tours of salem massachusetts

The "Number One Cultural & Historical Tour in the United States" ~ Trip Advisor 2023

Book it. walk it. fall in love with it., 20% off tours copy coupon code below and use at checkout:, springflowers, explore a historical journey in salem massachusetts.

Walk With Us

Come take a stroll with us down a historical journey through the streets of Salem. From the beginning, our past has been notoriously labeled from the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 to modern day. With almost 400 years behind us, "The Witch City" has lots of wicked stories to tell.

Witch City Walking Tours offers many captivating tours: - History & Hauntings of Salem - Mysteries & Murders of Salem - Hocus Pocus Movie Locations - Specters & Apparitions: A ghost hunting tour in Salem - Merchants & Mansions of Salem - Spirits, Sinners & Scandals Adulteress Tour - PopSalem! A pop culture walking tour - Spirits & Supersitions: a Friday the 13th tour - Salem Through a New Lens: Anniversary of Joseph White Photography Tour

With your licensed professional tour guide, explore the social, political and environmental influences which spread mass hysteria, causing the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Discover how Salem became a world-class seaport, creating some of the wealthiest families in America and America's first millionaire. Stroll the cobblestone lined streets, taking in some of the most stunning 17th and 18th century colonial architecture. Or, if you like to be scared, get chills down your spine hearing ghastly tales of ghosts, macabre murders and true crime stories in Salem's history. Witch City Walking Tours 'History & Hauntings Tour' was named the "Number One Cultural & Historical Tour in the United States" by Trip Advisor in 2023. Other accolades: - "Best Historical & Cultural Tours in the World" by TripAdvisor 2022. - One of the "Best Historical & Cultural Tours in the United States" in 2022. - "Trip Advisor's Most Booked Fall Experience in America" for 2021. - Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Awards and a multi-year recipient of TripAdvisor's "Certificate of Excellence". ‍ So.... come take a walk with us and see why our tours are simply magical! ‍ Please note: OUR TOURS OPERATE RAIN OR  SHINE! 24 hour cancellation required for a full refund. All sales are final September 10 - November 11.

History & Hauntings of Salem

History, hauntings, the Salem Witch Trials, architecture and hidden gems. Suitable for all ages. Get ready for a mysterious journey through almost 400 years of Salem’s rich and storied history. Your local, well-versed guide and historian is excited to share their passion of this beautiful quaint city with you. Rated as the top walking tour in Salem, you will experience approximately two hours of captivating tales of our city's history, chilling tales of the supernatural, while being awed by the breathtaking architecture, and discover the fascinating truth of the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. Your guide will take you off-the-beaten path, while you experience the lesser known sights and history of Salem.

Mysteries & Murders of Salem

For those who prefer a slightly *darker* historical perspective of Salem. Your guide brings to life the true crime stories of murder, myth and macabre. (Ages 13+ only.) Come experience the darker side of Salem with our 1 hour 45 minute Mysteries & Murder tour. We retell the most spine-chilling true crime tales of murder, mystery and macabre that happened in Salem's past. Why did an insane woman in the early 1600s murder her child? Who was the famous hitman who murdered the slave trader in his sleep? Did the Boston Strangler really make a visit to Salem? These tales and much more will unfold on this whirlwind tour of this mysterious seaside city.

Hocus Pocus Movie Locations of Salem

Brisk 4 mile walk. Come relive the magic of Disney's Blockbuster, Hocus Pocus! Starring Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy, Hocus Pocus has become one of the most beloved movies of the 20th century. The majority of the movie was filmed in Salem in 1993. We will take you to 5 locations used during filming. Your ticket price includes entry to Pioneer Village, as well as a special Hocus Pocus gift! Along the way, you will also hear about the Salem Witch Trials, the maritime history, how we became the "Witch City".

Specters & Apparitions: A ghost hunting tour.

Have you ever been curious about the spirit world? Or are you a ghost denier? This tour dives into Salem’s paranormal activity using actual professional ghost hunting equipment. This hour long tour may change your mind if ghosts are real or not? We visit some of the most haunted locations in Salem on this journey to connect with the spiritual world. Our guides walk you through Salem using professional ghost hunting equipment and techniques to seek out the spirits who haven’t departed yet from Salem. You may catch a glimpse of a ghost peering through the windows at you. You may hear voices. Or you may catch an anomaly with photo/video on your cell phone with something quite peculiar or unexplainable. Come take a tour in search of the spirits of Salem with us. ***We cannot guarantee ghost sightings or unusual phenomena or paranormal activity of any kind. Results may vary. *Professional Ghost Hunting equipment is only available during the tour and must be returned to the guide at the end of the tour with a credit card deposit. We will be using professional ghost hunting equipment including A Spirit Box, EMF reader, Temperature Sensors, and laser grids. *** We recommend bringing a fully charged cell phone for pictures and video for the duration of the tour. Please note: We will NOT be entering any cemeteries or buildings during the tour. This is an outdoor activity only. It is illegal to enter a cemetery after dusk.

Merchants & Mansions of Salem

Suitable for all ages. Spring and summer only. Do you love architecture? We do! No trip to Salem is complete without a tour of the most beautiful section of Salem, the McIntire district. Come experience over three centuries of architecture from First Period American, to Georgian Colonial and the stately Federal style. Your guide will wind you through the cobblestoned streets of Salem, discovering hidden gems, viewing over two dozen sites, and sharing stories of Salem's rise to becoming the wealthiest city in the country in the 18th century.

PopSalem! A Pop Culture Walking Tour

Curious how Salem became the Witch City and the Capitol of Halloween? From Witchcraft to Lovecraft, the PopSalem tour is for you. Salem's journey to the Witch City couldn't have happened without popular culture. Discover how Bewitched, Hubie Halloween, author H.P. Lovecraft, video games, textbooks and other types of media all influenced the way we experience Salem today. · A guide brings the history of Salem to life through storytelling. · Learn about the people and events that made Salem the "Witch City" and Capitol of Halloween. · Visit some of Salem’s most iconic sites – including the Witch Museum, Burying Point, and Bewitched Statue - in a fun, festive, one-hour tour. · Brand-new tour from Salem’s number one walking tour company – only in October!

Spirits, Sinners & Scandals Adulteress Tour

Get ready for Salem's spookiest, haunted *adults only* tour, which will take you on a whirlwind journey through the cobblestoned streets of this 17th century city....This tour is unlike anything else in Salem. You will hear tales of murder, deception and despair as you cross paths with the supernatural. Your costumed guide will bring stories to life as they pass by cemeteries, haunted sites and visit dark corners as you relive some of Salem's most terrifying tales. Adults only, 18+.

Spirits & Superstitions: a Friday the 13th Tour

This is the only tour in Salem which focuses on Friday the 13th, superstitions and local ghost stories. On this 90-minute tour, learn the secrets behind some of the most mysterious superstitions. Hear ghastly tales of hauntings and the paranormal. Discover for yourself some of the most shocking secrets of Salem's chilling past. This limited edition tour is only available on Friday the 13th.

We had a brilliant tour with Dawn on a very, very rainy night, Monday 9/11. The content of the tour was interesting, it gave me a very good overview of Salem’s history. The tour was more history than hauntings in my opinion. Dawn really brought the stories to life and was very generous with her time and encouraged the group to interact and ask questions.

I am a long-time resident of Salem and had forgotten how amazing our town is, thank you Violet for awaking my interest in Salem's history again! Violet is a fantastic tour guide, and our group is extremely impressed by her. Violet spoke well, charming and is clearly knowledgeable. She was able to change a muggy dreary rainy night into very pleasantly memorable evening.

During a day trip to Salem, I participated in the History and Hauntings tour provided by Witch City Tours. This walking tour was so informative and beautiful! Our tour guide, Michael, knew quite a bit about the history of Salem and the witch trials. His summary of Salem's dark past piqued our interest into learning more about it, which led to the purchase of a history book in a local shop.

Recent Activity

Witch City Walking Tours is proud to be the sponsor for this year’s Salem Education Foundation’s raffle for “Dinner for Two” anywhere in the world! 🌎

Do you love architecture? So do we! Learn about three centuries of stunning architecture on our award-winning #historyandhauntingsofsalem tour! . . . . . #salem #salemma #salemmass #salemmassachusetts #visitsalem #witchcity #witchcitywalkingtours #lovewhereyoulive #bostondotcom #northofboston #northshorema #historyinsalem #historicsalem #destsalem #thingstodoinsalem #hhmagazine #visitsalem #igerssalem #witch #witches #travelblogger #travelphotography #travelgram #igerssalemma #igerssalem #mcintiredistrict #architecture #architectureofsalem #chestnutstreetsalem

When visiting Salem, where should you go to eat? Here are some suggestions from our guides:

Destination Salem

Good Morning America

National geographic.

