Salem Kids' Spooky Tour: Mild Ghost Stories & History
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Overview
Salem Kids Slightly Spooky Tour takes kids age 6+ on a fascinating walk through Salem's spooky and historical past. This isn't about big scares, but about gentle shivers and cool mysteries that kids who enjoy ghost stories will love.
Expect a journey that combines real Salem history with kid-friendly ghost stories. The tour visits places like a 17th-Century Salem Home, the creepy Old Burying Point Cemetery, the Salem Ballroom, Nathaniel Hawthorne's Home, The Salem Athenaeum, the Hocus Pocus House and the Home of Witchcraft Trials Judge. The guides, who are all teachers, take the group a bit off the main path to see picturesque spots that feel like stepping back in time. The tour ends at the Broad Street Cemetery, which is old and a little spooky, dating back to 1655.
This outdoor walking tour provides a unique experience for families, offering a mix of education and entertainment. It is led by experienced teachers and guides who can meet the unique needs of children on tours.

Highlights
Kid-Friendly Ghost Stories: Enjoy spooky tales that are just right for kids aged 6 and up – a little shiver, but not too scary!
Historical Teacher Guides: Learn real facts about Salem's past from experienced teachers who know how to make history fun.
Picturesque Walking Route: Step back in time as the tour takes a slightly off the beaten path to visit beautiful and historic sites.
Historic Cemetery Finale: End the tour at the Broad Street Cemetery, established in 1655, and feel the history all around.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally feel that the Salem Kids Slightly Spooky Tour is a fun and educational experience for children, with knowledgeable guides and interesting historical facts. While some may find the weather a factor or the scares too mild, most parents highly recommend it as a highlight of their Salem visit.

Customers say the tour is fun and keeps kids interested.
Parents mention that their kids didn't want the tour to end.
Reviewers describe the tour guides as knowledgeable and engaging.
Families appreciate that the tour is both historical and slightly spooky, making it perfect for kids.
Since this is an outdoor activity, some might find it inconvenient on bad-weather days.
The tour might not be scary enough for older kids or those expecting intense ghost stories.
The Journey
17th-Century Salem Home
Step back in time and uncover the daily lives of 17th-century Salem residents and their potential connections to the Salem Witch Trials. Explore the architecture and layout of a typical home from this period, imagining the challenges and beliefs that shaped their world during this tumultuous time. Reflect on the societal pressures and fears that fueled the witch hunt hysteria.
Old Burying Point Cemetery
Venture into Salem's second oldest Christian burial ground, established in 1655, and discover the final resting place of many notable Salem figures, including a Salem Witch Trials judge and Mayflower pilgrims. Wander among the ancient gravestones, deciphering the weathered inscriptions and contemplating the lives and legacies of those buried here. Note: Accessibility is limited for those using wheelchairs or walkers.
Salem Ballroom
Discover the tale of an elegant Salem ballroom, once the center of social life, and its surprising connection to a scandal that enraged a local minister. Uncover the possible link to Alexander Hamilton through the ballroom's architecture, attendees, or cultural impact, gaining insight into the social dynamics and moral debates of the era.
Nathaniel Hawthorne's Home
Visit the exterior of the former residence of Nathaniel Hawthorne, the celebrated author of 'The Scarlet Letter,' and his wife, Sofia. Imagine Hawthorne at his writing desk, crafting tales of morality, sin, and redemption. While the inside is not accessible, the house provides an opportunity to connect with the spirit of a literary giant and reflect on his enduring contributions to American literature.
The Salem Athenaeum
Delve into the history of the Salem Athenaeum and learn about its most famous member and their intriguing belief in the supernatural. Discover the Athenaeum's collection of rare books and historical artifacts. Uncover the identity of the famous member and the context behind their beliefs, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue to this cultural institution.
Hocus Pocus House
Calling all 'Hocus Pocus' fans! Visit the iconic house and garden featured in the beloved Halloween movie. Relive your favorite scenes and capture photos in front of this famously haunted residence. Feel the magic of Salem's cinematic history and embrace the spooky atmosphere that made this location a perfect backdrop for the Sanderson sisters' antics.
Home of Witchcraft Trials Judge
Stand before the home of a judge who presided over the infamous Salem Witch Trials. Reflect on the immense power and responsibility these judges held, and the devastating consequences of their decisions. Consider the historical context and societal pressures that influenced their judgments, and ponder the enduring legacy of this dark chapter in American history.
Know Before You Go
This is an all-outdoor walking tour. The tour guides are teachers, so they know how to make the experience fun and educational for kids. The meeting point for the tour is 316 Essex Street. There are no inclusions or exclusions listed other than the guide.
Hot Tip
Consider wearing comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking. Also, check the weather forecast beforehand and dress accordingly, as the tour is entirely outdoors.