I’m often asked how I choose where to visit. I’m also asked what process I use to curate the perfect spooky adventure once I’m there. The answer depends on several factors. What is your travel budget? How much time do you have to travel? What types of dark tourism interest you? Do you like haunted hotels? Cemeteries? True crime? These questions lead you toward the perfect haunted voyage, are a great place to start, and are highly specific to the individual.

However, I have a few key tips for planning the perfect macabre getaway that can be tailored to any paranormal enthusiast.

• Establish a budget for both time and money. Will this be a quick day trip or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure? Time and money are often the biggest factors when planning any trip. This is the best place to start.
• Do some research. What are your key interests? Ghosts? True crime, Cemeteries? Look them up! What locations are close to you? What locations are within driving distance? Do you already have a location in mind? You may not know about many places within a day’s drive. Searching key terms like “haunted places near me” can turn up more than you expect. Knowing which attractions are publicly accessible is an important step.
• Choose a location. Once you’ve chosen a location, plan how you will get there. If you plan to drive, are there multiple key paranormal locations to stop along the route? Stops along the way can make a boring car ride much more enjoyable. Virtually explore before you go. Use Google Maps to find walking routes and nearby locations to make the most of your time. Atlas Obscura is one of my go-to sites for fun, off-the-beaten-path travel suggestions.
• Book lodging. Where you plan to stay while on vacation is an important decision. Do your research before you book. Do you prefer Airbnb? Haunted hotels? Budget hotels? Traveling with animals? Ask yourself these questions before you choose. I suggest a centrally located property, especially if you’ll be walking most of the time.
• Make an itinerary. Many people dislike this step because it takes the spontaneity out of the trip, but I find an itinerary helpful. Many attractions are open only on specific days, are timed, and require tickets purchased in advance. It’s best to check hours of operation and ticket policies before you go. I also recommend a haunted tour the first evening of your vacation. This gives you a chance to get the lay of the land and learn a story or two you didn’t know.
• Have a blast! Explore the city and take on all the sites. It’s your vacation; create memories you will never forget.

Traveling is a big part of my life, and I love sharing it with others. For me, planning a haunted adventure is almost as fun as embarking on the journey itself. Nothing beats the excitement that builds as you learn a location’s history, knowing you will soon be walking the streets where it happened. I hope these steps help bring the same joy and excitement into your life!