salem walking tour

The "Number One Cultural & Historical Tour in the United States" ~ Trip Advisor 2023

Book it. walk it. fall in love with it., 20% off tours copy coupon code below and use at checkout:, springflowers, explore a historical journey in salem massachusetts.

Walk With Us

Come take a stroll with us down a historical journey through the streets of Salem. From the beginning, our past has been notoriously labeled from the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 to modern day. With almost 400 years behind us, "The Witch City" has lots of wicked stories to tell.

Witch City Walking Tours offers many captivating tours: - History & Hauntings of Salem - Mysteries & Murders of Salem - Hocus Pocus Movie Locations - Specters & Apparitions: A ghost hunting tour in Salem - Merchants & Mansions of Salem - Spirits, Sinners & Scandals Adulteress Tour - PopSalem! A pop culture walking tour - Spirits & Supersitions: a Friday the 13th tour - Salem Through a New Lens: Anniversary of Joseph White Photography Tour

With your licensed professional tour guide, explore the social, political and environmental influences which spread mass hysteria, causing the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Discover how Salem became a world-class seaport, creating some of the wealthiest families in America and America's first millionaire. Stroll the cobblestone lined streets, taking in some of the most stunning 17th and 18th century colonial architecture. Or, if you like to be scared, get chills down your spine hearing ghastly tales of ghosts, macabre murders and true crime stories in Salem's history. Witch City Walking Tours 'History & Hauntings Tour' was named the "Number One Cultural & Historical Tour in the United States" by Trip Advisor in 2023. Other accolades: - "Best Historical & Cultural Tours in the World" by TripAdvisor 2022. - One of the "Best Historical & Cultural Tours in the United States" in 2022. - "Trip Advisor's Most Booked Fall Experience in America" for 2021. - Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Awards and a multi-year recipient of TripAdvisor's "Certificate of Excellence". ‍ So.... come take a walk with us and see why our tours are simply magical! ‍ Please note: OUR TOURS OPERATE RAIN OR  SHINE! 24 hour cancellation required for a full refund. All sales are final September 10 - November 11.

History & Hauntings of Salem

History, hauntings, the Salem Witch Trials, architecture and hidden gems. Suitable for all ages. Get ready for a mysterious journey through almost 400 years of Salem’s rich and storied history. Your local, well-versed guide and historian is excited to share their passion of this beautiful quaint city with you. Rated as the top walking tour in Salem, you will experience approximately two hours of captivating tales of our city's history, chilling tales of the supernatural, while being awed by the breathtaking architecture, and discover the fascinating truth of the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. Your guide will take you off-the-beaten path, while you experience the lesser known sights and history of Salem.

Mysteries & Murders of Salem

For those who prefer a slightly *darker* historical perspective of Salem. Your guide brings to life the true crime stories of murder, myth and macabre. (Ages 13+ only.) Come experience the darker side of Salem with our 1 hour 45 minute Mysteries & Murder tour. We retell the most spine-chilling true crime tales of murder, mystery and macabre that happened in Salem's past. Why did an insane woman in the early 1600s murder her child? Who was the famous hitman who murdered the slave trader in his sleep? Did the Boston Strangler really make a visit to Salem? These tales and much more will unfold on this whirlwind tour of this mysterious seaside city.

Hocus Pocus Movie Locations of Salem

Brisk 4 mile walk. Come relive the magic of Disney's Blockbuster, Hocus Pocus! Starring Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy, Hocus Pocus has become one of the most beloved movies of the 20th century. The majority of the movie was filmed in Salem in 1993. We will take you to 5 locations used during filming. Your ticket price includes entry to Pioneer Village, as well as a special Hocus Pocus gift! Along the way, you will also hear about the Salem Witch Trials, the maritime history, how we became the "Witch City".

Specters & Apparitions: A ghost hunting tour.

Have you ever been curious about the spirit world? Or are you a ghost denier? This tour dives into Salem’s paranormal activity using actual professional ghost hunting equipment. This hour long tour may change your mind if ghosts are real or not? We visit some of the most haunted locations in Salem on this journey to connect with the spiritual world. Our guides walk you through Salem using professional ghost hunting equipment and techniques to seek out the spirits who haven’t departed yet from Salem. You may catch a glimpse of a ghost peering through the windows at you. You may hear voices. Or you may catch an anomaly with photo/video on your cell phone with something quite peculiar or unexplainable. Come take a tour in search of the spirits of Salem with us. ***We cannot guarantee ghost sightings or unusual phenomena or paranormal activity of any kind. Results may vary. *Professional Ghost Hunting equipment is only available during the tour and must be returned to the guide at the end of the tour with a credit card deposit. We will be using professional ghost hunting equipment including A Spirit Box, EMF reader, Temperature Sensors, and laser grids. *** We recommend bringing a fully charged cell phone for pictures and video for the duration of the tour. Please note: We will NOT be entering any cemeteries or buildings during the tour. This is an outdoor activity only. It is illegal to enter a cemetery after dusk.

Merchants & Mansions of Salem

Suitable for all ages. Spring and summer only. Do you love architecture? We do! No trip to Salem is complete without a tour of the most beautiful section of Salem, the McIntire district. Come experience over three centuries of architecture from First Period American, to Georgian Colonial and the stately Federal style. Your guide will wind you through the cobblestoned streets of Salem, discovering hidden gems, viewing over two dozen sites, and sharing stories of Salem's rise to becoming the wealthiest city in the country in the 18th century.

PopSalem! A Pop Culture Walking Tour

Curious how Salem became the Witch City and the Capitol of Halloween? From Witchcraft to Lovecraft, the PopSalem tour is for you. Salem's journey to the Witch City couldn't have happened without popular culture. Discover how Bewitched, Hubie Halloween, author H.P. Lovecraft, video games, textbooks and other types of media all influenced the way we experience Salem today. · A guide brings the history of Salem to life through storytelling. · Learn about the people and events that made Salem the "Witch City" and Capitol of Halloween. · Visit some of Salem’s most iconic sites – including the Witch Museum, Burying Point, and Bewitched Statue - in a fun, festive, one-hour tour. · Brand-new tour from Salem’s number one walking tour company – only in October!

Spirits, Sinners & Scandals Adulteress Tour

Get ready for Salem's spookiest, haunted *adults only* tour, which will take you on a whirlwind journey through the cobblestoned streets of this 17th century city....This tour is unlike anything else in Salem. You will hear tales of murder, deception and despair as you cross paths with the supernatural. Your costumed guide will bring stories to life as they pass by cemeteries, haunted sites and visit dark corners as you relive some of Salem's most terrifying tales. Adults only, 18+.

