Salem isn’t just the witch trial capital of America; it’s a city brimming with stories of pirates, Puritans, maritime legends, and ghostly tales. Its compact downtown, centuries-old architecture, and intriguing dark history make it a perfect place for specialized walking tours. Whether you want a comprehensive history, a spooky night adventure, or an ocean sail with a historic schooner, Salem offers an experience for every traveler. We especially love the 2.5-Hour Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking Tour [], which covers more ground than most, and the Sailing on Historic Schooner Yacht in Salem, MA [], perfect for a relaxing day on the water.
Salem’s tours range from quick, budget-friendly options to immersive, storytelling-filled experiences. Whether you’re in town for a few hours or a full day, there’s something that will fit your schedule and curiosity level.
1. 2.5-Hour Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking Tour
Rated 5.0/5 with over 816 reviews, this tour stands out for its detailed storytelling beyond just Salem’s witch trials. The guide, Kenneth, takes you through Salem’s Puritan beginnings, Revolutionary roots, and maritime history, stopping at landmarks like the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, Pickering House, and Ropes Mansion. It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a practical choice for families or travelers with mobility concerns.
What makes this tour special is its comprehensive scope — it’s not just about witches. You’ll learn about indigenous peoples, Patriots, and the city’s evolution into a modern Massachusetts town. Guests praise Kenneth’s engaging storytelling and the personalized approach, especially if you prefer a more in-depth, narrative-driven tour. At 2 hours 30 minutes for just $40, it offers great value, especially considering the wealth of local history covered. The tour’s stops at exteriors of historic homes and landmarks give you a rich sense of Salem’s layered past.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a detailed, relaxed introduction to Salem’s history with a passionate guide.
2. Salem, MA: History and Hauntings Guided Walking Tour
Rating 4.9/5 from 468 reviews, this tour combines Salem’s dark past with supernatural tales in a 2-hour walk. As you pass by the historic Witch House and Old Town Hall, your guide will weave stories of witch hysteria, maritime mishaps, and ghostly legends. It’s a great pick for travelers who want to mix history and mystery.
What sets this walking tour apart is its focus on supernatural stories — perfect if you’re curious about Salem’s haunted reputation. The architecture of the McIntire District is also part of the charm, giving you a glimpse into Salem’s elegant past. The guide’s storytelling is engaging, and the pace is comfortable, making it accessible for most fitness levels. At $36, it’s a similar price to other tours but emphasizes the mysterious side of Salem that appeals to ghost and history enthusiasts alike.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those interested in Salem’s haunted tales and ghost stories combined with historical context.
3. Black Cat Historical Day Tour
Rated 5.0/5 with 348 reviews, this tour offers a more flexible, personalized experience. The guide, dressed in period costume, shares stories of pirates, Puritans, war, and witchcraft, visiting lesser-known sites most visitors overlook. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview or history lovers who enjoy a bit of theatrical flair.
The tour’s unscripted nature allows the guide to tailor the experience based on your interests, making each trip unique. It begins at Lappin Square, across from the Black Cat Curiosity Shoppe, and emphasizes Salem’s turbulent past. Guests love the storytelling style and the off-the-beaten-path stops, which provide perspective beyond the typical tourist spots.
Bottom Line: An excellent introduction for first-timers or those craving a more interactive, customized history walk.
4. Salem Night Tour: Haunt and History Guided Night Tour
Rated 4.6/5 from nearly 600 reviews, this 1.5-hour evening walk takes you through Salem’s haunted spots with a local historian who specializes in ghost stories. The atmospheric setting at night reveals Salem’s dark side—from Colonial-era hauntings to stories of ghostly apparitions.
This tour is especially popular for its spooky ambiance and tales of Salem’s most haunted sites. It’s a good choice if you’re visiting around Halloween or want to experience Salem’s ghostly reputation firsthand. The guide’s storytelling combines history with the supernatural, and the shorter duration makes it a great pick for an evening activity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for ghost-lovers and night owl travelers who want a spookier side of Salem.
