where to stay?

Question

I'm planning to come to Salem first weekend in October or last weekend in September.

Myself and 24 year old daughter we are coming for the highlights and tours of the Salem experience and very excited for this trip. I have looked thru the forum and read many topics.

I thought i narrowed it down to 3 hotels where location seems good but reviews are "iffy"

am open to other suggestions no more then $300 per night

Springhill suites by marriott peabody?

Hampton inn boston/ peabody

Hotel Marblehead

can someone suggest great accommodations within 2-3 miles i guess, $300

even bed and breakfast options are ideal

Thank you and i hope my request isnt to vague

Answer

It sounds like you're going to have a fantastic time in Salem! October is a particularly exciting time to visit, as the town comes alive with spooky Halloween-themed events and tours. Staying close to the Salem downtown area is ideal, especially for easy access to attractions like the Salem Witch Museum, the House of the Seven Gables, and the Witch Trials Memorial. However, some of the hotels you've considered may be a bit farther from the heart of Salem, and as you’ve noted, reviews can be hit or miss. Let’s explore some options within your price range that could give you a great experience:

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Peabody

This is a solid, affordable option and is about a 15-minute drive (7 miles) from downtown Salem. It’s a modern hotel with spacious rooms, free breakfast, and decent amenities. The downside is that it’s not walking distance to Salem’s main attractions, and you’ll need to drive or take a quick Uber/Lyft to get to the heart of the city.

Pros:
- Spacious, comfortable rooms with amenities like mini-fridges and microwaves.
- Free breakfast and other amenities like a pool and gym.
- Generally affordable for the area.
Cons:
- Not within walking distance to Salem’s main attractions.
- May not offer the same “charm” or local experience as staying in Salem itself.

Hampton Inn Boston/Peabody

Similar to the SpringHill Suites, this Hampton Inn is also about 10-15 minutes from downtown Salem (around 6-7 miles). It offers a good balance of comfort and value, with free breakfast and modern amenities. However, like the SpringHill Suites, it’s not in the middle of the action, so you’ll need transportation to get into Salem.

Pros:
- Good value for the price with comfortable rooms and free breakfast.
- Convenient location just off major highways, which is great for traveling around the area.
Cons:
- Not within walking distance to Salem’s attractions.
- Could feel more like a chain hotel rather than a unique Salem experience.

Hotel Marblehead

Hotel Marblehead is located in the neighboring town of Marblehead, about 4 miles from Salem. It’s a charming, boutique hotel that may offer more of a unique experience than the larger chain hotels. It’s situated in a lovely, quieter area with easy access to both Salem and Marblehead’s quaint downtown area.

Pros:
- Charming and more personalized atmosphere.
- Close to Marblehead’s historic attractions and scenic waterfront.
- Short drive to Salem.
Cons:
- Not as close to Salem’s attractions as some other options.
- Fewer amenities compared to chain hotels (no on-site restaurant, for example).

Alternative Suggestions (within 2-3 miles of Salem):

If you’re looking for something closer to Salem, especially in a charming bed and breakfast or smaller boutique hotel, here are a few options:

The Salem Inn – A highly rated historic bed and breakfast in the heart of Salem. It offers a cozy, historic experience and is within walking distance to Salem’s main attractions.
The Merchant – Another great boutique hotel in Salem itself. It’s small, modern, and located near the downtown area. The location is perfect for walking to the Witch Museum, shops, and restaurants.
Gables Inn – Located just outside Salem, this lovely bed and breakfast has a great location and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a short drive to the heart of Salem.

Final Thoughts:

If you really want to immerse yourself in the Salem experience, staying within walking distance of downtown is ideal. The Salem Inn or The Merchant would be excellent choices for proximity and charm. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option with great amenities, SpringHill Suites or Hampton Inn in Peabody can be considered, but keep in mind that you'll need to drive or take a short ride into Salem.

Wherever you stay, I’m sure you’ll have a fantastic time exploring Salem’s rich history and witchy vibes! Enjoy your trip!