Boston Witchcraft Tour: Uncover the City's Haunted Past
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Step back into Boston’s shadowy past with the Boston Witchcraft Tour. This 1.5-hour walk takes you through the city streets where witchcraft accusations once sparked fear and tragedy long before the Salem trials. Discover stories of women like Goody Glover, the last woman executed for witchcraft in Massachusetts, and learn how religious leaders like Increase and Cotton Mather influenced the hysteria.
As you stroll past historic sites, you'll see where victims lived, the old jail where accused witches were held, and the final resting places of those involved in the trials. The tour offers a vivid look at 17th-century beliefs, where pacts with the devil were seen as real threats to the community. It’s a fascinating journey into a dark chapter of Boston’s history.
Perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike, this tour combines engaging storytelling with a walk through Boston’s historic neighborhoods. Whether you're interested in the religious, social, or cultural aspects of witchcraft accusations, you'll leave with a deeper understanding of this turbulent era.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Boston Witchcraft Tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is conducted in English.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes. Infants (0–5), children (6–12), and youth (13–22) can participate. Infants and small children can ride in strollers or prams.
What is included in the tour?
The tour guide is included in the price.
Are bottled water provided?
No, bottled water is not included.
Can I join the tour if I have limited mobility?
Yes, infants and small children can ride in strollers, but travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness to walk the route.
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled time for a full refund.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 1.5 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- tour guide
Not included
- bottled water
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Meet in front of the Boston Common Tablet along the fence near Park Street subway station for introductions.
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Stop 2
Learn about the woman executed for speaking her beliefs and her role in early witchcraft accusations.
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Stop 3
Discuss her involvement in the Antinomian Controversy.
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Stop 4
Visit a historic spot on Boston Common and hear what happened there.
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Stop 5
Hear the story of the accused witch who lived in this location in 1688.
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Stop 6
Learn about the graves of people connected to the witchcraft trials and their stories.
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Stop 7
Further discussion on individuals buried in the cemetery linked to the trials.
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Stop 8
Explore Reverend John Cotton’s role in the 1630s, the Antinomian Controversy, and connections to Salem witch trials.
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Stop 9
Visit the site of the old jail where accused witches were imprisoned and many died.
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Stop 10
See the location of the original and current Green Dragon Tavern, and learn about Chief Justice William Stoughton.
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Stop 11
Visit the Paul Revere House, where Increase Mather lived and preached, and learn about his influence on the witch trials.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
We gather in front of the Boston Common Tablet along the fence separating Park Street from the Park Street subway station.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled time for a full refund.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day before
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours of the tour
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $30.00 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
