boston witch tours

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

Book it. walk it. fall in love with it., 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.

Murder Through a New Lens: Anniversary of Joseph White Murder

A walking tour and photography workshop in one! Experience a fascinating, in-depth exploration of Salem’s most notorious murder with a local guide. Along the way, a local photographer will help you get some great images of the beautiful historic sites you visit. Join award-winning photographer Chris Padgett and experienced tour guide Rebecca Johnson for a fascinating exploration of Salem’s most notorious murder. The death of aged sea Captain Joseph White was not just a personal tragedy to the families involved. It was a sign of the times that Salem’s identity as a wealthy and successful seaport was sinking into the horizon. The story of the murder became an international sensation and influenced authors Edgar Allen Poe and Nathaniel Hawthorne. **Bring your DSLR camera or Cell phone with extra batteries for this tour! Dive deep into the details of a true crime murder mystery. Dive deep into the details of a true crime murder mystery Get personalized help taking beautiful photos of iconic Salem sites Gain understanding of a pivotal time in Salem history Discover how to use new settings on your camera or camera phone to take spectacular photos in Salem.

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! 🌎

Today we are dreaming of the legendary popovers from Ledger Salem 💛 📷 Ledger Salem

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

Destination Salem

Good Morning America

National geographic.

Travel AAA Guide

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)

The Best 10 Salem Witch Tours To Take In 2024

Looking for the best Salem witch tours? I’ve handpicked 10 top witch tours in Salem, Massachusetts to ensure you get the most out of your time in this magical city.

Looking For The Best Salem Witch Tours?

You’ve come to the right place – the enchanting world of Salem witch tours. I’m here to help you discover the most captivating tours in Salem, and ensure you find the one that perfectly suits your fascination with this bewitching history. Each of these tours boasts stellar ratings , and I’ve even included some user reviews to help you make your choice.

Being born and raised in Boston, my love for Massachusetts transcends town lines. The history and magic of Salem is known world-wide, and those who live in the area know the ins and outs like no one else. I’ve done these Witch City tours what feels like a million times, and yet year after year I still come back for more.

So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to the world of city tours, a Salem witch tour is the ultimate experience. All you need to do is book one of these exceptional Salem witch tours and prepare to be transported to a time of mystery and magic!

Don’t have time to read this whole article? Book this History & Hauntings tour now. It has a perfect ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating!

Salem Witch Tours: From Historical Streets To Modern Magic

Picture yourself on these spellbinding tours, uncovering the secrets of Salem’s bewitching history as you walk through its historic streets and visit its iconic landmarks.

See where the Salem Witch Trials took place. Hear about the mania and hysteria surrounding the community at that time. Visit modern day magic shops where you can buy crystals, herbs, spells, and more.

These tours are not just for history buffs; they cater to anyone curious about the captivating stories of Salem’s past and the intriguing practices of today’s witches.

Reserve your spot on one of these incredible Salem witch tours to dive headfirst into a world of enchantment. You’ll be enchanted by the rich history and intrigued by the tales of Salem’s past and modern day witches, all while enjoying a magical experience that you’ll remember for years to come.

Our Top 3 Picks: Best Salem Witch Tours

Salem history & hauntings tour.

The Salem Witch Walk Tour

Salem Voodoo, Vampires, and Ghosts Tour

Top salem witch tours in massachusetts.

Below, I’ve listed the absolute best Salem witch tours you can take in Massachusetts. Any one of these tours is sure to give you a fantastic experience in Salem. You likely will be hungry after your tour, so grab a bite afterwards at one of the best places to eat in Salem in October.

#1. History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour

Rating: 5 Stars | Tour Length: 2 hours | Check Rates And Availability

First up on our list of the best Salem witch tours is this fantastic History & Hauntings Tour . Picture this: you’ve got a local historian as your guide, and you’re strolling through the cobblestone streets of Salem, a city that’s been around for about 400 years. The whole thing’s lit up by lantern light at night, which adds a touch of spooky charm.

This isn’t your typical historical tour; it’s a deep dive into the enigmatic events of the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. Your guide will unveil the true stories behind the hysteria, and you even have the chance to meet contemporary practicing witches along the way.

I think this is one of our favorite things we did in Salem! Our tour guide, Michael, was so knowledgeable about all things Salem, past and present. We did the History and Hauntings tour, which is a great mix of the actual history and the ghost stories that have emerged over the years. We also went at night which added to the spooky ambience! Alesha ( see more reviews )

So, if you’re seeking an evening filled with history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural, the Salem History & Hauntings Walking Tour is a must-do.