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Travelers choice, travelers' choice™ best of the best.

Charities We Sponsor

Witch City Walking Tours proudly gives back to the community of Salem, Massachusetts! Every month, one of our guides chooses a local non-profit that is important to them and we donate $1000 to support their missions. In turn, these worthy organizations work diligently to lift the members of our community. 

Recently, Witch City Walking Tours has supported:

• Salem Education Foundation and their raffle for “Dinner for Two” anywhere in the world! 
• Northeast Animal Shelter for blankets, towels, and food for the animals.

We’d like to thank all of our tour guests for helping us make this possible, and for helping us keep Salem a vibrant and beautiful city where we, along with our neighbors, live and work.

Who We Sponsor

Charitable Contributions

Working Hours

Sunday to Saturday   09:00 AM to 11:00 PM

32 Derby Square Salem, MA 01970 (Outside on the 3 staircases of the Old Town Hall)

BEWITCHED WALKING TOURS of SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS

Effective march 1st 2024 all tours from the halloween museum 131 essex street.

Day and Night tours available! 

  Welcome to Witch City! Join us for a journey back through time to uncover the real history of Salem, Massachusetts. With a local historian as your guide, you'll venture right through the heart of downtown, exploring 400 years of Salem at over a dozen locations along the way. Booking with Bewitched is the perfect way to start your visit. Come see why Bewitched Walking Tours is beloved by locals and visitors alike!

WALKING TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ​

A delightful mix of history, legend, and pop culture.

Most in-depth look at the Witch Trials Salem has to offer.

Four centuries worth of history in one tour.

Topics include Salem's colonial roots, its role as a thriving seaport, and how we be came known as "Witch City."

All tour guides are licensed professionals.

Walking tour commences at one of America's oldest cemeteries.

Dog friendly!

Stops include the Samantha Statue, Old Town Hall, the Old Witch Jail, the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, and so much more!

DON'T OVERTHINK IT. JUST BOOK THIS TOUR.

It. was. great. So much information...not the kitschy kind...but the kind you want to learn... the history of Salem, the witch trials, and a taste of the Salem that is now. 

DO YOURSELF A FAVOR & TAKE THIS TOUR!

This tour is an absolute must if you want to learn more about the people and events that made up the infamous Salem Witch Trials. Sarah was the best tour guide I have been lucky enough to follow. She was incredibly knowledgeable, entertaining, and passionate about the history she was sharing. She reminded us that the victims of the witch trials were just that - victims, who had lives, families, and who leave legacies after them. I learned more in this hour and a half than I could have hoped to in a history class!

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LOOKING FOR MORE REVIEWS? WE'VE GOT 1000s!

visit our tripadvisor page

CONTACT US!

978-498 -4061

i [email protected]

131 Essex Street Salem, MA

HOCUS POCUS 2

Book for 2024 now!

Welcome to Salem! Join our expert storytellers as we enthrall you with the true stories of The Witch City. With hundreds of 5 star review s , Salem Uncovered is constantly hailed as one of the “ most fun ” , “ entertaining ” , and “ amazing ” tours in the city. Also “ best dressed ”  and “ awesome shoes! ”  But you don't have to take our word for it, book a tour now and see what Salem has in store for you!

Locally owned and operated! Don't be fooled by those corporate tour companies, we don't buy reviews or bullshit you with made up stories. You want real Salem History? We got you, guaranteed, that's our promise to you. -Salem Uncovered, Historic Walking Tours

1692: 

The Salem Witch Trials

The tryals have left a footprint on Salem and the world that still echos 332 years later. Join us on our 90 min walking tour as we visit historic locations and lay the groundwork to explore and unpack what happened in Salem in 1692. We shed light on how a community driven by fear and led by religious ideology and zealot extremism, executed 20 innocent people.

90 min Walking Tour.   -   $25

Multiple tours daily

Dark History

 When you hear Salem, you often think of Witches, and Halloween, of ghosts and spooky fun, but there's so much more lurking in the shadows. Salem has a dark side. Join us on our 90 min walking tour as we learn secrets of the oldest cemetery in Salem, brutal murders, strange legal battles, secret passages, curses, spiders, torture, and of course a ghost story or two.

Best Tour in Salem! ​

Jeff (tour guide and owner) was absolutely incredible! The tour focused on actual historical events of the area, not baseless ghost stories told with overdramatic flair. Jeff was interesting and knowledgeable, and it was clear he knows the area and the stories well. This isn't a tour for cheap scares - this is for anyone who wants the real history told by someone passionate about it. The stories are creepy enough on their own!

SEPTEMBER  2021

Great historical tour with deep insights into people and their histories!

We came to Salem for Halloween weekend and booked this tour as our first activity in the Town. Jeffrey was a great tour guide and his knowledge and command of the story and narrative of the witch trials, geography and context behind the series of the events that took place is impeccable. He expertly connected the dots between people and places offering a sobering narrative with lessons that still apply to this day. I 100% recommend this tour. You will not be disappointed! 

OCTOBER 2022

Awesome daytime walking tour

Very entertaining tour! Jeff was a master in his presentation of the facts and folklore surrounding the Salem Witch trials. He was very accommodating in booking the tour as well, because we made a few changes to the numbers in our party and he was very understanding. The hour and 1/2 went fast because our attention was focused on the storytelling by Jeff! Highly recommend him. I would not hesitate to book a tour in the future with him!

OCTOBER 2021

THE 10 BEST Salem Walking Tours

Walking tours in salem.

• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Ghost & Vampire Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. The Salem Night Ghost Tour

2. Mysteries and Murders of Salem Guided Night-Time Walking Tour

3. Salem Witch Trials Historical Walking Tour

4. Salem "Hocus Pocus" Movie Locations Tour (31st Anniversary)

5. Discover Salem & Craft Spells with A Real Witch(Small Group Tour)

6. 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour

7. Salem Through the Lens: A Picture-Perfect Walking Tour

8. Satanic Salem Walking Tour

9. 1692 Salem Day Tour

10. Salem Voodoo, Vampires, and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour

11. Salem Ghosts: Witches, Warlocks, & Hauntings

12. Ultimate Historic Salem and Witch Trials Self-Guided Walking Tour

13. AM Coffee Walks with Salem Food Tours

14. Requiem for Salem Walking Ghost Tour

15. Wicked Awesome Tours: Witch Trial History and Salem Haunts!

16. Maritime History Tour

17. Old Salem Ghost Tour with Ghost Hunting Gear

18. Hauntings, History and Legends Tour in Salem

19. Haunted Footsteps Ghost & Paranormal Salem Tour

20. "Witch Trials" Walking Tour in Salem

21. Boston Day Tour by Ferry: Salem Witch Trials Past to Present

22. Black Cat Ghostly Night Tour in Salem

23. Secrets of Salem Hidden Dark History Tour

24. Salem History Lovers Walking Tour

25. Salem Private Half Day Tour from Boston, for groups 1-4

26. Ultimate Boston Audio Tour Bundle

27. Triple Threat Combo Pass: 3 TOURS (3:30pm, 5pm, & 7pm or 8:30pm)

28. The Salem Witch Walk

29. Steps Through 1692 (History Tour)

30. Private Day Tour of Highlights and History in Salem and Boston

What travelers are saying.

• Chris M 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Cold, Dark Night through Salem... perfect. My girlfriend and I took the tour with Jeff. We were the only ones that night. I saw the amazing reviews for Jeff and so was eager to see how he'd handle just two people. Jeff was great! He really knew the material- as all the reviews state. One thing that stood out to me was how much Jeff cared about his community of Salem. I am happy I took his tour and was able to contribute to the town of Salem. I feel like I missed out a little because I can tell Jeff likely shines in a big group. Next time I may rally a bunch of people and take his tour again! Read more Review of: 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour Written April 27, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour
• The Salem Night Ghost Tour
• Bewitched Walking Tour of Salem
• Mysteries and Murders of Salem Guided Night-Time Walking Tour
• Salem Witch Trials Historical Walking Tour
• Satanic Salem Walking Tours
• Witch City Walking Tours
• Spellbound Tours
• 1692 Before and After
• Salem Kids Tours
• Hocus Pocus Tours
• Salem Black Cat Tours
• Bewitched Tours
• Salem Food Tours
• Salem Walking Tours

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Massachusetts (MA) » 15 Best Salem Tours

15 Best Salem Tours

Best known for the Salem Witch Trials, Salem is a historically significant city located close to Boston. It is a popular day trip location, though fans of history and the macabre might enjoy a longer visit in town.

