Haunted Old Montreal Ghost Walking Tour

If you’re curious about Montreal’s darker past and enjoy a good ghost story, the Haunted Old Montreal Ghost Walking Tour offers an intriguing way to explore one of Canada’s most historic neighborhoods after dark. This 1.5-hour walk—led by a professional actor and storyteller—promises tales of haunted sites, eerie legends, and the city’s colonial past, all with a theatrical flair. It’s an experience that combines history, entertainment, and a touch of the supernatural, making it a worthwhile addition to your Montreal itinerary.

What we love about this tour is the way it blends historical storytelling with theatrical presentation, making the past come alive in a vivid and sometimes creepy way. The guide’s storytelling skills—funny, engaging, and packed with details—turn what could be just a walk into a memorable adventure. We also appreciate the value for price—at just $24 per person, it’s an affordable way to get a unique glimpse into Montreal’s haunted quarters.

One potential drawback? The tour does not go indoors, and there are no jumpscares or theatrical frights beyond the stories. So, if you’re expecting a haunted house experience or highly interactive scares, this might not satisfy. Still, it’s perfect for those who enjoy dark tales, history, and a little spooky atmosphere on a mild evening.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, families with teens, and anyone interested in Montreal’s more mysterious side. It’s also a great choice for travelers who appreciate well-told stories and theatrical presentation in a historic setting.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from a professional actor makes the histories of Old Montreal come alive.
• The tour covers iconic haunted locations like the Château Ramezay, Place d’Armes, and the Courthouse District.
• It blends history and paranormal tales, including stories of Marie-Joseph Angélique and other historic figures.
• The tour’s affordable price point offers good value for a 1.5-hour experience.
• No indoor visits or jumpscares, focusing instead on stories and atmospheric locations.
• The tour is suitable for a broad audience, including families, history lovers, and ghost hunters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Haunted Old Montreal Ghost Walking Tour

Setting the Scene: Old Montreal’s Haunted Reputation

Old Montreal isn’t just charming with its cobblestone streets and vintage buildings—it’s also known for its dark past. Since the days of colonial settlement, the neighborhood has witnessed wars, plagues, fires, and crimes that echo through its alleyways and historic sites. These events seem to have left behind more than just memories; many claim to have seen or felt strange presences, especially at night.

The tour ventures through several of these historic sites, each with its own story and ghostly reputation. The atmosphere is enhanced by the theatrical narration—a professional actor guides you through these tales, making history feel alive, and sometimes chilling.

Tour Details and What to Expect

The tour starts at a new meeting point, in front of the Bank of Montreal Clock on St. Jacques Street, due to local construction. It’s a convenient spot, just a short walk from Metro Place d’Armes. We recommend arriving at least 10 minutes early to settle in and meet your guide.

Over the next 90 minutes, you’ll visit key landmarks like:

• Place d’Armes and Rue St. Paul: Historically bustling areas now said to be haunted by spirits of past residents.
• The Courthouse District: Once the site of many executions, including the infamous Champs-de-Mars, where public hangings once drew crowds and even picnic lunches. The area reportedly still sees ghostly activity.
• Château Ramezay: An 18th-century museum haunted by the ghost of a former warden called Miss O’Dowd, who allegedly terrifies visitors with her antics.
• The site of Montreal’s first British Jail: Now only cells remain beneath Place Vauquelin, but visitors report paranormal activity.
• Marie-Joseph Angélique: The story of this enslaved woman, hanged for an unproven arson, remains one of the most haunting legends of the neighborhood.

Throughout the walk, the guide shares vivid tales of tragedies, fires, executions, and infamous figures. For example, the story of Marie-Joseph Angélique is particularly impactful—her tragic tale is a window into the darker side of Montreal’s colonial past.

The Theatrical Element: More Than Just a Walk

Led by a professional actor and storyteller, the tour feels like a theatrical performance. The stories are presented with flair, humor, and a strong sense of atmosphere. We loved the way the guide’s storytelling added a layer of drama, making the history more engaging.

