Things to Do in Salem, MA – Explore Witch Trial Museums
Salem is home to several witch trial museums, including the Salem Witch Museum and the Witch History Museum. These museums offer an in-depth look at the Salem witch trials of 1692, when 19 people were accused of witchcraft and hanged. If you’re interested in learning more about this dark period in American history, be sure to visit one of these museums.
There’s also the house of Jonathan Corwin, one of the judges from the witch trials. The Corwin House is now a museum, and it’s said to be haunted by the ghost of Judge Corwin himself.
Things to Do in Salem, MA – Take a Ghost Tour or Attend a Witch Trial Show
What are some really spooky things to do in Salem, MA? There are ghost tours and witch trial reenactment shows that have to do with the city’s history. There are many places that will send a shiver down your spine.
Ghost City Tours
This company offers the Ghosts of Salem Tour for guests of all ages, as well as the Requiem for Salem Ghost Tour for adults (16+) only. The guides dress up in period clothing and take you to locations like the Old Burying Point Cemetery, Gallows Hill, and more. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children aged 6-11.
Salem Heritage Tours
This company offers a 60-minute walking tour that covers the witch trial history as well. They advertise themselves as the only “small group” walking tour in Salem, only allowing 12 people on each walk for an intimate atmosphere.
You’ll learn about the people who were accused, how they were tried, and where they’re buried. On a brighter note, the guides will also tell you about the maritime history of Salem. Tickets are $18 for adults and $10 for children.
Bewitched After Dark Walking Tours
This is a 2-hour walking tour that starts at dusk and covers Salem’s dark history. The guides take you to places like the site of the witch hangings, where Giles Corey was pressed to death, and more.
You’ll hear about ghosts, witches, murder, mayhem, and scandal. The tour commences at the cemetery when you can honor the victims of 1692. Tickets are $30 for adults and free for children under 7 – if your little ones can handle it!
Spellbound Tours
This tour is not only about witches, but also about paranormal investigation, vampires, and voodoo. You’ll learn how to capture ghostly pictures, see documented photographs of ectoplasm and apparitions, and find out about the true history behind the Salem witch trials. Tickets are $25 per person.
Cry Innocent: The People Versus Bridget Bishop
This isn’t a walking tour, but a witch trial reenactment show – probably the most historically accurate. You – and the rest of the audience – play the Puritan jury in the witch trial of Bridget Bishop in 1692, and you hear evidence and testimony from both sides. You can also question the accused.
Then, you have to make the decision: is the accused guilty or innocent? The show lasts about 45 minutes, with the outdoor arrest scene happening 15 minutes earlier. Tickets are $25 for adults and free for children under 9.
Witch Dungeon Museum
The Witch Dungeon Museum is a small but interesting attraction that’s been around since 1956. It tells the story of the witch trials from the perspective of those accused, with professional actresses re-enacting the scenes.
Then, you can take part in a tour of the dungeon. You can see things like a replica of the jail cell where some accused were held, and an exhibit on the trial of Rebecca Nurse.
Attractions in Salem Showing Witches from a Different Perspective
Do you already know all about the history? There are still interesting things to do in Salem, MA. You can learn about witches from a different perspective – for example, what they do in the modern day and how to become one.
Salem Forest Lore Tour
The Salem Forest Lore Tour by Witchwood Tours is a 1-mile walking tour through Salem Woods. It covers the art of witchcraft, the importance of nature and ancient knowledge that can help you in modern life. You’ll meet a practicing witch and learn things like which herbs and flowers are used in spells.
Salem Witch Village
This is a small but popular attraction where you can learn about Wicca, the religion of modern-day witches. You can take part in rituals, buy witchy things in the gift shop, and discover the myths and facts surrounding witchcraft. Tickets are $12 per person.
Something Other Than Witches – Historic Sites, Museums, and Nature
If you’re looking for a break from the Witch Hysteria, there are still plenty of things to do in Salem, MA. Here’s our selection of places to visit:
- The House of the Seven Gables – This is the historic house made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel. You can take a guided tour of the house and grounds, and learn about the family who lived there.
- The Salem Maritime National Historic Site – This is where you can learn about Salem’s maritime history, see historic ships, and go on walking tours.
- Peabody Essex Museum – This is a world-class museum with art, maritime history, and Asian export art.
- Pickering Wharf – This is a historic district with shops, restaurants, and things to do like whale watching.
- Salem Willows Arcade and Park – This is a park on the water where you can relax, go for a walk, or ride the vintage carousel.
- Historic New England Phillips House – This is a historic house that’s been turned into a museum. You can learn about the family who lived there, and see how they decorated for different holidays.
- New England Pirate Museum – This is a small but interesting museum about pirates in New England. You can see things like a pirate ship, weapons, and an 80-foot cave.
As you can see, there’s much more to Salem than just witches! Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or just want to relax by the water, you’ll find something to do in Salem.
Have a Spooky Time in Salem!
Whether you want to learn about which history or meet some modern-day witches, Salem is the place to be. There are plenty of things to do in Salem, MA, so you’re sure to have a spooky time! And while you’re waiting for night to fall, you can discover the city’s maritime history.
Similar Posts:
- Things to Do in Winston-Salem: A Local Guide to the Greatest Attractions of Winston Salem
- The Old Bailey: Central Criminal Court in London
- The Definitive List of Things to Do in Salem, Oregon State. Attractions for Day Trips, Fun Activities & More
- Things to Do in Galena, IL – Top Attractions in Galena to Visit on a Weekend Getaway
- Things to Do in Wilmington, NC – Tourist Attractions and Activities to Try When You’re Visiting Wilmington
- Things to Do in Mobile, Alabama – Top Attractions in Mobile for Families and History, Art and Nature Enthusiasts
- Things to Do in Fort Collins. Breweries, Tourist Attractions and Fun Outdoor Activities for Everyone!
- Things to Do in Jerome, AZ: Best Tourist Attractions and Places to Go
