Boston Witchcraft Tour: Uncover the City’s Haunted Past
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Step back in time and uncover the dark history of witchcraft accusations in Boston. The Boston Witchcraft Tour takes you through the city's hidden past, revealing stories of superstition, fear, and injustice that predate the infamous Salem trials.
Learn about Boston's role in early witchcraft executions, including the 1648 hanging of the second woman in New England. Discover the tragic tale of Goody Glover, the last woman executed for witchcraft in Massachusetts, and explore how prominent figures like Reverends Increase and Cotton Mather influenced these events.
As you walk through downtown Boston, you'll visit key sites—homes, cemeteries, and historic landmarks—where these stories unfolded. Gain insight into the 17th-century mindset that saw pacts with the devil as a real threat to the community, and see where the accused lived, were imprisoned, and laid to rest.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Boston Witchcraft Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the history and ask questions.
What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is conducted in English.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes. It’s suitable for infants (0-5), children (6-12), and youth (13-22). Keep in mind that infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, and participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.
What’s included in the tour?
Your tour guide is included in the price. Please note that bottled water is not included.
Can I join if I have mobility issues?
Yes, infants and small children can ride in strollers, but some walking over uneven terrain is involved. Travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness.
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour 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. This is our starting point and where we introduce the tour.
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Stop 2
Learn about the woman who was executed for speaking her beliefs, and her role in early Boston history.
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Stop 3
Discuss her involvement in the Antinomian Controversy and its impact on the community.
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Stop 4
Visit a historic spot on Boston Common and hear what happened there during the witch trials era.
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Stop 5
Hear the story of the accused witch who lived at this location in 1688.
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Stop 6
Explore the cemetery where individuals connected to the witchcraft trials are buried and learn about their stories.
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Stop 7
Continue examining the graves of those linked to the witch trials and their historical significance.
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Stop 8
Discuss Reverend John Cotton’s influence in the 1630s, the Antinomian Controversy, Roger Williams, and their links to witchcraft accusations.
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Stop 9
Visit the site of the old jail where accused witches were imprisoned and some died.
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Stop 10
See the location of the original Green Dragon Tavern and the current one, and learn about Chief Justice William Stoughton’s role.
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Stop 11
Tour the Paul Revere House, where Increase Mather and his family lived, and learn about their influence on the witchcraft trials.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
We gather in front of the Boston Common Tablet along the fence that separates Park Street from the Park Street subway station.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour for a full refund.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day prior
- 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