Spirits & Superstitions: a Friday the 13th Tour

This is the only tour in Salem which focuses on Friday the 13th, superstitions and local ghost stories. On this 90-minute tour, learn the secrets behind some of the most mysterious superstitions. Hear ghastly tales of hauntings and the paranormal. Discover for yourself some of the most shocking secrets of Salem's chilling past. This limited edition tour is only available on Friday the 13th.

We had a brilliant tour with Dawn on a very, very rainy night, Monday 9/11. The content of the tour was interesting, it gave me a very good overview of Salem’s history. The tour was more history than hauntings in my opinion. Dawn really brought the stories to life and was very generous with her time and encouraged the group to interact and ask questions.

I am a long-time resident of Salem and had forgotten how amazing our town is, thank you Violet for awaking my interest in Salem's history again! Violet is a fantastic tour guide, and our group is extremely impressed by her. Violet spoke well, charming and is clearly knowledgeable. She was able to change a muggy dreary rainy night into very pleasantly memorable evening.

During a day trip to Salem, I participated in the History and Hauntings tour provided by Witch City Tours. This walking tour was so informative and beautiful! Our tour guide, Michael, knew quite a bit about the history of Salem and the witch trials. His summary of Salem's dark past piqued our interest into learning more about it, which led to the purchase of a history book in a local shop.

Recent Activity

Witch City Walking Tours is proud to be the sponsor for this year’s Salem Education Foundation’s raffle for “Dinner for Two” anywhere in the world! 🌎

Spring has finally arrived in Salem! Take advantage of 20% off any tour with us! Use the code ‘Springflowers’ when booking! Visit www.witchcitywalkingtours.com

When visiting Salem, where should you go to eat? Here are some suggestions from our guides:

Destination Salem

Good Morning America

National geographic.

Travel AAA Guide

Travelers choice, travelers' choice™ best of the best.

Charities We Sponsor

Witch City Walking Tours proudly gives back to the community of Salem, Massachusetts! Every month, one of our guides chooses a local non-profit that is important to them and we donate $1000 to support their missions. In turn, these worthy organizations work diligently to lift the members of our community. 

Recently, Witch City Walking Tours has supported:

• Salem Education Foundation and their raffle for “Dinner for Two” anywhere in the world! 
• Northeast Animal Shelter for blankets, towels, and food for the animals.

We’d like to thank all of our tour guests for helping us make this possible, and for helping us keep Salem a vibrant and beautiful city where we, along with our neighbors, live and work.

Who We Sponsor

Charitable Contributions

Working Hours

Sunday to Saturday   09:00 AM to 11:00 PM

32 Derby Square Salem, MA 01970 (Outside on the 3 staircases of the Old Town Hall)

• Students & Group Tours
• Haunted Happenings
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• Notable Locals
• 10 Free Things to Do in Salem, MA
• The Destination Salem Radio Show
• Education & Community
• Native History & Indigenous Acknowledgement
• Weekend at a Glance
• All Listings
• Museums & Attractions
• Psychics & Spiritual Growth

Salem Heritage Trail

• Sweets & Treats
• Restaurants
• Witch Shops & Occult
• Chocolate & Candy
• Inns and B&Bs
• Regional Accommodations
• Transportation
• Map of Salem
• Information Centers
• Salem Witch Trials of 1692
• Modern Witch & Occult
• Hocus Pocus
• The Journey from 1692 to Salem’s Modern Witch Community

Home » Things to Do » All Listings » Salem Heritage Trail

• Motorcoach Parking: No
• ADA Compliant: No
• Pet Friendly: No
• Function Space Available: No
• Family Friendly: No

In the 1980’s, the Salem Heritage Trail was born to provide visitors a self-guided walking tour of Salem’s historic sites. The trail is meant to bridge connections between the earliest settlers in Salem, local Indigenous Peoples, Colonial Salem and the Witch Trials, Industrial Heritage, Abolitionism and African American stories, Immigrant Experiences, and more. You’ll find a mix of historical sites and commercial and tourist attractions when walking the trail. In 2020, Salem revised the Salem Heritage Trail, removing its references to its original offensive “Red Line” history to promote more inclusivity within the downtown area and beyond.

Start Your Journey by Scanning the QR Code Below

Historic Sites to See

Salem invites visitors to enjoy the many stops along the Salem Heritage Trail. The Peabody Essex Museum is one of the oldest museums in the country filled with art and culture from around the world. At the Witch History Museum at the corner of Essex and Washington Streets, you can learn all about untold stories of witches in 1692. Also, along the trail is the Salem Witch House which has direct ties to the Salem Witch Trials. The Old Town Hall in Derby Square is one of the oldest surviving structures in Salem. You’ll also pass by the Salem Wax Museum and Witch Village , where you can stop into shops and get a bite to eat at the many restaurants. There are endless sites to explore on the Salem Heritage Trail.  

Nearby Listings

Regatta Pub at the Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites

613 steps away

Essex's NY Pizza & Deli

206 steps away

Salem Bespoke Boutique

424 steps away

Notch Brewing

474 steps away

196 steps away

Timeless Life Treasures

664 steps away

Privacy Overview

THE 10 BEST Salem Walking Tours

Walking tours in salem.

• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Ghost & Vampire Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. The Salem Night Ghost Tour

2. Mysteries and Murders of Salem Guided Night-Time Walking Tour

3. Salem Witch Trials Historical Walking Tour

4. Salem "Hocus Pocus" Movie Locations Tour (31st Anniversary)

5. 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour

6. Discover Salem & Craft Spells with A Real Witch(Small Group Tour)

7. 1692 Salem Day Tour

8. Maritime History Tour

9. Satanic Salem Walking Tour

10. Salem Voodoo, Vampires, and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour

11. Salem Ghosts: Witches, Warlocks, & Hauntings

12. Ultimate Historic Salem and Witch Trials Self-Guided Walking Tour

13. Requiem for Salem Walking Ghost Tour

14. Wicked Awesome Tours: Witch Trial History and Salem Haunts!

15. Hauntings, History and Legends Tour in Salem

16. Old Salem Ghost Tour with Ghost Hunting Gear

17. A Ghost Hunting Tour Specters and Apparitions in Salem

18. AM Coffee Walks with Salem Food Tours

19. Haunted Footsteps Ghost & Paranormal Salem Tour

20. "Witch Trials" Walking Tour in Salem

21. Boston Day Tour by Ferry: Salem Witch Trials Past to Present

22. Black Cat Ghostly Night Tour in Salem

23. Secrets of Salem Hidden Dark History Tour

24. Salem History Lovers Walking Tour

25. Salem Private Half Day Tour from Boston, for groups 1-4

26. Ultimate Boston Audio Tour Bundle

27. Triple Threat Combo Pass: 3 TOURS (3:30pm, 5pm, & 7pm or 8:30pm)

28. Steps Through 1692 (History Tour)

29. Spirits and Superstitions A Friday the 13th Tour

30. The Salem Witch Walk

What travelers are saying.

