Paranormal Investigation – Old Sainte Antoine Cemetery

Paranormal Investigation – Old Sainte Antoine Cemetery: A Genuinely Intriguing Night in Montreal

When you hear Montreal‘s history, it’s often about its vibrant neighborhoods or stunning architecture. But behind the facades of Dorchester Square and Place du Canada lies a darker, more ghostly story. The Paranormal Investigation at Old Sainte Antoine Cemetery offers a two-hour journey into this hidden past, led by Dominique Desormeaux, a seasoned paranormal expert. For about $50, you get a chance to explore the site of roughly 70,000 burials, many in mass graves from cholera epidemics of the 19th century, and to try your hand at communicating with spirits using ghost-hunting equipment.

What we love most about this experience is the combination of history and mystery. First, the guide’s storytelling makes the area’s gruesome past come alive, especially the details about doctors autopsying bodies openly and people being buried alive—things that make your skin crawl a little but add incredible depth to the experience. Second, the hands-on aspect of trying to reach out to spirits with tools like EMF readers or dowsing rods appeals to those curious about the unknown and adds a fun, interactive element that elevates the evening beyond just a walk through the dark.

A key consideration is that the experience is conducted outdoors in the evening, meaning weather can influence the comfort level. Plus, while the tour is engaging for those interested in paranormal stories or Montreal’s hidden history, it may not be as exciting for travelers seeking a more active or physically demanding outing. This tour is best suited for anyone who loves mysteries, ghost stories, or wants a different perspective on Montreal’s urban landscape—especially if you’re comfortable with some spooky tales and a bit of darkness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Historical context: Learn about the cholera epidemics and the grim realities of 19th-century Montreal.
• Interactive ghost-hunting: Use equipment like EMF meters and dowsing rods to try communicating with spirits.
• Expert guidance: The tour is led by Dominique Desormeaux, a knowledgeable paranormal guide who shares insights and stories.
• Urban exploration: Discover how the cemetery’s ghostly activity is linked to surrounding haunted buildings like the Sun Life Building or St. Georges Anglican Church.
• Location & meeting spot: Starts near the statue of Sir Wilfrid Laurier in Dorchester Square, easily accessible downtown.
• Weather considerations: Outdoor setting means weather can impact your comfort and the experience.

A Detailed Look at the Paranormal Investigation Tour

A Dark History Beneath Montreal’s Urban Parks

The Old Sainte Antoine Cemetery is a startling piece of Montreal’s past. From 1799 to 1855, this site saw an estimated 70,000 burials, mostly due to Cholera outbreaks. The site’s history of atrocities—such as bodies being autopsied openly and infants receiving distressing baptisms—gives the tour a potent, if unsettling, backdrop. Exploring this history isn’t just about the gruesome details; it offers insight into the struggles of early Montreal and why the area might still be haunted today.

The location remains largely hidden beneath the surfaces of Dorchester Square and Place du Canada, some of downtown Montreal’s most popular parks. Despite their peaceful appearance today, these parks are considered hot spots for paranormal activity. The tour makes this contrast clear, weaving historical facts with ghost stories that capture the imagination.

What the Tour Entails

The experience begins at the statue of Sir Wilfrid Laurier in Dorchester Square. From there, you’ll meet your guide, Dominique, who introduces you to the tools and techniques used in ghost-hunting. Expect a mix of storytelling, history, and hands-on activities that aren’t just for thrill-seekers but also for those genuinely curious about the supernatural.

Over the course of two hours, you’ll explore both Dorchester Square and Place du Canada, with a focus on the former where the cemetery remains beneath your feet. The guide explains how many of the spirits are believed to linger, often linked to the horrors of the past—such as mass graves, disease, and violence.

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Using Ghost-Hunting Equipment

You’ll be introduced to a variety of devices, including EMF (Electromagnetic Field) Readers, dowsing rods, and temperature guns. These are designed to help you detect paranormal activity or communicate with spirits. The guide will demonstrate how to use each device and provide techniques to interpret the readings. It’s more than just playing with gadgets; it’s about understanding how these tools are believed to interact with the spirit world.

The Surrounding Haunted Landmarks

Apart from the cemetery itself, the tour takes a broader view by mentioning haunted buildings nearby, such as the Sun Life Building, Old Windsor Hotel, Chateau Champlain Hotel, St. Georges Anglican Church, and the Marie-Reine-du Monde Basilica. These structures are reputedly haunted and contribute to the area’s overall spooky atmosphere. The guide shares stories and legends tied to these sites, giving a richer context that extends beyond the cemetery.

Authentic Stories and Personal Experiences

One review highlights how knowledgeable guides make the experience memorable, stating, “Très bon guide” (very good guide). However, the same review mentions weather as a factor—rain made the experience less enjoyable, which is worth considering if you’re planning your visit during inclement weather.

Practical Aspects: Price, Duration, Accessibility

At around 50 dollars per person, the tour offers good value, considering the depth of storytelling and interactive elements. It’s a 2-hour experience, suitable for most ages, and the tour is wheelchair accessible. The starting point is conveniently located in central downtown Montreal, making it easy to reach without long travel times.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

While the ghost-hunting aspect is designed to be fun and engaging, the real appeal lies in the historical storytelling coupled with the urban legend of paranormal activity. The guide’s expertise and the eerie atmosphere of the parks after dark make this experience stand out.

What Could Be Improved?

One potential drawback is that weather can heavily influence the experience. As noted in reviews, rain or cold can dampen spirits—literally and figuratively. Plus, the rating of 3.7 from three reviews suggests that while many enjoy it, some may find it less compelling, especially if their expectations aren’t aligned with a guided ghost-hunting tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those interested in history and ghost stories, especially if you enjoy interactive experiences. It suits adventurers who don’t mind the outdoors at night and are curious about Montreal’s hidden, darker stories. If you’re a fan of paranormal TV shows or just love exploring urban legends, this experience offers a genuine taste of Montreal’s mysterious side.

However, if you’re looking for a more intense paranormal investigation or have mobility issues, you might want to consider your weather options or look for a similar experience with indoor options.

The Sum Up

The Paranormal Investigation at Old Sainte Antoine Cemetery offers a unique blend of history, mystery, and fun. Led by an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore a site with a chilling past and a reputation for haunted activity. The interactive element of using ghost-hunting tools adds a playful, hands-on dimension that elevates the experience from mere storytelling.

For travelers who enjoy urban exploration with a spooky twist, this tour provides both insights into Montreal’s darker past and a chance to engage with the supernatural. It’s best suited for those open to a little darkness, a few ghost stories, and a night walk through a city’s hidden history.

While weather can sometimes be a limiting factor, the combination of stunning parks, haunted legends, and a professional guide makes this tour a memorable addition to your Montreal trip—especially if you’re after something unusual and a little eerie.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most ages, given its outdoor, walking nature and the focus on history and ghost stories. However, children should be supervised and may find the dark, spooky atmosphere a bit intense.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable evening activity without being overly exhausting.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the statue of Sir Wilfrid Laurier in Dorchester Square. The guide will be waiting there, and the meeting point is easy to find in downtown Montreal.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but if you have specific needs, it’s best to confirm with the provider beforehand.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to download any ghost-hunting apps beforehand if you’re interested in using them. Wear comfortable shoes, and bring weather-appropriate clothing, especially if rain is forecasted.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

What’s the best time to go?
Evening hours are ideal for the spooky ambiance, typically around sunset or after dark, but check availability for specific starting times.

In all, if you’re curious about Montreal’s haunted past and enjoy a bit of the supernatural with a knowledgeable guide, this tour will give you both a spooky thrill and some fascinating stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby