General history · Run by Salem Historical Tours
Salem 101: General History Tour
Four centuries beyond the witch trials: Salem's founding in 1626, its seaport years, the Revolution and the Federal houses of the McIntire District.
Rain or shine · A good first tour for getting your bearings
Admission
90 min · 8 Central StPrice
Price on operator site
You'll book directly with Salem Historical Tours. Online sales close 1 hour before the start.
Rain or shine · No refunds · All terms
The walk
Not all of Salem's history is about witchcraft. On this 90-minute walking tour, a certified local guide covers four centuries of Salem's story: its founding in 1626, its seafaring and maritime trade, Revolutionary-era events, and the Federal architecture of the McIntire District.
The route runs through downtown Salem, the McIntire District and the waterfront. It's a good first tour for getting your bearings in Salem, and it runs rain or shine.
Know before you go
- Outdoors only
- No buildings are entered. Access to some stops follows city rules.
- Rain or shine
- Tours run in any weather, so dress for it.
- No refunds
- Optional tour insurance (Peek Protect) is offered at checkout.
- Booking closes 1 hour before
- After that, walk-ups are welcome if there's space.
- Dogs welcome
- Except inside the cemetery.
- Winter schedule
- Not every day in winter. Check dates before you travel.
Where to meet
8 Central St, Salem, MA 01970, the Salem Historical Tours office downtown, next to Emporium 32 and a block from Old Town Hall.