• History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour
• The Salem Night Ghost Tour
• Bewitched Walking Tour of Salem
• Salem Witch Trials Historical Walking Tour
• Mysteries and Murders of Salem Guided Night-Time Walking Tour
• Satanic Salem Walking Tours
• Witch City Walking Tours
• Spellbound Tours
• 1692 Before and After
• Salem Kids Tours
• Hocus Pocus Tours
• Salem Black Cat Tours
• Bewitched Tours
• Salem Food Tours
• Salem Walking Tours

• Change of Address
• Salem’s First Residence
• 1841 Methodist Parsonage
• 1841 The Jason Lee House
• 1847 The John D. Boon House
• 1849 The David Leslie House
• 1854 William and Chloe Willson’s home
• 1855 St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
• 1860 The Waller-Chamberlin House
• 1860s? Ferry/17th Street House
• 1863 First Congregational Church
• 1865 McCully-McMahon House
• 1869-07 William Lincoln Wade House
• Salem in 1876
• 1883 Rockenfeld House
• 1887 Eugene Breyman House
• 1890 West-Klein House
• 1893~1896 German Methodist Parsonage & The Moon House
• 1894 Dr. Carlton Smith
• 1895 Collins Downing House
• 1903 Salem’s Post Office
• 1903 Warner Breyman House
• 1907 The Duniway-Lachmund House
• 1910 Leslie Methodist Church Parsonage
• 1910 Hinges-Kimball House
• 1910 Court Street and “Piety Hill”
• 1910 Parrish House
• 1910 Albert Moores House
• 1913 Christian Wiedmer House
• 1917 McGilchrist House
• 1913 The Heffley House
• 1918 Schlesinger House
• 1925 Huntington House
• 1921 Ford and Perry Houses
• 1919 Thompson-Brand House

SHINE on Salem

Salem Heritage Network

Salem Walking Tours

Walking Tours provide occasions to enjoy the pleasures of Salem’s natural beauty and the historic character of our city. They introduce visitors to our historic neighborhoods, follow creeks in urban parks, cross the Willamette River on the Union Street Railroad Pedestrian Bridge and experience Salem’s the important place in Oregon History. The photo album tours are designed to be experienced virtually,  the images taking you step by step through each walk from the comfort of your home.  The printable walking guides supplement these virtual tours should you want to take your own self-guided walk through the city.

Each walk is a circle, so you may begin and end wherever you choose, walking in the direction in the printed guide. If you wish to take just a section of the walk, there are suggestions for those choices. Some guides are for a portion of tha  entire route.

Be aware of certain hazards in these walks: fractured sidewalks, railroad tracks, tree roots on the path, or street traffic. Take your time in strolling while you learn about that neighborhood’s history and the residents who lived there in the past, but be careful of your steps. Enjoy a leisurely walk!

Available Walks

• Full Tour 2 Miles ( Download the printable walking guide)

Downtown Walking Tour ( View Virtual Tour )  The collection contains historical photos from the early 1900s and our collection up to June 2023. 

• The Full Tour 1.4 Miles ( Download the printable walking guide)
• 1940s Walk in Salem’s Historic Downtown ( Download the printable walking guide)

• Full Tour 1.5 Miles ( Download the printable walking guide)

Pringle Creek Heritage Parks and Deepwood Estate ( View Virtual Tour ) Pringle Creek meanders through Salem, south of the downtown area through a series of parks, institutions and public spaces

• Full Tour 2.68 Miles ( Download the printable walking guide)

• Full Tour 1.75 Miles ( Download printable walking guide)

Gaiety Hill/Bush Pasture Park Historic District ( View Virtual Tour ) This historic neighborhood covers about 19 city blocks and features historic houses dating from 1878-1938 and bordered by Bush’s Pasture — now a city park aptly named for its former use as grazing pasture for the Bush family’s cattle — an interesting relic of open space in an otherwise urban area.

• Full Tour ( Download printable walking guide)

• Full Tour 3.3 miles ( Download printable walking guide)

Southeast Salem: Then and Now ( View Virtual Tour ) Designated by the Salem Landmarks Commission as the city’s 2nd Heritage Neighborhood in 2015, the Southeast Salem neighborhood is filled with often overlooked historical gems.  Explore some of the stories of the people who lived here around the turn of the 20th century.

• Full Tour : 3.88 miles ( Download printable walking guide)
• Part I :West Side 1.88 miles ( Download printable walking guide)
• Part II : East Side 1.15 miles ( Download printable walking guide)

Browse Virtual Tours

Southeast Salem Walking Tour

Historic Grant Neighborhood Walk 

Salem in Oregon History Walking Tour

Downtown Walking Tour

Riverfront Walking Tour

Pringle Creek Heritage Parks and Deepwood Estate

Court – Chemeketa Historic Residential District

Gaiety Hill / Bush’s Pasture Park Historic District

BEWITCHED WALKING TOURS of SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS

Effective march 1st 2024 all tours from the halloween museum 131 essex street.

Day and Night tours available! 

  Welcome to Witch City! Join us for a journey back through time to uncover the real history of Salem, Massachusetts. With a local historian as your guide, you'll venture right through the heart of downtown, exploring 400 years of Salem at over a dozen locations along the way. Booking with Bewitched is the perfect way to start your visit. Come see why Bewitched Walking Tours is beloved by locals and visitors alike!

WALKING TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ​

A delightful mix of history, legend, and pop culture.

Most in-depth look at the Witch Trials Salem has to offer.

Four centuries worth of history in one tour.

Topics include Salem's colonial roots, its role as a thriving seaport, and how we be came known as "Witch City."

All tour guides are licensed professionals.

Walking tour commences at one of America's oldest cemeteries.

Dog friendly!

Stops include the Samantha Statue, Old Town Hall, the Old Witch Jail, the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, and so much more!

DON'T OVERTHINK IT. JUST BOOK THIS TOUR.

It. was. great. So much information...not the kitschy kind...but the kind you want to learn... the history of Salem, the witch trials, and a taste of the Salem that is now. 

DO YOURSELF A FAVOR & TAKE THIS TOUR!