Whether you are there to learn about the witch trials, revolutionary history, or architectural significance of the city, there are a variety of great tours to help you experience Salem.

These are the 15 best tours and experiences in the city.

1. Salem Witch Museum Admission Ticket

If you are visiting Salem for its key role in the witch trials, this should absolutely be your first stop in the town.

The Salem Witch Museum is packed with interesting exhibits that take on an interactive twist allowing visitors to really step back in time and experience the trials.

The stages where women were trialled have been recreated with voiceovers narrating the proceedings. There are also exhibits depicting the history of witches, and the reasons for the witch trials.

This is a great ticket if you are visiting during peak season as it allows you to skip the lines.

2. Boston to Salem 1-Way and Round Trip Ferry Tickets

If you are staying in Boston and plan on visiting Salem, this is a quick and easy way to travel between the cities.

Likewise, it is also a great option for visiting Boston if you are based in Salem. The relaxing boat journey allows you to take in the views of the harbour from both towns.

If you are heading towards Boston, you can also enjoy a boat tour along the Charles River with this ticket where you can take in the major sites of the Boston Skyline. This ticket can be bought in one direction or as a return journey.

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3. The Salem Night Tour

As a town famous for its dark past, a night tour can be a great way to learn more about the haunted stories of Salem.

This tour takes you to the key sites made infamous by the witch trials, as well as through some of the most haunted locations in the United States.

The knowledgeable local guide will tell you about the most well-known ghost stories across the town, as well as the dark history that still shapes the local area to this day. It is a 1.5 hour walking tour, making it a perfect option if you are looking for something simple to do after night falls.

4. 2-Hour Salem History Walking Tour

If you would rather embark on a tour during daylight, this walking tour gives you a comprehensive overview of the history of the city and the important sites around Salem.

Whilst it does take you around the witch trial areas, it also gives you information about other parts of the city’s history. These include the London Coffee House, revolutionary monuments, and even parts of the area’s Native American history.

At 2-hours long, this is a great way to get a general idea of the main attractions in the city. It is also excellent if you are only in Salem for the day.

5. Experience Salem Combo: Two Afternoon Tours and One Haunted Evening Tour

This combo tour allows you to pick the aspects of the city you are most interested and dive a little bit deeper into the history and the culture of the area.

You can choose two tours out of the four on offer – History, Cemeteries, TV and Movie Locations, or Witch Trials.

The ticket also includes a haunted evening tour, giving you three excellent tours for the price of two. The daytime tours are all around an hour long, and the evening tour is around 1.5 hours long.

6. Salem Excursion: Half-Day Walking Tour

If you have a little bit longer in the city, this half day walking tour is a great way to pack in a lot of attractions in six hours.

You will be taken on the regular day tour, as well as tours of the witch trial areas, cemeteries, and historic attractions. Each segment has a different guide, allowing you to hear about the history and culture of the town from experts in each field.

In winter, the final portion of the tour will take place after dark, adding to the spooky vibe of the city. There is a lot of walking involved, so be sure to come prepared.

7. Salem Combo: Wax Museum and Witch Village

The Salem Witch Village was the epicentre for the witch trials, and an important historic district in the city.

Here you can experience the most haunted buildings in the city, as well as see the second largest burial ground in the United States. At the wax museum you will be able to see realistic recreations of Salem’s most notorious residents – including Tituba and Nathaniel Hawthorne.

There is also an interactive exhibit at the end of the museum where you can experience life in a jail cell and make your own rubbing from a replica tombstone.

8. Salem On Foot Walking Tours

This walking tour is a great option for visitors to Salem who are on a budget.

This is a 1.5-hour tour that tries to steer away from the gimmicks of the usual touristy ghost and history tours, instead giving you an insight into the local character of the city.

You will still get the chance to visit the Witch Village, however the guide will tell you about some of the lesser known local stories and myths.

There are two tours to choose from – one in the afternoon and one in the evening. These allow you to pick what kind of experience you want, as well as tailor it to your own itinerary.

9. Salem Ghost Tour

This is another great ghost tour, with a slightly more authentic twist.

Rather than focusing on the more popular folklore, this tour takes you around the haunted sites in the city and tells you about the lesser known facts of hauntings in Salem.

The tour is very well researched and aims to break many of the misconceptions surrounding Salem and its history.

There are two options depending on how long you would like your tour to last. All tours will take you to at least eight locations, and the longer two takes you to another four for some more off-the-beaten path experiences.

10. Witch Dress-Up Photo Experience in Salem

For the ultimate souvenir of your time in Salem, this experience is very well produced. You will be given a personal stylist to help you find your inner witch or wizard as you select from their wide range of costumes and props.

This also allows you the opportunity to learn more about the folklore surrounding witches and consider your own place in history.

A professional photographer will then take your photo against a series of well-designed backdrops, and you will be provided with a wide range of photos to take home.

11. Salem Christmas Krampus Tour for Adults

Christmas doesn’t have to just be for kids, and this tour is a great experience for adult groups visiting Salem during the holiday season.

Taking on a Krampus theme, this tour allows you to explore the pre-Christian winter solstice traditions that shaped modern Christmas celebrations, and were directly intertwined with local fears about witches.

You will learn about Pagan rituals, and the importance of the solstice to followers of the religions associated with Paganism.

12. Magic Lantern Tour

This is an excellent experience if you are visiting the city around Halloween. The experienced guide brings life to this night time tour, where you can learn about the city’s dark past and the pagan rituals that shaped the local area.

As a special Halloween twist, you will also be treated to a Magic Lantern show along the way as historic and witch-themed images are projected along the walls of the route.

This is a great tour if you are looking for something a little more interactive.

13. Black Cat Historical Day Tour

No witch would be complete without their black cat, and this tour is a great way to delve even further into Salem’s witching history.

It also allows you the chance to learn about the pirates and religious figures that shaped the city, as well as its involvement during the revolutionary period. This is an unscripted tour, so is usually customised to the wishes of the group.

It also focuses on some of the less crowded areas of Salem, giving you a more intimate experience with the tour group.

14. Historic Overview of Salem Walking Tour

This is another excellent option if you are on a budget, particularly if you are interested in getting a more general overview of the history of Salem.

You will not only learn about the witch trials but be taken through four centuries of history that impacted the city.

At only an hour long, it is a great starting point for your time in Salem, allowing you more free time to explore the spots that interest you most after the tour.

The tour also takes an interactive approach, inviting guests to actively participate.

15. Historical Salem Cemetery Walking Tour

If you are more interested in the people who shaped the city, this tour takes you through the oldest cemetery in Salem.

You will learn about the stories of the famous residents that were buried here and get an up-close look at their place in the history of the city.

Like the historic overview tour, this tour is very interactive and invites audience participation in the stories being told.

It is one hour long, which is perfect for making your way around the cemetery and understanding the context of the most visited tombstones.

15 Best Salem Tours:

• Salem Witch Museum Admission Ticket
• Boston to Salem 1-Way and Round Trip Ferry Tickets
• The Salem Night Tour
• 2-Hour Salem History Walking Tour
• Experience Salem Combo: Two Afternoon Tours and One Haunted Evening Tour
• Salem Excursion: Half-Day Walking Tour
• Salem Combo: Wax Museum and Witch Village
• Salem On Foot Walking Tours
• Salem Ghost Tour
• Witch Dress-Up Photo Experience in Salem
• Salem Christmas Krampus Tour for Adults
• Magic Lantern Tour
• Black Cat Historical Day Tour
• Historic Overview of Salem Walking Tour
• Historical Salem Cemetery Walking Tour

Protect Your Trip »

The 5 Best Salem Tours

From its infamous witch trials to its scenic harbor, this Massachusetts city is ripe for exploration.

Courtesy of Fame of Salem

See Salem from its waters during a tour with Fame of Salem.

