5 (63)
Salem
Salem History Walk: Witches, Revolution & Maritime Tales
90
Overview
Best Historic Overview of Salem Walking Tour explores the rich history of Salem, Massachusetts, beyond just the witch trials. This 90-minute walking tour dives into Salem's vital role in the American Revolution and its prominence during the Age of Sail, introducing participants to the famous figures who shaped the city. Salem's story is the story of America.
The tour takes guests through the Salem City Center Historic District, a key meeting spot during the Revolutionary War, and the solemn Old Burying Point Cemetery. It also includes a visit to the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, a place for reflection, and a stop at Lyceum Hall, now Turner's Seafood. Guests will explore the Salem Maritime National Historic Site and the historic Hawthorne Hotel area. The tour route passes by Rockafellas, the site of the former First Church, and Lappin Park, where the Bewitched statue stands. Participants also learn about the former YMCA site, where Alexander Graham Bell once resided, and see The Witch House, the Jonathan Corwin House, and the North Bridge, the location of Leslie's Retreat.
The tour ensures everyone can hear the guide clearly with the use of an amplifier. It includes a knowledgeable local guide who shares compelling stories of maritime and revolutionary significance, revealing hidden historical gems unknown even to some locals. Gratuities and hotel pick-up/drop-off are not included. Food and drinks are not offered, but snacks are available for purchase. 
Highlights
Discover Salem's hidden history: Uncover Salem's pivotal role in the American Revolution and the Age of Sail, beyond the infamous witch trials.
Expert local guide: Gain insights from a knowledgeable guide who brings Salem's rich past to life with captivating stories.
See iconic landmarks: Visit key historical sites, including the Salem Witch Trials Memorial and the Old Burying Point Cemetery.
Easy to hear: The guide uses an amplifier to ensure everyone can clearly hear the historical narratives.
Sentiment Analysis
The tour is generally well-received for providing a comprehensive and engaging overview of Salem's history. While some find it crowded or wish for more detail, most appreciate the guide's expertise and the breadth of historical topics covered.
Customers say the tour guides are very knowledgeable and passionate about Salem's history.
Many visitors appreciate learning about aspects of Salem's past beyond just the witch trials.
The tour is described as a great introduction to Salem, especially for first-time visitors.
Guests enjoy the walking route, which covers a lot of ground and includes important historical sites.
Some reviewers mentioned the tour can feel crowded, which impacts the ability to hear the guide at all times.
A few visitors felt the tour could have benefited from more in-depth information at certain stops.
The Journey
Salem City Center Historic District
Delve into the heart of Salem's rich history with a comprehensive tour through its most significant landmarks. Uncover the city's pivotal role from its founding in 1626 to its emergence as a thriving modern hub. Beyond the infamous Witch Trials, explore Salem's critical involvement in the American Revolution and its golden age as a maritime powerhouse. Discover the stories of the influential figures who shaped Salem and, by extension, America, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's identity.
Revolutionary War Meeting Location
Step back in time to the very spot where Salem's revolutionaries convened to strategize for the impending war with England. Feel the weight of history as you imagine the clandestine meetings and passionate debates that ignited the flames of rebellion, setting the stage for America's fight for independence. While the exact building might not remain, the area retains the spirit of defiance and revolutionary fervor.
Old Burying Point Cemetery
Wander through the solemn grounds of Old Burying Point Cemetery, established in 1637, one of the oldest graveyards in the United States. Pay your respects to the prominent Puritans who rest here, including judges John Hathorne and Bartholomew Gedney of Witch Trials infamy. Admire the centuries-old headstones and reflect on the lives and legacies of Salem's early settlers, gaining a deeper understanding of the town's formative years.
Salem Witch Trials Memorial
Reflect on the tragic events of 1692 at the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, a poignant tribute to the twenty innocent victims who were executed during the infamous hysteria. Each victim is honored with a stone bench bearing their name, date, and method of execution, inviting quiet contemplation and remembrance. The memorial's symbolic design serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of intolerance and the importance of justice and understanding.
Lyceum Hall (Turner's Seafood)
Dine amidst history at Lyceum Hall, currently home to Turner's Seafood. This site holds a dark past, as it was once the land where Bridget Bishop, the first woman executed in the Salem Witch Trials, resided. Later, in 1877, it became the site of Alexander Graham Bell's groundbreaking first public demonstration of the telephone. Experience the confluence of tragedy and innovation within these historic walls.
Salem Maritime National Historic Site
Set sail on a journey through Salem's captivating maritime history, which flourished after the American Revolution. From 1790 to 1812, Salem reigned as the wealthiest port in the nation, giving rise to America's first millionaire, Elias Hasket Derby. This historic location has also served as a backdrop for popular culture, with scenes from 'Hocus Pocus' filmed on-site. Hear the story of how Harry Houdini tested his escape skills at the local jail across the street.
Hawthorne Hotel Area
Stand on ground steeped in history, once home to George Corwin, the High Sheriff during the 1692 Witch Trials. Discover how George Washington once stayed at the Hawthorne Hotel, specifically the "Washington Room". Further adding to the area's prestige, Amelia Earhart taught English at the Salem Commercial School nearby. Immerse yourself in stories of both local and national significance in this historical location.
Rockafellas (Former First Church Site)
Explore the site of religious and revolutionary significance at Rockafellas, housed in a building that was once the fourth location of Salem's First Church. Discover how this spot also served as the location for Town House Square, where Massachusetts was essentially declared a state. Learn about the local congress of representatives who gathered here before moving on to shape the Continental Congress in Philadelphia.
Lappin Park (Bewitched Statue)
Visit Lappin Park and encounter the iconic statue of Samantha Stevens from the beloved TV show 'Bewitched,' some episodes of which were filmed in Salem. Delight in the ironic placement of the statue on land once owned by Judge John Hathorne, a key figure in the Witch Trials. Enjoy the whimsical tribute to the show and its connection to Salem's witchy allure.
Former YMCA Site (Alexander Graham Bell's Residence)
Uncover the lesser-known story of Alexander Graham Bell's time in Salem, where he resided with Mrs. Brown before the YMCA was built. Learn how he tutored her grandson and commuted to Boston University to teach. Imagine Bell in his attic laboratory, diligently working on the invention that would revolutionize communication, all while residing in this unassuming Salem home.
The Witch House (Jonathan Corwin House)
Step back in time at The Witch House, the only remaining structure in Salem directly associated with the 1692 Witch Trials. Explore the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, built in the 1660s and purchased by Corwin in 1675. While no witches lived here, the house offers a tangible connection to the events that shaped Salem's identity, providing a glimpse into the life of a prominent figure during that tumultuous period.
North Bridge (Leslie's Retreat)
Stand on the historic North Bridge and relive the events of Leslie's Retreat, a precursor to the American Revolution. Imagine the scene as 140 British redcoats, led by Colonel Leslie, attempted to seize weapons and cannons from across the river. Witness how determined colonists foiled their plans by raising the drawbridge, preventing bloodshed and marking a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the Revolutionary War.
Know Before You Go
This 90-minute historic walking tour includes a local and professional guide who uses an amplifier to ensure everyone can hear clearly. Guests will hear tales of maritime and revolutionary significance and visit locations with compelling history unknown to many locals. Gratuities and hotel pick-up/drop-off are not included. No food or drink is offered, but snacks are available for purchase.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as this is a walking tour that covers a fair amount of ground. Also, consider bringing a water bottle, especially during warmer months, to stay hydrated throughout the tour.
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