Orignal Haunted Walk of Kingston 75-Minute Ghost Tour

Discover Kingston’s spooky side on the Original Haunted Walk of Kingston, a 75-minute ghost tour that combines eerie tales with historic landmarks. For just $25.12 per person, this walking tour offers an engaging way to experience the city after dark, led by a professional storyteller or historian. The tour departs from 200 Ontario Street, featuring views of the Kingston Waterfront, and takes you past key sites such as Kingston City Hall, Kingston Public Market, and notable haunted buildings like the Hochelaga Inn.

This tour is highly flexible, offering multiple evening start times, making it easy to fit into most schedules. With a maximum group size of 16, the atmosphere remains intimate, allowing for personalized storytelling. Priced reasonably and with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 104 reviews, this experience is popular among those interested in local history, ghost stories, and nighttime city walks.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 75 minutes of walking through downtown Kingston.
• Price: A very affordable $25.12 per person.
• Start Point: Begins at 200 Ontario Street with waterfront views.
• Highlights: Visits to Kingston City Hall, Kingston Public Market, and haunted buildings like Hochelaga Inn.
• Guides: Led by professional storytellers or historians, often dressed for the occasion.
• Reviews: Enjoys a 4.6/5 rating from over 100 reviews, with many praising the storytelling quality and historical details.

Starting Point at Kingston’s Waterfront with Scenic Views

The ghost tour begins at 200 Ontario Street, a location offering beautiful views of the Kingston Waterfront. This spot serves as a fitting introduction to the city’s character, combining natural beauty with historic surroundings. The meeting point is easy to access, with nearby public transportation options. The start time is flexible, with multiple evening options to suit different schedules.

From this central location, the tour quickly moves into the downtown area, allowing you to see Kingston’s streets illuminated after sunset. The lively evening atmosphere enhances the spooky storytelling, setting a perfect mood for the adventure ahead.

Exploring Historic Kingston City Hall’s Haunted Reputation

One of the key stops is the Kingston City Hall, built in 1844. This grand building reflects Kingston’s status as the capital of the Province of Canada at the time. The guide shares stories about its past, revealing why many consider it one of Kingston’s most haunted structures. Its architecture and age contribute to an authentic sense of history and mystery, making it a favorite among guests.

While we don’t have specific ghost stories about the City Hall, its historical significance and nighttime presence make it a compelling stop. The guide’s storytelling skills bring the building’s past to life, creating a sense of intrigue and supernatural possibility.

Visiting the Oldest Market in Ontario at Night

The Kingston Public Market is the oldest market in Ontario, operating since 1801. During the tour, this lively spot transforms into a backdrop for ghost stories about Kingston’s community life and unseen happenings. Though primarily a daytime hub, visiting at night gives a different perspective, emphasizing its long-standing importance in city life.

The market’s historic charm and the guide’s tales of local legends offer an engaging mix of history and supernatural lore. Its central location and lively atmosphere make it a memorable part of the tour.

The Haunted Hochelaga Inn and Other Notable Buildings

A highlight of the tour is the story of Hochelaga Inn, built in 1879 for Kingston’s prominent lawyer and mayor, John McIntyre. It’s regarded as Kingston’s favorite haunted hotel, with stories of spirits and unexplained noises. Hearing about its history and ghostly reputation adds an extra layer of spookiness to the walk.

Another notable location is the Chalmers United Church, constructed in 1890. Originally The Chalmers Free Presbyterian Church, it was renamed in 1925 when the United Church of Canada was formed. The guide recounts a ghost story associated with this building, enriching the tour’s supernatural themes.

The Historic St. George’s Anglican Cathedral’s Role in Kingston’s Spirit Lore

The St. George’s Cathedral, associated with Ontario’s first organized Anglican parish dating to 1783, is another stop that deepens the haunted narrative. Rebuilt in 1825, it replaced an earlier structure, and the guide discusses its connections to Kingston’s spiritual history and tales of spirit sightings. Walking by these historic buildings at night enhances their mysterious aura.

The Live Guide Experience and Storytelling Style

Guides like Rebecca, Arianne, Tamara, and Chips are praised for their engaging storytelling and knowledgeable delivery. They often dress for the occasion, adding to the immersive atmosphere, and respond thoroughly to questions. Their ability to blend historical facts with supernatural tales makes the tour especially captivating.

Guests appreciate guides who wait for everyone’s attention, speak clearly, and use dramatic flair to heighten the spooky effect. The personal touch and enthusiasm are often highlighted as key strengths.

Practical Details: Booking, Accessibility, and Group Size

The tour features a mobile ticket system, simplifying the booking process. It is suitable for most travelers and has service animals allowed. The maximum group size of 16 ensures an intimate experience, minimizing crowding and allowing for better interaction with the guide.

Cancellation is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. Weather considerations are important, as the tour requires good conditions; poor weather may lead to rescheduling or refunds.

Audience and Suitability

This ghost walk appeals most to those interested in local history, ghost stories, and evening walks. It suits adults and families, given the engaging storytelling and moderate physical activity involved. The tour’s length and setting make it ideal for a relaxed yet spooky evening outing.

Final Thoughts on the Haunted Walk of Kingston

The Original Haunted Walk of Kingston offers a fun and informative way to see Kingston’s historic core after dark. The affordable price, combined with skilled guides and well-chosen stops, creates a memorable experience. It’s especially recommended for history buffs who enjoy a spooky twist, or visitors seeking a different perspective on Kingston’s landmarks.

While the tour’s ghost stories are a highlight, the historical insights and scenic downtown walk provide genuine added value. The intimate group size and flexible start times make it accessible and enjoyable for most visitors. This tour delivers a well-balanced mix of entertainment, education, and eerie charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ghost tour?
The tour lasts approximately 75 minutes.

What is the price?
The cost is $25.12 per person.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 200 Ontario Street in Kingston, near the waterfront.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, guides like Rebecca, Arianne, Tamara, and Chips are praised for their engaging storytelling and historical knowledge.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and since it’s a walking tour with engaging stories, it’s generally suitable for families, but best for those who enjoy ghost stories and history.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is the tour accessible?
The tour is near public transportation and suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed.

What landmarks are visited during the tour?
Stops include Kingston City Hall, Kingston Public Market, Hochelaga Inn, Chalmers United Church, and St. George’s Cathedral.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of historic buildings and spooky stories, professional guides, and flexible evening start times make it a popular and memorable experience in Kingston.