Note: Some tour providers on this list may have ceased operations due to COVID-19. Check with your tour operator about availability before you book.

While best known for its notorious witch trials in the late 1600s, Salem, Massachusetts, has a lot more to offer. These Salem tours offer an in-depth look at everything related to the trials, but they also explore the area's landmarks and Revolutionary War history. U.S. News selected the following tours by consulting traveler sentiment and expert opinion. Whether you explore by day or by night, these excursions will introduce you to all sides of Salem.

Fame of Salem – Sail on the Fame

Set sale on a replica of an 1812 privateer schooner on this nearly two-hour cruise. Not only do tourgoers see Salem from the water, but they also learn about the original Fame ship and the War of 1812. Travelers will also have the opportunity to assist the crew with raising the sail and other tasks. Passengers say the sail was one of the highlights of their trip to Salem and praise the expert crew. Tickets cost approximately $40 for participants ages 14 and older and $30 for youths ages 13 and younger. Tours are available May through October several times daily a few days a week; availability depends on the season. Fame of Salem also offers a sunset cruise, as well as private charters.

[ View & Book Tickets .]

Bewitched After Dark Walking Tours

On this two-hour walking tour from Bewitched After Dark, travelers learn about colonial Salem, along with its ample witch-related history. Along the way, tourgoers will pass by more than a dozen historical locations within the downtown area. Reviewers praise the guides for their storytelling abilities and recommend the tour for history buffs. Many also add that this tour turned out to be the highlight of their visit to Salem. Tickets cost approximately $30 per person; children 7 and younger can participate for free. Tours operate nightly at 7 p.m.

Spellbound Tour

Led by paranormal investigators, this trip focuses on more than the city's fabled witches. During the 90-minute tour, guides will share stories about Salem's ghosts, New England vampirism and Voodoo while visiting haunted sites like the Salem Jail and the Joshua Ward House. Guides will also teach participants how to hunt for ghosts and take images of spirits with their cameras. Reviewers say this is an informative and historically accurate tour and that it's one of the best ghost tours they've attended. Tickets start at $21 for participants 11 and older. Tours are available at 8 p.m. nightly; there's also a 2 p.m. tour offered Friday through Sunday.

Salem Night Tour

Explore downtown Salem at night and learn about the city's history while listening to ghost stories on the Salem Night Tour, which lasts about 90 minutes and covers roughly 1 mile. As an added bonus, the company says the tour's content is appropriate for children. Travelers give high marks to guides, describing them as knowledgeable and engaging. Tickets start at $25 per person. Tours operate daily at 8 p.m. The company also offers a daytime tour at 2 p.m.

Witch City Walking Tours – History & Hauntings of Salem

Those with an interest in Salem ghost stories should sign up for this two-hour walking tour led by a local historian. If you'd like to boost the eerie factor, opt for a night tour when you'll be led around town by lantern. Stops on the tour include the Old Burying Point Cemetery, the seaport and the Old Town Hall. Tour-takers describe guides as passionate about Salem and say the tour is full of great stories. Tickets cost approximately $25 for adults with discounts for seniors, students and children. Tours run daily at multiple times. The company also offers a Mysteries and Murders of Salem tour.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Boston Tours

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

• The Best Weekend Getaways in New England
• The Best Things to Do in Boston
• The Best Hotels in Boston

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Massachusetts

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The 12 Best Tours To Take In Salem, Massachusetts

Remarkably known for being the place where the Salem Witch Trials took place, the historic town of Salem may well be one of the most quaint and interesting places to visit in Massachusetts.

In this guide, you will find some of the best Salem tours to take in 2022.

It includes experiences that go from haunted night tours to historic excursions where you will get to learn everything there is to know about Salem’s history.

Plan your Perfect trip to Salem

🏨 Find the perfect hotel on Booking.com

🎫 If you’d like to go on a tour, check out the best tours to take in Salem

🎒 Pack a universal travel adapter , your favorite travel camera (We love this one !), and a good portable solar phone charger

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning, I get a commission if you purchase through my links, at no cost to you.

Best Companies To Book Tours In Salem, Massachusetts

There are many companies that offer tours in Salem, Massachusetts, but the best are by far Get Your Guide and Viator .

Get Your Guide  has been providing top-notch tours and excursions all over the world for more than 12 years. It is known for its highly professional and friendly tour guides.  Click here to see all the Salem tours offered by Get Your Guide.

On the other hand, Viator is a part of TripAdvisor and offers great and affordable tours. They have a good 24-hour cancellation policy and excellent customer service.  Click here to see all the Salem Tours offered by Viator .

Personally, I use Viator and can’t recommend them enough!

The Best Salem Tours in 2022

Keep reading for the detailed information of each tour.

History & Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour

Learn about the mysterious history of Salem on this guided walking tour of the city. Follow your local historian guide through Salem, listening to 400 years of history, and admire the old architecture that dates back hundreds of years.

For a spookier adventure, select the nighttime tour led by lantern light and find out the truth about the 1692 Salem Witch Trial hysteria.

Tour highlights

• Tour Salem on a guided walking tour
• Listen to 400 years of history from a local historian
• Select a nighttime tour for a spookier setting

Why take this tour?

• Learn about Salem’s history and arquitecture with the help of a experienced guide
• Stress-free package ideal for first-time visitors

The Salem Night Tour

When night falls across Salem, it’s the perfect time to explore the city’s spooky and sinister past on a haunted history tour.

On this top-rated walk through one of America’s most haunted places, follow a licensed guide along lamplit streets while listening to legends and true tales of witchcraft, murder, mayhem, and more.

Visit sites related to the infamous 17th-century Salem Witch Trials, and hear about the ghostly spirits said to still rattle through the town’s historic homes and graveyards.

• Explore the dark past of one of America’s most haunted cities
• Visit the most reportedly haunted places in town
• Hear about the hysteria of 1692 and the Salem Witch Trials
• Listen to legends and true tales of witchcraft, murder, mayhem, and ghosts related to Salem.
• Fun and entertaining way to learn about Massachusetts history

2.5-Hour Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking Tour

Join a local guide for a walking tour of Salem, Massachusetts. Hear about the city’s history as you visit landmarks such as the Coven’s Cottage, the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, the Burying Point, the Witch House (Corwin House), Hamilton Hall, and Pickering House.

Hear about the New England city’s past as a Native American settlement, the witchcraft trials, the American Revolution, and more on this leisurely walking tour.

• Learn about the Salem witch trials and colonial Massachusetts
• View historic buildings like Picking House
• Hear about the maritime history of Salem
• Includes walking tour and guide
• Visit all the most popular sposts in Salem with an expert guide.

Salem Voodoo, Vampires, and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour

Uncover the dark past and mysterious legends of Salem on this haunted history walking tour. Expert historians and paranormal investigators help separate fact from fiction while retelling the events of the 1692 witch trials and leading you through Salem’s most notorious sites.

Escape the gimmicks and delve into authentic tales of voodoo, witchcraft, vampires, and ghost sightings that have left their mark on the infamous New England town.

• Ghost and witch walking tour of Salem
• Learn the real history behind the infamous Salem Witch Trials
• Have your personal photos examined for trades of ghostly activity
• Hear local legends of witchcraft, voodoo, vampirism, and ghosts
• Visit some of the most haunted sites in town
• Tour guides are real historians and paranormal investigator

Boston to Salem One-Way or Round-Trip High-Speed Ferry

Don’t let time determine whether to see Boston or Salem. Visit both towns with the help of a quick and comfortable catamaran. This high-speed ferry service travels from Boston to Salem (or vice versa).

Enjoy the scenic adventure from the upper or lower deck of the boat—or just relax at the lounge inside. An onboard galley offers food and beverages for purchase.

• The onboard galley offers food and beverages for purchase
• One-way or round-trip tickets are available with a variety of convenient departure times.
• Fast, efficient transportation between Boston and Salem
• See top Salem and Boston attractions within walking distance of the port

Olde Salem Village Witch Photo Shoot

Olde Salem Village is a theatrical stage set in Autumn 1692. The townspeople of Olde Salem Village have been whispering of witchcraft from the mysterious dwellers who lurk in the last cottage on the right. This dimensional set features an 8-foot tree, cast iron cauldron, and the 1,400 square-foot cottage.

• A fun memorable time
• Experienced photographer
• Personal Stylist to dress each ‘witch’ in costume
• Unique custom backdrops/scenes for photography
• Take amazing photos to bring home with you!

