Ghost Tours of Salem, Massachusetts

Salem, Massachusetts, where whispers of the past linger like the coastal fog that drifts through its narrow, cobblestone streets.

Known far and wide as the scene of the infamous witch trials of 1692, this New England town is a place where history and the supernatural entwine in a curious dance.

Picture, if you will, a lantern-lit stroll where shadows seem to follow, and the chill in the air speaks of untold stories waiting to be uncovered. Here, the cries of the accused, the laughter of long-gone children, and the somber hymns of days long past are but echoes that haunt the heart of Salem.

Yet, it’s not just the grim history that captures one’s imagination. From the towering spires of century-old churches to the quaint clapboard homes, each corner of Salem boasts its own paranormal tapestry, woven with legends of restless spirits and eerie happenings.

But fear not, for this is not a tale of terror alone. In Salem, the veil between the known and the mysterious is thin, inviting both the brave and the curious on an unforgettable journey through its ghostly history.

Haunted Sites in Salem, Massachusetts

Witch House
Old Burying Point Cemetery
Howard Street Cemetery
Joshua Ward House
Hawthorne Hotel

In the heart of Salem, where whispers from centuries past linger in the air, lies the famed Witch House. This foreboding structure, the only building in Salem directly linked to the notorious Witch Trials, stands as a solemn testament to a time when fear wrapped the town in its icy embrace.

Just a short walk away, the Old Burying Point Cemetery offers chilling tales for those who dare to listen. Here, amid weathered headstones and gnarled trees, rest the souls of the trials’ victims and those who judged them, their stories murmured by every gust of wind.

Peer into Howard Street Cemetery, cloaked in shadows and myth, where the shade of Giles Corey allegedly wanders. Legend whispers that his specter emerges on the eve of tragedy, his condemnation a bone-chilling reminder of vengeance from beyond the grave.

In the thick of the night, turn your gaze to the Joshua Ward House, known to many as the Witch City’s most haunted dwelling. Its creaking floors and sudden drafts suggest otherworldly residents still pay rent, making it a magnetic stop for thrill-seekers craving the unexpected.

Finally, as the moon bathes the town in silver light, venture to the Hawthorne Hotel, where spectral guests have checked in for an eternal stay. Its corridors echo with stories of phantom hands and ghostly apparitions, ensuring Salem’s eerie legend lives on with each passing night.

My Pick
History and Hauntings of Salem

History and Hauntings of Salem

  • Walking Tour
  • 2 hours
  • $36
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Affordable

Salem’s Best Ghost Tour

  • Walking Tourr
  • 1.5 hours
  • $30
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Magical Charm

Bewitched Walking Tour of Salem

  • Walking Tour
  • 1.5 hours
  • $35
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Grownup Fun

Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl

  • Pub Crawl
  • 1.5 hours
  • $29
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Murder Mysteries
Mysteries and murders tour

Mysteries and Murders of Salem

  • Walking Tour
  • 2 hours
  • $36
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History and Hauntings of Salem
  • Type of tour: Guided Walking Tour
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Price: $36
  • Review rating: 4.9 (8k reviews)

Step into the spectral shadows of Salem with this guided walking tour, a journey where history and hauntings intertwine in eerie unison.

Traverse through eerie path, uncovering tales of witch trials, murky pasts, and chilling ghost stories that lurk in the corners of this hauntingly historic town.

Pros


  • Engaging guides with an impressive knowledge of Salem’s dark history.
  • Well-paced tour allowing ample time at each eerie location.
  • Captivating storytelling that keeps participants on the edge of their seat.
  • A unique blend of history and ghostly intrigue, perfect for all ages.

Cons


  • Some participants felt the group size was too large, impacting personal interaction.
  • A few locations may be crowded, diminishing the spooky ambiance.
  • Limited restroom access along the route due to its historic nature.

Sites Visited

  • The Witch House
  • Old Burying Point Cemetery
  • The Salem Witch Trials Memorial
  • Ropes Mansion

Highlights

  • The haunting tale of Bridget Bishop’s lingering spirit.
  • Eerie accounts of ghostly apparitions at the Old Burying Point Cemetery.
  • Guides showcasing tales cloaked in authentic 17th-century attire.
  • Immersive storytelling that blurs the line between reality and the supernatural.

If you’re the kind of ghost hunter who loves a spine-tingling tale with a side of historical intrigue, this Salem tour might just be your broomstick ride into the supernatural. The History & Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour weaves together the infamous witch trials with ghostly lore, all delivered under the eerie glow of gas lamps.

What makes this tour special is the guide’s storytelling—think history teacher meets campfire ghost host. You’ll stroll past haunted homes, eerie cemeteries, and cursed corners of Salem, all while learning the tragic and sometimes chilling backstories behind the city’s most haunted sites.

What you might love is how this tour strikes a perfect balance between spooky and informative. It’s not all jump scares—it’s thoughtful, atmospheric, and lets you soak in the vibes of one of America’s most haunted towns.

