Spirits and Superstitions A Friday the 13th Tour

Spirits and Superstitions: A Friday the 13th Tour in Salem — An Authentic Peek into the Supernatural

If you’re visiting Salem on a Friday the 13th, chances are you’re seeking something more than just the usual haunted house attractions. This 90-minute outdoor tour from Witch City Walking Tours promises an intimate dive into Salem’s superstitions, ghost stories, and eerie past—only available on this famously unlucky day. The tour is tailored for those interested in the supernatural lore that Salem is known for, but with a focus that’s both fun and educational.

One of the standout features of this experience is its exclusive focus on Friday the 13th, making it a perfect pick for thrill-seekers or superstitious souls wanting to mark a date with a little extra ghostly significance. The tour’s compact, outdoor-only format means you’ll get a more personal feel, away from the large crowds often seen on other Salem tours. However, some reviewers have noted that not all stops mentioned in the itinerary, like the hotel and mansion, are included, which could be a minor letdown for those expecting a more comprehensive visit.

This tour will appeal most to travelers with a curiosity about Salem’s darker side, especially those who enjoy a good ghost story or a spooky superstition. It’s also a solid option for visitors who prefer outdoor activities and don’t mind walking through Salem’s historic streets in whatever weather the day brings. With a friendly, licensed guide leading the way, you’ll get a taste of Salem’s haunted history without the need to enter any buildings or cemeteries—just a few exterior stops and plenty of tales that stick with you.

Key Points

• Exclusive to Fridays the 13th — a rare chance to experience Salem’s supernatural stories on this specific day.
• Outdoor tour — no inside visits, focusing on exterior sites and storytelling.
• Compact duration — approximately 90 minutes, making it manageable for most schedules.
• Small group feel — group size can be up to 39 people, but reviews suggest it’s generally intimate enough for meaningful storytelling.
• Cost versus value — at $48 per person, it offers a unique themed experience, but some stops may not fully match the promotional descriptions.
• Accessible and convenient — meets at Salem’s Derby Square and is near public transportation; dog-friendly too!

A Deep Dive into the Salem Friday the 13th Experience

If you’re after a spooky, lore-rich experience, this tour hits several marks. Starting at Salem Old Town Hall, the guide sets the tone with historical context about the night ahead. Expect to hear stories about Salem’s superstitions, ghostly legends, and some of the city’s most haunted sites. The tour’s primary focus is on superstitions linked to Friday the 13th, making it stand out from other Salem ghost tours that tend to cover broader themes.

The stops are deliberately chosen to evoke Salem’s eerie vibe. Walking down Essex Street, you’ll be taken past some of Salem’s most iconic spots, with commentary that brings the stories and history to life. The exterior of The Witch House is included, giving you a glimpse of Salem’s witch-related past, but it’s just a quick five-minute stop outside, not a tour inside. Many reviews point out that some of the stops, like the hotel and mansion, do not happen as described or are skipped altogether, which may be disappointing if you’re expecting a full exploration.

The final stop at Broad Street Cemetery caps off the tour with a brief walk through one of Salem’s historic burial grounds. While no entrances are made, the stories of haunted graves and spectral legends are part of the outdoor storytelling. The guide’s ability to weave historical facts with chilling tales is often praised, although some guests note that the number of superstition stories told can be limited, and not all stops are as interactive or detailed as expected.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $48, you get a licensed guide who specializes in Salem’s supernatural lore. They are generally praised for their entertaining storytelling and ability to keep guests engaged. However, gratuities are not included—a common practice—and are left up to guests’ discretion.

The tour is rain or shine, so dressing appropriately for weather is advised. No buildings or cemeteries are entered, which means this is purely an outdoor experience—ideal for those who prefer to keep things brief and atmospheric without the hassle of inside visits.

Group Size, Accessibility, and Practicalities

With a maximum of 39 guests, the group size strikes a balance between having enough people for a lively atmosphere but still allowing for some personal storytelling. It’s also dog-friendly, so you can bring along your furry friend if they’re comfortable outdoors. The meeting point at 32 Derby Square is accessible by public transportation, making it easy to find.

Reviewers mention that the tour doesn’t include public restrooms, so plan accordingly. The tour runs rain or shine, so check the weather forecast and dress in comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

What Travelers Are Saying

While the overall rating is high at 4.8 out of 6 reviews, some have noted that the actual experience may differ slightly from the description. Ashleigh, for example, enjoyed Samantha’s storytelling but pointed out that several stops, like the hotel and mansion, did not occur as promised, and only a few superstition stories were shared. Despite these small issues, the atmosphere and the guide’s entertainment value received praise.

Price and Value Analysis

At $48 per person, this tour offers a themed experience that’s both atmospheric and educational. It’s a good value for those specifically interested in Salem’s superstitions and ghost stories, particularly since it’s a limited edition experience on Friday the 13th. Keep in mind that since it’s outdoor-only and doesn’t include inside visits, it might not satisfy those looking for a comprehensive haunted house tour but is perfect for a quick, spooky walk and storytelling session.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is ideal for supernatural enthusiasts and those intrigued by Salem’s witchy reputation. It suits travelers who enjoy outdoor walks, storytelling, and a focus on superstitions and ghostly legends rather than inside museum visits. It’s also a good choice for visitors on a tight schedule or those seeking a themed experience that adds a little extra mystery to their Salem trip. If you’re traveling with children, note that children must be accompanied by an adult, and the stories can sometimes be spooky.

If you’re after a more comprehensive or inside experience, you might prefer other Salem tours, but for a quick, atmospheric jaunt on Friday the 13th, this one hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children are welcome as long as they are accompanied by a ticketed adult. Keep in mind that some stories may be spooky, so use discretion based on your children’s sensitivities.

Does the tour run rain or shine? Yes, the tour operates regardless of weather conditions. Dressing in weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes is recommended.

Are inside visits included? No, the tour is exclusively outdoors, with no entry into buildings or cemeteries. The focus is on exterior sites and storytelling.

How long does the tour last? The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, which makes it easy to fit into most travel schedules.

What’s the meeting point? The tour begins at 32 Derby Square in Salem, a location accessible by public transportation.

Is there any parking available nearby? While the review data doesn’t specify parking details, Derby Square is centrally located, so public parking options should be available nearby.

Can I bring my dog? Yes, the tour is dog-friendly, and service animals are allowed.

What’s included in the price? A licensed guide is included, but gratuities are not. The tour is a mobile ticket, making it easy to show on arrival.

To sum it up, the Spirits and Superstitions: A Friday the 13th Tour offers a distinct, themed look into Salem’s haunted lore. It’s a short but atmospheric outdoor experience perfect for those who want a spooky, history-infused walk on a famously unlucky day. While not a full inside tour, it’s a lively, engaging way to explore Salem’s eerie legends with an entertaining guide. For fans of ghost stories, superstitions, and a touch of Salem’s supernatural mystique, this tour is well worth the modest price, especially if you’re visiting on Friday the 13th itself. Just remember to dress for the weather and manage expectations about stops—what it lacks in inside visits, it more than makes up for in storytelling charm.