Pickering Wharf Tours and Tickets

Travel from Boston to Salem on a day trip focused on the town’s history. Learn about the Salem Witch Trials while exploring historic streets and notable landmarks. With transport and a guided itinerary included, this experience offers a convenient way to visit Salem and understand its notorious historical significance—ideal for those looking to step outside the city.

Salem is one of America’s most storied cities. On this relaxing self-guided audio tour through the city’s historical heart, you’ll discover its enchanting past. You’ll weave past colonial architecture to see the city’s maritime heritage, and hear about its literary giants. The tour starts at the Washington Arch in Salem Common, the birthplace of the National Guard. You'll explore the city’s charming streets and waterfront before circling back to where the beloved movie Hocus Pocus was filmed. Along the way, you’ll hear fascinating stories about the characters who shaped Salem’s history – from Englishman Roger Conant, who established the settlement in 1626, to novelist Nathaniel Hawthorne, whose legacy lives on in the city’s streets and buildings. As you walk, I’ll tell you all about Samuel McIntire, our most famous architect who was active in the late 1700s and early 1800s. I’ll also point out several examples of his work along the route.

Unlike large group bus tours, this experience is designed to be personal, flexible, and immersive. You’ll walk the streets of Salem with a knowledgeable guide who doesn’t just point out landmarks but brings their stories vividly to life—from the haunting legacy of the Witch Trials to the maritime wealth that built the city, and the literary genius of Nathaniel Hawthorne. What makes this tour unique is the balance of history and atmosphere: you’ll explore centuries-old cemeteries and mansions, admire harbor views and gardens, and even encounter touches of pop culture like the Bewitched statue. With small groups and a customizable pace, you’ll have the freedom to linger where your interests lie most—whether it’s taking photos, diving deeper into Salem’s legends, or enjoying a quiet moment in a hidden garden. This isn’t just sightseeing—it’s a chance to experience Salem’s past and present through stories, scenery, and atmosphere in a way that big tours can’t match.