Kids’ Ghost Tour of Salem

If you’re visiting Salem with kids aged 7 to 13 and looking for an activity that combines history, fun, and a dash of the supernatural, the Kids’ Ghost Tour of Salem is worth considering. Priced at $20 per person and lasting about an hour, this outdoor tour takes families through some of Salem’s most haunted sites, sharing spooky stories and ghost-hunting opportunities that are just the right level of creepy for children. Led by knowledgeable guides with educational backgrounds, this tour is designed to entertain and educate while keeping the atmosphere light enough for young adventurers.

Two things we love about this experience are its focus on family-friendly storytelling and the opportunity for kids to engage in ghost hunting—a perfect mix that makes children feel like true investigators. Also, the tour visits iconic Salem landmarks, allowing families to soak up the historic ambiance and capture memorable photos. One consideration? Since it’s an outdoor walk, being prepared for weather changes and comfortable shoes is wise.

This tour is great for families who want a fun, spooky activity that feels both safe and exciting. It’s especially well-suited for children who are curious about ghosts but might not be ready for adult-level horror. If your kids love stories, history, and a little ghostly mystery, this engaging walk will keep everyone entertained.

Key Points

• Family-Friendly: Designed specifically for children aged 7-13, balancing spooky tales with age-appropriate content.
• Educational Guides: All guides hold Master’s degrees in education, ensuring stories are informative and engaging.
• Iconic Salem Sites: Stops include historic homes, cemeteries, and landmarks like the Witch House.
• Interactive Experience: Kids get to participate in ghost hunting and photography, making it a memorable adventure.
• Outdoor Tour: The walk is outside, so weather preparedness is recommended.
• Cost-Effective: At $20 per person, it offers a fun way to explore Salem’s haunted past without breaking the bank.

An In-Depth Look at the Kids’ Ghost Tour of Salem

The Experience at a Glance

What makes this tour appealing is its accessible approach to Salem’s haunted reputation. For just $20, you gain admission to a captivating hour of storytelling, walking through Salem’s historic streets and visiting notable sites. Led by guides who are teachers with Master’s degrees, the narration strikes a good balance between spooky and educational—perfect for kids who want to learn about Salem’s haunted past without feeling overwhelmed.

The tour begins at 7:00 pm at 18 Broad Street and ends at the First Church in Salem on Essex Street, making it easy to fit into an evening schedule. The group usually stays small, capped at 25 travelers, which means more personalized attention—a big plus when children are involved.

The Stops and Their Stories

Stop 1: Pickering House
We start with one of Salem’s oldest homes, noted for its haunted tales and historical significance. The guide shares stories behind the walls of this unique house, giving children a taste of Salem’s long and spooky past. While admission isn’t included, the exterior provides plenty of photo opportunities, especially with its distinctive architecture.

Stop 2: Broad Street Cemetery
Peeking through iron gates at this cemetery dating from 1655, we hear stories of the dead buried within. Since we’re not allowed inside after dark, the focus is on storytelling—what ghosts might still linger among the graves. Kids love the spooky vibe here, and the tales are just the right amount of eerie.

Stop 3: Hamilton Hall
This historic building could hide secrets behind its walls. The guide discusses possible spirits and curses, including rumors of dancing ghosts in the ballroom. The brief five-minute stop invites curiosity without lingering too long, perfect for young attention spans.

Stop 4: Salem Athenaeum
Here, the guide shares a ghost story about a lost friend, setting a literary tone. Salem’s most famous author believed in ghosts, adding an authentic touch to this stop. It’s a chance for children to connect Salem’s literary history with its haunted reputation.

Stop 5: Ropes Mansion and Garden
Popular from films, this house also has its share of ghost stories. Kids enjoy recognizing the house from movies and hearing its spooky tales. The five-minute stop provides a quick dose of haunted history amid beautiful gardens.

Stop 6: First Church in Salem Unitarian Universalist
This stop features stories from the guide’s own ghostly experiences, adding authenticity. The church’s basement holds mysterious secrets, and the guide humorously suggests a long-ago singer might still be performing with the choir.

Stop 7: The Witch House
The tour concludes at Salem’s most notorious historic site—the Witch House. As the home of a key figure from the 1692 witch trials, it offers a fitting end to the spooky journey. Inside visits require an additional ticket, but the exterior and stories make this a worthwhile finale.

What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—especially Olivia—who keep children entertained and focused. Heather M describes the tour as a “perfect family activity,” noting Olivia’s ability to balance spooky tales with history. Maegan S appreciated how Olivia made her daughter excited about Salem’s haunted stories, highlighting the guide’s personable approach. These glowing reviews suggest that guides’ storytelling skills and their ability to connect with children make a big difference.

Practical Aspects Worth Noting

Since the tour is entirely outdoors, bringing weather-appropriate gear is essential—think jackets, umbrella, or raincoats, depending on the forecast. The tour’s duration of about an hour makes it manageable for kids without fatigue setting in. Also, the mobile ticket system streamlines entry, so there’s no fuss with tickets or long waits.

While the stops don’t include inside admission (except for the Witch House, which requires an additional ticket), the storytelling and site visits more than compensate. The small group size fosters a more intimate experience, allowing the guide to tailor stories and keep children engaged.

Value and Suitability

For just $20 per person, this tour offers solid value, especially considering the quality of guides and the family-friendly approach. It’s a great investment for families wanting a safe, fun way to explore Salem after dark. The stories are crafted to entertain children while giving them a glimpse into Salem’s haunted lore and history.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ghost tour is ideal for families with children aged 7-13 who enjoy storytelling, history, and a dash of the spooky. It’s perfect if you want a light-hearted but engaging experience that balances education and entertainment. If your kids are into ghosts but not horror, this tour hits the right note. It’s also suitable for those who want an outdoor activity that provides both scenic views and spooky stories.

Final Thoughts

The Kids’ Ghost Tour of Salem offers a well-curated, family-friendly way to explore Salem’s haunted spots. Guided by educated and personable guides, you’ll visit historic sites and hear stories that are just spooky enough to thrill children. Its affordability and engaging storytelling make it a standout option for families seeking an authentic Salem experience with a supernatural twist.

While outdoor weather and the lack of inside access at some sites are considerations, the overall value and enjoyment factors are high. This tour successfully combines Salem’s haunted reputation with an educational approach, making it a memorable highlight of any family trip.

If your children love stories about ghosts and history, this tour will leave them with plenty of spooky memories—and maybe even some new ghost-hunting skills.

FAQ

How long is the Kids’ Ghost Tour of Salem?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, making it doable for young children without becoming tiresome.

What is the starting point for the tour?
It begins at 18 Broad Street, Salem, MA, at 7:00 pm.

Are children under six allowed on the tour?
Children must be over the age of six to participate.

Is there an inside visit included in the tour?
Most stops are outdoor storytelling, but the Witch House inside visit requires an additional admission ticket.

Do I need to print tickets or can I use a mobile device?
The tour provides a mobile ticket, making check-in quick and easy.

What should I wear for the tour?
Since it’s an outdoor walk, dress appropriately for the weather, and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking.

Is this tour suitable for kids who are easily scared?
Yes, the stories are crafted to be spooky but age-appropriate, making it suitable for children who enjoy light ghost stories.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

This family-friendly ghost tour in Salem offers a wonderful blend of spooky tales, historic sites, and engaging storytelling—perfect for creating memories that will last long after the shadows have gone.