Salem’s historical walking tours efficiently connect visitors with the city’s fascinating past. Standout experiences include the Black Cat Historical Day Tour, which expertly covers the witch trials, maritime conflicts, and local pirate tales in a well-organized route. The Salem Walking Tour shines when exploring the city’s impressive seafaring heritage, while History and Hauntings provides the most thorough look at the 1692 trials. For an insider’s perspective, Secrets of Salem Hidden History thoughtfully explains how this Puritan settlement evolved into today’s vibrant city. Most tours run 90-120 minutes and cost $20-35 – a good value for the solid historical content. Our tested recommendations for the top historical tours in Salem follow below.
Key Points
- The Black Cat Historical Day Tour is a highly recommended 2-hour walking tour with costumed guides covering wars, witch trials, and pirate legacies.
- The Salem: History of Salem Walking Tour focuses on the city’s maritime history, offering a 1.5-hour experience with flexible booking options.
- The History and Hauntings of Salem tour explores the dark history and haunted sites of the city, with a 97% traveler recommendation and over 11,500 reviews.
- The Salem: Secrets of Salem Hidden History tour discusses the transformation of Puritan society and notable figures, with a 4.5/5 rating.
- The Salem 101 General History Tour covers over four centuries of history in a 1.5-hour wheelchair-accessible tour priced at $25 per person.
Black Cat Historical Day Tour
The Black Cat Historical Day Tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of Salem’s captivating past. This 2-hour walking tour, led by costumed guides, delves into the city’s rich history, from its involvement in wars to its notorious witch trials and pirate legacies.
Praised for its knowledgeable and engaging storytelling, the tour takes guests to off-the-beaten-path locations often missed by other visitors. With a maximum group size of 25, the tour provides an intimate experience and a comprehensive historical overview, making it ideal for first-time travelers.
While some have noted occasional noise issues, the tour generally receives rave reviews, with 99% of travelers recommending the experience.
Read our full review: Black Cat Historical Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Salem: History of Salem Walking Tour W/Real Pirates Entry
On the Salem: History of Salem Walking Tour W/Real Pirates Entry, visitors embark on a captivating 1.5-hour journey through the city’s rich maritime history.
Priced from $30 per person, the small-group tour features a live guide and explores 12 historic waterfront structures, delving into the Triangle Trade, privateers, and global maritime trade.
The tour includes admission to the Real Pirates Salem exhibit, showcasing the only authenticated pirate treasure in the world.
Extras like free digital photos, a take-home audio tour, and a $5 gift shop coin sweeten the deal.
With flexible booking and free cancellation, this tour provides an engaging and immersive experience for history enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Salem: History of Salem Walking Tour W/Real Pirates Entry Review
Book now: Check availability
History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour
This captivating 2-hour guided walking tour allows visitors to enjoy Salem’s rich history and uncover its haunting past.
With 97% traveler recommendation and over 11,500 reviews, it’s a must-do activity for those seeking to explore the city’s storied past.
Knowledgeable local guides share spellbinding tales of the infamous 1692 Witch Trials and lead participants to notable sites like the Witch Trials Memorial and the Bewitched Statue.
The tour’s engaging storytelling, interactive elements, and option for a nighttime “spookier” experience make it an informative and entertaining way to discover Salem’s captivating history and eerie hauntings.
Read our full review: History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Salem: Secrets of Salem Hidden History Walking Tour
Dive deeper into Salem’s complex history beyond the infamous witch trials on the “Salem: Secrets of Salem Hidden History Walking Tour”.
This 2-hour guided walking tour takes you through 9 historic locations, uncovering the town’s transformation from a strict Puritan society to the witchcraft capital.
Learn about the aftermath of the 1692 witch trials and discover connections between author Nathaniel Hawthorne and judge John Hathorne.
Hear captivating tales of betrayal, murder, and mystery from your knowledgeable guide.
Explore filming locations for classic TV shows and movies, and gain a comprehensive understanding of Salem’s history and tourism industry.
With an overall 4.5/5 rating, this tour offers excellent value for an insightful look into Salem’s hidden past.
Read our full review: Salem: Secrets of Salem Hidden History Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Salems Dark History & Witchcraft Hysteria Guided Walking Tour
Explore Salem’s grim past and the chilling witchcraft hysteria that gripped the town on the 90-minute “Salems Dark History & Witchcraft Hysteria Guided Walking Tour“.
Led by experienced storytellers, the tour takes you to popular sites like the Witch House and hidden gems, providing engaging narratives and historical context.
With a maximum group size of 35, the wheelchair and stroller-accessible tour has earned a 4.6/5 rating from 199 reviews, 90% of which recommend the experience.
