Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa

Ottawa’s Haunted Secrets: A Walk Through the Dark Side

If you’re after a different way to see Ottawa and love a good spooky story, the Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa might just be your thing. This guided tour takes you through the city’s historic streets, revealing some of its most haunted sites, complete with tales that will give you chills. We haven’t done it ourselves, but with hundreds of reviews and a solid reputation, it’s clearly a popular choice for those curious about Ottawa’s eerie history.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines engaging storytelling with a chance to see key landmarks—think of it as a spooky history lesson with a lantern in hand. The guides are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, which makes the experience genuinely captivating. Also, at just over 25 dollars, it offers pretty good value for a unique 75-minute adventure. The only thing to keep in mind is that, given the city’s age, the stories lean more on ghostly tales rather than concrete spooky incidents, so if you’re expecting intense haunting encounters, you might be a bit disappointed.

This tour works best for history lovers, fans of the supernatural, or travelers looking for a fun, slightly spooky evening in the city. It’s suitable for most travelers, but since it involves walking and outdoor elements, dressing appropriately for weather is a good idea. Families with older children might enjoy it, especially if they like ghost stories, but very young kids may not find it as compelling.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling makes the tour engaging and memorable.
• Well-researched stories add depth, emphasizing Ottawa’s haunted sites and history.
• Good value for money, considering the duration and quality of the guides.
• Flexible departure times allow you to pick what fits your schedule.
• Comfortable group size (max 15 travelers) keeps the experience intimate and manageable.
• Weather-proof operation, so it runs in all conditions—just dress for the outdoors.

Exploring Ottawa’s Haunted Heritage: An In-Depth Look

What the Tour Is All About

The Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa is more than just a casual stroll; it’s a curated experience that aims to uncover Ottawa’s darker, ghostly past. The tour lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes, making it perfect for an evening activity after sightseeing or dinner. Starting just a short walk from Parliament Hill, the tour guides you through some of the city’s most historic and supposedly haunted locations.

The main appeal here is the way stories are woven into the city’s most recognizable landmarks, bringing history alive in a new, spooky way. For example, the tour visits the Fairmont Château Laurier—an iconic hotel with a grim tie to the Titanic—and the Rideau Canal, which is believed to be haunted by workers who lost their lives during its construction. They also stop at the oldest building, the Commissariat Building, and the infamous Lisgar Collegiate Institute, known as Ottawa’s haunted high school.

What to Expect During the Walk

The tour kicks off at the Haunted Walk ticket office on Sparks Street, just a stone’s throw from Parliament Hill, ensuring easy access and good visibility for travelers. Once started, your guide leads you through downtown Ottawa, illuminated by lantern light, which adds to the spooky atmosphere. You’re likely to see some of the city’s most haunted spots, with stories that range from ghost sightings and mysterious noises to grim historical connections.

Guests have mentioned that guides are not just storytellers but historians and entertainers. One reviewer raves about Guide Jack, describing him as “super smart, informed, and very professional,” who even dedicated a story to an Algonquin woman. Another highlights Monica as delightful, and Nart as engaging and humorous, emphasizing that the guides’ personalities significantly enhance the tour.

Highlights of the Tour

The tour’s stops are carefully selected to maximize the spooky experience while offering insight into Ottawa’s past. Visiting the Fairmont Château Laurier, you’ll hear about its eerie connection to the Titanic—an intriguing story that adds a layer of historical mystery. The Rideau Canal, UNESCO World Heritage site, is not only scenic but steeped in ghost stories about workers who perished building it, bringing a poignant, chilling edge to the walk. The Ottawa River’s historic locks and the oldest building in the city add further layers of history and mystery.

The Group Size and Atmosphere

With a cap of 15 travelers, the tour feels intimate, allowing guides to connect better with guests and tailor the storytelling experience. Reviewers consistently mention how the small group size makes the walk more engaging, and many appreciate the opportunity to sit during some parts of the tour, especially if weather is chilly—something noted by a reviewer who braved Ottawa’s winter weather.

Practical Details and Booking

The tour costs around $25.13 per person, which seems reasonable given the guided experience and the stories shared. It’s booked through Viator, with flexible departure times, so you can choose what fits your schedule best. The tour operates in all weather conditions—so plans should include dressing appropriately. Since it’s a walking tour, comfortable shoes are a must, especially in colder months.

You’ll meet at 46 Sparks Street, a central spot near public transportation, making it quite accessible. The entire experience ends back where it started, making logistics straightforward.

The Guide’s Role in the Experience

According to reviews, guides are the true highlight. They are described as knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and capable of making history come alive. One reviewer mentions that Monica’s storytelling added a lot to the experience, and another praises Felix for his stories and walk. The guides often share personal haunted experiences, which adds authenticity and makes the tales more compelling.

What the Reviews Say

Most reviews are glowing, with a 4.6/5 rating based on 280 reviews. Guests love the guides’ storytelling skills and the mix of history and ghost stories. One reviewer appreciates that the tour isn’t too long, with opportunities to sit down, which makes it suitable for most travelers’ stamina levels.

A few less enthusiastic reviews mention that Ottawa, being a relatively young city, doesn’t have as many ghost stories as older cities might, and some found the stories more conjecture than fact. Still, the general consensus is that it’s an entertaining, well-guided walk that offers a fun alternative to traditional sightseeing.

Value for Money

At just over $25, the tour is a good deal, especially considering the lively storytelling, the scenic route, and the knowledgeable guides. It’s a good value for those wanting to add some spooky flair to their Ottawa visit without breaking the bank.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy ghost stories, history buffs, or travelers looking for a relaxed, engaging evening activity. If you’re a group that appreciates storytelling with a touch of mystery, you’ll likely find this tour memorable. It’s also suitable for slightly older children, especially if they enjoy spooky tales, though very young kids might not find the stories as captivating.

Keep in mind, this is a walking outdoor tour, so weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes are a must. It’s a good choice whether you’re visiting Ottawa for a short trip or want an evening activity that combines fun and learning.

The Sum Up

The Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa offers a fun, atmospheric way to explore the city’s darker history, guided by personable, knowledgeable storytellers. It’s a relaxed experience that balances historical sites with ghostly tales, making it a great pick for those interested in Ottawa’s spooky side or simply looking for a different kind of city tour.

The small group size and engaging guides help create an intimate, lively atmosphere, ensuring you won’t feel lost in a crowd. Given the reasonable price point and consistently positive reviews, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Ottawa itinerary—especially if you appreciate stories that mix history with a dash of the supernatural.

If you’re curious about Ottawa’s haunted past and enjoy a good story, this tour will likely entertain and intrigue in equal measure. Just remember to dress for the weather and bring your sense of adventure and curiosity.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children can participate as long as they are accompanied by an adult. Older kids interested in ghost stories and history will probably enjoy it, but very young children might not find it as engaging.

What should I wear for the tour?
Since the tour takes place outdoors and in all weather conditions, dress appropriately. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially if it’s cold or rainy.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. It’s a manageable length, making it perfect for an evening activity without feeling too long or rushed.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are not eligible for refund.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket grants you a guided walking experience led by a professional storyteller. The tour operates with a small group, usually no more than 15 travelers.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 46 Sparks Street, Ottawa, and ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward for participants.

This walk isn’t for those expecting intense haunted house scares but rather for lovers of history, storytelling, and spooky tales told with a sense of fun and respect. If that sounds appealing, it’s likely to be a highlight of your Ottawa visit.