Heading From the Hudson Valley to Salem for Spooky Season? Read This First

Why Are Millennials Obsessed with Halloween and Spooky Season?

I know I'm not alone here, but fall is my favorite time of year. Mainly because it's spooky season.

Why are millennials so obsessed with Halloween? It probably has something to do with watching Hocus Pocus and Halloween town as kids. And, shocker, I watched Hocus Pocus every day in October growing up.

So, yes. I have a weird obsession with the city of Salem, Massachusetts.

I've been to the New England city a few times over the years and recently went just in time for the start of their Haunted Happenings Marketplace weekends.

If you're anything like me and Salem is in your future, here's what you should expect if you're heading to see the witches from the Hudson Valley.

What To Expect in Salem, Massachusetts in October

Here's the thing, if you're going to Salem Massachusetts on a week you need to expect big crowds, long lines and waits to get into almost every store.

Your best friend if you're heading to Salem is RESEARCH.

via Jessica Buono

If you're interested in going to a specific restaurant, museum or store, check their social media pages or websites.

You'll find out if you need a reservation or tickets to get in.

For instance, I wanted to check out the Salem Witch House. Tickets are required and said tickets are only available for purchase online at 8 am, day of.

Shops like Blackcraft Salem will have long lines for entry. The wait will be worth it, but it'll take some time.

Additionally, if you visit any of the memorials or cemeteries, please show some respect. Recent posts in Facebook groups show pictures of memorials of the victims from the Salem Witch Trials covered in garbage.

Don't be that person.

Follow local Salem pages on social media! They usually post timely updates and information. Here's one of my personal favorites:

Lodging and Travel in Salem, Massachusetts

Booking a spooky hotel room or Airbnb sounds fun in September and October, right?

I'm sure it is, BUT you'll have to do it months in advance. Even the hotels are booked way far in advance.

My group and I booked a hotel in Boston, took an Uber to the MBTA and took the train into Salem. Trains in October leave every half hour and run way later than the regular schedule.

I'll be honest with you, trying to park and drive in and around Salem in a nightmare. Parking in lots will run you anywhere between $30 to $50 from what I saw.

Public transportation is your friend! The trip to Salem is worth it, but you'll need to pack your patience.

And maybe wait until November or the spring if you want to miss out on the crowds.