This tour is an absolute must if you want to learn more about the people and events that made up the infamous Salem Witch Trials. Sarah was the best tour guide I have been lucky enough to follow. She was incredibly knowledgeable, entertaining, and passionate about the history she was sharing. She reminded us that the victims of the witch trials were just that - victims, who had lives, families, and who leave legacies after them. I learned more in this hour and a half than I could have hoped to in a history class!

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CONTACT US!

978-498 -4061

i [email protected]

131 Essex Street Salem, MA

2 1/2 Hour Salem History Tour.   10:00am, Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri & Sat.

This Salem walking tour is a sampler of Salem history that includes but is not limited to the Salem Witch Trials.

The tour led by Kenneth is an engaging narrative and chronicle of the history of Salem, its women, men and great events.  The tour includes stops in front of the Historic Town Hall, The Witch House, Pickering House and Ropes Mansion and garden.  There is also the beautiful McIntire District, with its concentration of outstanding historic homes and buildings such as Hamilton Hall and historic graveyard.  the tour concludes at The Salem Witch Trials Memorial close to where the tour began.

The tour is organized but unscripted and questions are welcome from guests.  The tour is in its tenth year and Kenneth has the experience and the knowledge that comes with a genuine interest in the community.  Take a tour with Salem Walking Tours where the owner is the one who will give this tour. 

The tour gathers 15 minutes prior to departure at The Coven’s Cottage, 190 Essex Street, Salem, Massachusetts.

Tickets are $40.00 per person.  Accompanied children 12 and under are welcome at no charge.  Tours are rain or shine.  Wear comfortable walking shoes. 

Have questions for Kenneth? Call me or text me at 978 927 0036.  If I can’t answer then I’ll return your call or text ASAP.

See our Booking Page for Options

Booking options available online, by phone or in person

Historic Salem Walking Tour | McIntire Historic District

Looking for a historic Salem walking tour – the perfect combination of history, New England architecture, and fresh air? Look no further than Salem’s McIntire Historic District.

By Bethany Bourgault

Jun 09 2016

The Page-Lawrence-Farrington House, built in 1786, and its neighbors on either side represent what a typical Salem street would have looked like in the 18th and 19th century.

MORE HISTORIC SALEM:

Bethany Bourgault

Bethany Bourgault interned with Yankee Magazine and New England.com during the summers of 2015 and 2016. She recently graduated from Syracuse University, majoring in magazine journalism with minors in writing and religion. She loves reading, exploring the outdoors, ballroom dancing, and trying new recipes. Keep up with her adventures at bethanybourgault.com .

Historical Walking Tour

The TRUTH is scarier than the LEGENDS !

1692 Salem Ma. Tours

Welcome to Salem, Massachusetts, a historic city on the New England coast famous for its rich and complex history that goes far beyond the infamous Salem Witch Trials. At 1692 Before and After , we do more than guide you through the city; we take you on an unforgettable journey spanning 400 years, from the Witch Trials’ mysteries to key events before the Revolutionary War and more. Join us to feel the past come alive, exploring the deep stories that have shaped Salem into the captivating place it is today.

A Journey Through Time

Our tours are meticulously crafted for those who seek to visit historical landmarks and immerse themselves in the stories that shaped them. Unlike the conventional narratives retold by many Salem witch tours, 1692 Before and After delves into the nuanced accounts of the witch trials, shedding light on the victims and accusers alike and bringing forward the humanity and complexity of their stories. This unique approach offers a perspective seldom considered or discussed by other tours, making our 1692 Salem MA tours an invaluable experience for history enthusiasts.

Why should you take our 1692 Salem Witch Trials Tours?

1692 Before and After stands apart by emphasizing not just the historical events themselves but the lingering echoes they leave behind. Our tours are designed to provoke thought, stir emotions, and inspire a deeper appreciation for Salem’s rich and complex history. Whether you’re looking for Salem day tours, Salem night tours, or a comprehensive Salem history tour, join us as we step back in time to uncover the stories that lie at the heart of Salem. Discover the city’s haunting history, its tales of adversity and resilience, and the indelible marks they’ve left on the present. Our 1692 Salem Witch Trials Tour is your gateway to a past that is both profound and poignant, a journey that promises to be as enlightening as it is unforgettable.

Explore Salem With Us

Our 1692 Salem Ma. tours will take you on a journey past the following sights. Though we won’t be able to take you into the building, you will hear the stories that make these locations so historically significant to Salem.

The Witch House

Salem's First Church

The Rope's Mansion

The Samantha Statue

The Howard Street Cemetery

St. Peter's Church

Armory Park

The Salem Witch Trial Memorial

Old Burying Point Cemetery

Make the Most of Your Journey

Duration and Walking Distance

Prepare for a journey that spans approximately 2 hours and covers just under 2 miles. This leisurely pace is designed to give you ample time to absorb the rich history and haunting beauty of Salem. We’ve carefully planned the route to ensure it’s accessible for most fitness levels, allowing everyone to participate in this immersive historical experience.

1692 Salem Ma. Tours Logistics

Our 1692 Salem Ma. Tours is not just about stepping back into history; it’s about experiencing the narrative of Salem in a way that is both engaging and enlightening. To ensure you make the most of this journey, here are the logistics you’ll need to know:

Our journey through time begins at 272 Essex Street , where the tour will form at the corner of Essex and Sewall Streets . Here, in the heart of Salem, you’ll meet your knowledgeable guide and fellow history enthusiasts. We recommend arriving 15 minutes early to ensure you’re ready to embark on the tour promptly.

The tour will conclude at the Salem Witch Trial Memorial on Liberty Street, a poignant site that offers a moment of reflection on the events we’ve explored together. The memorial’s location also places you conveniently near other historic sites and local eateries, allowing you to continue your exploration of Salem or to relax and discuss the day’s discoveries.

Why Choose 1692 Before and After

In a city woven with the threads of history, 1692 Before and After stands out as a beacon for those eager to delve deeper into the fabric of Salem’s past. Our tours are more than mere walks; they are immersive journeys designed to connect you with the souls and stories that have defined this iconic location.

Here’s why 1692 Before and After is the premier choice for exploring Salem’s haunting history:

Unparalleled Historical Insight

With us, you’re not just observing history; you’re engaging with it. Our tours are meticulously researched, offering a depth of knowledge and insight that goes beyond the surface. We bring to light the stories of the victims, the accusers, and the bystanders, providing a multifaceted perspective on the Salem Witch Trials and other significant historical events.

A Unique Narrative Experience

Our narrative approach sets us apart, offering a tour that weaves together the tales of the past with the fabric of the present. We offer a story seldom heard, delving into lesser-known aspects of Salem’s history and connecting them to the broader American experience. This unique narrative experience ensures that our guests leave with a richer understanding of Salem’s place in history.

