Salem, Massachusetts, is famous for its witch trials, but this historic city offers much more than just spooky stories. Its cobblestone streets, Colonial architecture, maritime heritage, and theatrical attractions make Salem a perfect place for diverse guided tours. We love exploring the 2.5-Hour Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking Tour because it provides a balanced mix of Salem’s deep past and lively present, all told by a guide who makes history come alive. Whether you’re interested in learning about the indigenous peoples, Puritans, or Patriots, or visiting landmarks like the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, this tour covers it all. Plus, with the accessible design and friendly reviews, it’s a great option for most travelers.
Numerous types of tours make the list, from immersive walking tours and haunted ghost walks to sailing adventures and themed photo shoots. If you want to explore Salem’s storytelling heritage, the Salem, MA: History and Hauntings Guided Walking Tour offers a fascinating mix of history and supernatural tales. For those seeking adventure on the water, the Schooner Fame Sailing Tour and the Sailing on Historic Schooner Yacht give you the chance to see Salem from the bay. And for a truly memorable souvenir, the Witch Costume Photo Shoot lets you dress up and pose in Salem’s atmospheric settings. Now, let’s explore each of these top-rated tours.
1. 2.5-Hour Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking Tour
This guided walking tour is a fantastic introduction to Salem’s layered history beyond the witch trials, making it ideal for first-timers. For approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, you’ll stroll through the historic district, visiting landmarks like the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, Pickering House, and Ropes Mansion and Gardens. Your guide, Kenneth, shares engaging stories about Salem’s Puritans, Patriots, and indigenous peoples, giving context to the city’s evolution.
What sets this tour apart is its balance of history, storytelling, and accessibility. It’s wheelchair and stroller friendly, with reviews praising Kenneth’s knowledge and friendly manner. Visitors rave about the personalized experience, with comments like, “Kenneth was knowledgeable, entertaining, and made our experience memorable.” For a comprehensive, well-paced overview of Salem’s past and present, this tour offers excellent value at $40 per person. It’s perfect for history lovers who enjoy storytelling and seeing the city’s key sites.
Bottom line: This tour offers a flexible, informative, and entertaining introduction to Salem’s long history, making it a top choice for travelers who want a balanced overview.
2. Schooner Fame Sailing Tour
Looking to combine history with a hands-on maritime experience? The Schooner Fame Sailing Tour lets you help hoist sails and steer a historic replica privateer schooner, making it perfect for families or those craving an interactive adventure. Departing from Pickering Wharf Marina, this approximately 1 hour 40-minute cruise takes you around Salem Sound, an area rich with pirates, privateers, and shipwreck stories.
Guests love the crew’s engaging storytelling and the opportunity to participate in activities like raising the sails or shooting the cannon. Reviews highlight how accommodating and friendly the staff are, with comments such as, “The crew was very engaging and knowledgeable about the area’s history.” The flexible start times make it easy to fit into your schedule, with tickets costing $50.65. This tour is ideal if you want a memorable, active experience on the water that combines scenic views with storytelling.
Bottom line: For a fun, interactive sailing adventure that connects you with Salem’s maritime background, this tour stands out, especially with its friendly crew and historic ambiance.
3. Salem, MA: History and Hauntings Guided Walking Tour
If your interests lean toward the supernatural and historic, this History and Hauntings Guided Walking Tour offers a compelling mix. Over 2 hours, you’ll explore Salem’s eerie sites, including the Witch House and Old Town Hall, while hearing stories about ghost sightings and supernatural legends linked to the city’s haunted reputation.
The tour is perfect for those who enjoy atmospheric storytelling with a dash of spooky fun. It’s led by a licensed guide who will make Salem’s mysterious past come to life. Visitors comment that it’s “very informative” and appreciate the balance of history and hauntings. With a price of $36, it offers a good value for those wanting a spooky twist on Salem’s traditional sights. This tour suits travelers who love ghost stories but also want to learn about Salem’s maritime and colonial history.
Bottom line: An engaging, spooky walk that combines ghost tales with historical insights, great for fans of the paranormal and curious history lovers alike.
4. Black Cat Historical Day Tour
This Black Cat Historical Day Tour offers a more flexible, unscripted experience into Salem’s turbulent past. Starting at Lappin Square, your costumed guide takes you on a walk through Salem’s streets, sharing tales of war, pirates, witchcraft, and Puritan life. Because the tour is tailored to your interests, it works well for first-time visitors or history enthusiasts who want to dig deeper.
Guests appreciate the personal storytelling approach, with reviewers mentioning guides like Daniel and Jeremiah as “knowledgeable and friendly.” It lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, making it a manageable but rundown. At $28, it’s great value, especially if you want a more personalized experience. The tour’s flexibility makes it suitable for those wanting to focus on specific aspects of Salem’s history.
Bottom line: For a customized, engaging walk focused on Salem’s war, pirates, and witchcraft, this tour delivers a lively, flexible experience for a reasonable price.