5. Wicked Awesome Tours: Witch Trial History and Salem Haunts!
Rated 4.5/5 from 553 reviews, this one-hour walking tour hits the highlights of Salem’s witch trial sites. It includes the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, Burying Point Cemetery, and filming locations from “Hocus Pocus,” blending history and pop culture.
This tour is a quick but comprehensive overview suited for travelers with limited time. It covers Salem’s top landmarks and shares stories of accusers and victims, making it both educational and entertaining. The small group and the low price of $28 make it a popular, budget-friendly option.
Bottom Line: Great for a short, engaging introduction for first-time visitors or those on a tight schedule.
6. Sailing on Historic Schooner Yacht in Salem, MA
Rated a perfect 5.0/5 based on 124 reviews, this two-hour cruise offers a relaxing way to see Salem from the water. You’ll board the historic schooner “What and If,” built in 1939, and enjoy unobstructed views of the coastline, lighthouses, and waterfront homes.
Guests can help raise the sails, steer the boat, or simply relax with a drink from the onboard bar. The guided commentary shares insights into Salem’s maritime history and notable sights, making it a unique complement to land-based tours. Prices at $55 are reasonable for a high-quality sailing experience.
What makes this tour stand out is its authentic sailing atmosphere and the chance to view Salem’s historic waterfront from a classic schooner — a perfect option for couples or those celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom Line: An ideal activity for water lovers and those seeking a peaceful, scenic break from walking tours.
7. Salem Uncovered: Dark History & Murder Tour
Rated 4.5/5 from 290 reviews, this night walk reveals Salem’s murder stories, pirates, and secret histories. Over 90 minutes, your guide explores brutal murders, the oldest cemetery, and hidden stories that aren’t in most guidebooks.
It’s a lively tour that combines mystery, history, and a bit of crime. The guide’s storytelling is colorful, making the dark tales come alive. It’s suitable for those interested in Salem’s shadowy side, and the evening timing creates an immersive atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for fans of true crime and dark history, looking for a more dramatic storytelling experience.
8. Salem: Historic Schooner Sailing Cruise
Rated 4.9/5 from 84 reviews, this 100-minute sail aboard the schooner “Fame” provides scenic views of Salem’s waterfront. Guests enjoy sailing, snacks, and refreshing drinks from the bar, as they view forts, lighthouses, and waterfront homes.
This cruise offers a relaxing, scenic approach to discovering Salem’s coast and maritime history. It’s especially suited for those wanting a laid-back experience or celebrating a special occasion. The fully licensed bar and the opportunity to help raise the sails add a hands-on element that enhances the experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quiet, scenic escape on the water that complements land-based historical tours.
9. Steps Through 1692 (History Tour)
Rated 5.0/5 from 46 reviews, this tour takes you directly into the heart of the Salem witch trials. In about 90 minutes, you walk through the most significant sites, learning about accused witches, judge Hathorne, and the trial’s aftermath.
What’s notable is its focus on actual historical sites like the Salem’s historic downtown and the witch trial courts. The guide’s detailed narration makes this an ideal choice for history enthusiasts. The tour is designed for those who want an immersive, fact-based experience that avoids the usual gimmicks.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a deep dive into Salem’s witch trial history with a passionate guide.
10. Salem: Secrets of Salem Hidden History Walking Tour
Rated 4.5/5 from 183 reviews, this 2-hour walk uncovers rarely told stories and lesser-known facts about Salem’s transformation from Puritan settlement to Witch City.
It covers betrayal, murder, and mystery, giving a fresh perspective. The tour also includes photo opportunities at filming locations from “Bewitched” and “Hocus Pocus.” It’s a strong pick for travelers interested in hidden stories and Salem’s societal shifts.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting an offbeat, storytelling-rich experience that unearths Salem’s lesser-known history.
11. Best Salem Witch Trials Historical Walking Tour
Rated 4.0/5 with 653 reviews, this tour covers main sites like the witchcraft memorial, courthouse, and the Elizabeth Montgomery statue with a focus on personal stories of the accused and accusers.