Engaging and Accessible

The 1692 Salem Ma. Tours is designed to be engaging and accessible to all. With a manageable distance and duration, we ensure that guests of all ages and abilities can comfortably participate. Our guides are passionate storytellers, skilled at bringing history to life in a way that captivates and educates.

A Foundation for Further Exploration

Our tour doesn’t just end at the final stop; it lays the groundwork for further exploration and reflection. Guests leave equipped with the knowledge and context to appreciate Salem’s historical sites in a new light. We encourage further exploration and provide recommendations for guests to continue their journey through Salem’s rich history.

Choosing 1692 Before and After is choosing an experience that will enrich your understanding of the past, challenge your perceptions, and leave you with a profound appreciation for the complexities of history. Join us as we explore the shadows and stories of Salem and discover why our 1692 Salem Ma tours are an essential part of any visit to this historic city.

Tour Info and Location

272 Essex Street, Salem, MA 01970

The Hermetic Arts Center has a store with a variety of products as well as the best Readings in Salem .

Get $5 off of a Reading by purchasing a tour ticket.

www.hermeticarts.com

Ingersoll's Tavern

Our mission is to spread the word about the deteriorating condition of this historic house and to work together to save it. We’ve started a Facebook group to bring together people who love history and those in the local community who want to see this house saved and brought back to life. This group will be a place where we can support the efforts of the Town of Danvers and the Danvers Historical Society as they work hard to make sure this house has a future in the community. Please consider joining our group and supporting preserving this house and its history.

The Final Resting Place of the 20 Victims

The question of where Salem’s accused witches were buried has been asked for centuries, and the absence of marked graves is surprising. The truth is that convicted witches were not allowed to receive a proper Christian burial in cemeteries. According to eyewitnesses, the nineteen accused witches who were hanged were left in shallow graves at Proctors Ledge. In some cases, the graves they were put in were so shallow that body parts could be seen sticking out of the dirt.

20 Best Things To Do In Salem Ma [Visit Salem]

Planning a vacation to Salem, Ma. ?  Here are the best sights and activities to add to the to-do list.

5 Big Misconceptions About the 1692 Salem Witch Trials

Whether you grew up in Massachusetts or you’re here on vacation, you most likely know about this city’s rich history. But is your knowledge fact or fiction?

3 Common Questions About The 1692 Salem Witch Trials

What was the real reason for the Salem Witch Trials? How many died in the Salem Witch Trials? How did the Salem Witch Trials end?

1692 Before and After LLC

1692 salem tour.

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[email protected]

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Book for 2024 now!

Welcome to Salem! Join our expert storytellers as we enthrall you with the true stories of The Witch City. With hundreds of 5 star review s , Salem Uncovered is constantly hailed as one of the “ most fun ” , “ entertaining ” , and “ amazing ” tours in the city. Also “ best dressed ”  and “ awesome shoes! ”  But you don't have to take our word for it, book a tour now and see what Salem has in store for you!

Locally owned and operated! Don't be fooled by those corporate tour companies, we don't buy reviews or bullshit you with made up stories. You want real Salem History? We got you, guaranteed, that's our promise to you. -Salem Uncovered, Historic Walking Tours

1692: 

The Salem Witch Trials

The tryals have left a footprint on Salem and the world that still echos 332 years later. Join us on our 90 min walking tour as we visit historic locations and lay the groundwork to explore and unpack what happened in Salem in 1692. We shed light on how a community driven by fear and led by religious ideology and zealot extremism, executed 20 innocent people.

90 min Walking Tour.   -   $25

Multiple tours daily

Dark History

 When you hear Salem, you often think of Witches, and Halloween, of ghosts and spooky fun, but there's so much more lurking in the shadows. Salem has a dark side. Join us on our 90 min walking tour as we learn secrets of the oldest cemetery in Salem, brutal murders, strange legal battles, secret passages, curses, spiders, torture, and of course a ghost story or two.

Best Tour in Salem! ​

Jeff (tour guide and owner) was absolutely incredible! The tour focused on actual historical events of the area, not baseless ghost stories told with overdramatic flair. Jeff was interesting and knowledgeable, and it was clear he knows the area and the stories well. This isn't a tour for cheap scares - this is for anyone who wants the real history told by someone passionate about it. The stories are creepy enough on their own!

SEPTEMBER  2021

Great historical tour with deep insights into people and their histories!

We came to Salem for Halloween weekend and booked this tour as our first activity in the Town. Jeffrey was a great tour guide and his knowledge and command of the story and narrative of the witch trials, geography and context behind the series of the events that took place is impeccable. He expertly connected the dots between people and places offering a sobering narrative with lessons that still apply to this day. I 100% recommend this tour. You will not be disappointed! 

OCTOBER 2022

Awesome daytime walking tour

Very entertaining tour! Jeff was a master in his presentation of the facts and folklore surrounding the Salem Witch trials. He was very accommodating in booking the tour as well, because we made a few changes to the numbers in our party and he was very understanding. The hour and 1/2 went fast because our attention was focused on the storytelling by Jeff! Highly recommend him. I would not hesitate to book a tour in the future with him!

OCTOBER 2021

Historic Sites

• African American Heritage
• Architectural
• Contemporary / Pop Culture
• Salem Witch Trials
• Women’s History

Salem Heritage Trail

The Salem Heritage Trail guides visitors from around the corner and around the world through over 400 years of Salem history. The themes of the trail bridge connections from the land’s earliest settlement to the Salem we see today with focuses on local Indigenous Peoples, Colonial Salem and the Witch Trials, the Age of Sail, Industrial Heritage, Abolitionism and African American Stories, Immigrant Experiences, Religious Diversity, and Contemporary Salem.

Created in the 1980s, the Salem Heritage Trail was developed to be a self-guided walking trail to help visitors experience Salem’s historic sites and navigate the downtown district. Intended to evoke a brick line like Boston’s Freedom Trail, the Salem Heritage Trail was painted as a red line on the sidewalk. Over time, the trail became known as “The Red Line.”

Click HERE to see the Salem Heritage Trail Mobile App

Today, we recognize the phrase, “Red Line,” has a negative connotation and evokes a dark period in our history when redlining was a discriminatory practice that denied financial services to people based on race, ethnicity, or demographic. As a community that strives for inclusion, maintaining a component of our downtown that makes members of our community uncomfortable is not acceptable.