#2. The Salem Witch Walk

Rating: 4 and 1/2 Stars | Tour Length: 1 hour | Check Rates And Availability

Next, we have this witch walking tour in Salem , which is a true standout from the rest. It’s led by a practicing witch, giving you an authentic insight into the history of witchcraft and how it’s practiced in the modern world. As you stroll through the enchanting streets of Salem, you get the inside scoop on both the Salem Witch Trials and contemporary witchcraft.

But here’s where it gets really cool – you’ll be actively participating in a bunch of different magical practices during the tour. Yes, you read that right! You get to be part of a full ritual, cast a Magic Circle, try your hand at a wishing spell, perform a blessing for the wrongly accused, and explore the magical world of herbal magic. It’s a hands-on experience that you won’t find on your typical walking tour.

I loved everything about this tour! Getting to share in a ritual was the best part! The garden experience really made my trip! The green man was excellent, fun, relatable and gave a great spiritual outlook on everything! This tour is a must! Thank you so much our group had so much fun. Katrina ( see more reviews )

This Salem Witch Walk tour is an absolute must-do experience while you’re in Salem. You get to learn all about the holidays and practices of modern day witches, while learning about the shameful actions that took place in Salem’s past.

#3. Salem Voodoo, Vampires, and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour

Rating: 5 Stars | Tour Length: 1 and 1/2 hours | Check Rates And Availability

This Salem haunted history walking tour is not your typical run-of-the-mill tour. This one’s all about unraveling Salem’s dark past and enigmatic legends. What sets it apart is that you are guided by expert historians and paranormal investigators who are all about separating fact from fiction.

You delve into the chilling events of the infamous Salem Witch Trials and explore some of Salem’s most famous locations. But the real excitement comes when you dive into the most spine-tingling local legends. You get to unearth tales of voodoo, witchcraft, vampires, and ghostly apparitions that have etched their eerie presence into the very soul of this iconic New England town.

The guide was informative, a great storyteller, and moved the tour along at a great pace. Even being local to this area I learned new things! It was a perfect balance of spooky and historical. Would highly recommend! Kasey ( see more reviews )

Throughout this spooky guided tour in Salem , you visit important historical sites along with eerie modern day haunted places. Hear tales of ancient and modern-day blood drinkers, serial killers, and some of the darkest secrets Salem has kept hidden.

#4. Bewitched Walking Tour of Salem

Rating: 5 Stars | Tour Length: 1 hour 45 minutes | Check Rates And Availability

This Bewitched Salem walking tour gives you the most comprehensive look at the Witch Trials in the city. With a local historian as your guide, you visit over a dozen historically significant spots, unearthing 400 years of captivating history as you go.

What makes this tour truly exceptional is its perfect blend of history, legends, and even a touch of pop culture. The storytellers leading the way are seasoned pros, known for their knack for bringing Salem’s history to life. It’s an experience that appeals to both locals and tourists alike.

Our guide was excellent! Would recommend this walking tour. Our guide was very informative and provided a ton of info. She even has her own podcast about Salem! Best tour we had in Salem. Christina ( see more reviews )

This wonderful 5-star Salem witch tour takes you on a deep dive into history as you uncover the real story behind the infamous 1692 witch trials and explore the rich tapestry of Salem’s past.

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

This nighttime Salem walking tour takes you on an incredible journey into Witch City’s darker side. Your guide dives into spine-chilling tales of murder, mystery, and the macabre, unraveling unbelievable stories that have left their mark on Salem.

You get to learn about a tragic 1600s murder, a notorious hitman, and even the Boston Strangler’s potential visit to Salem. This whirlwind one-hour tour is not for the faint of heart and is recommended for adults. Older teens may also appreciate the spookiness of this tour.

This tour was amazing! Our tour guide, Samantha, was so knowledgeable and had photos to back up everything she told us about. We were sufficiently spooked by the end and loved every second of it!! Isabella ( see more reviews )

This dark yet captivating guided tour takes a break from the typical Salem witch trials history, focusing on gruesome murders and spine-tingling ghostly encounters. It explores unique stories all under the eerie cover of night, and is definitely a must-do experience while you’re in Salem.

#6. The Salem Night Ghost Tour

Rating: 4 and 1/2 Stars | Tour Length: 1 and 1/2 hours | Check Rates And Availability

Another great option for a spooky nighttime tour is this Salem ghost tour . It’s a fantastic historical account of Salem’s gruesome past, combined with details of supposedly haunted places where murders occurred. Legends, history, and the infamous hysteria of 1692 come to life in the eerie setting of Salem at night.

