Ontario might be known for its lakes, cottage country, and charming small towns—but peel back the layers and you’ll find some seriously chilling legends. From ghost towns to haunted inns, these eerie destinations across the province are said to be teeming with paranormal activity. Whether you’re a ghost hunter or just curious, here are some of Ontario’s most haunted places.

👻 Picton – The Ghosts of Prince Edward Heights

Once a military training base and later an asylum, the abandoned Prince Edward Heights institution in Picton has long been the centre of local ghost stories. Urban explorers and former staff alike report flickering lights, phantom footsteps, and sudden chills—especially around the old wards and tunnels. The site is now closed to the public, but the legends remain.

🕯️ Ottawa – The Haunted Fairmont Château Laurier

This historic hotel in downtown Ottawa is more than just elegant—it's reportedly haunted by the ghost of Charles Melville Hays, the president of the Grand Trunk Railway, who commissioned the building but died aboard the Titanic just days before it opened. Guests and staff have claimed to hear whispers in empty rooms, flickering lights, and even sightings of a suited gentleman wandering the halls.

🪦 Niagara-on-the-Lake – Canada's Most Haunted Town

Often called the most haunted town in Canada, Niagara-on-the-Lake has seen centuries of bloodshed, battles, and fire. The Olde Angel Inn, originally built in the 1780s, is believed to be haunted by a British captain who was murdered during the War of 1812. Guests staying in Room #1 often report unexplained noises, flickering lights, and the feeling of being watched.

🏚️ Lucan – The Donnelly Tragedy

The small rural town of Lucan, just northwest of London, is home to one of the most infamous mass murders in Canadian history. The Donnelly family was brutally killed by a mob in 1880, and since then, ghost stories of the Black Donnellys have haunted the area. Locals have reported ghostly figures on Roman Line Road and even mysterious fires on the Donnelly property.

🔥 Toronto – Gibraltar Point Lighthouse

One of Toronto’s oldest buildings, the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse on the Toronto Islands is said to be haunted by the ghost of its first keeper, John Paul Radelmüller, who was allegedly murdered in 1815. Visitors have claimed to hear footsteps on the stairs, strange moaning, and even see lights flickering from the tower late at night—despite the lighthouse being out of operation.

🕯️ Cobourg – The Ghosts of Victoria Hall

Located in downtown Cobourg, Victoria Hall is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture with a dark twist. Staff and visitors have shared tales of a mysterious lady in white who roams the courtroom and opera house, slamming doors and flicking lights. Despite renovations, the spirits seem to have stayed put.

🧟 Penetanguishene – Discovery Harbour

This former naval and military base from the early 1800s has become a hotspot for paranormal activity. During ghost tours, guests report sightings of shadow figures, unexplained noises, and sudden temperature drops. Some believe the spirits of former soldiers still linger, watching over the grounds.

Would You Visit a Haunted Town?

Ontario is filled with spooky stories, haunted inns, and eerie landmarks that attract thrill-seekers and skeptics alike. Whether you're after ghost tours or just looking to get a little creeped out this season, these haunted towns and historic sites offer a glimpse into the province’s darker history.

Got a haunted Ontario story of your own? Drop it in the comments—we’re always hunting for new legends.