Mysteries & Murders of Salem Guided Night-Time Walking Tour

This murder and mystery walking tour of Salem is a great option for travelers who want a break from hearing exclusively about the history of the Salem witch trials. Mix things up by listening to tales of grisly murders and sinister ghost sightings as your guide leads you to the spookiest sights in Salem. This tour is suitable for young adults and adults. Not suitable for small children.

• Learn about more than just the witch trials with unique stories of Salem’s past.
• Explore Salem at night when the streets are at their eeriest
• Hear terrifying tales of death and murder from your guide
• Visit supposedly haunted spots you’re unlikely to discover on your own

Privateer Schooner Sailing Tour in Salem Sound

Embark on an interactive sailing excursion off the coast of Salem on a replica historic privateer schooner.

Great for families and anyone who gets bored easily, this adventure keeps you engaged by offering opportunities to help with tasks such as raising the sails and steering the boat.

• Take part in activities or relax and enjoy the sights
• Choose from multiple daily start times to suit your schedule
• Depart from the Pickering Wharf Marina in downtown Salem
• Experience a historic sailing adventure and learn about the area’s storied past

The Salem Witch Walk

Unlike other Salem walking tours, this witch walking tour is led by a practicing witch, so you can learn about the history of witchcraft, as well as how it’s practiced today.

Along with visiting the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, you’ll participate in a real magic circle and help raise energy for a blessing. Plus, water and candy are provided, so you can stay fueled up during the walk.

• Learn about the Salem Witch Trials and modern-day witchcraft from your guideWith this Salem walking tour, you’ll get a discount at Crow Haven Corner
• This Salem witch walking tour provides you with candy and water
• Tour Salem witrh a practicing witch.
• Participate in a witches magic circle, and raise energy for a blessing

Satanic Salem Walking Tours

The most unique walking tour in Salem, free from supernatural or superstitious elements. Your tour guide is an expert in occultism, witchcraft, and a member of The Satanic Temple.

• Salem history from The Satanic Temple.
• Surprisingly very family friendly, but for weird families.
• The most unique tour in Salem.

Bewitched Historical Tour

Visit all the most popular places in Salem with an extremely experience guide. Visit over a dozen locations of historical significance within the downtown area and learn why the history of Salem is sometimes more frightening than fiction.

• The best historical tour in Salem
• Learn about Salem’s history in one of the top reviewd tours in town.

Black Cat Historical Day Tour

If you’re a history buff visiting Salem, don’t miss out on this history-focused tour that reveals the city’s turbulent past. A costumed guide tells tales of war, witchcraft, pirates and Puritans, and reveals information that you’re unlikely to find in the guidebook.

This tour, which proves ideal for first-time visitors, is unscripted and can therefore be tailored according to the interests of the group.

• See a different side of Salem during a history tour
• A great introduction for first-time visitors
• Tailor the tour itinerary according to your interests
• ideal for first time visitors.
• Visit off-the-beaten path places that most visitors.

Finding a place to stay

If you haven’t booked a hotel in Salem yet, no worries! You can easily book one with Booking.com.

Some great options of lodging include:

• The Hotel Salem
• Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites
• Hawthorne Hotel
• The Salem Inn
• The Merchant

Start planning your trip to Salem

To start planning your trip to Salem, make sure to read these posts:

Salem, MA: An awesome guide to the City of Witches

30 Best Things To Do In Salem

That’s a wrap! I really hope you loved this selection of the best tours to take in Salem, Massachusetts. Which one was your favorite?

Make sure to follow me on Instagram for more travel tips.

You might also enjoy:

15 Reasons why Salem is worth visiting

What to pack for Salem

10 Tips for spending Halloween in Salem

Travelcami Inspires the best solo travel destinations ✈️, and unique experiences

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Historical Walking Tour

The TRUTH is scarier than the LEGENDS !

1692 Salem Ma. Tours

Welcome to Salem, Massachusetts, a historic city on the New England coast famous for its rich and complex history that goes far beyond the infamous Salem Witch Trials. At 1692 Before and After , we do more than guide you through the city; we take you on an unforgettable journey spanning 400 years, from the Witch Trials’ mysteries to key events before the Revolutionary War and more. Join us to feel the past come alive, exploring the deep stories that have shaped Salem into the captivating place it is today.

A Journey Through Time

Our tours are meticulously crafted for those who seek to visit historical landmarks and immerse themselves in the stories that shaped them. Unlike the conventional narratives retold by many Salem witch tours, 1692 Before and After delves into the nuanced accounts of the witch trials, shedding light on the victims and accusers alike and bringing forward the humanity and complexity of their stories. This unique approach offers a perspective seldom considered or discussed by other tours, making our 1692 Salem MA tours an invaluable experience for history enthusiasts.

Why should you take our 1692 Salem Witch Trials Tours?

1692 Before and After stands apart by emphasizing not just the historical events themselves but the lingering echoes they leave behind. Our tours are designed to provoke thought, stir emotions, and inspire a deeper appreciation for Salem’s rich and complex history. Whether you’re looking for Salem day tours, Salem night tours, or a comprehensive Salem history tour, join us as we step back in time to uncover the stories that lie at the heart of Salem. Discover the city’s haunting history, its tales of adversity and resilience, and the indelible marks they’ve left on the present. Our 1692 Salem Witch Trials Tour is your gateway to a past that is both profound and poignant, a journey that promises to be as enlightening as it is unforgettable.

Explore Salem With Us

Our 1692 Salem Ma. tours will take you on a journey past the following sights. Though we won’t be able to take you into the building, you will hear the stories that make these locations so historically significant to Salem.

The Witch House

Salem's First Church

The Rope's Mansion

The Samantha Statue

The Howard Street Cemetery

St. Peter's Church

Armory Park

The Salem Witch Trial Memorial

Old Burying Point Cemetery

Make the Most of Your Journey

Duration and Walking Distance

Prepare for a journey that spans approximately 2 hours and covers just under 2 miles. This leisurely pace is designed to give you ample time to absorb the rich history and haunting beauty of Salem. We’ve carefully planned the route to ensure it’s accessible for most fitness levels, allowing everyone to participate in this immersive historical experience.

1692 Salem Ma. Tours Logistics

Our 1692 Salem Ma. Tours is not just about stepping back into history; it’s about experiencing the narrative of Salem in a way that is both engaging and enlightening. To ensure you make the most of this journey, here are the logistics you’ll need to know:

Our journey through time begins at 272 Essex Street , where the tour will form at the corner of Essex and Sewall Streets . Here, in the heart of Salem, you’ll meet your knowledgeable guide and fellow history enthusiasts. We recommend arriving 15 minutes early to ensure you’re ready to embark on the tour promptly.

The tour will conclude at the Salem Witch Trial Memorial on Liberty Street, a poignant site that offers a moment of reflection on the events we’ve explored together. The memorial’s location also places you conveniently near other historic sites and local eateries, allowing you to continue your exploration of Salem or to relax and discuss the day’s discoveries.

Why Choose 1692 Before and After

In a city woven with the threads of history, 1692 Before and After stands out as a beacon for those eager to delve deeper into the fabric of Salem’s past. Our tours are more than mere walks; they are immersive journeys designed to connect you with the souls and stories that have defined this iconic location.

Here’s why 1692 Before and After is the premier choice for exploring Salem’s haunting history:

Unparalleled Historical Insight

With us, you’re not just observing history; you’re engaging with it. Our tours are meticulously researched, offering a depth of knowledge and insight that goes beyond the surface. We bring to light the stories of the victims, the accusers, and the bystanders, providing a multifaceted perspective on the Salem Witch Trials and other significant historical events.

A Unique Narrative Experience

Our narrative approach sets us apart, offering a tour that weaves together the tales of the past with the fabric of the present. We offer a story seldom heard, delving into lesser-known aspects of Salem’s history and connecting them to the broader American experience. This unique narrative experience ensures that our guests leave with a richer understanding of Salem’s place in history.

Engaging and Accessible

The 1692 Salem Ma. Tours is designed to be engaging and accessible to all. With a manageable distance and duration, we ensure that guests of all ages and abilities can comfortably participate. Our guides are passionate storytellers, skilled at bringing history to life in a way that captivates and educates.