In 2020 the City of Salem, Destination Salem and partners in the community began a strategic revisioning of the Salem Heritage Trail that will include repainting the line in a new color, removing references to “The Red Line” from publications and digital media, and developing inclusive interpretation of sites along the Salem Heritage Trail. We believe the Trail is an excellent way to introduce visitors and residents to the many layers of Salem’s rich history and look forward to improving on the trail’s original goal: to help people experience and learn about Salem.

For more information, contact Destination Salem at [email protected]

The Salem Heritage Trail is a tool for exploring historic Salem on foot. Hop on the trail in the middle or on one of the ends, and follow it through historic downtown Salem to the edge of the McIntire Historic District and along the Essex Street Pedestrian Way to Derby Street and the Salem Waterfront District.

Charlotte Forten Park

Built on land reclaimed from the South River, this plot has historically been the site of many wharves and warehouses,…

Salem Maritime National Historic Site

On March 17, 1938, Salem Maritime National Historic Site was the first national historic site established by the National Park…

East India Marine Hall

The venerable granite façade of the East India Marine Hall, erected in 1825, is the nucleus of the Peabody Essex…

The House of The Seven Gables

“Half-way down a by-street of one of our New England towns, stands a rusty wooden house, with seven acutely-peaked gables...”…

Salem Witch Museum

During the Salem witchcraft trials in 1692, this site was home to Reverend John Higginson, the minister of Salem’s First…

Witch Dungeon Museum

The English settlers knew that their presence in Salem immersed them in a web of global conflicts. Fearing reprisals from…

Charter Street Cemetery

The oldest settler cemetery in Salem, the Old Burying Ground was begun by 1637. The town selected a point that…

Salem Common

This eight-acre park was originally a swampy piece of land dotted by five ponds. Early English settlers in Salem drew…

Corwin House

Essex Street, which runs beside you, was once an indigenous pathway along the peninsula of Salem from the woods to…

Derby Square

Old Town Hall, built in 1816 and 1817, is the oldest surviving municipal building in Salem. This desirable stretch of…

Capture the historic spirit of America’s most bewitching city by the sea.  Discover Salem Massachusetts’s witchcraft trials, tall ship, literature, beautiful architecture, and connection to Hollywood by choosing from two self-guided walking tours or visit the Hocus Pocus 1993 movie locations with our free mini tour. All three tours give you the freedom to discover Salem’s historical charm and hidden secrets on your schedule and at your pace! Click on the Learn More buttons below for detailed information on Salem’s Grand Tour or The Essence of Salem tour.

Salem's Grand Tour

3 Days of Unlimited Access*

Includes Audio & Photos

*Access begins at midnight on the day you select and expires two consecutive calendar days later at 11:59 pm.

The Essence of Salem

24 hours of Unlimited Access**

**Access begins at midnight on the day you select and expires the same day at 11:59 pm.

It's Just a Bunch of Hocus Pocus Locations

Unlimited Access

Info for the 1993 movie 

6 Salem Locations

2 Marblehead Locations

Salem Tour Association

[email protected]

The Salem BooSh!t Tour Returns!

Join representatives of some of Salem's most highly reviewed local tour companies on this fascinating and hilarious tour that gets to the heart of Salem's most ridiculous tall tales! All proceeds go to local animal charities!

APRIL 1ST at 4:30 PM - ONE NIGHT ONLY!

Tickets available in person at Black Cat Curiosity Shoppe 234 Essex Street and online HERE!

About The Salem Tour Association

Enhance your travels, or explore new local experiences with a quality licensed tour company.

The Salem Tour Association is a collective of tour companies based in and operated out of Salem, Massachusetts who have agreed to a code of conduct and higher than average standards.  

Our mission is to provide you with an excellent experience during your visit to our city.  Please feel free to get in touch with any questions, comments, or concerns.

Recommended Route Around Salem

The Salem Witch Museum has created this recommended route to take a self-guided walk around Salem, where you will see various sites related to the witchcraft trials of 1692. Each site has a link to more information on our Online Sites Tour .

If you walk the entire route, you will cover about three miles. Depending on how fast you walk and how much time you spend at each site, it should take you between 1-1/2 to 2 hours (we’re estimating 3-5 minutes per site).

Please wear a mask and practice safe social distancing as you explore Salem!

Salem, MA, USA

More About Recommended Route Around Salem

1 – Begin your tour at 70 Washington Street at the Site of the Salem Court House in 1692.

2 – The approximate Site of Reverend Nicholas Noyes’s Home is just south, at 90 Washington Street .

3 – Continue south on Washington Street and cross Essex Street. Near the corner, near 118 Washington Street , is the Site of Judge John Hathorne’s Home .

4 – Turn right on Essex Street, heading west. Sewall Street runs between the YMCA and 274 Essex Street. One Sewall Street is the approximate Site of Court Clerk Stephen Sewall’s Home .

5 – Keep walking west on Essex Street, cross North Street, and you will see the only structure still standing in Salem that has a direct connection to the witchcraft trials and is open to the public. Judge Jonathan Corwin’s House , aka The Witch House is at 310 ½ Essex Street . Well worth a visit!

6 – Walk west on Essex Street to the Ropes Mansion a few doors away (the exterior of this house was used as Allison’s house in the movie Hocus Pocus ). Turn left, crossing Essex Street, and walk along Cambridge Street to Broad Street. You will see the Salem Council on Aging building in front of you ( 5 Broad Street ). Cross Broad Street. To the right of this building, at the intersection with Winthrop Street, is the entrance to the Broad Street Cemetery .

7 – Leaving the cemetery, turn right and walk east on Broad Street to Summer Street. Turn right on Summer Street, and then left on High Street. On your right, at  21 High Street , you will see the Gedney House , where Mary Gedney ran a tavern in 1692. Today it is owned by Historic New England.

8 – Walk east on High Street to Margin Street. Turn left on Margin Street, pass the Post Office on your left, and cross Norman Street. Just ahead on your left at 148 Washington Street , next to the Dunkin Donuts, is The Merchant hotel. This is the Site of Sheriff George Corwin’s Home . Please respect the present-day occupants! Do not trespass on the property.

9 – Cross Washington Street (to the east) and turn left to walk north up Washington to Essex Street. The Daniel Low Building on your right, at 231 Essex Street , is the Site of the Meetinghouse of the First Church of Salem in 1692 .

10 – If you look to the right down Essex Street, you will see the red awnings of a CVS and a brick building (the back of the Essex Condominiums at 188-190 Essex Street ) just beyond, on the north side of the street. This is the approximate Site of the   Ship Tavern .

