ChatGPT offered is also good. Salem is very publicly accessible and if you’re visiting in the fall it’s best not to drive here. As we approach Halloween the roads become extremely congested, traffic backs way up, parking is scarce and road closures become necessary. Take public transit, book your hotel WAY in advance if you’re coming in the fall and be prepared for all of the wonderful, insane chaos that is October in Salem.

All in all I give this information generated by ChatGPT a 10/10. The three pearls of wisdom it provided for me are informative and helpful in getting the most out of your visit to Salem. What do you guys think I should ask ChatGPT next?

Recommended reading | You might also like…

• A first timer’s guide to planning a fall trip to Salem, MA
• The most Instagrammable places in Salem, MA — Part IV (2023)

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