Overview
Do you love architecture? We do! No trip to Salem is complete without a tour of the most beautiful sections of Salem. Come experience over three centuries of architecture from First Period American, to Georgian Colonial and the stately Federal style.
Your guide will wind you through the cobblestoned streets of Salem, discovering hidden gems, viewing over two dozen sites, and sharing stories of Salem's rise to becoming the wealthiest city in the country in the 18th century.
We discuss how Salem is at once a modern and (by American standards) very, very old city, and one where the 17th century and the 21st century not only go hand in hand, but cheek to cheek. Every aspect of American history from warfare to trade to religion to industry is reflected in the structures that still stand (and are still being used) to tell the story of this legendary town.
Tours run RAIN or SHINE. We do NOT cancel for weather. For a full refund, you must cancel 24 hours prior.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Architectural Guide of Salem
Licensed Guide
Gratuity not included
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
We meet on the side of the Old Town Hall with 3 staircases
Good to know
No need to print tickets - mobile tickets accepted!
Meeting Location: Old Town Hall
*Please meet on the side with the THREE staircases
We do not have an office
Please Note: Guests will be asked to complete a liability waiver and photo release form prior to their tour.
What to expect
-
Red's Sandwich Shop
5 min
We talk about the location (in close proximity) of Red's (London Coffee House) Diehl-Marcus building (oldest extant bank building in Salem) and the 1803 Customs Building.
-
The Custom House
10 min
This is where we touch on Salem's history of spice trade, her motto (and why we have it), point out where the old ship building yard used to be (near where the Adirondack chairs are located at the far end of the open space) and then discuss the mansions visible from near Derby Wharf.
-
Salem Witch Trials Memorial
10 min
We discuss the witch trials and the Pickman House.
-
Salem Common
10 min
We point out the Hocus Pocus location (the old school) but then talk about how Salem Common evolved, from a series of marshy pools and unusable ground in the 17th and early 18th centuries, to the manicured pleasure park of the 19th century, and how it became the new fashionable district starting in the mid-to-late 19th century, Salem's last gasp of wealth and mansions, with Second Empire and Greek Revival style buildings.
-
The Derby House
10 min
This is a discussion of Georgian architecture, and how this simple building reflects the burgeoning wealth and power of Salem and New England merchants as a whole.
-
The Daniels House Tours
10 min
We talk about how First Period buildings were modified and adapted to reflect current trends and tastes over the centuries.
-
Narbonne House
10 min
a perfect way to show how 17th century (First Period) architecture could be (and was) added to and modified to enlarge it.
-
Saint Peter's Episcopal Church
10 min
We touch on the unique religious heritage of Salem.
-
Peabody Essex Museum
10 min
Discussion of the Peabody-Essex Museum, and its origins, and showing how one side of Essex Street retains its 19th century appearance (mostly) and how the Witch City Mall shows the attempt to "modernize" Salem during the destructive period of the 1960s.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/New York).
Additional Information
- Not recommended if not able to stand for long periods of time
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Salem Merchants and Mansions Guided Architecture Walking Tour
Can I cancel Salem Merchants and Mansions Guided Architecture Walking Tour for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 1 hour 30 min–2 hours.
Where does it start?
We meet on the side of the Old Town Hall with 3 staircases
What's included?
- Architectural Guide of Salem
- Licensed Guide
What's not included?
- Gratuity not included
Which places does it visit?
It visits Red's Sandwich Shop, The Custom House, Salem Witch Trials Memorial, Salem Common, The Derby House, The Daniels House Tours, Narbonne House, Saint Peter's Episcopal Church.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Witch City Walking Tours
