{"id":3603,"date":"2018-04-04T19:38:31","date_gmt":"2018-04-04T23:38:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thingstodoinsa.wpenginepowered.com\/?p=3603"},"modified":"2020-04-05T12:10:19","modified_gmt":"2020-04-05T16:10:19","slug":"how-to-visit-salem-ma-with-no-regrets","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thingstodoinsalem.com\/index.php\/2018\/04\/04\/how-to-visit-salem-ma-with-no-regrets\/","title":{"rendered":"How to visit Salem, MA with no regrets"},"content":{"rendered":"

Okay, so I know the title of this blog post is a little odd, but let me explain. We have all experienced going on vacation somewhere new, flying by the seat of your pants and leaving going \u201cdang, I wish I had (blank) or thought of (blank) before hand.\u201d Welp, that\u2019s what we\u2019re going to chat about today!<\/p>\n

Buy the thing<\/h3>\n

The first one I want to point out is simple. Buy the thing. If you\u2019re in one of Salem\u2019s many lovely shops and something really catches your eye\u2026buy it. This isn\u2019t to say you should throw money around without thought\u2026remember your budget if you have one. However, much of what you see in Salem is unique and one of a kind. Hand made or specific to the area. You probably won\u2019t be able to go on Amazon when you\u2019re home and pick it up afterwards if you\u2019re still kicking yourself. If you can\u2019t stop thinking about it and it\u2019s within your means to do so\u2026buy the dang thing! You might not have another opportunity.<\/p>\n

Dress up<\/h3>\n

Next, if you\u2019re visiting the witch city around Halloween, you\u2019re likely going to regret not having a costume. If you\u2019re uncomfortable dressing up for any reason, of course that\u2019s an entirely separate thing. However, if you\u2019re into the idea and coming in during Haunted Happenings, dress up<\/em>! You\u2019ll be in good company, I promise promise promise promise you. You won\u2019t be the only one or feel out of place. Some people spend literal months working on their costume before hand. If you find yourself in Salem scrambling to throw something together, I have you covered. \ud83d\ude1b<\/p>\n

Related:<\/strong> Five places to grab last minute Halloween costume props in Salem, MA<\/a><\/p>\n

Call ahead<\/h3>\n

Third on my list of potential regrets is missing out on an attraction or event due to being unprepared. If you are traveling in from a distance, call ahead. Some businesses in Salem keep seasonal hours or are closed during the winter so keep this in mind. It would be a shame to come into town with your hopes hung on something only to find the doors closed or tickets sold out. Make a call, book tickets ahead of time, research online and come into town with a plan. This goes extra for those who are visiting close to Halloween. You\u2019ll be happy you planned ahead, trust me.<\/p>\n

Give yourself time<\/h3>\n

A plan is important (as mentioned) and so is time. Give yourself time, guys. <\/em>Yes, you can do a highlights reel of Salem in one day, however if you have a \u201cmust see\u201d list that is three pages, you\u2019ll need extra time. I\u2019d suggest staying at least one night if you have the means to do so, this way you can be sure to check that list off without running. The last thing you want to do is leave without seeing something you were really excited for. Again, this applies extra to October. Many attractions will be crowded and have long waits, so adjust for that accordingly.<\/p>\n

Related:<\/strong> Salem, MA in one day<\/a><\/p>\n

Finally, a few simple logistics to make sure you aren\u2019t regretful: bring some cash, wear comfortable shoes, find a map either online or in print and make sure you have my guide<\/a> or workbook<\/a>. Have FUN! <3<\/p>\n

Recommended reading | You might also like\u2026<\/h3>\n