Ghostly Night Tour
Meeting point
Black Cat Curiosity Shoppe. 234 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970
Duration
1 hour and 45 minutes.
Start time
8 pm Thurs, Fri, Sat.
Tour Operator
Overview
Step into the shroud of darkness that blankets the "Witch City" on a Salem ghost tour consistently voted among the top ten in the United States. The Ghostly Night Tour by Black Cat Tours isn't your average jump-scare attraction; it is a deep dive into the haunted history tour of a city defined by tragedy, maritime mystery, and literary legends.
Led by elegantly costumed master storytellers, this ghost walk weaves through the atmospheric streets of downtown Salem, where the line between historical fact and paranormal legend blurs under the glow of the moon.
Whether you are a seasoned paranormal investigator or a history buff seeking a haunted tour near the famous "Bewitched" statue, this experience offers an unscripted, authentic look at the spirits said to still roam the North Shore.
Discover why Salem is considered one of the most haunted locations in America as you explore the same alleys that inspired Gothic masters like H.P. Lovecraft and Nathaniel Hawthorne. For those looking for paranormal tours near the Witch House, this evening stroll provides the perfect blend of eerie ambiance and meticulously researched history that captures the true essence of Salem’s restless soul.
What to Expect
Prepare for a 90-to-105-minute journey through the most haunted corners of the city. Your experience begins at the Black Cat Curiosity Shoppe on Essex Street, a pedestrian thoroughfare teeming with history. From there, your guide will lead you through a curated route of spectral significance.
- Old Burying Point (Charter Street Cemetery): Visit Salem’s oldest cemetery, the final resting place of "Hanging Judge" John Hathorne. Learn about the restless spirits of those involved in the 1692 trials and the strange energy often felt near the ancient headstones.
- The Salem Witch Trials Memorial: Pay respects at this solemn site while hearing the bone-chilling details of the innocent lives lost and the lingering echoes of the 17th-century hysteria.
- The Torture of Giles Corey: Stand near the ground where Giles Corey was "pressed" to death—a horrific event that gave rise to one of Salem’s most enduring and vengeful curses.
- Literary Hauntings: Explore the real-life inspirations for Edgar Allan Poe and Nathaniel Hawthorne, discovering how Salem’s dark past influenced some of the greatest Gothic horror ever written.
- The Murder of Captain White: Delve into the gruesome 1830 murder that stained Salem’s reputation and reportedly left a haunting imprint on the city’s historic mansions.
This is a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are essential. While the terrain is mostly flat, expect to navigate historic brick sidewalks. Since Salem is a coastal city, evening temperatures can drop quickly; a light jacket is recommended even in summer. The tour is pet-friendly and wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone in your party can experience the chills of the night together.
No on-site parking; use Witch City Mall or Museum Place garages. Visit Parkopedia for the best parking information
No restrooms on tour; please plan ahead. Visit Toilet Finder for restroom information
Wheelchair/stroller friendly; mostly flat sidewalks with some uneven bricks. (for more info contact tour operator)
Leashed, well-behaved pets and service animals are welcome.
No entry into buildings; stories are told from outside at public vantage points. (for more info contact tour operator)
Family-friendly spooky history; late-night tours are for adults only. (for more info, contact tour operator)
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FaQ's
what is a ghost tour
A ghost tour is a guided experience that explores haunted locations and shares stories of paranormal activity, local legends, and historical events. These tours often take place at night in historic towns, cemeteries, or old buildings, blending history with spine-tingling storytelling. Ghost tours offer a fun and immersive way to learn about a location’s past while enjoying a spooky adventure.
Why do people go on ghost tours?
People go on ghost tours to explore local history, hear chilling stories, and experience the thrill of the unknown. Ghost tours blend entertainment, folklore, and real historical events, making them popular with travelers, paranormal enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique nighttime adventure. They’re a fun way to discover hidden stories, learn about haunted locations, and enjoy a memorable, spine-tingling experience.
Is a ghost tour scary?
A ghost tour can be spooky, but it’s usually not overwhelmingly scary. Most ghost tours focus on storytelling, history, and exploring haunted locations rather than jump scares or intense horror. The level of fear often depends on the setting, the guide, and your own comfort with eerie tales. They’re designed to be enjoyable for most people, including beginners who want a fun, slightly spooky experience.
What is ghost tourism
Ghost tourism, also known as spooky tourism, is a type of travel focused on visiting haunted locations, paranormal sites, and historic places with spooky stories. It combines history, folklore, and supernatural experiences, attracting travelers who enjoy ghost tours, haunted attractions, and eerie adventures. Ghost tourism offers a unique way to explore a destination’s culture while experiencing thrilling, memorable moments.
What to Expect on a Ghost Tour?
A ghost tour typically combines history, storytelling, and paranormal legends as you explore haunted locations, old towns, and places known for unexplained activity. Expect your guide to share true local stories, including tragic events, mysterious sightings, and eerie folklore tied to the area’s past. Many tours visit historic buildings, cemeteries, alleyways, and landmark sites after dark to heighten the atmosphere.
Most ghost tours are walking tours, so prepare for 60–90 minutes of light to moderate walking, sometimes on uneven ground or dimly lit streets. Some guides may use ghost-hunting tools—like EMF meters or spirit boxes—to demonstrate paranormal investigation techniques, giving you an interactive experience.
You can expect a mix of education, entertainment, and spooky fun, but not guaranteed scares or staged jump moments. The goal is to immerse you in the history, mystery, and unexplained stories that shape each location. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, a ghost tour offers a unique way to discover a city’s hidden past and explore its most haunted corners.
What to Bring on a Ghost Tour?
Preparing properly can make your ghost tour safer, more comfortable, and far more enjoyable. Here are the key items guests are recommended to bring to any ghost walk, haunted history tour, or paranormal investigation.
Essentials:
Comfortable walking shoes for uneven or historic streets
Weather-appropriate clothing: jacket, hoodie, or raincoat
Fully charged phone for photos, notes, or emergencies
Small torch/flashlight for dark areas
Helpful Extras:
Portable power bank for devices or ghost-hunting apps
Bottle of water to stay hydrated
Bug spray for outdoor or older locations
Small backpack or crossbody bag to keep hands free
Optional Paranormal Gear:
EMF detector for interactive ghost-hunting
Thermometer for detecting “cold spots”
Notebook & pen for logging encounters
Red-filtered flashlight to maintain night vision
Safety & Comfort:
Small snacks for longer or late-night tours
Personal medication if needed
Hand sanitizer or wipes for older buildings and high-touch areas