History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Come and explore the rich, mysterious history of one of New England's most loved destinations Salem, Massachusetts. This ~2 hour walking tour brings to life the true story of Salem's storied past. We are a diverse groups of historians, teachers, professional artists whose passion for Salem's history is truly engaging. You will learn about Salem's rich past as a world-class seaport, hear hauntedly chilling tales of the supernatural, visit one of the most beautiful streets in America and learn of three hundred years of architecture, and find out the truth about the 1692 Salem Witch Trials hysteria. You will leave Salem wanting to plan your next trip back! Come and see why this the *only* tour you need while in Salem.
Dog friendly! Handicap accessible!
Tours run RAIN or SHINE. We do NOT cancel for weather. No refunds for no-shows or for weather.
***Please note, we book up to 40 people per tour***
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by ticketed adult
Our Tours run rain or shine, we do not cancel for weather. Please wear comfortable shoes and dress accordingly.
By choosing to purchase a ticket, you and your ticketed guests will be agreeing to our liability waiver which includes a release of liability on our tours as well as a photo release.
Dog friendly!
Wheelchairs and scooters are welcome, however, be aware that Salem has brick sidewalks, uneven surfaces and narrow areas. Visitors assume all responsibility with wheelchairs and WCWT will not be held liable.
We do not enter any buildings or cemeteries on this tour, this is an outdoor activity only.
Tour group size may be up to 40 guests per group during busy times
There are no public restrooms on the tour route. Please plan accordingly.
The consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited on all tours.
Smoking and vaping is prohibited on all tours.
Please allow at least 2 hours for this tour. Some tours run up to 2 hours and 15 minutes
What To Expect
Salem Old Town Hall
All tours depart from Salem's Old Town Hall, on the three steps. A local historian guides you through the cobblestone-lined streets of this 17th century city by the glow of lantern light. Explore the driving factors behind the infamous Witch Trials Hysteria of 1692, meeting real practicing witches along the way. Learn about the rise of Salem as a world-class haunted seaport, creating some of the wealthiest families in its history.
Essex Street Pedestrian Mall
We will be strolling the cobblestoned streets of the Essex St Pedestrian walking mall. This is the very heart of Salem, which once was a Native American trading path. You will visit the site of the First Church of Salem and hear the haunting tale of the Lady in Blue.
Options
English Version Only
English Language Only
Spanish Version Only
Spanish Language Only
What‘s Included
2-hour Hauntings & History Salem Walking Tour
We do not enter any buildings on this tour. This is an outdoor activity only.
See top Salem sites such as Witch Trials Memorial, Witch House, and Ropes Mansion.
Professional/Local Guide
Listen to 400 years of Salem history from a local historian
Walk the cobblestone streets of Salem's historic McIntire District
Gratuities
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
14,961 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Dawn the best
Mariah M,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I love dawn, she’s so funny and I would love to see her again! She’s so funny and I loved the whole tour
Great job Joe
410madelineh,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a hauntingly good time. Joe was an engaging guide who gave us a worthwhile experience! He was personable and funny while respecting Salem’s history. Highly recommend!
Highly Recommend!
Amy H,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very informative and engaging tour! Henry, our guide, was very knowledgeable and kept us all entertained. It was a great overview of the history of Salem.
Salem Ma
Karen Y,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very informative tour! David was top-notch and very knowledgeable!
Good not have been better
TimL587,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A very educating experience. Joe kept everyone involved, which made the experience top notch.
Definitely recommend
Nicole S,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Was a great tour very educational and fun. Heidi was an amazing tour guide. Got a little history and spooky all in one
A good introduction
O670HBfredericm,Jun 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This is a great family-friendly tour if you want an overview of the history and shape of Salem, as well as information on some of its more popular cultural reference points. I felt there could have been a greater density of information given the length of the tour and it could have covered more area, but these things were clearly advertised. Our guide Rebecca was very friendly and knowledgeable and took great care to make sure our entire group was comfortable and everyone was engaged, had a chance to take photos, had enough shade etc. If you are particularly interested in the history of Salem or in ghost sightings, it might be worth seeing if there are other tours that provide more on these areas, but this tour is a great introduction to the city.
Made history interesting
Tori P,Jun 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Rebecca was an excellent tour guide. My teens and I really enjoyed learning more about Salem and seeing the sites. She was very kind to keep us in shady spots too because it was a hot day.
everything a nighttime ghost and history tour should be
M3347DNjesss,Jun 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a great tour. Topher was our guide and he was awesome. He was able to balance Salem’s dark history, emphasizing respect and remembrance for the victims, while also sharing fun ghost stories and a love for witches. It was everything a nighttime ghost and history tour should be.
Our tour guide Dean was...
Scott T,Jun 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our tour guide Dean was very knowledgeable and helped us to better understand the history of the area, as well as shared fun stories. Would recommend this tour.
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