Many reviews emphasize the quality of the guides. One traveler said, “Anton (?) was great, his English was easy and clear, and he was likeable, friendly, and funny.” Others praised the energy and storytelling skills of guides like Kara and Jason, who kept the audience fully engaged with their energetic narration.

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The Value of the Experience

At $24 per person, this tour offers exceptional value. It’s a fun, accessible way to learn about Montreal’s complex history while enjoying a spooky evening walk. Keep in mind that no indoor visits or jumpscares are included, so if you’re seeking a haunted house experience or intense scares, this isn’t it.

You might find the tour particularly appealing if you’re interested in historical stories with authentic details. For example, the story of the fire at Hotel-Dieu Hospital or the ghost of Jeanne Le Ber, a Catholic recluse, adds depth to the ghostly legends.

The Experience: Atmosphere and Engagement

As you stroll beneath old buildings and along uneven cobblestones, the atmosphere naturally lends itself to ghost stories. The lighting is modest, the historic streets are evocative, and the guide’s storytelling makes these sites feel alive—sometimes a little too alive.

The tour is suitable for a wide age range and is generally described as fun and engaging. One traveler mentioned, “My teens loved it,” while another said, “We didn’t know about haunted Montreal, but it’s a great experience and activity to share.”

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Dress warmlyespecially in cooler months; evenings can be chilly.
• Arrive early to meet your guide and settle in.
• The tour happens rain or shine so come prepared with an umbrella if needed.
• It’s a walking tour but doesn’t involve indoor stops or strenuous activity.
• No jumpscares or indoor visits—more story-driven than scare-driven.
• The tour lasts for 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity after a day of sightseeing.

Summary of the Reviews

The overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 24 reviews showcases broad satisfaction. Travelers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides and their ability to make history entertaining and spooky at the same time. Many highlight how the stories feel authentic and immersive, with one reviewer noting how they felt “totally immersed” in the tales.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This ghost walk is ideal for history enthusiasts, ghost lovers, and families with teens seeking a fun, spooky activity. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate stories told with skill and theatrical flair. If you’re traveling with kids who love ghost stories but don’t want overly scary experiences, this is a good pick.

It’s also a great way to see some of Old Montreal’s most historic landmarks, all while hearing stories that bring the past to life. The affordable price point makes it accessible, and since it runs in the evening, it complements daytime sightseeing well.

Final Thoughts

The Haunted Old Montreal Ghost Walking Tour offers an entertaining, educational, and slightly eerie way to explore one of Canada’s most historic neighborhoods. Thanks to the expert storytelling and the stunning locations, it manages to be both fun and enriching.

While it isn’t a haunted house or a scare fest—so don’t expect jumpscares or indoor ghost hunts—it compensates with authentic tales, atmospheric settings, and the charm of a seasoned guide. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a different perspective on Montreal’s past, with a dash of the supernatural.

Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost enthusiast, or just curious about Montreal’s darker side, this tour will leave you with stories to tell and a new appreciation for the city’s haunted corners.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable evening activity without feeling rushed.

What is the meeting point?
Meet the guide next to the Bank of Montreal Clock at 155 St. Jacques Street, on the northeast corner of St. Francois-Xavier and St. Jacques Streets.

Are indoor visits included?
No, the tour does not include indoor visits. It focuses on walking through historic outdoor sites and hearing stories outside.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that teenagers enjoyed the stories, and it’s generally suitable for families. However, it’s best for kids who enjoy ghost stories and history.

What language are guides available in?
Guides are available in both French and English.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
Yes, the tour happens in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your travel plans shift.

Is this tour good value for the price?
Absolutely—at $24 per person, it provides a fun, atmospheric experience that combines history and entertainment. It’s a unique way to see Old Montreal after hours.

To sum it up, if you’re seeking a cost-effective, atmospheric, and story-rich exploration of Old Montreal’s haunted sites, this ghost walk is a charming choice. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic storytelling and want to experience Montreal’s mysterious aura with a bit of theatrical flair. With friendly guides, engaging tales, and historic landmarks, it’s sure to add a memorable twist to your visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: