Salem: Secrets of Salem Hidden History Walking Tour

Salem’s dark history comes alive on the "Secrets of Salem Hidden History Walking Tour." For just $35 per person, participants can explore nine historic locations over two captivating hours, uncovering chilling tales of betrayal, murder, and the notorious 1692 witch trials. From visiting the Salem Athenaeum to snapping selfies at filming spots from beloved movies, this immersive experience brings the city’s haunting past to life. However, those with mobility issues may want to consider the tour’s physical demands before booking.

This experience made our article of 14 Best Historical Tours In Salem.

Key Points

• This 2-hour guided walking tour explores Salem’s dark past, including connections between Nathaniel Hawthorne and the 1692 witch trials.
• Participants will visit nine historic locations, such as the Salem Athenaeum and Old Burying Point Cemetery, and learn about betrayal, murder, and mystery.
• The tour provides opportunities for taking selfies at filming locations for popular TV shows and movies like Bewitched and Hocus Pocus.
• The 1692 witch trials resulted in the execution of 20 accused witches and hundreds imprisoned, leaving a lasting impact on the region.
• The tour showcases Salem’s haunting history through carefully selected historic sites and captivating tales shared by the guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The Salem: Secrets of Salem Hidden History Walking Tour is a 2-hour guided exploration of the city’s darker past.

Uncover the city’s darker past on a 2-hour guided exploration of Salem’s hidden history.

Priced at $35 per person, the tour departs from outside the Salem Five Savings Bank, with participants advised to arrive 15-20 minutes early.

Tour availability is limited, so early booking is recommended. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour visits 9 historic locations, including the Salem Athenaeum and Old Burying Point Cemetery, uncovering connections between Nathaniel Hawthorne and the infamous witch trials.

While suitable for most, the tour involves considerable walking and isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues.

Exploring Salem’s Dark History

As participants embark on the Salem: Secrets of Salem Hidden History Walking Tour, they’ll explore the city’s darker past, uncovering the intriguing connections between Nathaniel Hawthorne and the infamous 1692 witch trials.

Along the way, they’ll visit nine historic locations, including the Salem Athenaeum and Old Burying Point Cemetery.

The tour guides weave tales of betrayal, murder, and mystery, bringing Salem’s haunting history to life.

Participants will have the opportunity to take selfies at filming locations for popular shows like Bewitched and Hocus Pocus, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the experience.

The 1692 Witch Trials and Aftermath

Although the 1692 Salem witch trials remain one of the most notorious episodes in American history, their aftermath had far-reaching implications that shaped the region for generations.

The trials resulted in the execution of 20 accused witches and the imprisonment of hundreds more. This dark chapter cast a long shadow, tarnishing Salem’s reputation and haunting its residents.

Ultimately, the trials exposed deep societal divisions and paranoia, leaving a legacy of distrust and suspicion.

Today, Salem’s walking tour explores these complex historical events, shedding light on their enduring impact and the cautionary tale they represent.

Historic Locations on the Tour

The walking tour explores a carefully curated selection of historic locations that illuminate Salem’s dark past.

Visitors will discover the Salem Athenaeum, a prestigious library once linked to the witch trials. They’ll also visit the Old Burying Point Cemetery, where Judge John Hathorne, a key figure in the trials, is buried.

The tour showcases the connections between author Nathaniel Hawthorne and his ancestor, the infamous judge.

Plus, guests have the opportunity to take selfies at filming locations for classic shows like Bewitched and Hocus Pocus, adding a touch of modern pop culture to the experience.

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Connections to Nathaniel Hawthorne and Judge Hathorne

Nathaniel Hawthorne, the revered American author, had a complex relationship with his ancestor Judge John Hathorne, who played a pivotal role in the infamous Salem witch trials of 1692.

The tour explores this connection, revealing how Hawthorne’s guilt over his ancestor’s actions manifested in his literary works, such as The Scarlet Letter.

Visitors learn how Hawthorne changed his surname from "Hathorne" to distance himself from the judge’s legacy of intolerance and cruelty.

The tour provides a deeper understanding of the lasting impact the witch trials had on Hawthorne and the town of Salem itself.

Tales of Betrayal, Murder, and Mystery

As visitors embark on the Salem: Secrets of Hidden History Walking Tour, they’ll uncover chilling tales of betrayal, murder, and mystery that have long haunted the town.

The tour guides share stories of the infamous witch trials, where innocent lives were lost to hysteria and vengeance.

Darker secrets also lurk, like the murder of Dolly Durkee, a young servant whose killer was never found.

Guests will learn about the grisly demise of annoying neighbor Giles Corey, who was crushed to death for refusing to enter a plea.

These macabre histories captivate and chill, leaving a lasting impression.

Filming Locations for Bewitched and Hocus Pocus

While exploring Salem’s dark history, the walking tour also provides opportunities for guests to capture memorable selfies at filming locations for the beloved TV series "Bewitched" and the hit Halloween movie "Hocus Pocus."

Fans of these iconic shows can delight in standing in the same spots where iconic scenes were shot, creating their own magical memories.

The guide points out the homes and streets that served as backdrops for the witch-themed productions, allowing visitors to step into the shoes of their favorite characters and immortalize the experience through photos.

Tour Essentials and Participant Information

The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as it involves walking more than a mile through the historic streets of Salem. Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes. Smoking, alcohol, drugs, and video recording are prohibited during the tour. To ensure a pleasant experience, the following information is provided:

| Prohibited Items | Recommended Attire | Participant Suitability |

| :————— | :—————– | :———————- |

| Smoking | Comfortable shoes | Not suitable for those unable to walk more than a mile |

| Alcohol | N/A | Not suitable for wheelchair users |

| Drugs | N/A | N/A |

| Video recording | N/A | N/A |

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Payment Methods Are Accepted for the Tour?

The tour allows customers to reserve their spot without upfront payment, known as "Reserve now & pay later." This flexible payment option provides visitors a convenient way to book the tour without needing to pay immediately.

Can I Bring Children on the Tour?

The tour is not suitable for children. It covers the dark history of the Salem witch trials and includes mature themes. Participants must be able to walk over a mile, so the tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues or young children.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t appear to offer any specific discounts for seniors or students. However, visitors should check the tour provider’s website or contact them directly to inquire about any potential discounted rates that may be available.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Any Languages Other Than English?

The tour guide is fluent in English only. There is no information provided about the guide’s ability to conduct the tour in any other languages. The focus appears to be on providing an informative historical experience in English.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour for Personal Use?

Photography is allowed for personal use during the tour. However, the tour operator prohibits video recording. Participants are encouraged to take photos throughout the tour to capture the historic locations and scenery.

The Sum Up

The "Secrets of Salem Hidden History Walking Tour" offers a captivating exploration of Salem’s darker past, immersing participants in the chilling tales of betrayal, murder, and the notorious 1692 witch trials. With opportunities for memorable selfies at filming spots from popular movies, this 2-hour guided tour brings Salem’s haunting history to life, though it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here: