Secrets of Salem Hidden Dark History Tour

Salem , United States

Secrets of Salem Hidden Dark History Tour

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About this experience

Join us for our Secrets of Salem Dark History tour--right in the heart of Witch City!

You might be surprised to learn that Salem has a name that contradicts its image. The colonists chose the name Salem, which is the Hebrew word for peace, for the town in the seventeenth century.

Salem, Massachusetts, was a significant American colonial town and a seaside hamlet with a maritime history. It exhibits many of the characteristics we identify with those early settlers, such as a Puritan work ethic, devotion to education, strong links to the community, and a hardiness to weather the rigors of a coastal winter. Of course, Salem is inextricably associated to witches and the 1692 witch trials. Join our Salem History Experience and discover everything there is to know about Salem, the witch trials, and beyond.

Available options

Secrets of Salem Hidden Dark History Tour

What's included

Professional and courteous tour guide

Thoroughly researched and accurate history

Detailed itinerary

Now available to rent out for functions, this is the oldest original municipal building in Salem, constructed in 1816. Discover the interesting and often complex history of Salem's earliest years here.

This museum offers a great overview of the Witch Trials of 1692. The trials serve as one of the best examples of mass hysteria in the United States. Learn the facts here.

Dating back to the time of the witch trials, this house is the only one still standing in Salem with direct ties to the witch trials. Judge Jonathan Corwin, who was a judge during the trials, lived here. Uncover some of the little-known miscarriages of justice that occurred during the witch trials here.

Built a century after Salem's founding, and thus about 30 years after the witch trials, this house was sold to local judge Nathanial Ropes, after the death of its original owner. Ropes was a staunch British Loyalist who faced the backlash of his town towards the end of his life. Hear the tales of tragedy here.

The combination of the libraries of two separate societies, Nathaniel Hawthorne, author of "The Scarlet Letter", was once the head of the prestigious Salem Athenaeum for a time in the 1800s. Uncover the facts here.

The plot of land where this home was constructed once belonged to George Corwin. If his name sounds familiar, that's because he was the nephew of Judge Jonathan Corwin. The younger Corwin was Sherriff of Salem during the witch trials, and was said to be overly cruel in his actions towards those accused and convicted of witchcraft.

Stop 7 Pass by

Established in 1637, this is one of the oldest cemeteries in the United States. The second wife of Giles Corey and Judge Jonathan Corey are both interred here. Uncover the stories of those who have reportedly seen the ghost of Judge Corwin wandering among the graves.

Constructed over a century after the witch trials and not linked to them, this home has enough secrets of its own, and scandal to go around. Learn the facts here.

Stop 9 Pass by

Discover the rivalry between "Salem Town" and "Salem Village" that may have provided the foundation of the hysteria that fueled the witch trials.

Named for Salem's famous son, Nathaniel Hawthorne, an episode of the TV series "Bewitched" was filmed here in the 1970s.

What's not included

Transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

20 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.6

34 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Meet your guide at Outside Salem Five Savings Bank who will be wearing a black US Ghost Adventures t-shirt and carrying a lantern. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the tour.

Important notes

Please check in with your tour guide at the meeting location 10-15 minutes before the tour's start time.

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