During this tour you get to stop at and learn about many sites that were important in the Salem Witch Trials. You see the memorial stones of the accused, unmarked Puritan graves, and more. They even stop at one of the filming locations from the Hocus Pocus movie.

Tour guide was funny witty and gave us an awesome experience . Worth every dollar spent on the tour. 10/10 would recommend. Blake ( see more reviews )

This haunted history tour in Salem is a fun and interesting way to immerse yourself in the sordid history of Massachusetts. Walking the cobblestone streets, hearing facts and legends about centuries past, and learning about the hysteria surrounding the Salem Witch Trials is an experience you won’t likely forget.

#7. Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking Tour

Rating: 5 Stars | Tour Length: 2 and 1/2 hours | Check Rates And Availability

While Salem is famous for the Salem witch trials, this history and sightseeing tour takes you on a historical journey that goes way beyond those infamous events. You get to explore the richness of Salem’s past, from the era of the Puritans and Patriots to the present day, all under the expert guidance of a local historian.

Throughout the tour you visit iconic city landmarks that shed light on Salem’s diverse history. From sites critical to the Salem Witch Trials, to the Ropes Mansion – which you would recognize if you’ve ever seen Hocus Pocus, you get to visit and understand how various people and places paved the way for what Salem is today.

Excellent tour, best we’ve done in Salem. Kenneth has a wonderful way of telling the stories of Salem. He is so genuine and knowledgeable about the people and buildings in Salem. It felt a much more personal tour than others. I highly recommend this tour. Sheree ( see more reviews )

This guided history tour is your ticket to gaining a deeper and more personal understanding of Salem’s vibrant past, far beyond the witch trials. It’s an adventure that’s as educational as it is captivating, and definitely worth adding to your Salem itinerary.

#8. Salem Witchcraft Historical Walking Tour

This 90 minute historical tour in Salem shines a light on a dark chapter in US history. Learn about the unprecedented events that occurred in 1692, where a community driven by fear and religious zealotry executed 20 innocent people.

You make stops at various significant locations, like where the accused spent months awaiting trials, where the trials actually took place, and the memorial gravestones of the wrongly executed. It’s a sobering reminder of what hate and fear can produce in society.

This was by far the best tour we went on while visiting Salem. We started our day with this tour and that was the perfect choice! We decided to add it a bit last minute to get some of the true history before some of our other plans later that day… Our guide was extremely knowledgeable, entertaining, and friendly. Taylor ( see more reviews )

This historical Salem witch tour offers a chance to connect with history and pay respects to those who suffered during a tumultuous time in Salem’s past. It’s a journey that will deepen your understanding of these events that still echo through time.

#9. Witch Trial History and Salem Haunts

Rating: 5 Stars | Tour Length: 1 hour | Check Rates And Availability

This Salem witch history tour delves into the lives of victims, accusers, and culprits, all while exploring the very locations where these historic events unfolded. But it’s not just witches; you get to visit Salem’s haunted buildings, eerie cemeteries, and even spots from the Hocus Pocus movie.

Like any of the best Salem witch tours, this one gets into the gruesome details of what happened back in 1692. But what sets this one apart is that it’s guided by passionate storytellers and historians. You can see how much they care about the subject matter while they spin their grisly tales.

We did the earliest available time tour and it was great . It ended up being just me and my husband. Our tour guide, David, was very knowledgeable and made the entire tour entertaining. I would 10/10 recommend. Jennifer ( see more reviews )

This historical Salem witch tour isn’t just history; it’s a thrilling, spooky, and fun journey. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Salem’s captivating history and unforgettable stories of a time long gone.

#10. Discover Salem & Craft Spells with A Real Witch

Last but definitely not least on our list of the best Salem witch tours is this witchcraft and discovery tour , led by a real practicing witch. This is not your typical tour, instead, it’s an immersive experience where you learn all about Salem’s captivating history and magic while crafting real spells in a cozy coven-like setting.

You start with the origins of Salem and the Puritan culture that led to the infamous witch trials. Then, you explore the maritime trade that made Salem one of America’s wealthiest cities. But the best part is when you perform simple spells for grounding, protection, and happiness at various stops in Salem.

