Explore Salem’s rich history and culture on a private day tour from Portland ME. Discover hidden gems, legends, and scenic views with a personal guide.
Explore Salem’s rich history and culture on a private day tour from Portland ME. Discover hidden gems, legends, and scenic views with a personal guide.
- Witch House - A visit to Salem is incomplete without exploring The Witch House, the sole remaining structure directly linked to the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Formerly the residence of Judge Jonathan Corwin, this remarkable 17th-century mansion allows visitors to walk through the very rooms where pivotal historical decisions were made. Inside,…
- Witch House - A visit to Salem is incomplete without exploring The Witch House, the sole remaining structure directly linked to the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Formerly the residence of Judge Jonathan Corwin, this remarkable 17th-century mansion allows visitors to walk through the very rooms where pivotal historical decisions were made. Inside, one can discover rare period furnishings, artifacts, and narratives that vividly bring Salem’s most haunting chapter to life. With its dark timber exterior and intriguing history, The Witch House is more than just a historic residence—it’s a gateway to the days of Puritan Salem and the trials that made the city famous.
- Old Burying Point Cemetery - Enter one of New England’s oldest cemeteries, established in 1637. The Old Burying Point is the resting place of notable Salem figures, including Judge John Hathorne of the Witch Trials and heroes of the Revolutionary War. As visitors meander past weathered headstones and ancient carvings, the serene atmosphere narrates the town’s history. Here, history feels tangible—each stone a glimpse into the lives, struggles, and legends of early Salem.
- Ropes Mansion and Garden - Renowned for its elegant Colonial Revival architecture—and its appearance in Disney’s Hocus Pocus—the Ropes Mansion is one of Salem’s most iconic sites. While the interior is open to the public only on weekends, the focus here is the beautiful Colonial Revival garden and the mansion’s historic exterior, both accessible seven days a week. Visitors can wander through flower-filled paths, admire seasonal plantings, and capture stunning photos against the backdrop of this 18th-century estate. With its blend of history, Hollywood, and horticulture, it’s a must-see highlight.
- Peabody Essex Museum - As one of the oldest continuously operating museums in the nation, the Peabody Essex Museum merges Salem’s rich history with world-class art and culture. Its collections range from maritime treasures and Chinese export art to contemporary exhibits and historic Salem homes. The impressive architecture and rotating exhibitions ensure each visit is unique. The tour will emphasize the museum’s importance and beautiful exterior, while also explaining why it’s considered a gem of Salem’s cultural scene. Guests are welcome to return after the tour to explore the galleries more thoroughly.
- Bewitched Statue of Elizabeth Montgomery - A charming tribute in the heart of downtown, the Bewitched Statue honors actress Elizabeth Montgomery, star of the beloved 1960s TV series Bewitched. Seated on a crescent moon, her iconic pose has become one of Salem’s favorite photo spots. Although a modern landmark, the statue embodies the city’s unique mix of history, pop culture, and a touch of magic. It’s a cheerful stop that always brings smiles and is the perfect place to capture a memorable photo during a Salem visit.
- Pickering Wharf - Overlooking Salem Harbor, Pickering Wharf is a vibrant waterfront area where history meets charm. Once a bustling seaport during Salem’s maritime peak, today it’s filled with boutique shops, seafood restaurants, and stunning harbor views. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, explore local crafts, or simply enjoy the sea breeze while imagining the tall ships that once sailed to distant ports. With its blend of coastal beauty and New England character, Pickering Wharf offers an ideal mix of relaxation, shopping, and seaside scenery.
- Nathaniel Hawthorne Birthplace - Travel back to the late 18th century at the Nathaniel Hawthorne Birthplace, the humble home where the renowned American author of The Scarlet Letter and The House of the Seven Gables was born. Relocated to its current position beside the House of the Seven Gables, the home provides an intimate look into the early life of one of Salem’s most esteemed literary figures. Its simple architecture and period details contrast with the grander homes of the time, serving as a poignant reminder of the modest beginnings that shaped Hawthorne’s imagination.
- The House of the Seven Gables - A quintessential Salem landmark, the House of the Seven Gables is a 1668 mansion immortalized by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s classic novel of the same name. With its steep gables, hidden staircases, and centuries-old allure, the house feels like stepping into a storybook. Visitors can admire its striking exterior, stroll through the waterfront gardens, and discover how this magnificent home inspired Hawthorne’s dark tale of family, fortune, and fate. Rich in atmosphere and history, it’s a stop that perfectly encapsulates Salem’s fusion of literature, architecture, and legend.

- Private transportation
- Admission fees
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Private transportation
- Admission fees
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Gratuities
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Lunch
Unlike large group bus tours, this experience is crafted to be personal, flexible, and immersive. Participants will stroll through the streets of Salem with a knowledgeable guide who not only points out landmarks but also brings their stories to life—from the haunting legacy of the Witch Trials to the maritime prosperity that shaped the city, and the…
Unlike large group bus tours, this experience is crafted to be personal, flexible, and immersive. Participants will stroll through the streets of Salem with a knowledgeable guide who not only points out landmarks but also brings their stories to life—from the haunting legacy of the Witch Trials to the maritime prosperity that shaped the city, and the literary brilliance of Nathaniel Hawthorne.
What sets this tour apart is the perfect blend of history and ambiance: guests will explore centuries-old cemeteries and mansions, admire harbor views and gardens, and even encounter elements of pop culture like the Bewitched statue. With small groups and a customizable pace, there is the freedom to linger where interests are strongest—whether it’s capturing photos, delving deeper into Salem’s legends, or enjoying a peaceful moment in a hidden garden.
This is more than just sightseeing—it’s an opportunity to experience Salem’s past and present through stories, scenery, and atmosphere in a way that large tours simply cannot match.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.