A Foundation for Further Exploration

Our tour doesn’t just end at the final stop; it lays the groundwork for further exploration and reflection. Guests leave equipped with the knowledge and context to appreciate Salem’s historical sites in a new light. We encourage further exploration and provide recommendations for guests to continue their journey through Salem’s rich history.

Choosing 1692 Before and After is choosing an experience that will enrich your understanding of the past, challenge your perceptions, and leave you with a profound appreciation for the complexities of history. Join us as we explore the shadows and stories of Salem and discover why our 1692 Salem Ma tours are an essential part of any visit to this historic city.

Tour Info and Location

272 Essex Street, Salem, MA 01970

The Hermetic Arts Center has a store with a variety of products as well as the best Readings in Salem .

Get $5 off of a Reading by purchasing a tour ticket.

www.hermeticarts.com

Ingersoll's Tavern

Our mission is to spread the word about the deteriorating condition of this historic house and to work together to save it. We’ve started a Facebook group to bring together people who love history and those in the local community who want to see this house saved and brought back to life. This group will be a place where we can support the efforts of the Town of Danvers and the Danvers Historical Society as they work hard to make sure this house has a future in the community. Please consider joining our group and supporting preserving this house and its history.

The Final Resting Place of the 20 Victims

The question of where Salem’s accused witches were buried has been asked for centuries, and the absence of marked graves is surprising. The truth is that convicted witches were not allowed to receive a proper Christian burial in cemeteries. According to eyewitnesses, the nineteen accused witches who were hanged were left in shallow graves at Proctors Ledge. In some cases, the graves they were put in were so shallow that body parts could be seen sticking out of the dirt.

20 Best Things To Do In Salem Ma [Visit Salem]

Planning a vacation to Salem, Ma. ?  Here are the best sights and activities to add to the to-do list.

5 Big Misconceptions About the 1692 Salem Witch Trials

Whether you grew up in Massachusetts or you’re here on vacation, you most likely know about this city’s rich history. But is your knowledge fact or fiction?

3 Common Questions About The 1692 Salem Witch Trials

What was the real reason for the Salem Witch Trials? How many died in the Salem Witch Trials? How did the Salem Witch Trials end?

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1692 salem tour.

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Unveiling the Dark Secrets: A Fascinating Salem Witch Tour Experience

20 Best Things To Do In Salem Ma

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Home » Blog » Do » Which Salem Walking Tour Should I Take?

Which Salem Walking Tour Should I Take?

One of the best ways to see Salem, Massachusetts and learn about local history is on foot with a guided walking tour around town. Salem has a tour for everyone, with a variety of historical and ghost tours, tours just for kids and families, and even food tours! Learn more about each of Salem’s walking tours, and find links to book in the post below.

Historical Tours

Bewitched After Dark Walking Tours covers the Salem Witch Trials in the larger context of 17th century Salem with stops at relevant historic sites and locations around town. Repeat visitors love Bewitched After Dark for their mix of historical knowledge and local insight into how best to see and experience Salem and make the most of your time downtown. Tickets for afternoon and evening tours are available at BewitchedTours.com .

For a daytime walking tour, Black Cat Tours offers a historic day tour focusing on “Pirates and Puritans, and Witchcraft and War.” The tour stops at sites that share Salem’s history of seafarers, architectural genius, and the spice trade with insight into how Salem became one of the most prominent ports in the US and home to one of the most famous American authors. Book online at BlackCatSalem.com .

Guide Kenneth Glover leads an in-depth look into Salem’s past and present with his 2.5-hour-long Salem Morning & Afternoon Stroll . The tour covers the history of Salem from the 17th to 20th centuries and is memorable thanks to Kenneth’s humorous anecdotes and a deep personal interest in Salem’s stories. This longer tour also means time to stop in little-known historic districts and sites, making it a great way to see more of Salem on foot. Book online at SinisterStoriesOfSalem.com or at the Coven’s Cottage on Essex Street.

Salem Day Tour includes a journey around town with stops at relevant historic sites minus the ghost stories you may encounter on a Salem Night Tour. The tour covers all areas of Salem’s history from the Salem Witch Trials to the Spice Trade, and beyond, and is geared toward guests ages 13 and older. The tour is offered daily, but advanced tickets are recommended. Book at SalemDayTours.com .

Salem Historical Tours cover the general history of Salem along with tours devoted entirely to the Witch Trials of 1692. They also offer both a daytime and evening version of their Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour allowing for some flexibility in when you take in Salem’s haunts and history. Just be sure to book your tour early to ensure you’re spot at SalemHistoricalTours.com .

For tours on the Salem Witch Trials, we also recommend:

• Spellbound Tours
• Witch City Walking Tours
• Salem Witch Walk

Salem Food Tours is Salem’s original food and cultural walking tour with stops at local shops and restaurants and background on the history of the Spice Trade and Salem as a culinary destination. Each tour starts with a spice tasting and includes tastings of traditional New England staples like clam chowder along with innovative new dishes by local chefs. Learn more at SalemFoodTours.com .

You could also opt to start your day with an AM Coffee Walk by Salem Food Tours . Enjoy coffee or tea from a local coffee shop then take a stroll around town to take in some of Salem’s history earlier in the day. Information and booking for AM Coffee Walks are also available at SalemFoodTours.com .

Ghost Tours

For a spooky walk through Salem by candlelight, plan your visit in the late summer or fall to take a Candlelit Ghostly Walking Tour . The tour departs from the side street adjacent to the Salem Wax Museum for an evening walk filled with Salem history and ghost stories. The tour also includes tips for those learning ghost photography, and tickets are available when in season at CandlelitGhostlyTour.com .

If you are searching for a tour that tells the history of the Salem Witch Trials and other local lore alongside tales of potential ghost stories, consider taking a Salem Night Tour . Offered nightly at 8 pm when in season, the tour covers the history of Salem through the centuries with stops at sights related to local history and hauntings. Advanced tickets are recommended, but it doesn’t hurt to check availability in person at Remember Salem (Salem’s Harry Potter shop!). Book online at SalemGhostTours.com .

Spellbound Tours offers guided tours around Salem with professional paranormal investigators. In addition to covering the major parts of Salem’s history like the Witch Trials, the tour dives into stories of vampire folklore and voodoo. Spellbound’s Guides also share photos they’ve captured of paranormal activity themselves to help their guests learn when their photos are evidence of a haunting and when they may be a simple camera function. Advanced tickets are recommended and available online for the whole season at SpellboundTours.com .

For additional evening walking tours, we recommend:

• Black Cat Tours
• Bewitched After Dark Walking Tours
• Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour
• Better Than Fiction Tours

Modern Witch

Tours for kids.

Salem Kids Tour is specially designed with kids and families in mind. The tour takes Salem’s history and makes it more accessible for younger guests, making this tour the perfect addition to a family vacation or school vacation week activity. The tour runs most days while in season, and tickets are available at SalemKidsTours.com .

Movie Tours

Love Hocus Pocus ? Witch City Walking Tours has an entire tour devoted to the locations where this cult classic family Halloween movie was filmed. Learn trivia and history behind the movie and stop at Salem Common, Old Town Hall, and Allison’s house just to name a few. Witch City Walking Tours also offers a variety of historical tours covering everything from the Salem Witch Trials to Murder and Mysteries. Find what interests you and book online at WitchCityWalkingTours.com .

For a self-guided tour, try Salem On Your Own , a new mobile app by Hocus Pocus Tours. The tour offers a self-guided exploration into Salem’s past that can be done whenever you want, at your own pace.

Prefer to see Salem by trolley? The Salem Trolley runs daily with hour-long tours April-October, 10 am-5 pm. The last full tour departs at 4 pm, and complete information is available at SalemTrolley.com .

Categorised in: Do

Tags: After 5PM , Family , History , Outdoor , Salem Witch Trials , Seventeenth Century , The Modern Witch , Things To Do , Walking Tours

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Spellbound Tours

The original and best ghost tour in salem, ma.

REAL HAUNTINGS, REAL HISTORY!

Choose Salem’s Original Haunted Voodoo, Vampires & Ghost Tour… If You Dare!

Established in 2000 by professional paranormal investigators • All Spellbound guides are officially licensed by the City of Salem

Spellbound Tour ™

Join Dr. Vitka, your ultimate Salem tour guide, on Salem’s longest running paranormal tour. Together, you’ll visit actual locations from the infamous Salem Witch Trials, learn about the role voodoo may have played in the Witch Trials, and hear true tales of modern vampirism! Book your Salem tour tickets today.

