Salem & Boston, Massachusetts

Discover the charm of New England and celebrate the fall season with an unforgettable 5-day tour to the ‘City of Witches’. Wander the historic streets of Salem, famous for its maritime history and the intrigue of the Salem Witch Trials, and take in the magic of Boston’s Beacon Hill, where gaslit cobblestone streets set the perfect autumn scene. Highlights of this tour include a visit to the iconic House of the Seven Gables of Nathaniel Hawthorne fame, an immersive visit to the Salem Witch Museum, the Real Pirates exhibit, showcasing tales of adventure and treasure, guided tours of Salem and Boston and much more! Indulge in local flavours, including the Fireplace Feast at the Sale Cross Inn, while enjoying cozy accommodations and expert local guides. With a mix of structured activities and free time to explore, this tour offers the perfect balance of history, culture, and scenery.

Please note, this is a very active tour with a plenty of walking, as Salem and Boston are best experienced on foot. With this in mind, this tour is not recommended for those with mobility concerns or those who require mobility aids.

A valid Canadian passport is required for this tour.

Day 1 – Sunday, September 21, 2025 – Home to East Greenbush, NY

Meet our coach at one of our pre-selected pickup points this morning. Today will be a travel day, ending with a one-night stopover in East Greenbush, New York. Dinner is on your own this evening, but there are plenty of options like Cracker Barrel and Denny’s nearby the hotel.

Day 2 – Monday, September 22, 2025 (B, D) – Salem/Peabody, MA

After breakfast, travel to Salem, Massachusetts, a town renowned for the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. On arrival, we will meet our local guide, who will provide suggestions for lunch on your own. This afternoon, we will visit the House of the Seven Gables, New England’s oldest wooden mansion. Built in 1668 by Captain John Turner, this historic home inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne’s famous novel of the same name. The tour inside showcases the evolution of the house, including a secret staircase and many fascinating details. Later, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before checking into the Hampton Inn Peabody for the next two nights.

Day 3 – Tuesday, September 23, 2025 (B, D) – Salem/Peabody, MA

Following breakfast, spend the day exploring Salem by foot with a local guide. Begin with the Salem Witch Museum, where you’ll witness a dramatic presentation based on actual trial documents, delving into the hysteria and intrigue of the Salem Witch Trials. Enjoy time for lunch and exploring on your own, with your guide offering recommendations. This afternoon, continue with the Witchcraft and Ghost Experience, an engaging mix of storytelling, historical facts, and special effects, followed by the Real Pirates exhibit. This attraction highlights the story of Black Sam Bellamy, the richest pirate of all time, and includes genuine pirate treasure recovered from the Whydah shipwreck off the coast of Massachusetts. Conclude the day with an included group dinner at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel.

Day 4 – Wednesday, September 24, 2025 (B, D) – Boston to Sturbridge, MA

After breakfast, check out and travel into Boston for a morning of touring with a local guide. Begin at the historic Boston Common, the oldest park in the United States, before strolling through Beacon Hill. Admire the gaslit streets, colourful foliage, and historic architecture as you visit three different private homes. Learn about the history and personal stories of those who live in this iconic neighbourhood. Note that this is a walking-intensive tour, but accommodations can be made for those needing a break. Afterward, enjoy free time for lunch and exploration at Quincy Market, a historic marketplace offering plenty of dining options and unique shops. In the late afternoon, journey to Sturbridge and check in to the historic Publick House Inn for a one-night stay. Dinner this evening is a Fireplace Feast at the Salem Cross Inn, featuring prime rib roasted over an open fire and freshly whipped cream served with New England’s best apple pie.

Day 5 – Thursday, September 25, 2025 (B) – Sturbridge, MA to Home

Following breakfast at the Inn, check out and begin your journey home. Take with you fond memories along with stories of Salem, Boston, and the vibrant history of New England.