Need help… last minute trip… please

Question

My wife’s bday is next week (week of 10/6) and our planned trip was cancelled due to a possibly hurricane. She has always wanted to visit Salem and I am trying to pivot and make plans to go there instead.

I have a few questions…

1) Should we/can we stay in Salem or better to stay somewhere outside the city, if so where?

2) Do we need to rent a car or is Uber/Lyft/mass transit better?

3) Since we will be there during the week will museums/tours/dinner reservations be available (especially since we haven’t booked yet) or because it’s so close will we miss out on things?

4) Weather-wise, it appears to be cool in the evenings—jeans and nice shirt/sweater (ie casual) accepted most places we go or nicer stuff recommended?

Sorry for the barrage of questions but I’m scrambling to make sure she has a nice bday since our plans have been cancelled. Thanks in advance!

Answer

Salem is a fantastic choice for a last-minute birthday trip, especially in early October when the fall atmosphere is perfect. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you plan.

1) Where to stay:

Staying in Salem itself is ideal if you want to maximize your time exploring the city, especially given the short duration of your trip. Salem has charming boutique hotels, historic inns, and some modern options within walking distance of the main attractions. Staying in the city avoids the need to commute and lets you enjoy evening walks and dinner without worrying about driving back. If you prefer a quieter, suburban vibe, nearby towns like Beverly or Marblehead are 10-15 minutes away by car, but you will need transport to get into Salem.

2) Transportation:

You do not need a rental car if you stay in Salem. The city is very walkable, and most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within easy distance of each other. Uber/Lyft are available if you want to travel slightly outside the center or visit nearby towns. Public transportation (buses and commuter rail) is also an option, but for a short stay, walking and occasional rideshare will be simpler and more convenient.

3) Museum, tours, and dining availability:

Early October is before the peak Halloween crowds, so museums and tours are generally accessible even with last-minute bookings. Many places operate on a walk-in basis, but for popular experiences like the Salem Witch Museum, House of the Seven Gables, or guided historical walking tours, calling ahead or booking online is recommended to secure a spot. Dinner reservations are a good idea for evening meals, but weekdays are typically less crowded than weekends, so you may still find openings even last minute.

4) Weather and attire:

Evenings in early October in Salem are cool, often in the mid-50s to low-60s Fahrenheit. Casual attire is perfectly acceptable for most restaurants and attractions. Jeans paired with a nice shirt or sweater is appropriate. If you plan on dining at a more upscale restaurant, a slightly dressier outfit (slacks and collared shirt) could be considered, but generally, Salem has a casual, relaxed vibe.

Additional tips:

Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll likely be walking on historic cobblestones and uneven sidewalks.
Check weather forecasts—an umbrella or light jacket may be handy for unpredictable fall rain.
If you have a few extra hours, consider a scenic drive along the coast or a short visit to Marblehead Lighthouse for great views.

Overall, staying in Salem, walking between attractions, and planning a mix of museums and casual dining will give you a memorable birthday experience without stress. Booking key tours or dinner online for peace of mind is recommended, but you should still find plenty available last minute.