11 – Continue north on Washington Street and turn right on Church Street. On the southeast corner of the intersection, where the Salem Five Bank stands today (at 71 Washington Street ) is the Site of Bridget Bishop’s Home . Her orchards were farther down Church Street, at approximately 43 Church Street .

12 – Continue east on Church Street. On your left you will see a parking lot, on the far side of which is a five-story brick building, at 10 Federal Street. The Site of the Salem Jail  is the corner of Federal Street and St. Peter’s Street (called Prison Lane in 1692).

13 –On the corner of St. Peter St. and Brown Street, is St. Peter’s Church at 24 St. Peter Street. The church was built on land given by wealthy Salem merchant Philip English.

14 – Continue walking east on Brown Street. As you near Hawthorne Blvd. you will see the Salem Common in front of you and the statue of Salem founder Roger Conant. To your left, at 19-1/2 Washington Square North is the Salem Witch Museum , which was also the Site of Reverend John Higginson’s Home .

15 – Continue walking east on Washington Square North to the intersection of Winter Street. The Site of Ann Pudeator’s Home  is on the corner, at 35 Washington Square North . Please respect this private residence, it is not open to the public.

16 – Turn right and cross Washington Square North to Salem Common. Turn right and walk around the perimeter of the Common (inside the fence for safety), along Washington Square North and left along Hawthorne Blvd. The historic Hawthorne Hotel ( 18 Washington Square West ) at the intersection of Hawthorne Blvd. and Essex Street, is the Site of John Higginson Jr.’s Home .

At this point , you have probably been walking 45 minutes to an hour. If your time permits, you can turn left on Essex to see five more sites in the waterfront area. OR , you can finish your tour at the Salem Witch Trials Memorial (see #23) by continuing south on Hawthorne Blvd., turning right on Charter Street, and left on Liberty Street.

17 – If you are continuing on the tour, turn left on Essex Street. At 65 Essex Street you will find the approximate Site of Thomas Beadle’s Tavern . Please respect this private residence, it is not open to the public.

18 – Continue east on Essex Street. The Site of Philip English’s “Great House” is on the corner of Essex Street and English Street. Please respect this private residence, it is not open to the public.

19 – Turn right on English Street and walk south toward Derby Street and Salem Harbor. At 60 Derby Street is the Site of the Blue Anchor Tavern . Please respect this private residence, it is not open to the public.

20 – Across Derby Street, opposite 54-58 Derby Street , is the approximate Site of Alice Parker’s Home .

21 – Turn right and head west down Derby Street, back toward town. The House of the Seven Gables aka the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion is at 115 Derby Street . A great place to visit! If you turn left on Turner Street, you can see a great view of the house.

22 – Continue heading west on Derby Street, cross over Hawthorne Blvd. and turn right on Hawthorne Blvd. headed north. Turn left on Charter Street. The entrance to the Old Burying Point Cemetery is at 51 Charter Street , opposite the back of the Peabody Essex Museum.

23 – Leaving by the cemetery entrance, turn right on Charter Street and right on Liberty Street. A perfect place to end your tour is at the Salem Witch Trials Memorial at 24 Liberty Street .

Salem Common in winter

The Custom House on Derby Street

Old Burying Point Cemetery

Salem Harbor sunset

Heading up to Proctor's Ledge

Salem Witch Trials Memorial

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Salem Witch Trials Tour: Self-Guided Walk

Tour Details

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Welcome to the salem witch trials tour.

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.

About the Tour

This harrowing tour begins at 1 New Liberty St, Salem, MA. From there, you walk to the 1692 Memorial, where the victims of the witch panic are memorialized. Here, you’ll get to know many of the key figures who were swept up by the plague of fear and paid the ultimate price.

Next, you’ll see the Old Burying Point, where many of the trials’ victims and aggressors were laid to rest. As you walk through the gravestones, listen to the tragically heroic tale of Giles Corey, a man who refused to bow to the nightmare overtaking his town and was immortalized in The Crucible .

After that, you’ll pass by some of Salem’s spookiest architecture, including the Joshua Ward House and the Old Town Hall. You’ll also hear of the secret tunnels that run beneath some of these buildings, many of which still exist today!

Continue past the old jailhouse, where innocent people were subjected to cruelty so terrible that some suggest their spirits never really left. By this point, you’re bound to think some of these things look familiar, so it’s time to hear about Hollywood’s many forays into Salem, including hits like Hocus Pocus and Bewitched .

On your way back, you’ll pass by the Witch Museum and hear about how all the madness finally ended. The final stop is Salem Common, where you’ll discover some things you probably didn’t know about the aftermath of the trials.

But your tour doesn’t have to end there! If you want to keep the adventure going, you can continue toward the House of Green Gables. Along the way, you’ll hear all about author Nathaniel Hawthorne and his family’s connection to the witch trials, plus a few extra stories about some 18th-century kidnappings!

The tour also features an additional optional detour to a few more landmarks, like the Witch House, the Ropes Mansion, and Hamilton Hall. There’s no shortage of things to see on this walking tour of Salem, so buckle up your boots (and your Pilgrim hat) and get to walking!

Speak Spanish?

Hola, su recorrido Freedom Trail también está disponible en español.

Looking for a restroom?

Click here for a list of all of the local restrooms.

Important! Do not tour at night!

• This is a daytime-only tour. Do not begin after dusk.
• Cemeteries are off-limits after dusk.
• Use crosswalks and cross only when safe to do so.

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Where To Start?

Starting Address: New Liberty St, Salem, MA 01970

How Does It Work?

• Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
• Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
• To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
• The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
• Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.

What You'll See

Welcome to salem witch trials.

Your tour of Salem begins just outside the Salem Visitor Center.

Salem Armory: The Bell

Take a closer look at the old armory's historic bell and find out how it connects to a Revolutionary War hero.

Salem Armory: The Arch

Visit the site of the Salem Armory, find out what purpose it once served, and learn what became of it.

Samuel Pickman House

Stop by a historic house which was also the site of a grisly crime... the effects of which some locals swear linger to this very day.

The 1692 Memorial

Pay your respects at a memorial to the innocent victims of the Salem Witch Trials and find out how all the madness began.

Bridget Bishop

Visit the memorial to Bridget Bishop, whose irreverent ways drew the ire of her neighbors.

See the memorial honoring Sarah Good, whose arrest and trial were particularly brutal for more than one reason.

Rebecca Nurse

Learn about Rebecca Nurse and how she went from respected member of the church to accused witch.

George Burroughs

Hear about the trial and execution of one of the few male victims of the Witch Trials.

Revisit the mistakes and heroism of Giles Corey, who was immortalized in the famous play The Crucible.

