Top 15 Tours & Things To Do In Salem

Salem isn’t just about spooky stories and witch trials — it’s a city packed with diverse experiences that appeal to history lovers, thrill-seekers, and families alike. Whether you’re interested in walking through the historic district, sailing on a replica schooner, or exploring its haunted sites, Salem offers a range of tours that make your visit memorable.

For instance, the 2.5-Hour Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking Tour provides a balanced look beyond the witch trials, while the Schooner Fame Sailing Tour offers a hands-on adventure on Salem’s waters.

These experiences, along with ghost walks, pirate exhibits, and themed photo shoots, show Salem’s unique blend of history, folklore, and fun.

Salem is a hot spot for engaging tours that suit different interests and budgets. Whether you want an in-depth historical walk, a spooky ghost tour, or a playful costume photo session, this list covers the top options. Keep reading to find the experiences that match your style, and don’t forget to book early — Salem fills up fast, especially during peak fall season.

1. 2.5-Hour Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking Tour

At number 1, this Salem history walking tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive look at Salem’s past. The tour covers more than just the witch trials, including the city’s Native American roots, colonial life, and revolutionary history.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit key landmarks like the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, Pickering House, and Ropes Mansion Gardens. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours and is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for most visitors.

What makes this tour stand out is the personal storytelling — the guide shares insights on Salem’s evolution from Puritan settlement to modern city. Reviewers praise Kenneth for his storytelling skills, saying he makes the city’s history come alive. The $40 price seems reasonable for the depth of information and the stops included.

This tour is ideal if you prefer a relaxed pace, want to learn about Salem’s entire history, and enjoy walking through historic neighborhoods.

Bottom line: It’s a well-rounded introduction that covers more than just witches, perfect for history enthusiasts and first-timers.

2. Schooner Fame Sailing Tour

Number 2 on our list is the Schooner Fame Sailing Tour, a hands-on sailing adventure that immerses you in Salem’s maritime past. Departing from Pickering Wharf Marina, this 1 hour 40 minute cruise invites you to participate — you can help raise the sails, steer the boat, or simply relax and enjoy the scenic views.

The schooner is a replica historic privateer, and the crew shares stories about Salem’s days of pirates and privateers, making this a lively, educational experience.

The tour is highly rated, with guests noting the engaging crew and beautiful weather. It’s a great option for families, couples, or anyone wanting a break from walking tours. Plus, sailing on Salem Sound offers unobstructed views of Salem, Marblehead, and Beverly, making it a memorable trip. The $50.65 price includes the experience, and multiple daily start times add flexibility.

Bottom line: An interactive, fun way to combine Salem’s history with the thrill of sailing — perfect for those who want a different perspective on the city.

3. Salem, MA: History and Hauntings Guided Walking Tour

This History and Hauntings Walking Tour ranks high for its blend of ghost stories and historic sites. Over two hours, your guide brings Salem’s spooky past to life, walking past the Witch House, Old Town Hall, and other haunted locations. It’s a great introduction for travelers interested in both Salem’s dark past and its architecture, especially in the McIntire District.

Reviews highlight the engaging storytelling and the spooky atmosphere, perfect for those who love a touch of the supernatural combined with solid history. The $36 price makes it an affordable way to explore Salem’s mysterious side. This tour suits people who want a balanced mix of ghost tales and history, with plenty of walking but no surprises in length.

Bottom line: A captivating tour for fans of the supernatural and history, with just enough ghostly chills and cultural insights.

4. Black Cat Historical Day Tour

The Black Cat Historical Day Tour offers a flexible, lively look at Salem’s past, led by a costumed guide who shares unscripted stories about pirates, Puritans, and more. Starting at Lappin Square, this tour can be tailored to your interests, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want an authentic and personalized experience.

What sets this apart is the emphasis on storytelling beyond the witch trials, including sites most visitors miss. The 1.5 to 1.75-hour length makes it manageable for families and casual travelers. Reviewers mention guides who are both knowledgeable and entertaining, making the history engaging. The price of $28 is quite reasonable considering the personal touch.

Bottom line: A flexible, engaging way to learn Salem’s history with a guide who adapts the tour to your interests.

