Walk through Salem’s storied streets and discover its tales of witches, early settlers, and maritime history. A friendly guide voice shares stories at each stop, making the past come alive as you walk.
You can start when you want. Pause to peek into old homes, museums, and hidden alleys. Visit The House of the Seven Gables, Salem Witch Trials Memorial, Old Burying Point Cemetery, Salem Harbor, and historic merchant houses. The guide also points out lesser-known buildings and local legends that people often miss.
This tour works without internet. It gives you directions, fun facts, and helpful tips you can use again and again. It stays on your phone forever.
Download the tour, put on your walking shoes, and let the stories guide you through Salem’s haunted past and rich history—on your path, at your own pace.
*Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours*
Tour starting point. Outside are benches and a park with granite benches. Inside are National Park Service maritime displays and park rangers for info, a gift shop, water for purchase, free restrooms, and benches for sitting.
This historic building was once a prominent lecture space called Lyceum Hall. Today, it's the home of the well-regarded Turner's Seafood.
Salem Common is the oldest public park in Salem, dating back to 1803. It was a community space before that, and is known as the birthplace of the National Guard.
The Hawthorne Hotel was established in 1925 and is named after Nathaniel Hawthorne, Salem's most prominent author. The show Bewitched and the film Joy filmed here. The lobby is elegant, and there's a restaurant and gift shop.
This statue of author Nathaniel Hawthorne stands in a small pocket park in front of the Hawthorne Hotel. Nathaniel was born down the street and is one of Salem's most prominent figures.
Nathaniel Hawthorne's home was originally located near the Hawthorne Hotel, but it was relocated to the grounds of the House of the Seven Gables for preservation and is part of a historical complex. Entry into the home requires admission to the House of the Seven Gables.
The House of the Seven Gables is one of the largest timber-framed colonial mansions in North America that still sits on its original foundation. It was built in 1668 for a sea merchant and ship owner named John Turner, and later ended up in the hands of relatives of Nathaniel Hawthorne's. There are a few additional buildings on the grounds, and a garden. You can just go in the gift shop free of charge or pay various options to tour inside the house, or just the grounds and garden.
Ye Olde Pepper Candy Companie claims to be the oldest candy company in the United States. It's known for two local candy specialties: the gibralter and the black jack.
The Derby House was once the home of one of Salem's wealthiest sea merchants, Elias Derby. The home is now part of Salem Maritime National Historic Site. You can just look at the front of the house, or walk around the backyard garden.
The Custom House dates back to 1819, when Salem was a maritime powerhouse. Ship captains came to this building to pay duties on the goods they imported. Today, it's part of the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. You can just look at the outside of the building or spend a while exploring both floors inside.
Derby Wharf was constructed in 1762 by sea merchant Elias Derby. It's 2,000 feet long and once held around 20 buildings. Today, there's the Pedrick Store House, the three-masted Friendship of Salem ship, and the Derby Wharf Lightstation at the very end. You can just take a look out on the water or spend time sitting by the water or walking to the lighthouse. The wharf is part of Salem Maritime National Historic Site.
The light station is the only original structure remaining on the wharf. It's a small lighthouse, only 20 feet tall. It dates back to 1871 and has aided navigation in Salem Harbor ever since. To walk all the way to the lighthouse and back takes a minimum of 20 minutes roundtrip
This building holds a national park gift shop now, but it was once a warehouse for the wharf. You can just look at it from the outside, or enter and shop for souvenirs or park info
Start your tour at the Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center, located in the heart of downtown Salem. Armory Park is just outside with plenty of seating, and inside you’ll find maritime exhibits, rangers, a gift shop, water, and restrooms. For exact details, please check the app.
HOW TO REDEEM YOUR TOUR:
Thank you for purchasing the Historic Salem Walking Tour.
Before you start your adventure, you'll need to redeem and download the tour in the Shaka Guide app. Follow the instructions below:
*Please Note: The redeem code is the 10-digit booking reference number on your ticket (located under the barcode).
1. Download the Shaka Guide App in the App Store or Google Play Store (or use the link at the bottom of this email)
2. Open the app and go to the support tab
3. Click Account Settings
4. Click Retrieve Purchases
5. Select Use Redeem Code (the 10-digit booking reference number on your ticket, located under the barcode)
6. Sign up with your email ID
7. Enter the redeem code shared above in the message.
Once you've redeemed your tour, you'll find it under "My Stuff" in the app.
For a smooth ride, download the tour with wifi before you go.
We can't wait for you to explore with Shaka Guide!
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to aloha@shakaguide.com or call (808) 201-8138
DOWNLOAD THE APP HERE: www.shakaguide.com/download
Salem, Massachusetts, is a historic coastal city known for its pivotal role in American history, particularly the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Today, it's a vibrant destination offering a mix of historical landmarks, maritime heritage, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Visitors can explore museums, walking tours, and the scenic waterfront, making it a unique and captivating place to visit.
The Salem Witch Museum offers a fascinating look into the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Visitors can explore exhibits and a dramatic presentation that brings the story to life.
The Peabody Essex Museum is one of the oldest and most respected museums in the country, featuring a diverse collection of art and artifacts from around the world.
The House of the Seven Gables is a historic mansion made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel. Visitors can tour the house and its beautiful gardens, as well as explore exhibits on the author's life and work.
The Salem Maritime National Historic Site preserves and interprets the maritime history of Salem. Visitors can explore historic ships, warehouses, and other structures, as well as learn about the city's role in the Age of Sail.
The Witch House is the only remaining structure in Salem with direct ties to the Witch Trials of 1692. Visitors can tour the house and learn about its history and the role of Judge Jonathan Corwin in the trials.
A classic New England dish featuring fresh lobster meat served on a buttered, toasted roll.
A creamy, hearty soup made with fresh clams, potatoes, onions, and celery.
A sweet, cinnamon-sugar-coated donut made with apple cider and fresh apples.
This is the best time to visit Salem due to the pleasant weather and numerous festivals and events. It's also the peak tourist season, especially around Halloween.
US Dollar (USD)
Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5)
120VV, 60HzHz
Salem is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Salem Station
Salem Depot
The MBTA Bus system provides extensive coverage throughout Salem and connecting to nearby towns. Buses are reliable and affordable.
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Car, Bike, Scooter
Boston is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage, offering a wide range of attractions, including museums, historic sites, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Gloucester is a historic fishing town with a rich maritime heritage, offering beautiful beaches, scenic views, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Rockport is a charming coastal town with a rich artistic heritage, offering beautiful beaches, scenic views, and a vibrant arts scene.
Price varies by option