This tour is appreciated for its convenient meeting spot and comprehensive coverage of Salem’s witch hysteria. It’s most suitable for first-time visitors who want a well-rounded overview in about 90 minutes.
Bottom Line: Suitable for newcomers seeking a balanced, story-driven overview of Salem’s witch trial history.
12. Salem Day Tour: Historical Witchcraft Hysteria Walking Tour
Rated 4.5/5 from 59 reviews, this short tour focuses on the real events of 1692 at iconic sites like the Old Burying Point Cemetery and Town Hall.
It’s ideal for travelers wanting a focused, educational experience that’s respectful and easy to follow. Starting at the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, it’s a good intro for those arriving for a day-long visit.
Bottom Line: Best for visitors who want an educational, to-the-point overview of the witch trials.
13. Best Historic Overview of Salem Walking Tour
Rated 4.5/5 from 56 reviews, this tour provides a broad look at Salem’s four-century history. It combines early settlement, revolution, and salem’s maritime fame with visits to prominent landmarks.
It’s a solid all-encompassing introduction for first-time visitors or those wanting to understand Salem’s longer history beyond the witch trials. The guide’s storytelling skill turns historic facts into a compelling narrative.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers who want to understand Salem’s broader story.
14. Hauntings, History and Legends Tour in Salem
Rated 5.0/5 from 12 reviews, this outdoor tour runs about an hour and a half. It blends paranormal stories, witch trial tales, and Salem’s revolutionary history, including Houdini’s escape from a Salem building.
This tour is popular with those seeking a mix of ghost stories and history, especially as it incorporates Salem’s most famous legends. Its shorter length makes it suitable for an evening outing.
Bottom Line: Great for short, spooky excursions with a mix of Salem’s secrets and stories.
15. Double Trouble Combination Pass: 2 Tours (History & Ghost Tours)
Rated 4.5/5, this combo pass lets you enjoy both the Witch Trial History tour and the Spooky Ghost tour for about 3 hours total. It’s ideal for travelers who want the full spectrum—from history facts to ghostly tales—without booking separate tickets.
Guests appreciate the value of visiting two different sides of Salem in one day, and the guided narration keeps things lively. It’s especially good for families and groups wanting to maximize their visit.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a comprehensive, budget-friendly overview of Salem’s darker and lighter sides.
16. History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour
Rated an impressive 5.0/5 with nearly 12,000 reviews, this tour covers Salem’s entire history and ghostly legends in 2 to 2 hours 15 minutes. The expert guide takes you through key landmarks, revealing the truth behind the witch hysteria and stories of paranormal activity.
It’s the most popular and highly rated option, especially if you want a comprehensive story told with passion. The multiple departure times allow flexibility, and the focus on authentic historic sites makes it an excellent choice for all levels of interest.
Bottom Line: The top pick for those who want a deep, engaging, and extensive tour of Salem’s history and hauntings.
How to Choose the Right Salem Tour for You
When selecting the best Salem tour, consider your interests, budget, and physical activity level. If you’re mainly interested in the witch trials, the Best Salem Witch Trials Historical Walking Tour offers a focused experience. For a more leisurely day on the water, the Sailing on Historic Schooner Yacht provides a unique, relaxing adventure. Those craving scary stories should opt for the Night Tour or the Hauntings, History and Legends Tour.
For a rundown, the History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour is hard to beat, thanks to its reputation and volume of reviews. Book early, especially in peak seasons, to ensure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Salem’s range of historical tours offers something for all—from immersive storytelling and ghostly mysteries to sailing adventures and short highlights. For travelers wanting to maximize their time, a combination like the Double Trouble Pass might suit best, while those seeking a deep dive will enjoy the full-length guided walks.
If your focus is on learning about the witch trials with personal stories, tours like “Steps Through 1692” or “Salem: Secrets of Salem” are excellent choices. For a relaxing break on the water, the historic schooner cruise provides a different perspective on Salem’s maritime history. Whatever your interests, Salem’s diverse tour options ensure you’ll find a memorable way to explore its unique past. Book early, and enjoy your journey into Salem’s intriguing story.