What an absolute delight! Dee was informative, friendly, entertaining, and very knowledgeable about the history surrounding Salem. I learned SO much. At various locations, we did simple spells that were practical and informative for the non practitioner. (as a practitioner, I loved them)… I can’t say enough about the tour and the lovely tour guide! Highly, highly recommend. Allison ( see more reviews )

This witchcraft and history tour in Salem is an excellent choice for spending your time in the city. If you’ve ever been intrigued by modern day witchcraft, or are curious to see magic in action, this is definitely a tour to add to your Salem itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Salem Witch Tours

Got questions? Don’t worry, we’ve got the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the various Salem witch tours.

What should I wear on Salem witch tours?

While taking a Salem witch tour, be aware that there is definitely some walking involved. You should wear comfortable shoes that enable you to walk for some distance.

Also, be mindful that the weather in Massachusetts can be volatile, so, regardless of the season, check the weather before you go on a Salem witch tour. You may want to bring a jacket, an umbrella, hat, or sunscreen, depending on the season.

Salem is a place where colorful clothes and dramatic costumes are an everyday occurrence. Feel free to dress in your witchy best any time of year, but especially in October! You’ll see all manner of attire while on Salem witch tours, from casual clothing to full-on costumed characters.

Are Salem witch tours worth it?

Absolutely yes! Salem witch tours are a fantastic way to explore the blend of historical events and modern-day witchcraft culture in Salem. You dive into the rich history of the infamous witch trials, where you learn about the hysteria, the accused, and the consequences of those tumultuous times. It’s like stepping into a time machine and witnessing history firsthand.

But here’s the cool part: Salem isn’t just about looking back; it’s also a hub for modern-day witchcraft and Wiccan traditions. Many of the tours include stops at contemporary witch shops, where you can explore crystals, herbs, spell books, and other mystical tools used in modern witchcraft. You might even have the chance to meet practicing witches who will share insights into their beliefs and practices.

What else should I know about Salem witch tours?

Something you should take into consideration when taking any of the best Salem witch tours is that you should bring some cash. Your tour guides work hard to give you the best experience possible during your time in Salem.

Therefore, it is customary to show your appreciation for the value they give you by tipping them at the end of your tour. Most people tip between 10-20% of the cost of the tour.

When is the best time to take a Salem witch tour?

For a true witchy vibe, Salem in October is the best time to go. However, this is also when the crowds are the biggest, and traffic can be brutal. If you choose to go to Salem in October, crowds are smaller during the day. Nighttime gives off a spectacular spooky feel, especially if taking a haunted tour in Salem.

If visiting in either September or October, book your tours far in advance . This is Salem’s busiest time of year, and things sell out fast and early. So, for any tours you want to take, book them as early as possible to guarantee yourself a spot.

Final Thoughts On The Best Salem Witch Tours

I’ve been fortunate enough to explore my fair share of cities, but as a Bostonian, Salem will always have a special place in my heart. Salem’s diverse witch tours promise to add that extra sprinkle of magic to your visit.

Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, each of these Salem witch tours offers a one-of-a-kind journey through Salem’s bewitching history and magical present, ensuring that your time in Salem becomes a flavorful memory to cherish.

I featured the 10 best Salem witch tours in this article, but if you still can’t decide, let me help you make that choice!

Still can’t decide on a Salem witch tour? I suggest this History & Hauntings tour. It has a perfect ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating!

As we wrap up our enchanting journey through the top Salem witch tours, one thing becomes abundantly clear: this city knows how to cast a spell on your imagination and unravel the mysteries of its bewitching past.

From historical sites to modern witchcraft practices, the best Salem witch tours unveil the diverse tales and enchantments that make this city a treasure trove of exploration. It’s not just about learning; it’s about immersing yourself in the magic of Salem, one story at a time.

Additional Boston Resources and Information

Dive deeper into the heart of the city by exploring our other Boston-related blog pages. Whether you’re seeking more travel inspiration, historical insights, or insider tips for your Boston adventure, these links will be your gateway to uncovering the best of my hometown.

Is The Freedom Trail Guided Tour Worth It?

One Day In Boston: Ultimate Guide To Top City Highlights

The 10 Best Boston Food Tours You Need To Take

Ultimate Guide To Fenway Park Tours

Backstage At The Verb Hotel In Boston

Is Boston Worth Visiting In 2024? 16 Reasons To Go Right Now

Hi there! My name is Rachel, and I'm a travel enthusiast, writer, and lifelong learner. With over 15 years of marriage and two amazing kids, I've learned that traveling is one of the best ways to bond and create lasting memories with loved ones. I'll share everything I learn, from tips and tricks to specific product and business reviews, so you can make memories around the world too!

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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.

