Uncover Kingston’s Haunted Past with the Original Haunted Walk of Kingston
If you’re looking to combine a little local history with some ghostly tales, the Original Haunted Walk of Kingston offers a one-hour and fifteen-minute stroll through one of Ontario’s most charming—yet spookiest—cities. For just over $25, you’ll meet your guide—sometimes in costume—at the Kingston waterfront and wind your way through downtown, passing historic landmarks like Kingston City Hall and the Kingston Public Market, all while hearing stories of supernatural happenings and ghostly encounters.
What we love about this tour is its balance of storytelling and sightseeing. The guides aren’t just spooky story tellers—they’re knowledgeable locals with a passion for Kingston’s past. Plus, the evening setting adds a fun, eerie atmosphere that heightens the stories and makes the experience more memorable. The tour’s price makes it a worthwhile option for a fun, light-hearted evening activity that doesn’t break the bank.
One thing to keep in mind is that this is an outdoor walking tour, so dress appropriately for the weather and comfortable shoes are a must. Some travelers have mentioned that winter cold can be a challenge, but overall, the experience is designed to be accessible and engaging for most. This tour is ideal for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, or anyone looking to explore Kingston’s darker, mysterious side after dark.
If you enjoy local lore, lively storytelling, and exploring on foot, this tour will suit you perfectly. It’s especially popular among families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate a good ghost story with a side of history.
Key Points
- Insightful Guides: Local storytellers who blend history with spooky tales, making the stories both entertaining and informative.
- Authentic Landmarks: Passes by Kingston’s iconic buildings like City Hall and the Public Market, enriching your understanding of the city’s past.
- Evening Atmosphere: The tour takes place after sunset, adding a mysterious, atmospheric vibe that’s perfect for ghost stories.
- Affordable Value: At just over $25, it offers a fun and memorable experience without a hefty price tag.
- Flexible Start Times: Multiple evening options allow you to choose a time that fits your schedule.
- Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 16 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate, engaging environment.
Planning more time in Kingston? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Detailed Look at the Kingston Ghost Walk Experience
What’s Included and How It Works
The tour kicks off at 200 Ontario Street, a prime spot with views of Kingston’s waterfront. From there, your guide—often dressed in costume—guides you on a roughly 75-minute walk through the downtown core. You’ll get a mix of storytelling, history, and local legends, making it both fun and slightly educational.
The use of mobile tickets means you can keep things simple, just showing your phone to get started. The guides are professionals, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable, often answering questions along the way. And with a cap of 16 travelers, you won’t feel lost in a crowd, which helps maintain a lively and personal atmosphere.
Highlights of Kingston’s Historic Landmarks
- Kingston City Hall: Completed in 1844, this stately building reflects Kingston’s status as the capital of the Province of Canada at the time. The stories around it include tales of ghostly presences and unexplained phenomena tied to its grand architecture and history.
- Kingston Public Market: Ontario’s oldest market, operating since 1801. While it’s a lively place during the day, at night, it’s a backdrop for ghost stories about the building’s long-standing presence and the spirits said to linger there.
- Hochelaga Inn: Built in 1879 for prominent Kingston lawyer and mayor John McIntyre, this is one of the favorite haunted hotels in the city. Guests and staff alike have shared spooky anecdotes that add a thrill to the tour.
- Chalmers United Church: Constructed in 1890, this church has a ghost story associated with it, stemming from its long history and layered architecture.
- St. George’s Cathedral: Dating back to 1783, it’s associated with the first organized Anglican parish in Ontario. Its historical significance and age lend themselves to ghost tales that have been passed down over generations.
What to Expect During the Tour
You’ll walk through Kingston’s charming streets, passing by beautifully preserved historic buildings. The guides are adept at weaving stories with the sights, so you’ll feel like you’re exploring Kingston’s history through an intriguing, ghostly lens. Many travelers praised their guides’ storytelling abilities—some described guides like Rebecca, Mya, and Arianne as engaging, animated, and full of local knowledge.
As you stop at each landmark, expect to hear stories of unexplained happenings, mysterious apparitions, and local legends that have persisted for decades or even centuries. Some reviews mention moments of genuine creepiness, with skin crawling and goosebumps—especially when the guide is particularly animated.
Authenticity and Atmosphere
The success of the tour hinges on the guides’ storytelling skills and the ambiance of Kingston after dark. The streets are quiet, and the historic architecture takes on a more dramatic tone in the evening shadows. This tour isn’t just about spooking you; it’s about appreciating Kingston’s layered past, understanding the stories that continue to shape its character, and enjoying a fun, social activity.
The Experience Versus Expectations
Based on reviews, many guests find this tour a fantastic mix of entertainment and education. One guest noted, “There were moments of awe, moments when your skin would crawl, and even moments of laughter,” illustrating that the stories can evoke a range of emotions. The interactive element—guides answering questions and engaging with guests—adds to the overall value.
Some reviewers mentioned that the tour is very much a walk around the city, with occasional stops, so don’t expect a long, seated experience. Instead, it’s a lively, engaging stroll that highlights Kingston’s most notable sites while sharing its spooky stories.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience appeals most to those interested in local history, ghost stories, or nighttime city walks. It’s perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers who enjoy stories with a bit of a spooky twist. Since the tour is designed to be accessible and welcoming, even those unfamiliar with Kingston will enjoy discovering its haunted corners.
Practical Tips for Your Ghostly Tour
- Dress warmly in cooler months or evenings, especially since some reviews mention how cold it can be.
- Wear comfortable shoes—this is a walking tour, after all.
- Arrive a few minutes early to meet your guide and settle in.
- Keep your phone handy, as the mobile ticket system makes check-in straightforward.
- Bring questions! Guides love sharing extra insights and answering curiosities.
- If you’re prone to being easily spooked, remember it’s all in good fun—these stories are part of Kingston’s folklore.
The Sum Up: Is the Kingston Ghost Tour Worth It?
For those who enjoy a bit of the supernatural mixed with local history, this tour offers great value. It’s well-reviewed, with enthusiastic guides who bring Kingston’s landmarks to life—or perhaps, to ghostly presence. The combination of stunning architecture, engaging storytelling, and atmospheric nighttime ambiance makes for a memorable outing.
If you’re after an authentic, approachable way to explore Kingston’s dark corners and learn some spooky stories along the way, this walk hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small-group experiences, quality storytelling, and a fun twist on sightseeing.
While it’s not a haunted house or theatrical scare-fest, it strikes a good balance—leaving you with intriguing stories and a fresh perspective on Kingston’s historic streets. For a modest price, you get a unique, memorable way to experience the city after dark.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children? Many reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, especially since the stories are engaging without being overly frightening. It’s a fun way for kids and teens to learn local history too.
How long does the tour last? Approximately 75 minutes, walking through Kingston’s downtown and nearby neighborhoods.
Are the guides in costume? Sometimes guides dress in costume, adding to the spooky atmosphere, but this is not guaranteed at all times.
What landmarks will we see? The tour passes Kingston City Hall, Kingston Public Market, Hochelaga Inn, Chalmers United Church, and St. George’s Cathedral.
Can I cancel the tour if I change my mind? Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.
What’s the price? Around $25.12 per person, making it an affordable night activity.
Is the tour accessible? Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or snow, you can reschedule or get a full refund.
How many people are in each tour group? A maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.
What are the start times? Multiple evening start times are available, so you can choose a time that fits your schedule.
Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost story lover, or just looking for a fun evening activity in Kingston, the Original Haunted Walk of Kingston offers a lighthearted yet intriguing glimpse into the city’s past—and perhaps, its spirits.