The Salem witch hunt history walk is an immersive experience that takes visitors on a journey through the events and history of the infamous Salem witch trials. This educational tour provides a unique opportunity to learn about the witch hunts that took place in the late 17th century, which resulted in the execution of 20 people and the imprisonment of many others. The main idea is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the socio-cultural, religious, and political factors that contributed to the outbreak of hysteria and mass persecution. During the walk, participants are guided through various significant locations in Salem, Massachusetts, including the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, the site of the original Salem Village, the Witch House (the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin), and the Old Burying Point Cemetery. At each location, expert guides share insights into the events that unfolded at these places and the role they played in the witch hunts. This interactive experience offers visitors the chance to examine primary source documents, such as testimonies and court records, and gain insights into the lives of those accused of witchcraft.
All tours leave from in front of the Salem Armory Visitor Center at 2 New Liberty Street.
You do not need to print our your tickets you can just show the confirmation email to the tour guide or staff at the Essex Heritage Information Desk. All walking tour tickets include entry to our documentary film Salem Witch Hunt Examine the Evidence which features authentic dialogue taken from court transcripts and commentary by renowned Salem Witch Trial scholars.
This interactive experience offers visitors the chance to examine primary source documents, such as testimonies and court records, and gain insights into the lives of those accused of witchcraft. The focus is not only on the victims but also on the broader context of Puritan society in colonial New England. By delving into the religious beliefs, social tensions, and power dynamics of the time, participants can develop a nuanced understanding of the complex factors that led to the witch hunts.
Salem Witch Hunt: Myths & Misconceptions Walking Tour
Learn the true causes and events behind the Salem Witch Trials in our documentary film, then discover the myths during our walking tour.
The Salem Witch Trials happened over 300 years ago, and it has been dramatized in books, documentaries, movies, and even TV shows. Over the years it has been presented so many times in so many ways that the line between fact and fiction gets blurred.
Our walking tour seeks to debunk any misconceptions you might have about the Salem Witch Trials, by sharing historic images, documents, and locations to uncover these myths and discover the truth behind this infamous time period in Salem’s history.
All walking tour tickets include entry to our documentary film Salem Witch Hunt: Examine the Evidence which features authentic dialogue taken from court transcripts and commentary by renowned Salem Witch Trial scholars. Scenes depicted in the film were shot at actual locations associated with the Witch Trials of 1692. (Film is shown 11:00am,1:00pm and 3:00pm) You can choose to see the film before or after your walking tour.
FAQs
How long is the tour and where does it go?
The tour lasts 60-75 minutes, and travels less than 1 mile around downtown Salem. The tour includes stops at the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, and the site of the original 17th century jail.
Where does this tour leave from?
All tours leave from in front of the Salem Armory Visitor Center at 2 New Liberty Street.
Do I have to bring my printed ticket?
You do not need to print our your tickets you can just show the confirmation email to the tour guide or staff at the Essex Heritage Information Desk.
What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?
For detailed information about parking/transportation to Salem in October CLICK HERE
Is this tour handicap accessible?
Not entirely, a few of the areas that the tour goes are uneven, narrow, or dirt paths that are not easily navigated with wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Please also be aware that the tour lasts 60-75 minutes and does not include places to sit so be prepared to stand the entire time.
For any questions and information please call (978)224-2036 or email [email protected]
PLEASE NOTE: We will only cancel the tour due to extreme rain, so be prepared for any kind of weather as October temperatures can be unpredictable, and this tour takes place entirely outdoors. Ticket holders will be notified by email or text if we decide to cancel last minute.
REFUNDS WILL NOT BE ISSUED IF YOU MISS YOUR TOUR DUE TO PARKING OR TRAFFIC ISSUES; TRAFFIC IS HEAVY IN OCTOBER, AND PARKING IS EXTREMELY LIMITED, PLEASE PLAN IN ADVANCE TO ARRIVE ON TIME.
The city has an interactive parking map for the downtown CLICK HERE to view that.
Where does this tour leave from?
The Salem witch hunt history walk provides a balanced and historically accurate account of the events, dispelling popular myths and misconceptions associated with the trials. It encourages critical thinking and reflection on the lessons that can be learned from this dark chapter in American history. By engaging with the past, participants are challenged to consider the impact of fear, prejudice, and the abuse of authority in their own lives and communities. Through this immersive experience, the aim is to foster empathy, understanding, and tolerance, and ensure that the lessons of the Salem witch trials are never forgotten..
Reviews for "Salem Witch Hunt History Walk: A Chilling Trek through the Past"
1. John - 1 star
I was really disappointed with the Salem witch hunt history walk. The tour guide seemed to be more interested in sharing spooky tales and perpetuating the myths surrounding the witch trials rather than providing accurate historical information. It felt more like a Halloween-themed amusement park attraction than a proper educational tour. I would not recommend this tour to anyone looking to learn about the true history of the Salem witch trials.
2. Mary - 2 stars
I had high hopes for the Salem witch hunt history walk, but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The tour guide rushed through the historical details, barely giving us enough time to grasp the significance of each location. Additionally, the group was too large, making it difficult to hear the guide and ask questions. I would have preferred a smaller, more intimate tour that offered more in-depth explanations and discussions about this dark period in history.
3. Michael - 1 star
The Salem witch hunt history walk was a complete waste of time and money. The tour guide seemed to have a limited knowledge of the subject and often stumbled over facts and dates. It felt like she was just reciting a script instead of truly engaging with the topic. I expected a comprehensive and informative tour, but instead, I left feeling frustrated and unsatisfied with the experience. I would not recommend this tour to anyone serious about learning about the Salem witch trials.
4. Sarah - 2 stars
While the Salem witch hunt history walk had promising potential, it did not deliver. The tour guide's storytelling skills were lacking, making the historical accounts feel dull and uninspiring. Additionally, the tour lacked interactive elements or visual aids, which would have helped bring the history to life. Overall, I found the tour to be quite disappointing and would not recommend it to anyone looking for an engaging and informative experience.