If you’re curious about Ottawa’s darker side or just love a good spooky story with a dash of history, the Haunted Walk at Beechwood Cemetery National Historic Site might catch your interest. This tour offers a blend of storytelling, haunted tales, and a chance to walk among historic graves, making it a unique way to spend an evening in the city. I’ve looked into what travelers are saying and what to expect, so whether you’re a history buff, a ghost story enthusiast, or just someone looking for an unusual experience, this might be worth considering.
What I really appreciate about this tour is how it balances history and ghost stories in a respectful outdoor setting. Plus, the opportunity to walk inside the mausoleum after dark is a rare treat that adds a bit of excitement. That said, it’s not all perfect — the outdoor nature and evening timing mean you should be prepared for weather and some dark, potentially spooky surroundings.
This experience tends to suit those who are interested in local history, enjoy storytelling, and don’t mind a bit of a ghostly chill. It’s a laid-back, walkable tour that feels more like an engaging story session than a haunted house scare, making it accessible even if you’re not a hardcore paranormal fan. Just keep in mind the outdoor component and the time of day.
Key Points
- Authentic storytelling makes for an engaging evening, blending history with ghostly tales.
- The inside mausoleum visit at sunset is a rare and memorable part of the experience.
- The tour is outdoors most of the time, so dress appropriately for weather.
- It’s a relatively short, 1 hour 15 minutes experience, good for an easy evening activity.
- The cost of around $25 seems reasonable for the storytelling, the mausoleum visit, and the historic setting.
- The small group size (up to 20 travelers) keeps it intimate and manageable.
An Honest Look at the Haunted Walk at Beechwood Cemetery
If you’re into stories with a spooky vibe, this Haunted Walk offers a compelling way to experience Ottawa’s historic cemetery. The tour is designed to be both eerie and educational, blending ghost stories with the history of Beechwood Cemetery, which is a designated National Historic Site. It’s a chance to walk among old crypts, gravestones, and markers, all while listening to tales that might send a shiver down your spine.
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What’s Included and How It Works
The tour lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes, starting at 280 Beechwood Ave. in Vanier. The price hovers around $25, which covers the mobile ticket, storytelling, and the rare opportunity to step inside the mausoleum at sunset. Most travelers book about a week in advance, which suggests it’s popular but not overly crowded.
The experience begins outdoors, walking among the gravestones and markers. The storytelling is the core of this tour — expect to hear the darker side of Beechwood’s history, along with ghost tales connected to those buried there. The stories are shared by a knowledgeable guide, who adds wit and insight, making the experience lively and engaging.
The Walk Through Beechwood Cemetery
The first part of the tour gets you walking among historic graves, which immediately sets a somber, reflective tone. The stories shared here range from historical anecdotes to reports of strange activity from staff, which continue to this day. One reviewer noted that the stories are well-told and comparable to other popular Ottawa tours, like the jail tour, but with a more reflective, historical vibe.
The highlight for many is the final stop inside the mausoleum. This is a rare chance to step inside after sunset, adding to the spooky atmosphere. The guide shares one last chilling story here, making it a fitting climax.
What Travelers Are Saying
Reviewers generally give high marks — a 4.3 average out of 6 reviews. Several comments praise the storytelling skills of the guides, mentioning they are witty, insightful, and engaging. One reviewer noted that the host “Caralyn was knowledgable and spoke smoothly,” adding to the tour’s smooth flow.
Another reviewer expressed disappointment at missing out on the experience due to a scheduling conflict, but overall, the sentiment is positive. The small group size of 20 travelers keeps the experience intimate, allowing for more interaction and better storytelling.
Practical Details
- Meeting Point: 280 Beechwood Ave.
- Duration: About 1 hour 15 minutes
- Weather: The tour is outdoor-heavy, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.
- Accessibility: Service animals are allowed, and the location is near public transit.
- Booking: Most travelers book 8 days in advance; cancellations are free if done 24 hours ahead.
Value for Money
At just over $25, this tour offers a mix of entertainment, education, and a bit of thrill. You’re paying not just for the stories but also for the unique chance to explore a historic cemetery after hours and inside the mausoleum — which you might find hard to do otherwise.
Overall Impression
We loved the way the tour combines history with a spooky narrative, making it engaging without feeling overly commercialized. The storytelling is strong, the setting atmospheric, and the mausoleum visit a memorable highlight. It’s a relaxed experience suited for those who enjoy a good story, some history, and don’t mind the outdoors at dusk.
If you’re after a more intense haunted house or horror experience, this might not be your first pick. But if you’re curious about local stories, enjoy walking outdoors, and like a good ghost tale, this is a solid choice. It’s especially good for those who appreciate a storytelling approach over jump scares.
Haunted Walk at Beechwood Cemetery National Historic Site
“They tell good stories I have been coming last year. Its a good way to meet new people to. If you like to learn history. If thats your thing. I hig…”
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally an outdoor, storytelling experience meant for adults and older teens. While not explicitly family-focused, kids interested in history or ghost stories might enjoy it, but keep in mind the outdoor dark setting.
How long does the tour last?
It runs about 1 hour 15 minutes, which makes it a manageable, relaxed activity for an evening.
What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes the storytelling, the walk among gravestones, and the inside visit of the mausoleum at sunset.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. No refunds are available if you cancel later.
Is this tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, it’s near public transit, making it convenient to reach without a car.
What should I wear?
Dress for the weather, as most of the tour is outdoors. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking on uneven surfaces.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather. In case of bad weather, you might be offered a different date or a full refund.
How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 20, which helps keep the experience intimate and easy to follow.
In sum, the Haunted Walk at Beechwood Cemetery offers a nicely balanced experience of history and ghostly storytelling, with the added thrill of stepping inside the mausoleum at sunset. It’s a storytelling adventure that’s well-suited for those who enjoy a mix of history, spooky tales, and a quiet walk through a historic site. Just remember to dress warmly, check the weather, and arrive ready for a night of atmospheric stories and a taste of Ottawa’s haunted past.