SPONSORED CONTENT | Blog and photos by Bridie O’Connell
If you’ve ever wanted to walk through the haunted history of Salem, Massachusetts, Witch City Walking Tours offers an unforgettable experience to uncover ghost stories, visit iconic landmarks, and connect with the town’s living history. Celebrating their 10th anniversary this year, Witch City Walking Tours has grown to become one of Salem’s most trusted and beloved tour companies. In fact, they were named “The Most Booked Tour in America” by TripAdvisor in Fall 2021 and won “Best of the Best” for their History & Hauntings tour, ranking #2 worldwide in 2023 and 2024!
Our guide for the “History and Hauntings” tour on a warm Friday morning was Ryan, an enthusiastic and cheerful master of storytelling, who has lots of experience bringing Salem’s history to life, as well as drawing important connections to Salem today. Our tour of around 20 guests set off from Derby Square, in the shadow of Old Town Hall, with coffees in hand and excitement for learning more about the city.
→ A quick tip: make sure to arrive in Salem early to find parking, grab a morning treat, and gather at Derby Square at least 10 minutes before the tour begins to make sure you don’t miss anything!
The tour began with the story of how the Puritans arrived in Salem in 1626, while also acknowledging the Naumkeag people, who originally inhabited the land long before the European settlers.
Ryan, our guide for the day, let me know that he’s been working for Witch City Walking Tours for five years and has been a Salem resident for most of his life. Taking both an entertaining and educating tone, Ryan is a master of projecting his voice as the tour moves down busy streets to ensure everyone can hear what he’s saying.
“We must learn the hauntings, but never become them!” he informed us at the start of the tour, with words of advice to be cautious of traffic, as well as respectful to other tour groups and visitors to the city.
There are lots of iconic landmarks to see along the “History and Hauntings” tour, from Salem’s first Puritan church (now Rockafellas restaurant) where you’ll learn the story of The Lady in Blue, to the Witch House, a structure famous for its direct relation to the Salem Witch Trials. You’ll see the Ropes Mansion, and stroll through its beautiful backyard garden, take in the facade of Hamilton Hall, and walk down the iconic Chestnut Street, one of the most beautiful and historic spots in the city. At each of these picturesque spots, Ryan carved out time for guests of the tour to stop and take photos, or ask him any questions they may have.
→ A quick tip: jot down a note of any place you might want to revisit after the tour. Some of these attractions, such as the Witch House, offer tours inside that will bring your Salem experience one step farther!
At the tour’s final stop, Ryan gave us an overview of how the Salem Witch Trials began, how the town spiraled out of control, and why it’s so crucial to remember these events — so history doesn’t repeat itself. Hearing about Salem’s tragic history from a lifelong resident who presents the information thoughtfully for all ages was a reminder of how important it is to learn from the past.
→ A quick tip: make sure to research all their tour offerings and book in advance, as spots fill up quickly! Tours run all day long, so you can enjoy a morning, midday, or evening tour.
Witch City Walking Tours offers much more than just ghost stories. They have expanded to offer diverse tours like the Mysteries and Murder Tour, which focuses on true crime and the macabre, and the Mansion & Merchants Tour, which highlights Salem’s architectural history. They even offer a Hocus Pocus Movie Locations Tour for fans of the 1993 Disney classic. Whether you’re fascinated by history, architecture, or even movie magic, there’s a tour for everyone.
For an unforgettable experience that blends history, mystery, and expert storytelling, book a Witch City Walking Tour today. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a ghost story lover, this tour offers something for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to dive into Salem’s past. Book your Witch City Walking Tour today for a journey filled with mystery, history, and unforgettable storytelling.