5. Black Cat Ghostly Night Tour in Salem
Experience Salem’s darker side with the Black Cat Ghostly Night Tour. This 75-minute evening walk delves into haunted sites, local ghost stories, and eerie history. Meeting at the Black Cat Curiosity Shoppe, you’ll visit haunted landmarks like the House of Seven Gables and explore Salem’s spooky past after dark.
Guests rave about guides like Vin and David, who combine storytelling with genuine historical research. It’s best suited for those comfortable walking at night and looking for a spooky thrill. With a ticket price of just $30, it’s an affordable way to experience Salem’s haunted reputation firsthand. The guided format ensures you stay safe and informed as you explore Salem’s most haunted locations.
Bottom line: If you love ghost stories and want to explore Salem’s haunted history after sunset, this tour offers a spooky but safe experience with engaging guides.
6. Real Pirates Salem Museum General Admission Ticket
For lovers of pirate lore, the Real Pirates Salem Museum is a must. The interactive exhibit offers a detailed look at pirate “Black Sam” Bellamy and his shipwreck, the Whydah Gally. Visitors can see artifacts, coins, jewelry, and even touch treasures recovered from shipwrecks, providing a tangible connection to Salem’s maritime and pirate history.
The museum is designed to be engaging and educational, with an emphasis on real-life stories and discoveries. Visitors comment on how “interactive and informative” it is, making it more than just a static display. The $21.50 price offers great value for a self-guided experience that appeals to both history enthusiasts and families. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, at-your-own-pace exploration of Salem’s pirate past.
Bottom line: For a hands-on, educational experience about Salem’s pirates and shipwrecks, this museum provides fascinating artifacts and stories that bring history to life.
7. 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour
This Night Walking Tour takes you through Salem’s most dramatic period—the witch trials—lit by lantern light and shadow. Led by a local historian, you’ll explore the Witch House, Salem’s historic district, and hear stories of fear, accusations, and executions from the darkest chapter of Salem’s history.
Guests love the family-friendly storytelling and the way the guide makes history vivid. It’s an ideal choice for those who enjoy night walks with atmospheric storytelling. The $32 price includes a 2-hour experience, making it a good value for a deep dive into Salem’s witch trial history. It’s perfect for history buffs and nightwalkers seeking a spooky but educational experience.
Bottom line: This tour offers a captivating nighttime exploration of Salem’s witch hysteria with stories that stick with you.
8. Salem Night Tour: Haunt and History Guided Night Tour
For a classic haunted tour experience, the Salem Night Tour: Haunt and History is a 1.5-hour walk through Salem’s most haunted sites. Led by a local haunt expert, you’ll visit locations that inspired ghost stories and explore Salem’s colonial-era darkness. The guide’s narrative includes spooky tales, modern hauntings, and Salem’s ghostly legends.
Guests praise the engaged storytelling and the chance to see Salem’s haunted spots at night. This tour is well-suited for those wanting a spooky experience with a historical perspective. At $30, it’s an affordable way to add some ghostly fun to your trip, especially if you’re interested in Salem’s haunted heritage.
Bottom line: A good choice for ghost story fans wanting a guided, atmospheric walk through Salem’s spooky sites after dark.
9. 1692 Salem Day Tour
This Day Tour offers a comprehensive 2-hour exploration of Salem’s witch trials, starting at the Hermetic Arts Center. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit key sites like the Witch House and learn about Salem’s pre-trials history, the hysteria, and the aftermath. Guests appreciate Jeff’s storytelling, which combines facts with engaging anecdotes.
The tour is family-friendly and dog-friendly, making it accessible for all ages. The reviews highlight Jeff’s expertise and the in-depth stories he shares, often mentioning how it’s “the best tour” they’ve had. At $32, it offers excellent value for a detailed, historical walk. It’s ideal for those wanting a thorough look at Salem’s dark chapter from a reliable guide.
Bottom line: This tour provides a detailed, well-rounded account of Salem’s witch trials with a personable guide, perfect for history enthusiasts.
10. Wicked Awesome Tours: Witch Trial History and Salem Haunts!
A quick-paced Wicked Awesome Tour covers Salem’s top landmarks like the Witch Trials Memorial and the Burying Point in just an hour. Perfect for travelers short on time, this tour also digs into Salem’s most notorious haunted spots, including filming locations from Hocus Pocus.
Reviews mention its fun, informative nature, and the lively guide who shares trivia and stories. It’s priced at $28, making it an economical choice for those wanting a quick, engaging overview. The tour is suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a taste of Salem’s dark side and film fame in a short time frame.
Bottom line: Fast-paced and fun, this tour packs a lot into an hour, ideal for visitors with limited time who still want a meaningful Salem experience.
11. Requiem for Salem Walking Ghost Tour
For a more adult-oriented ghost experience, the Requiem for Salem Ghost Tour emphasizes Salem’s haunted sites and paranormal stories with research-backed accounts. The 1 hour 30-minute walk visits haunted cemeteries and historic buildings like the House of Seven Gables, focusing on dark deeds and ghostly legends.