5. Black Cat Ghostly Night Tour in Salem

For those who like their history with a splash of the supernatural, the Ghostly Night Tour is a must. At 75 minutes, it takes you through Salem’s haunted sites at night, with stories of ghostly encounters, old crimes, and witchcraft legends. The guide’s storytelling is lively, and the atmosphere is perfect for thrill-seekers.

Guests praise the tour for its entertaining guides like Vin, who share authentic ghost stories without gimmicks. It’s suitable for mobile travelers who enjoy walking and want a spooky peek into Salem’s haunted reputation. The $30 ticket offers a lively evening out, especially if you like ghost stories in authentic settings.

Bottom line: A fun, spooky way to experience Salem after dark, ideal for those who love ghost tales and a bit of fright.

6. Real Pirates Salem Museum General Admission Ticket

History comes to life at the Pirates Museum, where real artifacts and interactive exhibits tell pirate tales from Salem’s historic shores. For $21.50, visitors can explore pirate treasure, including coins and jewelry from shipwrecks like the Whydah Gally, discovered off Cape Cod. Audio guides and discovery labs add an educational dimension, making it perfect for families and curious minds.

Guests note the museum’s engaging displays and the opportunity to touch authentic treasure. It’s a straightforward, well-priced option to learn about Salem’s pirate history without a long commitment. The museum suits those interested in maritime lore, archaeology, or just looking for a fun indoor activity.

Bottom line: An informative, interactive exhibit ideal for pirate enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

7. 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour

This Night Walking Tour offers an immersive journey into Salem’s most infamous chapter. Led by a local historian, the 2-hour tour explores the witch trials, visiting sites like the Witch House and the Salem Witch Trials Memorial at night. The atmosphere adds an extra layer of eeriness, perfect for those fascinated by the darker side of Salem’s history.

Reviewers praise Jeff for his storytelling and the engaging way he describes Salem’s past. It’s family-friendly and dog-friendly, making it flexible for various travelers. The $32 price is reasonable considering the immersive experience of touring Salem after dark.

Bottom line: An atmospheric and educational tour that reveals Salem’s haunting side with style.

8. Salem Night Tour: Haunt and History Guided Night Tour

This Haunt and History Night Tour walks through Salem’s haunted spots as your guide shares stories of colonial darkest moments. In just 90 minutes, you’ll visit sites linked to witchcraft hysteria, murders, and ghostly legends. It’s a great way to combine history with paranormal tales in the cool evening air.

The guide’s expertise makes the stories more compelling, and the tour suits those who enjoy ghost hunting and history equally. The tour is well-rated, and at $30, it’s an affordable way to spend an evening immersed in Salem’s spooky reputation.

Bottom line: Perfect for ghost story lovers and curious travelers wanting a night tour with a spooky twist.

9. 1692 Salem Day Tour

The Day Tour is another excellent option for exploring Salem’s witch trial history in a 2-hour format. Led by a local historian, it covers the same core sites as the night tour but during daylight hours. Visitors learn about the causes of the hysteria, key figures, and the aftermath of the trials, with plenty of stories about Salem’s past.

This tour is praised for its engaging guide Jeff, who combines factual storytelling with vivid descriptions. It’s family-friendly and offers a thorough overview of Salem’s darkest chapter. The price point of $32 makes it a worthwhile investment for those wanting a comprehensive look without walking for hours.

Bottom line: An accessible, educational tour suited for history buffs and families eager to understand Salem’s witch craze.

10. Wicked Awesome Tours: Witch Trial History and Salem Haunts!

The Wicked Awesome Tour combines Salem’s iconic witch trial sites with visits to haunted spots and filming locations from Hocus Pocus. It’s a fast-paced, one-hour tour covering Salem’s top landmarks, including the Salem Witch Trials Memorial and the Burying Point Cemetery. Plus, it visits the locations used in the famous movie.

Guests say it’s a fun, energetic overview, especially suited for those on a tight schedule or looking for a mix of history and pop culture. The $28 price makes it a budget-friendly choice for families and groups wanting a quick, comprehensive experience.

Bottom line: A lively, efficient tour that blends Salem’s witch history with its haunted reputation and film fame.

11. Requiem for Salem Walking Ghost Tour

This Ghost Tour is for adults seeking a serious scare. It explores Salem’s haunted sites, like Old Burying Point Cemetery and Proctor’s Ledge, with mature themes and no gimmicks. The 1.5-hour walk is filled with spooky stories, ghostly encounters, and dark deeds.

