Guided tour

Salem 101 General History Tour

4.1 / 5

22 reviews

Activity provider: Salem Historical Tours
Guided tour

Salem 101 General History Tour

Activity provider: Salem Historical Tours

From US$ 25 per person

Discover the dark secrets and incredible 400-year history of the quaint town of Salem during this informative guided walking tour. See where Alexander Graham Bell lived, Houdini escaped from jail, the filming locations of numerous movies, and much more.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
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Covid-19 precautions
Special health and safety measures are in place. Check your activity voucher once you book for full details.
Duration 1.5 hours
Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide
English
Wheelchair accessible

Experience

Highlights
  • Explore over 4 centuries of remarkable history that begins in 1626
  • Hear about the great Seaport period which involved over 250 ships trading around the world
  • Learn about the revolutionary confrontation that gave colonists hope that they could win a war with England
Full description
Start the tour with an introduction to the history of Salem and its humble beginnings. Find out about how whilst Salem is known for the infamous witchcraft trials, it has so many more interesting stories. Discover how it was once one of the largest seaports in the US, was an important city to the American revolution, and has been home to famous writers, celebrities, inventors, politicians, and more. As you begin the walking tour, hear amazing stories of people who lived and visited the quaint historic city as well as see buildings, homes, and locations where remarkable events occurred. See where the revolutionaries met to plan the rebellion for this area, where Houdini escaped from jail, and the first Federal style building built in Salem that holds a dark secret in its basement. Next, learn about various pop culture as your guide reveals which movies and TV shows were shot in Salem as well as the celebrities that came here. See where Alexander Graham Bell lived and where he made the first phone call. Discover how a total of 18 US Presidents have visited Salem and some more than once. Finally, enjoy a stroll through the McIntire District where you will view the Ropes Mansion, Witch House, and Bowditch House. Come away from the tour with a renewed appreciation for Salem's importance over the last 400 years. 
Includes
  • Tour guide
  • Amplifier so everyone can hear
  • Gratuities

Select participants and date

Participants

Date

Meeting point

In the 1805 Custom House located on the corner of Essex and Central Streets, 8 Central St, Salem, MA 01970, USA

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Important information

What to bring

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Weather-appropriate clothing

Not allowed

  • Video recording
  • Audio recording

Know before you go

  • Please note that the price for the following ticket categories is the same as for students, seniors, or military. Discount categories (valid with ID): Veterans, Police, Firefighters, Teachers, EMTs, Nurses, and Salem Residents
  • The ticket holder voluntarily assumes all risks occurring before, during and after the tour, including injury by any cause and releases management, respective affiliates and representatives from any related claim
  • The tour route is relatively flat
  • There are few places to sit; you will be standing most of the time
  • Tickets are non-transferable
  • This tour operates rain or shine
  • Photography is encouraged
Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.1 /5

based on 22 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.8/5
  • Value for money
    4.7/5
  • Service
    4/5
  • Organization
    4/5

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Product ID: 238532