What you might not love? It can get crowded during peak season, and if you’re looking for dramatic reenactments or ghost-hunting gadgets, this tour keeps it old-school—just walking, talking, and chills down your spine.

For the price, it offers great value—especially if you’re a history buff with a soft spot for the supernatural. It’s not just a ghost tour; it’s a journey into the dark heart of Salem, with plenty of goosebumps to go around.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely—just bring comfy shoes, an open mind, and maybe a protective charm… you know, just in case something follows you home. 👻

  • Type of tour: Walking Ghost Tour
  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Price: $30 per person
  • Review rating: 4.7 (3k review)

Traverse the cobblestone streets of Salem, Massachusetts, where whispers of the past come alive in the deepening twilight.

This tour unearths chilling tales of the Salem Witch Trials, recounts sinister stories of lingering spirits, and heightens the eerie ambiance of this historic town by moonlight.

Pros


  • Engaging and knowledgeable guides steeped in Salem’s rich history and its spectral tales.
  • Authentic historical context that adds depth and authenticity, enhancing the creepy atmosphere.
  • Immersive experience that combines both legend and lore, captivating ghost enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Cons


  • Not suitable for those frightened by dark tales or younger audience members.

Sites Visited

  • Charter Street Cemetery
  • The Witch House
  • Old Burying Point Cemetery
  • Lyceum Hall

Highlights

  • Wandering through one of America’s oldest cemeteries, where the restless apparitions of accused witches are said to haunt.
  • The guide’s spine-tingling recount of a tragic love story forever trapped in the walls of The Witch House.
  • Enchanting the crowd with tales of haunted halls and spectral residents of Lyceum Hall.

With a name like Salem’s Best Ghost Tour, you’d expect chills, thrills, and maybe a restless spirit or two—and this tour delivers. It’s a moonlit march through the dark alleys and haunted hotspots that make Salem one of the spookiest cities in America.

Your guide isn’t just rattling off facts—they’re a master of mood, spinning ghost stories with a dramatic flair that keeps you hanging on every word. From tales of the Witch House to restless souls lingering in historic graveyards, this tour leans into the theatrical and eerie with delicious intensity.

You’ll probably love how immersive this one feels. The stories are vivid, the pacing is brisk, and it really makes the shadows feel a little more… crowded.

What you might not love? If you’re craving deep historical analysis, this tour prioritizes ghostly atmosphere over textbook accuracy. And on busy nights, the group can get large enough to test your ghost-photo skills.

But for pure ghostly entertainment, it’s a solid value. It’s spooky fun with just enough historical seasoning to keep it grounded—and the vibe is perfect for first-timers or anyone looking for a classic Salem scare.

Final verdict? If you want a tour that puts the “boo” in “beautifully narrated,” Salem’s Best Ghost Tour is a scream. 🎃💀

  • Type of tour: Walking Ghost Tour
  • Duration: Approximately 2 hours
  • Price: $35
  • Review rating: 4.9 (1k reviews)

Step into the cobblestone streets of Salem, where whispered secrets linger between the centuries-old buildings.

On this captivating tour, you’ll uncover tales of the infamous Salem Witch Trials and other chilling events that haunt this historic town.

Pros


  • Engaging and knowledgeable guides bring history to life
  • Perfect balance between education and entertainment
  • Atmospheric and immersive storytelling

Cons


  • Tour groups can be large, leading to some difficulty in hearing the guide
  • Not all tour routes are fully accessible

Sites Visited

  • Salem Witch Trials Memorial
  • Old Burying Point Cemetery
  • The Witch House
  • Ropes Mansion

Highlights

  • Haunting tales from the Salem Witch Trials
  • Charismatic guides dressed in period costumes
  • Interactive storytelling with a supernatural twist

The Bewitched Walking Tour is like stepping into a spell—equal parts history lesson and ghost story, all wrapped in the magical charm of Salem. This tour dives deep into the city’s witchy past, guided by locals who know their haunted stuff and aren’t afraid to stir the cauldron of truth.

You’ll wander past iconic landmarks like the Witch House and Essex Street, hearing tales that blend colonial horrors, paranormal whispers, and juicy behind-the-scenes Salem secrets. The guides don’t just recite—they perform, casting a narrative spell that’s hard to resist.

You’ll love how passionate and knowledgeable the guides are. They mix humor, drama, and a touch of sass, making even centuries-old history feel fresh and spooky.

What you might not love? If you’re hoping for a purely ghost-focused experience, be warned: this tour leans more historical than haunted. It’s still eerie—but less ghost-hunting, more ghost understanding.

For the price, it’s packed with value—especially if you’re a history nerd with a taste for the macabre. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Salem’s past and maybe a lingering chill.

Final word? The Bewitched Walking Tour is smart, spirited, and spellbinding—perfect for those who want their ghost stories served with a historical twist and a wink from a witch. 🧙‍♀️🕯️

  • Type of tour: Haunted Pub Crawl
  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Price: $29
  • Review rating: 4.8 (130 reviews)

Meander through the cobbled streets of Salem under a canopy of whispering oaks, where each stop echoes with tales of spectral villagers and haunting whispers from centuries past.