The guide’s storytelling earns high praise, and the tour’s focus on Salem’s paranormal side makes it stand out. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a good scare and can walk comfortably through Salem’s dark streets. The $34.99 ticket balances price with the thrill of authentic ghost stories.

Bottom line: A spine-tingling, adult-oriented ghost tour perfect for thrill-seekers wanting Salem’s darker stories.

12. Witch Costume Photo Shoot – Olde Salem Village theatrical set

For a fun, memorable souvenir, the Witch Costume Photo Shoot is a unique activity. You’ll choose among 300 costumes and pose in a detailed replica of Olde Salem Village. A stylist and professional photographer help you look your best for several poses that capture your supernatural spirit.

Guests love the staff’s friendliness and the quality of the photos, with reviews mentioning how much fun they had dressing up and creating lasting memories. The $92.50 price reflects the personalized service and high-quality images. This activity is perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a playful experience.

Bottom line: A one-of-a-kind keepsake that turns your Salem visit into a spooky photoshoot.

13. Sailing on Historic Schooner Yacht in Salem, MA

If you’re craving a relaxing escape, the Schooner Yacht Sailing offers a 2-hour journey along Salem’s coastline. Built in 1939, the yacht “What and If” provides a vintage sailing experience, complete with the chance to help with sails or simply enjoy the scenery.

Guests rave about the crew’s friendliness and the beautiful sunset views. The onboard bar offers drinks, making it ideal for celebrating a special occasion or just unwinding. Multiple departing times offer flexibility, and the $55 ticket makes it a good value for a memorable maritime experience.

Bottom line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a peaceful, scenic sail with a touch of maritime history.

14. Witch Costume Photo Shoot – Witch Cottage theatrical set

Another engaging photo activity is the Witch Cottage Photo Shoot. This private session features a spooky set with potion props, spell books, and ritual tools, where a stylist helps you dress up in a witch costume. A photographer captures your magical moment, making it a perfect souvenir.

Reviewers love the staff’s enthusiasm and the high-quality photos, often describing the experience as a fun, memorable highlight. The $92.50 price is fair for the personalized service and the unique keepsakes. Ideal for families or groups looking to add a playful, creative activity to their Salem itinerary.

Bottom line: An enchanting photo experience that lets you take home a magical piece of Salem.

15. Salem “Hocus Pocus” Movie Locations Tour (31st Anniversary)

Fans of the 1993 film Hocus Pocus will love this movie locations tour. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll visit iconic sites like Pioneer Village, the Dennison House, and Salem Common, learning about how Salem’s real history inspired the movie. The guide shares fun trivia and behind-the-scenes stories, enriching your movie-loving experience.

Reviews mention the tour’s engaging storytelling and the chance to see Salem through a pop culture lens. It’s especially good for families or film buffs who want a mix of history and entertainment. The $52 price offers a fun, leisurely way to explore Salem’s film fame and historic sites.

Bottom line: A lively, entertaining tour that combines Salem’s real stories with its movie magic.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Salem

When selecting your ideal Salem experience, consider your interests and travel style. If you’re a history lover wanting depth, the Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking Tour offers a rundown. For those craving a maritime adventure, the Schooner Fame Sailing Tour combines fun with authentic sailing history.

If ghost stories and the paranormal excite you, the Requiem for Salem Ghost Tour or Black Cat Ghostly Night Tour deliver spine-tingling entertainment. For a lighter, family-friendly activity, the Witch Costume Photo Shoot provides unique keepsakes, while the Hocus Pocus Movie Locations Tour is perfect for film fans.

Budget, time, and interests should guide your choice. Booking early during peak seasons ensures availability — Salem’s tours fill quickly, especially in October and October weekends.

Final Thoughts

Salem offers a wide range of tours that weave together history, folklore, and fun. For a thorough exploration, the Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking Tour stands out. For a lively maritime escape, sailing on the schooner or a sunset cruise make great options.

Ghost lovers will appreciate the evening Ghost Tours and spooky night walks, while families and movie buffs can indulge in themed photo shoots or Hocus Pocus location tours.

No matter which experience you choose, Salem’s rich mix of stories and sights guarantees a memorable visit. Book early, plan your interests, and enjoy exploring one of New England’s most unique towns.