Salem, MA: Merchants & MAnsions: an Architecture Tour

Exploring the architectural legacy of Salem, Massachusetts, the "Merchants & Mansions: an Architecture Tour" promises a captivating journey through the city’s rich history. Guided by knowledgeable experts, this 2-hour walking tour delves into the evolution of merchants’ homes, from colonial saltboxes to elegant Federal-style mansions. Participants will discover iconic sites, uncover the secrets of American colonial architecture, and experience the vibrant culture that has shaped this enchanting New England town. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, this tour offers a unique opportunity to…

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Key Points

A 2-hour walking tour exploring the architectural evolution of Salem’s historic merchants’ homes, from colonial saltboxes to Federal-style mansions.
Highlights include stops at Reds Sandwich Shop, the Custom House, and the Peabody Essex Museum, with a focus on American colonial architectural styles.
Guided by a licensed tour guide, providing insights into the historical events that influenced the development of merchants’ homes in the region.
Features exterior architectural details without building entries, catering to an intimate experience for a maximum of 39 participants.
Operates rain or shine, with comfortable attire and footwear recommended for the outdoor walking tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Merchants & Mansions: an architecture tour" in Salem, Massachusetts is a 2-hour walking tour that explores the city’s rich architectural heritage.

Priced from $35 per person, the tour is conducted in English and is wheelchair accessible. It’s also dog-friendly, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour starts at 32 Derby Square and highlights notable stops like Reds Sandwich Shop, Custom House, and Peabody Essex Museum, culminating at the Bewitched Sculpture.

Guests will learn about the evolution of merchants’ homes from colonial saltboxes to grand Federal-style mansions.

Looking for more options in Salem? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at 32 Derby Square, where guests can explore the Old Town Hall with its distinctive three staircases.

The itinerary highlights include:

Reds Sandwich Shop, a local favorite for 10 minutes.
Mont-Saint-Michel und seine Bucht, a 20-minute stop to admire the architecture.
The Custom House, where visitors spend 15 minutes learning about its historical significance.
Derby House and Narbonne House, each visited for 10 minutes to appreciate the evolution of merchant homes.

The tour concludes at the Peabody Essex Museum, a 5-minute walk from the final stop, the Bewitched Sculpture.

Architectural Focus

This architectural tour explores three centuries of American colonial architecture, from the First Period American style to the elegant Georgian Colonial and Federal styles.

Participants discover how historical events influenced the evolution of Salem’s merchants’ homes, from modest saltbox colonials to grand mansions.

The guide discusses the defining features of each architectural style, such as the distinctive Georgian symmetry and Federal fan-light entryways.

Attendees gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich architectural heritage and the stories these buildings hold, all explored through an engaging outdoor walking experience.

Tour Experience

How does the tour experience unfold? A licensed guide leads visitors on an outdoor excursion, sharing stories of Salem’s rich history and unique architecture.

The tour operates rain or shine, so guests are advised to dress in comfortable layers and wear suitable footwear for the unpredictable New England weather.

The experience offers the following:

No building entries – the tour focuses on exterior architectural features.
Visitors explore 3 centuries of American colonial styles, from First Period to Federal.
The guide discusses how events shaped the evolution of merchants’ homes over time.
Tours have a maximum of 39 participants, ensuring an intimate and engaging experience.

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Booking Information

Visitors can reserve the Merchants & Mansions tour now and pay later. The tour has a maximum of 39 participants.

Final sales are non-refundable from mid-September to mid-November.

The meeting point is 32 Derby Square at the Old Town Hall with 3 staircases. Guests should exercise caution on the brick and cobblestone paths, and alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed.

This outdoor activity operates rain or shine, so visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and layers for unpredictable weather.

There's plenty more to explore in Salem

Starting Point: 32 Derby Square

The tour begins at 32 Derby Square, at the historic Old Town Hall with its distinctive three staircases.

The tour commences at 32 Derby Square, at the historic Old Town Hall with its distinctive three staircases.

From this starting point, you will:

Observe the architectural features of the Old Town Hall, which dates back to the 18th century.
Learn about the role of this building in Salem’s history as a hub of commercial and civic activity.
Hear stories from the licensed guide about the notable people and events associated with Derby Square.
Prepare to embark on a journey through Salem’s rich architectural heritage, exploring over 300 years of American colonial styles.

Notable Stops

From the starting point at 32 Derby Square, the tour makes several notable stops along the way.

The first is Reds Sandwich Shop, which offers a 10-minute break.

Next, the tour explores Mont-Saint-Michel und seine Bucht, a 20-minute stop.

The Custom House, a 15-minute visit, provides insights into Salem’s maritime history.

The Derby House and Narbonne House, each allocated 10 minutes, showcase the evolution of merchants’ homes.

Finally, the tour concludes at the Peabody Essex Museum, a quick 5-minute stop, before ending at the Bewitched Sculpture.

Bewitched Sculpture

The Bewitched Sculpture, a bronze statue depicting the 1960s sitcom character Samantha Stephens, marks the conclusion of the architecture tour.

Visitors can:

Snap a photo with the iconic statue, capturing the whimsical spirit of Salem’s history.
Reflect on the evolution of architecture showcased throughout the tour, from colonial saltboxes to grand Federal-style mansions.
Appreciate the fusion of history, pop culture, and public art that makes this sculpture a beloved landmark.
Extend their exploration of Salem’s vibrant culture by visiting nearby shops, restaurants, and museums.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photos Permitted During the Tour?

Photos are permitted during the tour. The tour’s description does not explicitly state any restrictions on photography, so participants are likely free to take photos throughout the outdoor walking tour to capture the architectural highlights.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

According to the tour details, outside food and drinks are not allowed. The itinerary doesn’t mention any breaks for participants to enjoy their own refreshments. Bringing your own snacks or beverages is not recommended for this walking tour.

Is the Tour Offered in Other Languages?

The tour is offered only in English. According to the description, the "Language" option is listed as "English", indicating that no other language options are available for this particular tour.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for Group Bookings?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for all bookings. However, the final sales policy is non-refundable from September 17 to November 11 for group reservations.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for students or seniors. The standard price of $35 per person applies to all participants, regardless of age or student status. Reservations can be made online or by phone.

The Sum Up

The "Merchants & Mansions: an Architecture Tour" in Salem, MA, offers a captivating glimpse into the town’s rich architectural heritage. Participants can explore iconic sites, learn about colonial and Federal-style architecture, and gain insights into three centuries of American history. Whether you’re a history buff or simply appreciate beautiful buildings, this wheelchair-accessible, dog-friendly tour is a perfect outdoor activity for all.