2.5-Hour Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking Tour

Salem , United States

2.5-Hour Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking Tour

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(850 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Book the Salem historical tour with a five star rated guide and masterful storyteller, Kenneth Glover. He has guided Salemwalkingtours.com for ten years and presents a vivid picture of Salem with the words and observations of the people who made the history. The experience includes moments of the witch trials and great Salem stories. This tour is best for guests interested in Salem’s total history through the centuries.
The lives of the Puritans and colonists, religion and law, The great age of sail, The American Revolution and 19th century. If you want a tour with a guide who is a researcher of Salem history and an exceptional storyteller then this tour will be a highlight of your trip.

Available options

Salem History Tour

What's included

2.5 Hour Salem History Walking Tour

Detailed itinerary

The tour begins on Historic Essex Street.

To be clear, admission into the historic buildings of Salem’s McIntire district is not a part of the experience.

Kenneth provides historical storytelling and narrative while viewing the exteriors of historic locations and homes. Stops include the Witch House, the Ropes Mansion and gardens, stately Chestnut Street, the Pickering House and Hamilton Hall.

Downtown Salem with stops including The Old Town Hall at Derby square and the Salem Witch Trials Memorial.

What's not included

The walking tour does not enter the historic homes interpreted.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

390 reviews

5★

371

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

460 reviews

5★

438

4★

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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

This tour covers the history of Salem, Massachusetts. It’s not a tour whose only subject is the Salem Witch Trials.

We do not enter buildings on the tour.

I recommend using the MBTA for weekend visits in October. Demand for parking often outstrips its availability and causes significant traffic delays. Parking information at Salem.org

Monday, Tuesday and Thursday are great days to visit Salem in September and October to avoid crowds.

The tour is closed on Wednesday and Sunday.

The tour is conducted in all seasonal weather, including rain and cold. Dress accordingly.

Tour gathers 15 minutes prior to departure. Tour begins promptly.

Meeting point

The tour begins from the Coven’s Cottage, 190 Essex Street. It is located at the intersection of Central Street and Essex Street by the Essex County’s Shopping Mall historic Clock. The tall Green Clock. Look for Kenneth in his broad-brimmed hat in front of the Coven’s Cottage.

Important notes

Kenneth’s Cellphone 1-978-927-0036.

Tour gathers at The Coven’s Cottage, 190 Essex Street. Salem, MA.

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