High Witch History Walking Tour of Salem

What’s this tour all about?

This High Witch History Tour promises a different perspective on Salem, stepping away from the usual ghost stories and witchcraft legends to explore truthful, inclusive stories about the area’s Indigenous, Black, Queer, Women’s, and Cannabis histories. With a rating of 5.0 based on one review and a price of $36 for approximately two hours, it offers a compact but meaningful journey through Salem’s lesser-told narratives.

What immediately stands out about this tour is its focus on diversity and honesty—a refreshing change from traditional Salem tours that often emphasize haunted houses or witch trials alone. Led by guide Xera, who garners praise for her engaging storytelling, the experience is tailored for those interested in authentic history and social justice themes. One downside? It’s a 21+ experience, with no smoking allowed, so it’s not suited for younger travelers or those seeking a more family-friendly outing.

This tour is particularly ideal for adults curious about social issues or anyone wanting a deeper understanding of Salem’s real past. If you’re looking for a traditional sightseeing tour, this might not be your best fit. But if you value educational, inclusive storytelling that challenges the typical Salem narrative, this tour is worth considering.

Good To Know

• Focus on Diversity: The tour emphasizes Indigenous, Black, Queer, Women’s, and Cannabis histories.
• Authentic Stories: Goes beyond ghost tales and mythology, offering real historical insights.
• Experienced Guide: Led by Xera, praised for her engaging and meaningful storytelling.
• Duration & Price: About 2 hours at $36, offering good value for a focused, in-depth experience.
• Adult-Centric: Designed for 21+ travelers, with no smoking permitted.
• Convenient Location: Starts at Salem Common Bandstand and ends near the Bewitched Statue for easy navigation.

A closer look at the itinerary

Stop 1: Salem

The tour kicks off at Salem Common Bandstand, a central, accessible starting point. Over the next two hours, you’ll visit a series of prominent sites, each chosen to shed light on underrepresented aspects of Salem’s history.

Salem’s Landmarks and Their Stories

• Roger Conant: Known as the founder of Salem, his story provides context about the area’s early settlement, setting a foundation for understanding the city’s evolution beyond the witch hysteria.
• Witch Museum & Witch Trials Memorial: While these sites are familiar, the tour uses them as anchors for discussing the politicization of witchcraft accusations and their racial, gender, and social implications.
• Hawthorne Hotel & Gardner Pingree House: These historic buildings are more than their architecture—they’re platforms to explore Salem’s Black and Indigenous histories often overlooked.
• Peabody Essex Museum & Ropes Mansion: The tour dedicates time here to art and cultural stories that include diverse voices.
• Charlotte Forten Park & Old Town Hall: These locations offer insights into Salem’s African American history and social activism.
• Witch House & Bewitched Statue: While the Witch House is often associated with witch lore, this tour guides you through its real historical significance, contrasting myth and fact.

What makes this route special?

Each stop is carefully selected to highlight stories of marginalized communities and question myths that have historically overshadowed these narratives. Expect to hear about Indigenous resistance, Black activism, LGBTQ+ histories, and the demonization of cannabis, all woven into Salem’s fabric.

What to expect during the experience

The tour lasts roughly two hours, with small group sizes (max 20 travelers) for a more personal experience. You’ll be walking at a relaxed pace, with opportunities for questions and conversations along the way. The guide, Xera, is praised for her engaging storytelling style, which balances historical facts with contemporary relevance.

Practical details

• Meeting point: Salem Common Bandstand at 25 Washington Square.
• Ending point: Near the Bewitched Statue on Essex Street, making it easy to explore further or grab a meal.
• Accessibility: Near public transportation and service animals are allowed.
• Booking & Cancellation: Confirmation is instantaneous, with free cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour.

Travelers have appreciated the focus on truthful, diverse perspectives. One reviewer said, “It’s unlike any other tour in Salem,” especially because it includes stories about Black and Indigenous people and the demonization of cannabis—topics rarely covered in typical Salem tours.

Why this tour offers real value

Compared to standard Salem sightseeing, this experience offers more depth and relevance. For $36, you gain not just sightseeing, but an opportunity to question myths and learn about historical injustices. The small group size means more personalized attention and relevant discussion.

The tour’s focus on social issues gives it a more meaningful edge, making it ideal for those who want more than surface-level stories. Plus, being a walking tour, it allows you to see Salem’s streets from a local’s perspective, with plenty of room for spontaneous questions or reflections.

For the mindful traveler

This isn’t just a sightseeing walk—it’s an educational experience that encourages critical thinking and empathetic understanding. You’ll leave with a broader perspective on Salem’s past, recognizing how its history continues to shape conversations about race, gender, LGBTQ+ issues, and social justice today.

The Sum Up

This High Witch History Tour offers a rare, honest look at Salem’s past, emphasizing stories often left out of conventional tours. Its focus on diversity and social justice makes it especially valuable for adults interested in learning the true stories behind Salem’s surface image. With an engaging guide and a manageable duration, it provides a thought-provoking, meaningful experience that’s worth the price.

Whether you’re a history buff or someone seeking a more authentic, inclusive perspective, this tour deserves a spot on your Salem itinerary. It’s best suited for adults, social justice enthusiasts, and curious travelers who want to connect the dots between Salem’s past and present.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this is a 21+ experience, and there is no smoking permitted. It’s designed for adult audiences interested in social issues and authentic history.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately two hours long, making it a compact but meaningful exploration of Salem’s overlooked stories.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Salem Common Bandstand at 25 Washington Square and ends near the Bewitched Statue on Essex Street.

Is the tour accessible with public transportation?
Yes, it is near public transit, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for most travelers.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided walking experience; there are no additional costs for admission as most stops are free to explore outside of the tour.

How do I cancel or change my booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable, so plan accordingly.

This tour offers an insightful, respectful look into Salem’s diverse past—ideal for travelers seeking a thoughtful, socially conscious journey beyond the typical witch tour clichés.