While some found the pacing lacking, many praised the knowledgeable guides like Maria, whose enthusiasm and local tips enhanced the tour.
Comfortable shoes are advised for this walking exploration of Salem’s dark history.
Read our full review: Salems Dark History & Witchcraft Hysteria Guided Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Salem 101 General History Tour
For those interested in a more rundown of Salem’s storied past, the Salem 101 General History Tour provides an engaging 1.5-hour exploration.
Priced at $25 per person, this guided walking tour covers over four centuries of history, from the town’s founding in 1626 to its role as a significant seaport and the infamous 1692 witch trials.
Visitors can expect to learn about notable figures and visit key historical sites like the Ropes Mansion and Witch House.
With a knowledgeable live guide, amplified audio, and a wheelchair-accessible route, the tour offers a well-rounded experience, rain or shine.
Discounts are available for various groups, and cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Read our full review: Salem 101 General History Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sailing on Historic Schooner When And If in Salem, MA
Sailing aboard the historic schooner yacht When And If in Salem, MA, offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the city’s coastal charm.
Built in 1939 by General George Patton, the vessel boasts a 5.0 rating from 124 reviews and is recommended by 98% of travelers.
Ideal for couples or special occasions, the When And If provides unobstructed views of Salem’s coastline. Guests can enjoy bottled water, gratuities, and a full bar as they assist the knowledgeable and friendly crew with the sails.
While not wheelchair accessible, the schooner accommodates collapsible wheelchairs with assistance.
With multiple departure times available, the sailing experience promises a relaxing and informative journey.
Read our full review: Sailing on Historic Schooner When And If in Salem, MA Review
Book now: Check availability
Salem, MA: History and Hauntings Guided Walking Tour
The Salem, MA: History and Hauntings Guided Walking Tour provides visitors an immersive experience uncovering the city’s haunting past.
Priced at $32.94 per person, the 2-hour tour explores the historic town through the eyes of knowledgeable and passionate guides. Guests will uncover tales of the supernatural, learn about the infamous Salem Witch Trials, and discover the maritime history and architecture of the McIntire Historic District.
With stops at iconic landmarks like the Witch House and Ropes Mansion, the outdoor walking tour offers an educational and entertaining way to experience Salem.
Wheelchair accessible and running rain or shine, the tour is a must for anyone seeking to explore the paranormal side of this New England town.
Read our full review: Salem, MA: History and Hauntings Guided Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Wicked Awesome Tours: Witch Trial History and Salem Haunts!
Wicked Awesome Tours provides visitors an immersive exploration of Salem’s witch trial history and haunted landmarks. Rated 4.7 out of 507 reviews, the 1-hour tour covers key sites like the Salem Witch Trials Memorial and Buffy the Vampire Slayer filming locations.
Led by knowledgeable, licensed guides, the experience offers in-depth storytelling and entertaining commentary. Suitable for all ages, the tour is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation.
Customers praise the guides’ engaging and humorous approach, which enhances the learning experience. With a maximum group size of 50, the tour offers a personalized experience at a reasonable price of $28 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Wicked Awesome Tours: Witch Trial History and Salem Haunts! Review
Book now: Check availability
From Boston: Salem Witch Trials History Tour
Visitors seeking an immersive exploration of Salem’s notorious witch trials can embark on the “From Boston: Salem Witch Trials History Tour.”
This 6-hour excursion departs from Boston, transporting participants back in time to uncover the dark history and lingering mysteries surrounding the 1692 witch hunt.
Along the way, the tour visits key sites like the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, the Witch House, and the Salem Witch Museum, providing a rundown of this tragic chapter.
With knowledgeable guides, multimedia presentations, and interactive exhibits, the tour offers a captivating look at the trials, their impact, and the town’s enduring witch-related legacy.
Read our full review: From Boston: Salem Witch Trials History Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Historic Overview of Salem Walking Tour
Travelers looking to explore Salem’s captivating history beyond the notorious witch trials can embark on the “Historic Overview of Salem Walking Tour.”
This 90-minute excursion guides visitors through the city’s historic center, showcasing its seaport origins, early colonial culture, and notable residents. Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour provides a rundown, exploring Salem’s role in the American Revolution and its maritime significance.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and covers approximately one mile. With a maximum group size of 40, the experience offers personalized attention and clear communication via an amplifier.
Though the tour doesn’t focus on the witch trials, it provides a broader historical perspective that appeals to history enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Historic Overview of Salem Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Salem Night Tour: Haunt and History Guided Night Tour
For those seeking a more immersive and eerie exploration of Salem’s storied past, the Salem Night Tour: Haunt and History Guided Night Tour offers a captivating experience. Priced at $26 per person and lasting approximately 1.5 hours, this guided walking tour takes visitors through the historic and haunted sites of downtown Salem.
