Salem , United States

Bewitched Walking Tour of Salem

Active

(1895 reviews)

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

2024 Viator Experiences Rising Star Award Winner! Often referred to as the "Best tour in Salem!" The most in-depth look at the Witch Trials the city has to offer. Take a journey back through time and uncover the REAL history of Salem, Massachusetts. With a local historian as your guide, you'll visit over a dozen locations in downtown Witch City and explore 400 years of history along the way. Come discover why the true history is more frightening than fiction!

HIGHLIGHTS:
• Most in-depth look at the Witch Trials the city has to offer
• Perfect mix of history, legend, and pop culture
• 400 years of history in one tour
• Seasoned storytellers bring the history of Salem to life
• Beloved by locals and tourists alike!
• Wheelchair accessible
• Dog friendly for leashed well behaved furbabies
• Tours operate rain or shine

Available options

Bewitched Tour

What's included

Professional guide licensed by the City of Salem

400 years of history in one tour

On time departure

Bewitched Walking Tour

Detailed itinerary

Begin your walking tour from outside the Halloween Museum, then follow your licensed guide through the streets of Salem. Your guide will bring you to over a dozen locations of historical significance within downtown Salem. Learn what really happened in 1692 and other facets of Salem's amazing history!

What's not included

Gratuities for your guide

Parking is not included. Please allow ample time for traffic and parking.

No accommodations can be made for late arrivals. Tours depart on time.

We do not have restrooms on site or along the tour route.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

785 reviews

5★

715

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

1,110 reviews

5★

1065

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Tours depart from outside the Halloween Museum at 131 Essex Street

Important notes

-Tours depart ON TIME from outside the Halloween Museum located at 131 Essex Street. Please arrive 15mins prior to tour time for check in.
-SPECIAL ADVISORY!!! If visiting in Sept/Oct/early Nov and driving you MUST ALLOW HOURS OF EXTRA TRAVEL TIME FOR TRAFFIC, ROAD CLOSURES, SPECIAL EVENTS, AND SOLD OUT PARKING. TAKE THE TRAIN WHENEVER POSSIBLE. MBTA.COM Newbury Rockport line. Beverly train station is 1 stop away and located at 10 Park Street Beverly MA.
-Tours operate Rain or Shine
-Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your tour time for check in.
-YOU CAN NOT ARRIVE LATE FOR ANY REASON!! NO REFUNDS FOR LATE ARRIVALS OR NO SHOWS!
-We do not offer parking. The closest garage is around the corner at 1 New Liberty Street but will sell out in Sept and Oct by 8am. For October parking go to the MBTA station at 252 Bridge Street by about 10am...which is appx 15mins walk from our location. We are not responsible for sold out parking. Shuttle information can be found at Salem.org or Salem.com
-Give the name on your reservation to your guide upon arrival. No printed ticket is needed.
-We do not have restroom facilities and there are no bathroom breaks once the tour is underway. Please use a restroom prior to your arrival.
-Download the MySalemMA app for updates regarding road closures.

About Salem

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.

Top Attractions

Salem Witch Museum

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.

Historical 1-2 hours $12.50 for adults, $10.50 for seniors, $8.50 for children

Peabody Essex Museum

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.

Museum 2-3 hours $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, $10 for children

House of the Seven Gables

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.

Historical 1-2 hours $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, $10 for children

Salem Maritime National Historic Site

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.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations appreciated)

The Witch House

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.

Historical 30-45 minutes $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lobster Roll

A classic New England dish featuring fresh lobster meat served on a buttered, toasted roll.

Lunch Contains shellfish, gluten (if using a traditional roll)

Clam Chowder

A creamy, hearty soup made with fresh clams, potatoes, onions, and celery.

Lunch/Dinner Contains dairy, gluten (if served with oyster crackers)

Apple Cider Donut

A sweet, cinnamon-sugar-coated donut made with apple cider and fresh apples.

Snack/Dessert Contains gluten, dairy (if using butter)

Popular Activities

Whale watching Kayaking Hiking Beachcombing Spa treatments Scenic walks Museum visits Art gallery tours

Best Time to Visit

June to October

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.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Portuguese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

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.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid isolated areas and poorly lit streets at night

Getting there

By air

Logan International Airport • 25 miles (40 km)

By train

Salem Station

By bus

Salem Depot

Getting around

Public transport

The MBTA Bus system provides extensive coverage throughout Salem and connecting to nearby towns. Buses are reliable and affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Salem The Point Salem Willows

Day trips

Boston

16 miles (26 km) • Half day to full day

Boston is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage, offering a wide range of attractions, including museums, historic sites, and vibrant neighborhoods.

Gloucester

20 miles (32 km) • Half day

Gloucester is a historic fishing town with a rich maritime heritage, offering beautiful beaches, scenic views, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Rockport

25 miles (40 km) • Half day

Rockport is a charming coastal town with a rich artistic heritage, offering beautiful beaches, scenic views, and a vibrant arts scene.

Festivals

Haunted Happenings • October Salem Film Festival • March Salem Jazz & Soul Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit the Salem Witch Museum early in the day to avoid long lines and crowds
Take a guided walking tour to learn about the city's rich history and hidden gems
Try a lobster roll or clam chowder at a local seafood restaurant for an authentic taste of New England
Explore the Salem Harborwalk for beautiful waterfront views and scenic walks
Visit the Salem Farmers Market for fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts