Self Guided Audio Tour ‘Hawthorne’s Haunts’ Haunted Walking Tour Salem

If you’re heading to Salem and want to get a sense of the city’s eerie charm without the rush of a big tour group, the Self-Guided Audio Tour ‘Hawthorne’s Haunts’ might just be your ticket. Designed for those who love a spooky story and a bit of history, this tour offers a flexible way to explore Salem’s haunted sites while learning about Nathaniel Hawthorne and his ties to the city’s dark past.

What really caught our eye is the affordable price—just $5 per person—and the fact that you can do it at your own pace. Plus, the easy navigation with turn-by-turn directions ensures you won’t get lost or miss key spots. The fact that the tour works on two smartphones is a nice touch for sharing with a partner or friend.

On the flip side, since it’s a self-guided experience, there’s no live guide to answer questions or add extra flair, which might be a consideration if you prefer a more personal touch. But if you’re comfortable exploring independently and enjoy a good ghost story, this tour could be just what you’re after. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want flexible timing and a budget-friendly way to soak in Salem’s spooky atmosphere.

Who would love this? Anyone curious about Hawthorne’s link to Salem, fans of ghost stories, or those traveling on a budget will likely find this tour a fun addition to their Salem experience. It’s perfect for independent explorers who prioritize flexibility and storytelling over guided groups.

Key Points

• Affordable and flexible: Only $5 per person with the freedom to start, pause, and resume at your convenience.
• Rich in local stories: Combines Salem’s ghostly tales with Hawthorne’s history for an engaging narrative.
• Easy to use: Works on two smartphones with straightforward navigation.
• Self-paced exploration: You can take as much or as little time at each stop as you like.
• Includes notable sites: From the Hawthorne Hotel to the House of the Seven Gables, the tour covers Salem’s key haunted spots.
• Great for independent travelers: No guide, no crowds, just your phone and your curiosity.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

The Hawthorne’s Haunts tour kicks off at the Hawthorne Hotel, a historic place that’s been a favorite for celebrities like George Bush and Johnny Cash. According to reviews, guests often report ghostly activity there, adding an extra layer of intrigue right from the start. Spending just three minutes here sets the tone, blending Salem’s celebrity charm with its haunted reputation.

Next, you’ll wander to the Salem Common, a seemingly peaceful park that hides darker stories. It’s said to be haunted by a ghost of a band leader, and you’ll see the bandstand and grounds where he’s believed to roam. This spot is another quick stop, but one that enriches the tour’s ghostly narrative.

The third stop is the St. Peter’s-San Pedro Episcopal Church, where the headstones are just markers in the dirt, and the stories of spirits haunting the grounds are enough to make you glance over your shoulder. The church grounds hold stories about ghostly apparitions, and the nearby story of Captain White’s murder in 1830 — a scandal that rivaled the Salem Witch Trials for notoriety — adds historical weight to the supernatural tales.

The Bung Hole Liquor Store is a highlight for many, not only because of its quirky history as a funeral home and speakeasy but also because of the ghost stories that linger there. The story of Hawthorne’s appointment as a surveyor of Salem in 1846, with the mention of his “Scarlet Letter,” ties the lore back to the author’s own complicated ties to Salem’s past.

Moving on, the Mercy Tavern offers a glimpse into underground Salem. The basement tunnels, built by merchants, hide stories of spirits of children and a teenage girl ghost, according to reports. It’s a perfect example of how Salem’s history isn’t just about witches but about the layers of lives, deaths, and ghost stories beneath the surface.

Each stop is brief—around three minutes—but packed with stories, legends, and historical tidbits. You’ll learn about Hawthorne’s family ties to the Salem Witch Trials, his remorse, and how his life was intertwined with Salem’s dark history. The stories are brought to life by the audio narration, which reviewers have described as knowledgeable and engaging.

The final destination is the House of the Seven Gables, Hawthorne’s childhood home, where he spent much of his youth. Standing here, you can imagine the influence of Salem’s history on his writing. This spot wraps up the tour nicely, leaving you with a sense of connection to Salem’s haunting past.

What’s the Experience Like?

Travelers report that the self-guided nature of this tour offers a laid-back experience. One reviewer called it “fun and knowledgeable,” emphasizing the ability to pause and absorb stories without feeling rushed. Another noted that it was a “pleasant” way to explore Salem on their own schedule, especially since they could sidetrack to the Salem Witch Museum before resuming.

The audio narration adds a theatrical flair that makes the stories more vivid, and users have caught paranormal phenomena on film during their explorations—though, of course, that’s more a bonus than something to expect.

The price point is excellent, especially considering you’ll visit multiple sites and gain insights into Salem’s history and ghost stories. For just $5, you get a private, self-guided tour that you can repeat later, making it one of the best value options for Salem.

Practical Details & Tips

This tour begins at Nathaniel Hawthorne’s birthplace on Hardy Street, a site that’s meaningful for fans of his work. The tour concludes at the House of the Seven Gables, both landmarks that you’ll likely want to check out in person after the tour. Since it’s available from 12 PM to 11:30 PM daily, you have plenty of flexibility to fit it into your itinerary, whether you’re a daytime explorer or a night owl seeking spooky stories in the dark.

You’ll use the WalknTours app on your smartphone, which means no physical tickets or guides. Just download, start at the Hawthorne statue, and follow the turn-by-turn directions. The tour is designed for most travelers, including those with service animals, and is accessible via public transport options nearby.

Keep in mind, this isn’t a guided group experience; it’s just you and your device. If you enjoy a bit of independence and storytelling, that’s a big plus. But if you prefer a live guide with immediate questions, you might find this less interactive.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Reviewers have consistently praised the knowledgeable narration and the value of this tour. Donna called it “fun and knowledgeable,” and Amy appreciated hearing the “history and ghost tales” combined with her sightseeing. Diane liked that she could “learn at her own pace,” highlighting the independence a self-guided tour provides.

Others mention that the stories, especially about Hawthorne and Salem’s haunted sites, make the experience memorable. The tour’s ability to mix historical facts with ghost stories keeps it engaging and gives a well-rounded view of Salem’s layered past.

Final thoughts: Is this tour right for you?

If you’re looking for an affordable, flexible way to explore Salem’s haunted sites and learn about Nathaniel Hawthorne’s connection to the city, this tour delivers on both fronts. It’s perfect for independent travelers who enjoy storytelling and want to set their own pace—especially if you’re on a budget.

It’s a solid choice if you prefer to avoid large groups, prefer a more personal experience, or simply want a reason to wander Salem’s streets with a good ghost story in your pocket. That said, it’s not a guided experience, so if you crave interaction, you might want to consider other options.

Overall, for $5, you’re getting a well-reviewed, immersive, and flexible journey through Salem’s haunted past. It’s straightforward, fun, and packed with stories that will stick with you long after you leave.

FAQ

Can I start the tour whenever I want?
Yes, the tour begins at the Hawthorne statue and you can start it anytime during its open hours. It’s designed for you to explore at your own pace.

Does the tour include admission to any sites?
No, the tour is a self-guided experience. Entry to sites like the House of the Seven Gables or Salem Witch Museum is not included.

What devices do I need?
You just need a smartphone with the WalknTours app installed. The tour works on two smartphones if you want to share with someone.

How long does the tour take?
It lasts approximately 45 to 55 minutes, but you can take longer or shorter depending on how much you want to explore at each stop.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the stories are generally suitable for older kids or teenagers interested in ghosts and history. Keep in mind the spooky content.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less than 24 hours, and your payment won’t be refunded.

If you’re after a spooky, flexible way to enjoy Salem’s haunted history and Hawthorne’s intriguing life, this self-guided tour offers a lot of value and fun for a small price. Just be ready to listen, explore, and perhaps watch out for some ghostly surprises!