Historical Tours & Land Adventures at First Church Salem
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels
Overview
Step inside Salem’s historic First Church and uncover nearly 400 years of captivating stories, from early colonists to modern times. A must-visit for history lovers.
DISCOVER THE FIRST CHURCH IN SALEM and its 400 years of history
For all ages! • 30 Minutes • Historical Experience
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About This Adventure
Explore one of the nation's oldest churches, founded in 1629, and delve into its rich history, including tales of accused parishioners and connections to “Monopoly.” Enjoy a self-guided tour with artifacts and welcoming docents, all while supporting the church. Experience nearly 400 years of captivating stories and stunning stained glass.
About: Explore one of the oldest churches in the country, founded in 1629 by the Puritans who settled here. Learn about the parishioners and accused church members, Rebecca Nurse and Giles Corey, who lost their lives in the hysteria, as well as one of our ministers, who uttered some disturbing words at an execution. Discover our nearly 400 years of history, our priceless stained glass windows, and our connections to the famous game “Monopoly”. Sit where Nathaniel Hawthorne sat in our historic meeting house. Tours are available on weekends from August to the first weekend of November! Visit our website for tickets and details. These tours are. a fundraiser for our church.
What is Included? This is a self-guided tour featuring information stations and artifacts from the church’s archives representing various moments in the church's history. There will be volunteer docents to welcome and answer questions. Children are welcome with their parents. The building is accessible for those with mobility needs. There are no restroom facilities available.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
The self-guided tour involves walking through the historic church and grounds.
Bring a camera
Capture the stunning stained glass and historic architecture.
Visit during off-peak hours
To enjoy a quieter experience, visit early in the morning or late afternoon.
Read the plaques carefully
Learn detailed stories about the church's history and artifacts from the informational markers.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Songbirds inhabiting the churchyard
- Squirrels in the surrounding trees
History
The First Church in Salem played a pivotal role during the days of the Salem witch trials, serving as a site of refuge and reconciliation for the community.
Conservation
The church actively maintains its historic structure and grounds using sustainable practices to preserve its legacy.
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Adventure Hotspots in Salem
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for exploring the church grounds comfortably.
Camera or smartphone
To photograph stained glass and historic details.
Notebook and pen
For jotting down interesting facts and stories.
Sun protection
Protect yourself during outdoor parts of the visit.
summer specific