Enjoy a blend of chilling ghost stories and delicious spirits as wicked secrets are unearthed in shadowed pubs with a pint or two.

Pros


  • Perfect combination of history and folklore delivered with spirited storytelling
  • Exceptional ambiance with a route that feels secluded and mysterious
  • Knowledgeable guides who captivate with their animated presentations and detailed accounts

Cons


  • Tour can become crowded during peak seasons, which may detract from the experience
  • Some participants might find the walking pace a bit hurried to fully absorb the surroundings

Sites Visited

  • Historic and Haunted Taverns
  • Salem’s Notorious Streets
  • Locale of the Witch Trials

Highlights

  • A chilling tale of a ghostly patron who never leaves his favorite bar stool
  • Enthralling accounts of the Salem Witch Trials, brought to life under the night sky
  • Authentic atmosphere enhanced by guides in historical dress

If you like your spirits with a side of… well, spirits, the Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl is your kind of night out. This tour blends haunted history with cold drinks, leading you through some of Salem’s most spirited taverns—each with its own ghostly backstory.

It’s part ghost tour, part pub crawl, and all good vibes. You’ll laugh, you’ll shiver, and you’ll sip your way through eerie tales of murder, mystery, and mayhem—all while bonding with fellow thrill-seekers over a pint.

You’ll love the laid-back, fun energy. It’s less structured than a traditional walking tour, which makes it perfect if you prefer your ghosts with a chaser and your history a little tipsy.

What you might not love? If you’re hoping for in-depth historical context or hardcore ghost hunting, this tour keeps things light and boozy. And depending on the crowd, things can lean more party than paranormal.

Still, it’s a great value if you’re looking for a unique way to experience Salem’s haunted side without the solemn vibe. Drinks aren’t included, but the stories—and the laughs—flow freely.

Final sip? Salem Booze and Brews is spooky, social, and seriously fun. Come for the ghosts, stay for the drinks, and maybe make a few ghostly drinking buddies along the way. 🍻👻

  • Type of tour: Ghost Tour
  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Price: Approximately $36
  • Review rating: 4.9 (670 reviews)

Under the cloak of night, the Mysteries and Murders of Salem tour beckons the brave of heart. Wind through the shadowy streets of Salem, where each corner whispers tales of terror and tragedy.

This eerie escapade delves into the haunted histories and unsolved mysteries that have left their mark on this infamous town.

Guides weave chilling narratives of the Salem Witch Trials and chilling accounts of restless spirits that wander the cobbled paths.

Pros


  • Knowledgeable and engaging guides steeped in Salem’s history
  • Spooky yet family-friendly nature suitable for a wide audience
  • Captivating storytelling with historical accuracy

Cons


  • Larger tour groups can make it challenging to hear the guide
  • The tour sticks primarily to outdoor locations, which could be affected by weather conditions

Sites Visited

  • The Old Burying Point Cemetery
  • Witch House
  • Ropes Mansion

Highlights

  • Unravel secrets of the infamous Salem Witch Trials
  • Explore tales of lingering spirits and specters
  • Guides don period costumes for an immersive experience

If you’re drawn to the darker side of Salem—the whispers in the alleyways, the unsolved crimes, the restless spirits—then the Mysteries and Murders of Salem tour will send shivers down your spine. This isn’t your typical ghost story stroll; it’s a descent into Salem’s most chilling real-life horrors.

Led by a guide with a flair for the macabre, you’ll explore the gritty details of murders, mysterious disappearances, and hauntings tied to the city’s shadowy past. The nighttime setting adds a delicious layer of dread, with every shadow feeling just a little too alive.

You’ll love the true crime angle—this tour is for people who enjoy their ghost stories grounded in grim reality. It’s gripping, eerie, and refreshingly free of fluff.

What you might not love? It’s not for the faint of heart. The stories are intense, and there’s no sugarcoating the bloodier parts of Salem’s history—so maybe leave the kids at home for this one.

As far as value goes, it’s a great bang for your buck if you like your history raw and your hauntings bone-chilling. It’s one of the more serious and atmospheric tours in town.

Final verdict? The Mysteries and Murders of Salem tour is dark, creepy, and fascinating—perfect for anyone who prefers their ghost tours with a true crime twist and a heavy dose of nightfall dread. 🔪🌒

Wrapping Up

As twilight descends upon Salem, the whispers of its spectral tales grow louder, beckoning those curious souls daring enough to wander its haunted streets.

Each corner and shadow holds stories echoing from the past, inviting you to explore them firsthand. Why simply read about the phantoms when you can walk among them?

Join a ghost tour and step into the chilling embrace of Salem’s untold secrets. Experience history like never before, feeling the chill of ethereal presences by your side.

Will you be able to tell when the temperature drops or when an unseen hand brushes against your skin? Choose your path wisely and prepare to uncover the mysteries that linger beneath the surface.

Embark on a journey where history meets the otherworldly, and let Salem’s ghost tours guide you into the unknown.