Parking 10/28

Question

We will be coming down from Maine into Boston on 10/28. We're going to spend that day in Salem. How early do we need to get there to find parking? I know the earlier the better. Are we talking 8 am or 10 am? Or what time? Thanks!

Answer

Salem can get very busy in late October, especially as Halloween approaches. While it’s not quite the peak weekend yet, parking tends to fill up quickly due to the town’s popularity for its historic sites and haunted attractions.

For a day visit on 10/28, arriving earlier is definitely recommended to secure convenient parking and to avoid long walks or hunting for a spot.

Arrival time: Aim to arrive around 8:00–8:30 am if you want to park near the main historic and downtown areas. By 9:30–10:00 am, most prime spots can already be taken, especially on weekends.
Parking options: There are several municipal lots around downtown Salem, including the South Harbor Garage and the Blaney Street lot. Street parking is limited and fills up fast.
Alternative options: If early parking is not possible, consider parking slightly further out from downtown and walking or taking a short Uber/Lyft ride into the main area.

Arriving early also allows you to enjoy the historic sites, museums, and shops before crowds increase, making for a more relaxed visit. If your goal is to maximize time in Salem without stress, 8:00 am is the safest bet.