Ultimate Historic Salem and Witch Trials Self-Guided Walking Tour

Salem , United States

Ultimate Historic Salem and Witch Trials Self-Guided Walking Tour

Active

(67 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

Uncover the truth behind the infamous Salem Witch Trials with this self-guided walking tour of Salem, Massachusetts! This quaint and picturesque town hides a seriously dark history, and you’ll dive deep into that past as you explore these hallowed grounds. Hear how the panic began, get to know the major players in this harrowing tale, and visit grim reminders of this deadly period of history. This walking tour of Salem is the best way to see, explore, and understand this haunting true tale.

After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point.

Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.

This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

Perfect for holiday travelers and team-building groups.

Available options

Ultimate Historic Salem and Witch Trials Self-Guided Walking Tour

What's included

Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone

Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales and thrilling history for a memorable journey!

Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!

Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.

Comprehensive route and stops: See it all, miss nothing, leave no stone unturned!

Go at your own pace: Start anytime, pause anywhere, enjoy breaks for snacks and photos freely!

Learn more: dive deeper into any story you enjoyed with extra stories.

Hands-free: audio stories play on their own based on your location. Easy to use!

Detailed itinerary

At the Joshua Ward House, up next, you'll get a glimpse of what remains of the residence once belonging to Sheriff George Corwin, who signed the arrest and execution warrants of those accused of witchcraft

After that, you'll arrive at St Peter's Episcopal Church, which sits on land the town confiscated after the owners, accused of witchcraft, skipped town

Stop 3 Pass by

Up next is the graveyard where most of the witch trial victims are buried. Ironically, this is also the final resting place of the chief investigator during those trials, who directly caused many deaths

Note: The tour is over 1.5 miles long, with more than 35 audio stories, and takes about 1-2 hours to complete.

Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.

The Salem Witch Trials are typically associated with women and girls. ... Corey was buried in an unmarked grave in what is now the Howard Street Cemetery, ... on his ghost's bad side, consider joining us on our journey through historic Salem.

Then you'll pass by an impressive statue of Roger Conant, Salem's founder and first governor, as well as the Witch Museum, filled with all sorts of deep-dive info about the trials and the surrounding mass hysteria

Another detour brings you to the Broad Street Cemetery, where Sheriff Corwin ended up after suffering a mysterious heart attack

Then you'll see Hamilton Hall, a venue which has hosted esteemed figures like Alexander Hamilton, FDR, and the Marquis de Lafayette

Literature fans won't want to miss the Nathaniel Hawthorne statue, dedicated to one of America's greatest authors

You can also visit the birthplace of famous author Nathaniel Hawthorne, which has been preserved in its original condition

What's not included

Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations

Available languages

Audio guide

DE EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.9

24 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

43 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

How To Access: After booking, you’ll get an email and text with setup instructions and password (search “audio tour” in emails and texts). • Download the separate tour app by Action • Enter the password sent by email and text. • MUST download the tour while in strong wifi/cellular. • Works offline after download.

How to start touring: Open Action’s separate audio tour guide app once onsite. • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If multiple tour versions exist, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction.

Go to the starting point No one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided Enter the first story’s point and the audio will begin automatically Follow the audio cues to the next story, which will also play automatically. Enjoy hands-free exploring. If you face audio issues, contact support. Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.

Travel worry-free: Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace. Skip anything you don’t care about or explore bonus content for everything that interests you

Savings tips: Walking tours: couples can share one tour by splitting headphones

Bought for more than one traveler? No worries — you can unlock the tour on each phone with the same password.

For the best experience, bring headphones/earbuds for your walking tour.

For the best experience, please use an iPhone running iOS 15 or later, an Android device running version 9 or later, or an iPad/tablet with GPS and cellular connectivity, as these are recommended for navigation.

Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.

Your password can be used on the same number of devices as travelers booked. Enter the same password on each device.

Meeting point

Start on New Liberty St in Salem, with the Salem Armory Visitor Center on your left and a multi-story parking lot on your right. This is the suggested starting point. We’re not affiliated with the Visitor Center or nearby businesses. The audio starts automatically—check your email/text for setup.

Important notes

1. Find The Setup Instructions NOW:
• Download the App: actiontourguide.com/app
• Find Your Password: Search your email or text messages for “Action Tour Guide”
• Enter Password: Open the app and enter your 8-digit password
• Download the Tour NOW while you have Wi-Fi or cell service
• Offline Ready: Once downloaded, the tour works without internet
• Need Help? Visit: actiontourguide.com/redeem

2. Download The Tour NOW:
• Download NOW over WiFi or cellular data ahead of your trip.
• Don’t wait until travel day - your tour is VALID FOR ONE YEAR from purchase.
• Your password redemption is limited to the number of travelers booked. Please enter the same password on each device.

3. Audio Tour Tips:
• This is a self-guided audio tour - no one will meet you at the starting point.
• Entrance and attraction tickets are not included. Please book those separately.
• Curious how it works? Watch a quick video here: actiontourguide.com/tutorial
• Bring headphones for the best experience on your walking tour.
• Valid for 12 months - listen to your tour on any day without changing your travel date or rebooking!

4. Help & Support:
• Visit our FAQs: actiontourguide.com/faq
• Chat online: actiontourguide.com
• Call: 1-315-291-0634
• Email: support@actiontourguide.com

⚠️ Important Note:
Reserve a free-timed entry for The Old Burying Point (Charter Street Cemetery). This site requires reservations due to its historical importance and crowd management. Book your entry slot online before your visit, especially during busy seasons. October sees higher visitor traffic, so it's best to plan.

https://www.charterstreetcemetery.com/

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