Old Burying Point

See the burial site of one of the primary perpetrators of the Witch Trials and find out how neighbors could turn against one another so easily.

The Peabody Sisters and the Grimshawe House

Visit a historic home renowned not for any horrors that took place therein, but for the art its one-time residents produced.

Do What Is Right

Step into the shoes of the frightened Salem settlers as you stroll these storied streets.

Old Town Hall

Find out where you might recognize this iconic building from and hear a harrowing tale of why parts of it have been sealed off.

Joshua Ward House

Stop by a house where once sat the home of the sheriff who oversaw most of the hangings during the Witch Trials.

Hollywood in Salem

Uncover Salem's more recent history on the silver screen, including why Hollywood seems to adore this picturesque location.

Turner’s Seafood at Lyceum Hall

Learn why this seemingly unassuming restaurant actually hides a complex history behind its walls.

St Peter's Episcopal Church

Get to know the previous owners of the land on which this church is situated, as well as what they did when accused of witchcraft.

Old Witch Gaol

Visit the corner that once held Salem's infamous and inhumane prison, where accused witches were held.

Old Salem Jail

Stop by a luxury apartment building with unlikely origins as Salem's newer jail. Plus, hear about the jail's most infamous former occupant.

Martha Corey

Hear the tragic tale of Martha Corey, Giles Corey's wife and one of the last victims of the Witch Trials.

Howard Street Cemetery

Pay a visit to Salem's oldest cemetery, believed to be where Giles Corey was killed all those years ago.

Roger Conant & Witch Museum

Admire this impressive sculpture of Salem's founder and pop into the Witch Museum to learn more about Salem's past.

Discover how a few young girls inadvertently kicked off the witch panic in Salem.

Ann Pudeator

Revisit the life and untimely death of Ann Pudeator at the former site of her home.

Aftermath of the Trials

Walk the Salem Common and hear how all the panic and murder of the Witch Trials finally came to an end, as well as what followed in their wake. The tour concludes here, though there are optional stops beyond this one.

Hawthorne Hotel

Stop by the supposedly haunted Hawthorne Hotel if you're feeling brave.

Nathaniel Hawthorne Statue

Snap a selfie beside a statue of one of America's greatest authors and find out how he was connected to the Witch Trials.

Visit a uniquely Salem institution: A funeral home that became a speakeasy!

Mercy Tavern

Check out this upscale pub which was once a grim, unsavory establishment with a terrifying reputation.

Nathaniel Hawthorne's Birthplace

See the home where author Nathaniel Hawthorne was born.

The House of the Seven Gables

Arrive at the House of the Seven Gables, a dour building which inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne's supernatural Gothic novel of the same name.

Preview The Tour

  what were the salem witch trials.

The Salem Witch Trials, also known as the Salem Witch Panic, were a series of bogus trials resulting in the conviction and execution of 20 men and women during the late 1600s. These trials were fueled by a mass panic about witchcraft in the village, despite no concrete evidence ever being presented.

  Who was executed during the Salem Witch Trials?

The 20 victims executed as part of the Salem Witch Trials ranged in age from 30 to 77, and included 14 women and six men. Five others died in prison. One of the most famous victims was Giles Corey, who famously refused to plead guilty to witchcraft and was crushed to death via a torture method known as “pressing.”

  How many people were accused in the Salem Witch Trials?

Over 200 men and women were accused of witchcraft during the Salem Witch Trials . Most were able to beat the accusations, but those without social influence or who had angered those in power were not so fortunate.

  How did the Salem Witch Trials end?

The Salem Witch Trials ended as abruptly as they began. When someone accused the wife of Massachusetts Governor William Phips of witchcraft, the governor himself intervened and put an end to the madness. He ordered a halt to the trials, demanded an end to the admission of so-called “spectral evidence,” and brought the nightmare to an abrupt conclusion.

  When did the Salem Witch Trials end?

The Salem Witch Trials ended in October of 1692, the same year they began. Some trials would continue, but this time under the watchful gaze of Governor Phips, and they would result in no further executions.

  How many people died as a result of the Salem Witch Trials?

Official numbers put the total death toll at 25. 19 were executed, five died in jail, and one was tortured to death in an attempt to elicit a confession.

  Can you walk around Salem?

Salem is an excellent town to walk around. The town center is quite compact, having been built well before the invention of the automobile, and there’s plenty to see and do as you stroll through this historic district.

   How do you spend a day in Salem?

The first thing to do during any visit to Salem is to go to the cemetery where the Witch Trial victims are memorialized. After that, perhaps visit the Witch Museum, stop by one of the many cafes for a pick-me-up, and admire the historic architecture. Plus, visit important landmarks like the site of the jail where accused witches were once held. And be sure to end your day at one of Salem’s many excellent restaurants!

  What happened in the aftermath of the Salem Witch Trials?

Five years after the trials , a day of fasting was called to honor the victims. In 1702, the trials were officially declared unlawful, and in 1711 some of the victims’ families received £600 as compensation for their suffering. But it wasn’t until 2001 that the last of the victims were finally exonerated of their supposed crimes.

  Why is Salem, MA important in American history?

Besides the Witch Trials themselves, Salem has huge historical importance as one of the earliest settlements in New England. It was incorporated in 1626 and was at one time the home of Roger Williams, who later went on to found the state of Rhode Island.

  When did the Salem Witch Trials take place?

Salem’s infamous witch trials started in February 1692 and ended quite suddenly in May of the following year.

  How did the Salem Witch Trials begin?

The witch trials of Salem, MA, began in February of 1692. It all started with two young girls: Abigail Williams and Betty Parris. The two children suffered from fits of screaming and convulsions. Nobody knows for sure what the reason for their behavior was; it could have been food poisoning, sleep paralysis, or any number of other psychosomatic disorders. But the pious townsfolk of Salem immediately suspected the devil was involved.

  What caused the Salem Witch Trials?

Modern historians might point to any number of medical conditions, but at the time, there was only one explanation: the girls were possessed by the devil. Nobody can say for sure, but the prevailing theory is that paranoia and mob mentality are to blame.

  Can you visit the site of Salem Witch Trials?

A trip to Salem wouldn’t be complete without taking in its haunted history. A Salem walking tour is the ideal way to experience the witch trials.

  Is Salem worth visiting in October?

One hundred percent yes! Salem, Massachusetts, home to the infamous witch trials of the 17th century, is a spooky place to visit any time of year. But Halloween is when Salem truly comes to life!

  Were the Salem Witch Trial victims burned at the stake?

Despite popular conception, none of the victims of the Salem Witch Trials died by fire. How did they die instead? Mostly by hanging.

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