Guests find the storytelling well-researched and entertaining, noting guides like Topher as “fantastic storytellers.” It’s perfect for mature audiences interested in Salem’s true haunting stories without gimmicks. The $34.99 price makes it accessible, and reviews highlight its engaging, spine-tingling content.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for adults wanting a spooky, authentic ghost walk with a strong historical backbone.
12. Witch Costume Photo Shoot – Olde Salem Village theatrical set
Capture your Salem visit with this Witch Costume Photo Shoot, where a professional photographer and stylist help you dress and pose in a variety of costumes. Set against a detailed Olde Salem Village backdrop, this 45-minute session creates a memorable souvenir.
Guests love the friendly staff, large costume selection, and fun atmosphere. Many describe it as “so much fun” and praise the photographer’s skill. It’s priced at $92.50, which includes several edited photos—a good value for a personalized, unique experience. Suitable for families, couples, and groups who want a fun, memorable keepsake of Salem.
Bottom line: For an entertaining, photo-filled activity that results in lasting memories, this professional costume shoot is a hit with all ages.
13. Sailing on Historic Schooner Yacht in Salem, MA
Enjoy a relaxing cruise on a restored 1939 schooner with Sailing on Historic Schooner Yacht. During the 2-hour sail, you can unwind, watch Salem’s coastline slide by, or even take the wheel. The ship** built by General Patton** offers a classic sailing experience with unobstructed views of Salem Bay.
Guests often comment on the friendly crew and the opportunity to sip drinks while helping set the sails. The bar is available during the cruise, making it perfect for celebrating special occasions. Multiple departure times allow flexibility, and tickets are $55 each. It’s an authentic way to see Salem from the water, especially if you appreciate maritime history and peaceful scenery.
Bottom line: For a leisurely, scenic sail with historic charm, this tour is a relaxing choice that blends storytelling with beautiful views.
14. Witch Costume Photo Shoot – Witch Cottage theatrical set
This private Witch Costume Photo Shoot takes you into a spellbinding setting filled with potions, spell books, and rituals. A stylist helps you choose costumes, and a professional photographer captures high-quality images against a spooky, witch-themed backdrop.
Guests praise the staff for their friendliness and the variety of costumes and props. The session lasts about 45 minutes and costs $92.50, including several edited photos. It’s ideal for families or groups who want a fun, themed keepsake that reflects Salem’s witchy reputation.
Bottom line: For a personalized, fun photo experience with excellent results, this studio offers a memorable way to celebrate Salem.
15. Salem “Hocus Pocus” Movie Locations Tour (31st Anniversary)
Fans of the beloved movie Hocus Pocus will enjoy this Salem “Hocus Pocus” Locations Tour. This 2.5-hour walking tour visits iconic sites like Pioneer Village, the Dennison House, and Alison’s house from the film, while also revealing Salem’s maritime history and witch trials.
Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guide and the fun stories about the film’s production. The tour offers an engaging mix of movie trivia and historical facts. For $52, it’s a good value for fans wanting to see Salem’s film locations and learn about its dark history. An extra visit to Pioneer Village is available for those who want to extend their experience.
Bottom line: This tour blends pop culture with Salem’s history, making it a must for movie fans and history buffs alike.
16. Salem Ghosts: Witches, Warlocks, & Hauntings
Finally, the Salem Ghosts Tour explores Salem’s most haunted locations through research and eyewitness accounts. Over approximately 1 hour, you’ll visit sites like Turner’s Seafood at Lyceum Hall and the Witch House, hearing stories of ghostly encounters and dark deeds.
Guides like Noelle and Topher provide captivating narratives, often highlighted in reviews. It’s suited for those interested in Salem’s paranormal reputation and who want an informative but spooky experience. The $31 price is reasonable for a condensed but rich ghost tour.
Bottom line: For fans of haunted history, this tour offers a compelling, research-backed look at Salem’s paranormal tales.
How to Choose Your Perfect Salem Tour
When selecting the best Salem experience, consider your interests, budget, and available time. If you’re new to Salem and want a thorough overview, the Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking Tour offers a balanced, accessible introduction. For those craving spooky after-dark adventures, the Black Cat Ghostly Night Tour or the Salem Night Tour: Haunt and History deliver atmospheric ghost stories and haunted sites.
Budget-conscious travelers may prefer the Wicked Awesome Tours or the Salem Ghosts Tour, both offering quick, engaging experiences. History buffs or those seeking a hands-on marine adventure will enjoy the sailing tours, especially the Schooner Fame, which combines scenic views with interactive fun.
For a personalized souvenir, the Witch Costume Photo Shoots provide a fun, memorable activity. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
Salem’s diverse array of tours ensures you’ll find something to match your curiosity and energy level. Whether you want to walk through history, sail the bay, or pose as a witch, Salem has a story waiting for you. Pick your adventure, book early, and enjoy enjoying this captivating town—you won’t regret it!