• Hour Glass 1.5 hours
• User All Ages

Thank you for visiting Spellbound Tours in Salem!

For over twenty years, our guests have enjoyed our guided ghost tours of Salem’s most haunted sites ! At Spellbound Tours in Salem , we are committed to providing an authentic and entertaining paranormal experience. We are fully licensed by the city of Salem , and take pride in being historically accurate as well as truly frightening. This haunted tour has been the longest running in Salem and is widely regarded as Salem’s best tour when it comes to the paranormal. Spellbound is the original paranormal Salem ghost tour . When you take a Spellbound tour in Salem, not only are you getting the best haunted Salem experience but are supporting a locally owned and operated business which is more important than ever now.

At Spellbound Tours in Salem, all of our tour guides and staff are professional paranormal investigators who will not only tell you the ghostly stories, but teach you about modern paranormal investigation and how to capture ghostly images with your own camera! We show you documented photographs of various ghostly energy forms such as orbs, ectoplasm, and apparitions.

Spellbound Tours is serious about ghost hunting and investigating claims of paranormal phenomena. On the Spellbound Voodoo, Vampires, and Ghosts Tour you will learn the secret history of what really happened during the infamous Salem Witch Trials , discover startling information about true New England vampirism , and be amazed by tales of real, documented paranormal activity! Spellbound’s Voodoo, Vampires, and Ghosts Tour delves into the dark corners of Salem’s history, even exposing the hidden Voodoo roots of the famous Witch Hysteria . Every site we visit is a proven haunted location, and many of our guests have reported having true supernatural experiences on the tour.

Order tickets online now to secure your spot on Salem’s number one haunted experience !

We visit only real, documented, historic and haunted locations. 

Find out more about the sites we visit on the haunted tour in Salem, MA.

Meet your guide to Salem’s dark secrets…

Find out more about Dr. Vitka, your Salem haunted tours guide. 

In the mood for reading spooky stories about Salem? 

Read chilling stories from Dr. Vitka himself.

Leave a review!

Voted one of the top 10 ghost tours in the country by usa today.

Our Salem Tours Come Highly Recommended

We learned so much and had such a great time on this tour! We got to see parts of the city we wouldn’t have known about and hear stories that you just can’t find anywhere else. The tour was very informative, interesting, and fun for our whole family!

Mike was an incredible storyteller/historian/guide/resource. He was engaging and wove great narratives while delivering the history. It was a great walking tour. Highly recommend!!

Excellent tour, I would recommend it to everyone!! Very entertaining, very good storyteller (even my boyfriend and I got a little bit scared) and an amazing job of sharing well-researched historical facts.

Michael was very nice and entertaining. Definitely one of the best tours I've been on. We started at the bell and circled around to a variety of haunted places. Learned about the witch trials, but also ghosts and vampire lore. There was a section on serial killers as well.

Dr. Vitka was great! You can tell he loves what he does and takes his craft seriously, And that is exactly who you want to be giving you a ghost/paranormal tour of Salem. He was kind enough to hang around at the end to answer our many questions. We loved getting his take on the darker side of Salem’s history and present day and had great insider suggestions of other things we should do during our stay. Highly recommend!

This was my 2nd walking tour with Dr.Vitka…I enjoyed this one as much as the first one. He is very entertaining,engages the crowd in all of his stories. He’s funny and knowledgeable. Definitely one of my favorite tours in Salem to be a part of!

Michael is an excellent guy. He has this voice that encapsulates you into the whole experience. Very informative. I especially liked the Houdini story. Would definitely go again. Even though the city is crowded, that’s to be expected, he was patient with waiting to let the others catch up.

The 11 Best Ghost Tours in Salem MA (Updated for 2024)

Salem Massachusetts is well known for the infamous 17th-century Salem Witch Trials , but the city is more than just witches. Salem is overflowing with a dark, creepy and macabre history.

If you are looking for the best ghost tours in Salem MA, the Witch City has so many fantastic ghost tours to choose from.

Spend your evening wandering around Salem’s historic colonial streets under the cover of darkness. Trailing alongside a historian and paranormal investigator with only the flickering luminescence of a lantern lighting your way.

Salem is the best Halloween destination for lovers of dark and disturbing history. Spend it seeking out the ghostly spirits that call Salem home.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Please see my  Privacy Policy  for more information.

The 11 Best Ghost Tours in Salem Massachusetts

Witch city walking tours.

The History & Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour is one of the best ghost tours in Salem.

This tour takes you along the haunted seaport and the McIntire District and through the Old Burying Point Cemetery. The tour guides are amazing! I felt like I had made a friend by the end of the tour.

The scariest story was at the Joshua Ward House, one of the most haunted places in Salem , where we heard all about the lady in black. Our guide even showed us a photo that was taken of the spooky spirit who is suspected to be an accused witch.

One of the best parts of this tour is you will meet real practicing witches along the way!

What you need to know

• The tour will have a maximum of 40 guests
• Book in advance so you don’t miss out because tours will book quickly!

Book here: History & Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour

The Salem Night Tour

One of the best ghost tours in Salem is, hands down, the Salem Night Tour . This tour walks you through some of the most haunted places in Salem while telling you the haunted history behind them.

You will learn the history of the hysteria behind the Salem Witch Trials , go to cemeteries and Saint Peter’s Episcopal Church, and walk among the Puritans’ unmarked graves. This tour is directed more toward history, so you have to take this tour if you are a history buff.

All of the tour guides are fun, informative and passionate when they tell you all about the history behind America’s Witch City.

Book here: The Salem Night Tour

• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 40 travellers

Salem Voodoo, Vampires, and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour

Salem’s history isn’t just filled with witchcraft, pirates and ghosts! Did you know that Salem has a voodoo and vampire history?

Spend the evening with historians and paranormal investigators walking around Salem’s most haunted sites. Learn about the dark history behind the Salem witch trials and the ghosts that remain from those dark years.

If you want to know the real history behind Salem’s witchcraft, ties with voodoo, vampires that once roamed the street and Salem’s ghosts, be sure to take the Salem Voodoo, Vampires and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour .

The tour takes you to locations where witch history events took place, even if the original building is no longer standing. The tour guides take you to places other tours miss and share personal ghostly experiences and all about the history that took place hundreds of years ago.

The tour guides are really knowledgeable, enthusiastic and great storytellers. So, if you are looking for a solid tour with excellent tour guides, this is the tour for you!

Book here: Salem Voodoo, Vampires, and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour

• There is a maximum of 40 guests on this tour.

Tired of hearing about the Salem Witch Trials and wanting to spend an evening hearing about the other side of Salem’s history, you must check out the ever-terrifying Mysteries and Murders of Salem Guided Night-Time Walking Tour .

On this tour, you will hear tales of a famous hitman and stories of the Boston Strangler. Find out if he ever stepped foot in Salem – and what gruesome crimes he committed!

If you are looking for great storytelling about all of the scandals, murders and mysteries in Salem’s history, be sure to book the Mysteries and Murders of Salem Walking Tour! You won’t regret it.

• Adults only Tour
• The tour has a maximum of 40 guests
• Book in advance so you don’t miss out because tours will book up fast!

Book here: Mysteries and Murders of Salem Guided Night-Time Walking Tour

Haunted Footsteps & Salem Historical Tours

Want to visit all of the spooky spots in Salem under the cover of darkness with only a lantern lighting your way? Look no further than the Salem Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour .

The tour is the perfect blend of history and ghosts that get you off the beaten path – you will visit cemeteries, buildings and homes riddled with supernatural history.

You will hit the streets and discover places where accidental deaths and murders took place – where the ghosts still roam the halls trying to find out what happened to them in life.

The stories are authentic and never embellished! If you want real history, be sure to take this tour. Listen to knowledgeable guides who know the history of Salem’s dark past inside and out.

One of the best things about the Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour?

Many of the tour guides have their own spooky experiences they will share with you! You will hear so many rarely heard tidbits exclusive to this tour.

It’s incredibly fun, and it won’t be too dark to take tons of pictures of the haunted places in Salem.

Book here: Salem Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour

US Ghost Adventures

Known for hitting up all of the haunted cities around the United States, US Ghost Adventures have come to Salem!