View Prices & Reviews

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

North Andover

Witch Trials Online Sites Tour

Our online tour allows you to view sites related to the 1692 Salem witch trials, in Essex and Middlesex counties, plus the greater Boston area. Select a town or city below to learn about relevant locations, and to view pictures where available.

Included are original houses, foundations, grave sites, historical markers, and approximate locations of homes that are no longer standing. Please visit the websites or call ahead to historic sites before visiting. All private residences are marked accordingly; please respect locations not open to the public.

• Pre-Colonial Mass
• 17th Century Mass
• 18th Century Mass
• 19th Century Mass

Best Salem Tours from Boston

Visiting Boston and looking to take a side trip to Salem? Check out these Salem tours from Boston.

Due to Salem’s close proximity to Boston, taking a quick day trip to the Witch City is easy. Salem is such a small town that you can see all of the major sites and visit many of the attractions all in one day.

Navigating the maze of old colonial-era streets in Massachusetts can be difficult though but you can easily solve this problem with a guided tour from Boston.

These tours will take you directly to Salem, as well as surrounding towns like Gloucester and Rockport, and show you all of Salem’s historic sites:

(Disclaimer: Purchases made through the links in this article help support the History of Massachusetts Blog.)

1 Day Witch City Tour – Salem and Marblehead Tour from Boston Salem Tours:

Take Tours offers a one day tour of Salem and Marblehead from Boston . This 7-hour tour begins in Boston with a morning pick up at your hotel or pre-arranged location.

You’ll then take a short drive to Marblehead to visit Abbot Hall, which houses “The Spirit of 76,” a famous painting of the American Revolution by Archibald MacNeal Ward.

The tour then continues on to Salem where you’ll be able to explore Salem on your own or take one of the many Salem history tours available in the city.

The Witch House, Salem, Mass, circa November 2015. Photo Credit: Rebecca Brooks

You’ll also receive a Gray Line Discount card which will give you a special discount admission rate at the Custom House, the House of Seven Gables and the Salem Witch Museum. The tour concludes with a short drive back to Boston in the late afternoon.

The tour is available Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from June 11 – October 22.

1 Day Salem and Gloucester Tour from Boston:

Take Tours offers a one day Salem and Gloucester tour from Boston via a motorcoach or minibus.

The tour starts with a morning pickup in the Boston area. On the way to Salem, you’ll stop for lunch at Woodman’s Restaurant in Essex.

After lunch, you’ll continue your journey to Salem where you will visit the Salem Witch Museum and watch a live show about the Salem Witch Trials presented via wax figures and an audio presentation.

Salem Witch Museum, Salem, Mass, November 2015. Photo Credit: Rebecca Brooks

Then you’ll take a short drive to Gloucester to visit Hammond Castle. The castle was built by inventor John Hays Hammond Jr and was pieced together with remnants of historic castles and buildings in Europe.

In the evening, you’ll be able to explore Salem to see all the attractions and historic sites in the city. At about 8pm, you’ll reboard the bus and head back to Boston.

This tour is available May through October. Take Tours also offers a one day Halloween Witch Town Haunted Tour from Boston in late October each year.

Private Day Trip from Boston to Salem:

Viator offers a private day trip from Boston to Salem . This 7-hour private tour is available for small groups.

The tour starts in Boston with a morning pickup at your hotel in an upscale private vehicle, such as a VIP sedan, SUV or van.

Then you’ll take a short drive to Salem where you’ll make a stop at Charter Street to see the old Charter Street cemetery, where the infamous Salem Witch Judge John Hathorne is buried, and then head to the nearby Howard Street cemetery to see the site of Giles Corey’s death during the Salem Witch Trials.

The Howard Street Cemetery, Salem, Mass, circa 2012. Photo Credit: Rebecca Brooks

You’ll also visit the Gallows Hill theater to check out a live theater show about the Salem Witch Trials.

You also have the option of visiting any of the other sites and attractions in the city such as the Salem Witch Museum, Salem Witch Trials memorial, Salem Witch House, the Bewitched Statue, Witch Dungeon Museum, Salem’s Wax Museum, Witch History Museum, Peabody Essex Museum, Pioneer Village, Pirate Museum or the House of Seven Gables.

At the end of the tour, you’ll take the short drive back to Boston where you will be dropped off at your hotel.

Viator also offers this same private day trip to Salem in a luxury Rolls Royce Ghost .

Sources: “Salem: Witch Trials Self-Guided Tour.” Salem Witch Museum , www.salemwitchmuseum.com/SitesTour/salem “Salem Day trip from Boston.” Salem.org , 25 June. 2015, salem.org/do/salem-daytrip-boston/

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