Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa

Exploring the Haunted Side of Ottawa: A Guide to the Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa

Ottawa, Canada’s charming capital, isn’t just known for Parliament Hill and maple syrup; it also has a darker, more mysterious side that comes alive after sunset. The Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa offers a 1-hour 15-minute guided stroll through downtown, where stories of ghostly apparitions and eerie happenings unfold along some of the city’s most haunted sites. For just $25.13 per person, you’ll follow a knowledgeable guide through lantern-lit streets, uncovering tales that blend history with local legend.

What we love about this experience is the expert storytelling—guides like Monica, Felix, and Nart aren’t just narrators but storytellers who bring the ghostly tales to life with humor and insight. Plus, the location is perfect — starting just steps from Parliament Hill—making it easy to combine with sightseeing or an evening walk. On the downside, if you’re expecting a scare-fest or lots of ghost sightings, be aware that some reviews mention that Ottawa, being a younger city, doesn’t have as many obvious hauntings as older European cities. Still, the stories and atmosphere make for a memorable evening.

This tour suits those who enjoy history with a spooky twist, fans of storytelling, or anyone looking for a fun, less conventional way to explore Ottawa after dark. Families with older children, couples, and solo travelers alike find it’s a charming blend of history, humor, and spine-tingling tales.

• Authentic storytelling brings Ottawa’s haunted stories to life.
• Locations include historic landmarks, old buildings, and sites with ghostly legends.
• The tour is compact but packed with memorable tales and views.
• Guides are knowledgeable, personable, and often add humor to the stories.
• It operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather.
• It’s an excellent value for those interested in local history and ghost stories.

Navigating the Itinerary: What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour kicks off at the ticket office on 46 Sparks Street, just a short walk from Parliament Hill. From there, the guide leads you through Ottawa’s historic downtown, with stops at some of the city’s most haunted points. The walk is designed to be both atmospheric and informative—an ideal evening activity for those who love stories with a touch of the supernatural.

The Starting Point: Downtown in the Evening

Meeting at the Haunted Walk of Ottawa ticket office, we appreciated how easily accessible it was, near public transportation and central to the city’s core. The guide, whose name is often mentioned as Monica or Felix, greets you with enthusiasm and a wealth of knowledge. You’ll start by walking a short distance, with the guide sharing some background on Ottawa’s haunted reputation.

The Haunted Sites and Stories

The tour takes you past Ottawa’s oldest building, the Commissariat Building and the Lisgar Collegiate Institute, known locally as Ottawa’s haunted high school. Expect to hear tales of ghostly footsteps, mysterious apparitions, and historical tragedies associated with these places.

A highlight is the Fairmont Château Laurier, an iconic hotel with a grim connection to the Titanic. The stories of spectral sightings in this historic building add a layer of intrigue to your sightseeing. You also pass the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where legends say the spirits of workers who died during its construction still linger. The guide shares these stories as you pass by, adding a haunting dimension to this scenic spot.

The Atmosphere: Light and Shadows

The tour’s magic lies in the lantern-lit streets and the glow of city lights, which create a perfect setting for ghost stories. Most reviews highlight how the guide maintains a balance between spookiness and humor, making the experience comfortable and engaging. Monica’s storytelling, in particular, seems to hit the right note—informative yet fun.

Walks and Opportunities to Rest

While the tour involves walking, guides like Monica and Nart are attentive. As one reviewer notes, they often find stairs or benches so guests can sit and enjoy the stories. This consideration makes a difference, especially if you’re walking in cooler weather or have difficulty standing for long periods.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Authentic and Well-Researched Stories

Reviewers consistently praise the depth and authenticity of the stories. One reviewer mentions guide Jack’s well-researched tales and dedication, including a story about an Algonquin woman, showing how guides go beyond simple ghost stories—adding cultural and historical context.

A Mix of History and Legend

While some might find the ghost stories somewhat conjectural—especially given Ottawa’s relatively young age—the guides do a good job of blending legend with factual history. For instance, they discuss the thousand workers who died during the canal’s construction, giving visitors a sense of the darker side of Ottawa’s development.

The Guides Make It Special

Many reviews highlight the personality and enthusiasm of the guides. Whether Monica, Nart, or Felix, their storytelling skills, humor, and local knowledge bring the tales to life. Several reviewers mention how the guides share their own haunted experiences, adding authenticity and entertainment.

The Practicalities: Price, Duration, and Comfort

At just over $25, this tour offers very good value. It’s a short, 1 hour 15-minute walk, making it suitable for those with limited time or as part of an evening outing. The small group size—capped at 15—ensures that everyone can hear the stories and feel part of the experience.

Since it operates rain or shine, dressing appropriately is wise. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and since many stories involve walking between sites, be prepared for a bit of outdoor exposure.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is ideal for history buffs and story lovers who enjoy a spooky twist. It’s also a good choice for travelers who want to experience Ottawa from a different perspective—seeing the city’s sights while uncovering its ghostly legends. The reviews suggest it’s especially popular with couples and families with kids old enough to appreciate the stories, as the guides keep the tone friendly and engaging.

The Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa offers a compelling mix of ghost stories, historic sites, and local legends—all delivered with skill and enthusiasm by guides like Monica, Nart, or Felix. The experience’s strength lies in its storytelling and the atmosphere created by the lantern-lit streets of downtown Ottawa. At a reasonable price, it’s a fun, memorable way to explore the city’s darker tales, especially if you’re interested in a less conventional, more atmospheric evening activity.

While it may not satisfy those seeking a full-fledged ghost-hunting adventure or a deep dive into every haunted legend, it strikes a good balance between entertainment and education. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and scenic route make it a worthwhile, authentic experience for many visitors.

If you’re intrigued by Canadian haunted tales or simply want a different perspective on Ottawa’s history, this tour is likely to leave you with some spooky stories—and perhaps a few chills.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, making it a manageable and fun evening activity.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Haunted Walk of Ottawa ticket office at 46 Sparks St., just steps from Parliament Hill.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The stories are family-friendly but aimed more at older children and adults who enjoy spooky tales.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a professional guide and the guided walking experience. No additional costs are mentioned.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, it operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather conditions.

Are there opportunities to rest during the tour?
Guides often find benches or stairs for sit-down breaks, as noted in reviews, which is helpful for those who need a rest.

Is this tour good if I want a deep history lesson?
The focus is on the spooky stories and legends, so if you want a detailed historical tour, this might not satisfy that specific interest.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

By focusing on storytelling, atmospheric settings, and authentic local legends, the Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa offers a unique way to see the city after dark. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of ghost stories, or simply looking for a fun evening activity, this tour provides a memorable, entertaining experience that showcases Ottawa’s darker, mysterious side.