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5 (1)

Location Icon Salem

Salem's Spicy Witch History: 21+ Walking Tour

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120

Overview

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

Overview

Quotes Logo High Witch History Walking Tour of Salem explores the city's captivating and often untold stories. This walking tour is designed for adults 21+ and dives deep into Salem's witch trials, LGBTQ+ history, cannabis history, Black history, and Indigenous history, offering a unique and inclusive perspective. Guests will explore the hidden stories of Salem's past, discovering a side of the city rarely seen.
What to Expect: Participants will visit iconic landmarks like the Witch Museum and the Witch Trials Memorial, delving into the history and cultural significance of each site. The tour also includes stops at the Roger Conant Statue, Hawthorne Hotel, Gardner Pingree House, Peabody Essex Museum, Charlotte Forten Park, Old Town Hall, Chestnut Street, Ropes Mansion, Witch House, and Bewitched Statue, each contributing to a comprehensive understanding of Salem's complex history. This experience provides a safe space for queer individuals to explore Salem's history with an expert guide.
This tour includes a 21+ queer safe space. Please note that it excludes any items not explicitly mentioned. Participants can expect a historical journey through Salem, learning about the witch trials and other important events that shaped the city. Quotes Logo

Highlights

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Uncover Hidden Histories: Explore Salem's witch trials, LGBTQ+ history, and more.

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21+ Queer Safe Space: A welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants.

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Expert Local Guide: Learn from a knowledgeable guide passionate about Salem's history.

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Iconic Salem Landmarks: Visit key historical sites, including the Witch Museum and Memorial.

Sentiment Analysis

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Customers generally enjoyed the tour's unique historical focus and enthusiastic guide, though some wished for a different pace or subject balance. Quotes Logo

  • Positive Highlight Icon Guests appreciate the tour guide's enthusiasm and knowledge.

    Positive Highlight Icon Many reviewers loved learning about the city's queer history.

    Positive Highlight Icon The tour is considered a unique and interesting experience.

    Positive Highlight Icon Some customers liked how informative the tour was.

  • Negative Highlight Icon One reviewer suggested more focus on the witch trials themselves.

    Negative Highlight Icon A customer mentioned the tour being too long with too much information.

The Journey

1

Roger Conant Statue

Pay homage to Roger Conant, Salem's founder, immortalized in bronze. Overlooking the bustling Salem Common, this statue commemorates his vision and leadership in establishing the early settlement of Naumkeag, later renamed Salem, playing a pivotal role in shaping the region's history and identity. It serves as a reminder of Salem’s pioneering spirit and the foundations upon which the city was built.

2

Witch Museum

Delve into the chilling history of the 1692 Salem Witch Trials at the Salem Witch Museum. Experience dramatic stage sets, life-size figures, and gripping narratives that recount the events, accusations, and hysteria that gripped the town. Explore the evolving perceptions of witchcraft and its enduring impact on society. A visit here is a haunting yet essential part of understanding Salem's past.

3

Hawthorne Hotel

Experience timeless elegance and historic charm at the Hawthorne Hotel, a grand landmark in downtown Salem. Named after Nathaniel Hawthorne, the famous author of 'The Scarlet Letter' and a Salem native, this iconic hotel offers luxurious accommodations, refined dining, and a touch of old-world glamour. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Salem's many attractions.

4

Gardner Pingree House

Step back in time at the Gardner-Pingree House, a magnificent example of Federal-style architecture. Designed by renowned architect Samuel McIntire, this historic home showcases exquisite craftsmanship, elegant interiors, and a glimpse into the lives of a wealthy merchant family in the early 19th century. Admire the intricate details, period furnishings, and beautiful gardens, offering a captivating glimpse into Salem's architectural heritage.

5

Peabody Essex Museum

Embark on a global cultural journey at the Peabody Essex Museum (PEM), one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States. Discover captivating collections of maritime art, Asian export art, Native American art, and historical artifacts. Immerse yourself in diverse cultures, explore world-class exhibitions, and gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of art and history. PEM is a must-see destination for art lovers and curious minds.

6

Witch Trials Memorial

Reflect on the tragic events of the Salem Witch Trials at the solemn Witch Trials Memorial. Granite stones engraved with the names of the innocent victims stand as a poignant reminder of the injustice and suffering endured during the 1692 hysteria. Take a moment to pay your respects, contemplate the lessons of history, and honor the memory of those who were wrongly accused and executed.

7

Charlotte Forten Park

Enjoy a moment of tranquility at Charlotte Forten Park, a waterfront green space named after the African American abolitionist and educator Charlotte Forten Grimké, who taught in Salem. Overlooking Salem Harbor, the park offers scenic views, peaceful walking paths, and a connection to the city's abolitionist history. It provides a serene setting to relax, reflect, and appreciate Salem's commitment to social justice.

8

Old Town Hall

Explore the historic Old Town Hall, a landmark building that has witnessed centuries of Salem's history. Built in 1816, this architectural gem has served as a meeting place, a market, and even a filming location for the movie 'Hocus Pocus'. Admire its elegant facade, step inside to discover its rich past, and imagine the many stories that have unfolded within its walls.

9

Chestnut Street

Stroll down Chestnut Street, renowned as one of the most beautiful streets in America. Admire the stunning collection of Federal-style mansions, showcasing exquisite architectural details and manicured gardens. Each house tells a story of Salem's prosperous maritime past and the wealthy merchants who called this street home. It is a treat for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

10

Ropes Mansion

Visit the Ropes Mansion, a meticulously preserved Georgian-style mansion that offers a glimpse into the lives of a prominent Salem family. Explore the elegant interiors, admire the period furnishings, and wander through the beautiful gardens, which are open to the public. It is rumored to be one of Salem's most haunted locations, adding a touch of mystery to its historical charm.

11

Witch House

Step inside the Witch House, the only remaining structure with direct ties to the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. This historic home was the residence of Judge Jonathan Corwin, who played a key role in the trials. Explore the rooms where he conducted his examinations, learn about the events that unfolded, and gain a deeper understanding of the individuals involved in this dark chapter of Salem's history.

12

Bewitched Statue

Snap a photo with the Bewitched Statue, a bronze likeness of Elizabeth Montgomery as Samantha Stephens from the beloved 1960s television show 'Bewitched.' While controversial due to its lighthearted portrayal of witchcraft, the statue remains a popular attraction, celebrating Salem's connection to pop culture and its embrace of its witchy image.

Know Before You Go

This High Witch History Walking Tour of Salem includes a 21+ queer safe space, providing an inclusive environment for all participants. It excludes anything not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions. Please be aware that there are no pickup or drop-off services; participants will meet at a designated location. The tour is designed for adults aged 21 and over.

Hot Tip

Many reviewers suggest wearing comfortable shoes for the walking tour, and coming prepared to be outside for an extended period of time, regardless of the weather. Some customers suggest bringing an open mind and an interest in learning about some of the untold history of Salem.

From $20 Price

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