Led by a local historian and paranormal investigator, the tour delves into the dark history of the Salem Witch Trials and other colonial-era events. Highlights include visits to two cemeteries, the Witch Trials Memorial, the Old Salem Jail, and filming locations from the classic film Hocus Pocus.
With high customer ratings and a focus on balancing history and ghost stories, this tour provides an engaging and informative look at Salem’s past.
Read our full review: Salem Night Tour: Haunt and History Guided Night Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Salem Kids Walking History Tour
The Salem Kids Walking History Tour offers a captivating and educational experience for young visitors to the city.
With 29 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this tour is praised for its engaging, kid-focused guide who brings Salem’s past, legends, and witchcraft to life through interactive stories.
The 1-hour tour covers the city’s top historic sights at a relaxed pace, allowing for personal engagement in a small-group setting of up to 22 travelers.
Accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, the tour starts at Pamplemousse and ends at The Burying Point, near public transportation.
Travelers highlight the tour’s perfect balance of history, folklore, and humor, making it a must-do activity for families visiting Salem.
Read our full review: Salem Kids Walking History Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Salem: Witch Trial History and Salem Haunts
Salem’s infamous Witch Trials of 1692 have captivated visitors for centuries, and the Salem: Witch Trial History and Salem Haunts Walking Tour offers a compelling glimpse into this dark chapter.
Priced from SEK 273 per person, the 1-hour English-language tour takes guests on a journey through historic sites, haunted buildings, and former jails.
Led by experienced, licensed guides, the tour explores the Witch Trials Memorial, Hocus Pocus movie locations, and Salem’s role in war and piracy.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 and positive feedback highlighting knowledgeable and friendly guides, this tour provides excellent value for money and a deeper understanding of Salem’s rich history.
Read our full review: Salem: Witch Trial History and Salem Haunts Review
Book now: Check availability
Steps Through 1692 (History Tour)
Frequently, the Steps Through 1692 (History Tour) takes visitors on an immersive journey into Salem’s past, exploring the tumultuous events of the infamous 1692 witch trials.
The highly-rated tour, recommended by 98% of travelers, covers significant historical landmarks and provides insight into the hysteria and impact of the witch trials.
Led by certified experts, the engaging tour blends humor and historical context, offering a tailored experience based on participants’ interests.
While some travelers have experienced issues with late arrivals, the majority praise the knowledgeable guides and the tour’s informative and enjoyable nature.
Read our full review: Steps Through 1692 (History Tour) Review
Book now: Check availability
Salem: Historic Schooner Sailing Cruise
A popular alternative to the land-based tours is the Salem: Historic Schooner Sailing Cruise, which offers visitors a unique perspective on the coastal city’s maritime history.
Boarding a traditional schooner, guests embark on a 90-minute voyage along the picturesque harbor. The knowledgeable crew shares tales of Salem’s seafaring past, including its role in the American Revolution and the city’s once-thriving fishing and shipping industries.
Sailing beneath the iconic Pickering Wharf, the cruise provides breathtaking views of the Peabody Essex Museum, Derby Wharf Light Station, and the city’s historic waterfront.
Whether seeking a relaxing excursion or a deeper appreciation for Salem’s nautical heritage, the schooner sailing tour is a must-do activity for history enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Salem: Historic Schooner Sailing Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Ultimate Historic Salem and Witch Trials Self-Guided Walking Tour
For those seeking a more in-depth exploration of Salem’s rich history and its notorious witch trials, the Ultimate Historic Salem and Witch Trials Self-Guided Walking Tour provides a captivating and flexible experience.
With a 4.2-star rating based on 55 reviews, this app-led tour allows you to explore at your own pace, bringing Salem’s dark past to life through narrated stories and multimedia content.
The tour is accessible and easy to use, working offline and offering hands-free audio that automatically plays based on your location.
Whether you’re interested in a comprehensive route or prefer a more personalized experience, this self-guided tour provides a flexible and immersive way to uncover the secrets of Salem.
Read our full review: Ultimate Historic Salem and Witch Trials Self-Guided Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
Salem offers a range of historical tours that explore the city’s rich past. From walking tours exploring the Salem Witch Trials to sailing cruises along the coast, visitors can enjoy the captivating stories that have shaped this iconic destination. Whether seeking an in-depth look at the area’s dark history or a more general overview, Salem provides a wealth of opportunities to uncover its fascinating heritage.