The Salem: Ghosts, Witches, & Warlocks Guided Walking Tour takes you through Salem’s many haunted sites offering honest stories with real history – with the spooky twist of real paranormal tales that have occurred in areas in Salem.

If you want to experience theatrics, this is not the tour for you. The guides are real and offer firsthand stories about all of the terrifying unexplained events that occur at places like The Witch House and Ropes Mansion.

Something absolutely adorable about taking a tour with US Ghost Adventures? They offer up plush ghost souvenirs that you can take home with you. How cute is that?

Book here: Salem: Ghosts, Witches, & Warlocks Guided Walking Tour

Tours for Touring Tourists

If you are looking for stories of murder and mystery, look no further! Salem’s Spooky Specters Walking Ghost Tour provides all that and more.

Check out all of the most haunted places in Salem by visiting such places as the Old Salem Gaol, super haunted Pickman House and Wicked Good Books.

If you are looking for more than just a ghost tour, the Spooky Specters tour provides you with tales from Salem’s darker history. There are so many more macabre stories in Salem’s history than the Witch Trials.

If you are planning on taking this tour, I recommend you ask for the tour guide Euni! She is energetic and fun and gives you all the details on Salem’s sordid past.

Tours for Touring Tourists also have other really fantastic tours to check out if you want a combination of tours. They have a Triple Threat Combination Pass , which includes all three tours. They also have a Double Trouble Combination Pass , which is for both history and ghost tours.

• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 120 travellers !

Book here: Salem’s Spooky Specters Walking Ghost Tour

Secrets of Salem Tours

Do you love dark history? You must check out Salem’s Dark History: Witchcraft Hysteria Tour to fill your dark tourism curiosities.

Get off the beaten path and explore Salem’s haunted and spooky side. Ask for Maria, the tour guide – she is captivating and phenomenal and spends time explaining the small details of each location.

If you want to step back in time and feel like the Witch Trials of 1692 are coming alive, be sure to book the Dark History: Hauntings and Witchcraft Hysteria Tour.

• The tour has a maximum of 25 travellers.

Book here: Salem’s Dark History: Witchcraft Hysteria Tour

Black Cat Ghostly Night Tour in Salem

Travel to Salem’s most haunted sites with one of the best ghost tours in Salem – The Black Cat Ghostly Night Tour in Salem .

Not only will you learn about Salem’s most haunted places, but you will also hear about some of the most famous gothic New England authors, including Edgar Allan Poe, H.P. Lovecraft and Nathaniel Hawthorne.

The tour guides are what make Black Cat Tours so great. They come dressed to the nines and make sure you have loads of fun while listening to all of Salem’s dark history.

While all of the tour guides are incredible, I really loved taking tours with Daniel and Olivia – so if you get onto one of their tours, you will be talking about how great the tour is all night!

Book here: Black Cat Ghostly Night Tour in Salem

Witchwood Tours

So, Witchwood Tours Salem Forest Lore Tour isn’t a ghost tour, but it is so cool I had to include it. If you are interested in Salem’s Witch History, you will love this tour.

This tour takes you through Salem Woods and teaches you about the history, folklore and science behind Salem’s flora and fauna. You will feel like a modern-day witch and learn the magic behind all of the plants and mushrooms that line the forest floors.

Make sure you wear your walking shoes!

Book here: Salem Forest Lore Tour

• Tours do not run in the rain or snow due to trail conditions
• The tour has a maximum of 15 travellers

If you are looking for a haunted walking tour where you can go at your own pace, you must take WalknTours Self-Guided Smartphone Ghost Walking Tour in Salem .

The tour guide on this ghost walking tour is your phone! WalknTours has an app that guides you from haunted location to haunted location, giving you the spooky history in an entertaining way.

The narrator is hilarious and entertaining, and the tour features theatrical and fun music to accompany your spooky adventure. You won’t get lost because the app guides you very clearly in the direction of the next location.

What makes this tour one of the best ghost tours in Salem? You can pause the tour and continue taking it any time you want, which means you can stop at museums like the Witch House and then resume the tour once you are done with your museum visit. Want to take this spooky ghost tour at 6 a.m. and beat the crowds? You can!

I recommend bringing your headphones to drown out the world around you and get the full immersive experience. Also, this is perfect if you want to stay socially distant from others while wandering around Salem.

Book here: Self-Guided Smartphone Ghost Walking Tour in Salem

• 1 purchase works on 4 smartphones
• No physical tour guide – the tour is run on your smartphone.

More Spooky and Haunted Things to Do in Salem Massachusetts

• Spooky Destination Guide – Salem
• Haunted Places to visit in Salem Ma
• The 13 Best Salem Witch Trials Tours
• The History of the Salem Witch Trials
• Visiting the Witch House in Salem
• The 9 Most Haunted Hotels in Salem Mass
• The Old Burying Point and Witch Trials Memorial in Salem

More Ghost Tours around the USA

• The Best Ghost Tours in New Orleans, LA
• The 13 Best Ghost Tours in Charleston, SC
• The 7 Best Ghost Tours in Boston, MA
• Halloween in Boston: Spooky Things to do in Boston
• The 6 Best Ghost Tours in Gettysburg, PA
• The Best Ghost Tours in Williamsburg, VA

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978.239.9145 234 Essex Street at Black Cat Curiosity Shoppe

For faster response: please e-mail or use messenger.

    Please feel free to contact us for private tours, school groups or specific dates with advance notice. PRIVATE TOURS ARE NOT AVAILABLE WEEKEND NIGHTS IN OCTOBER!    

 Welcome to Salem Black Cat Tours - a one of a kind adventure!

Our day tours offer a complete, 100% factual history of Salem,

including Salem's ONLY walking/boat tour combo

or you can join us, if you dare,

on an eerie evening ghost tour unlike any other!  

Our guides make YOU and your experience our first priority!

We have been voted one of the 10 Best Ghost Tours in the US

by USA Today -  three years in a row!

Please note:  Our Tours DO NOT begin at Pamplemousse

That is the ticket sales location,, see directions to our meeting place here ., please double check that there are enough tickets for your full party before purchasing, we do have a city regulated limit.

Please feel free to check out our fantastic reviews on TripAdvisor and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more fun historical facts, Salem sights, and of course, lots of cat photos...

2024 Season (Coming soon)

Tickets available online on Monday, September 9, 2024 at 9:00 am. Tickets are $36 each. Tour departs from Starting location will come soon.  Please arrive 15 minutes prior to show time.  Please check in inside Timeless Life Treasures, 68 Wharf Street, Salem.

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1692 Salem Historical Night Walking Tour

Similar events.

Salem tour guides could soon be required to pay licensing fees

The proposed fee, paid annually, would cost tour guides with groups of 10 or less $150, groups of 11 to 29  $250, and groups of 30 to 40 $350, by jericho tran • published april 18, 2024.

While tourism can be a real treat in Salem , Massachusetts, the city says the costs are tricky. 

“Costs are starting to get close to a point where they’ll exceed the direct revenues the city brings in from things like parking and license fees,” said Salem Mayor Dominick Pangallo. 

The city can draw tens of thousands of visitors a day during the busy Halloween season . With more licensed tour guides in the city as the area continues to grow in popularity, a change in license fees was proposed during the city council meeting last week. 

According to a letter from the mayor to city councilors, there are 175 licensed tour guides in the city, up from 28 in 2006 when the original ordinance went into effect.

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Tour guides who spoke with NBC10 Boston say the proposal came as a surprise.

“We found out about this on a Wednesday night and the city council meeting was on a Thursday and so we have less than 24 hours to put our ducks in a row,” said Jeffrey Lilley, a tour guide at Salem Uncovered. 

The proposed fee, paid annually, would cost tour guides with groups of 10 or less $150, groups of 11 to 29  $250, and groups of 30 to 40 $350. It also includes a discount of $50 for guides who don't use any form of amplification.  It also increases fees for violations.

“This year, my license cost me $10. Next year they want me to pay $350. I employ a few guides in the season so that would be $1,400 that I would then I have to spend on guide fees,” said Lilley. 

While Pangallo says this should only be the difference of adding a few extra cents to ticket prices, tour guides disagree.

“To say it's just a few cents on a ticket well then that would mean me imposing on a ticket which is technically not legal.”

If passed in the public hearing, the proposal would go into effect as soon as January 2025. 

“Hopefully we come out with a resolution that fits everyone's needs, and is something we can shoulder and something that's gonna benefit the city,” said Lilley. 

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