Historic Salem & the Scenic North Shore: A Day Tour from Portland

Embark on an extraordinary Salem Day Tour filled with history, mystery, and coastal charm. Unravel the bewitching secrets of Salem, explore historical landmarks, and savor the coastal wonders of Kennebunkport. Departing early from Portland, Maine, this mesmerizing adventure is not to be missed!

Duration: 10 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Proctor’s Ledge Memorial - The actual site of the gallows used during the Salem witch trials is known as Proctor’s Ledge. This small, rocky area is located between Proctor Street and Pope Street in Salem, Massachusetts. In 2016, after extensive research, historians confirmed Proctor’s Ledge as the execution site where 19 accused witches were hanged in 1692. The area now has a memorial honoring the victims.
  • Salem Witch Trials Memorial - Located just off Charter Street, on Liberty Street, is Salem’s simple yet dramatic memorial to the 20 victims of the witch trials of 1692. Four foot high granite walls surround three sides, with granite benches representing each victim cantilevered inward from the wall. Etched on each bench is a name, means of execution, and execution date. One can read, on the stone threshold of the memorial, words of the accused taken directly from court transcripts.
  • Witch House - This is the only surviving house in Salem that was a part of the Witchcraft Trials of 1692. It belonged to Judge Corwin, one of the magistrates in the witch trials. Witch House has been preserved in its original appearance. There are guided tours to see the house and learn more about what happened.
  • Salem Witch Museum - The Salem Witch Museum is housed in a historic Gothic Revival-style church building, which adds to the museum’s dramatic atmosphere. The imposing stone structure, with its pointed arches and tall, narrow windows, evokes the solemn and eerie mood fitting for a museum dedicated to the infamous Salem witch trials of 1692. The building’s dark, castle-like appearance creates an immersive experience for visitors as they step inside to explore one of the most haunting chapters in American history. This stop is an outdoor stop only. Due to guest feed back we are adding The Peabody Essex Museum. If guest wish to seethe Salem witch museum tickets can only be purchased the day of the tour. Your guide will explain this if you still wish to see it.
  • Bewitched Statue of Elizabeth Montgomery - See the famous statue of Televisions most famous witch.
  • Old Burying Point Cemetery - Salem’s spookiest cemetery.
  • The House of the Seven Gables - The House of the Seven Gables, located in Salem, Massachusetts, is a striking example of Colonial American architecture, dating back to 1668. This historic mansion is best known as the inspiration for Nathaniel Hawthorne’s famous novel of the same name. The house features a distinctive, dark wooden exterior with steeply pitched gables, hence its name. Visitors can explore its many rooms, including hidden staircases, large hearths, and period furnishings that reflect life in the 17th century.

The property also boasts beautifully landscaped gardens overlooking Salem Harbor, adding to its charm. The house’s interior is filled with historical artifacts, providing a rich narrative of the families who lived there over the centuries. The site also includes Hawthorne’s birthplace, which was moved to the property in the 20th century, offering a comprehensive glimpse into both architectural history and literary heritage.

  • Castle Hill on the Crane Estate - At the Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich, visitors will experience a stunning 59-room mansion set atop a hill with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. The estate features beautifully landscaped gardens, intricate architecture inspired by Italian Renaissance villas, and the grand “Grande Allée,” a nearly half-mile-long lawn leading down to the sea. Inside, the mansion showcases opulent interiors with period furnishings, fine art, and elegant details reflecting the grandeur of the early 20th century. The estate’s history and breathtaking surroundings make it a highlight of any tour.
What's Included
  • Private transportation
  • Bottled water and snacks
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
  • All fees and taxes included
  • Hotel or AirBnB drop-off and pick-up
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
  • Lunch
Additional Information

Embark on a captivating day tour from Portland, Maine, to Salem, Massachusetts, and the North Shore. This day-long adventure takes you deep into Salem’s infamous past, with stops at the Salem Witch House, the only structure directly tied to the 1692 witch trials, the serene Ropes Mansion, and the iconic House of the Seven Gables. You’ll also visit the Old Burying Point Cemetery and solemn Proctor’s Ledge, the site of the witch trial executions.

As we return, we’ll explore charming North Shore coastal towns, capturing the beauty of a classic New England lighthouse. Our final stop is the Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich, a grand mansion surrounded by stunning landscapes and famous for its role in films. This tour blends history, literature, and cinematic splendor into an unforgettable experience.

Location
Proctor's Ledge Memorial
7 Pope St
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
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(3 Ratings)
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813claya
Oct 4, 2023
Salem the east way! - This was an awesome way to experience Salem and Kennebunk port without all the hassle! AJ arrived in a spacious SUV loaded with snacks drinks and every other road trip essential to make us comfortable! His knowledge of import land marks to visit best, time efficiency of seeing everything we wanted to and friendliness made the trip that much more enjoyable! He even offered to take any and all pictures for us that we wanted! He also had a great knowledge of the history of Salem and the surrounding areas as we walked or drove past different landmarks we got fun information at each site! I would definitely recommend AJ to and his company to anyone looking for a great day trip to Salem!
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Sandra
Jun 14, 2023
Great day exploring Salem - AJ took us to the Portland Lighthouse and Kennebunkport on the way to Salem. He knows the area so well and we had the best viewing spots! He also took pictures for us so that we had nothing do but enjoy the day. Salem was such a fun place and having a guide that knows the city well is a great way to see it all! I would definitely tour with them again!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Belannb
Sep 13, 2021
Great tour - Our driver Mimi was great! She was very knowledgeable about Yellowstone and the surrounding area. She was very nice and accommodating. Very prepared. Would highly recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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