+15 Wicked Haunted Hotels in Ontario & Their Ghost Stories
When things go bump in the night not all will run and hide! Some people love a good goosebump inducing adventure, like myself. For those brave souls looking for a unique getaway I recommend staying at one of the many haunted hotels in Ontario.
I’ve rounded up the best haunted places to stay in Ontario and am sharing their ghost stories. While some guests have come and gone, some linger into the afterlife. These ghosts won’t be keeping your bed warm for you, so pack your warm and cozy pajamas. And keep Ghostbusters on speed dial!
Top Haunted Hotels in Ontario
Throughout the province lie a long list of attractions, some of which are tied to ghost stories. While some visitors are drawn to peaceful locations, others crave a little more excitement! After over 40 years of chasing ghosts, I created a mighty list of over 50 haunted places in Ontario. And to accompany that, I’ve rounded up a ghastly list of creepy accommodations that include hair-raising historic hotels and mysterious motels in Ontario where you can stay, if you dare!
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Merrill House Hotel
One of the most popular destinations in Ontario is Prince Edward County! Known for its incredible beaches and wineries, The County is also home to a few haunted places, some of which are hotels.
In the town of Picton is a beautiful boutique hotel called the Merrill House. Originally built in 1878 for Judge Edwards Merrill, it is now lovingly restored into an award-winning hotel. This red-bricked Victorian house has individually styled rooms with pillow-top mattresses, en-suite bathrooms, and some even feature fireplaces. Plus, guests also receive a hot breakfast and can choose to dine in their upscale restaurant in the evenings.
Before you book your stay, let it be known that the Merrill House Hotel is haunted. So much so that they even offer a Haunted Room Package! The room in question is within the old servant’s quarters. Throughout the room you’ll find quirky pieces that include Zimbabwean voodoo dolls and a spirit board.
Guests have reported seeing The Marchioness of Lorne’s spirit, beyond her portrait that hangs in the suite named after her. In addition, staff have seen the ghosts of young children in the haunted room too!
Fairmont Royal York
It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in Toronto, and the Fairmont Royal York is also one of the most popular haunted hotels in Ontario! This luxury hotel was built in 1929 as one of the many railway hotels in Canada back in the heydays of rail travel.
The Fairmont Royal York towers over downtown Toronto. Along with a perfect location, close to all the top attractions in the city, the hotel has a wealth of amenities. The hotel has 4 restaurants, a spa, indoor pool, and more. Plus, the building maintains much of it’s original features like hand-painted ceilings.
While some guest relish in the 1920’s ambiance others feel like they’re staying in the hotel from The Shining. There have been reports of children laughing and running through the hallways. Other strange happenings include the elevator taking you somewhere you didn’t expect and strange music with unknown origins.
One of the most noted ghosts at the Fairmont Royal York is an older gentleman who lurks on the eighth floor. He wears a purple smoking jacket and disappears nearly as fast as he appears. Some say he murdered his blushing bride and then committed suicide. Even his bride is said to haunt the room where she lost her life.
Many other ghosts lurk in the hotel’s hallways and stairwells. Strange experiences include feeling like you’re being watched, echoes of screams, and unexplained noises.
Inn at the Falls
The charming small town of Bracebridge is known for its many waterfalls, Santa’s Village, and quaint downtown. However, here lies another eerie place to stay, Inn at the Falls!
This beautiful Victorian home turned hotel has sweeping views over the northern branch of the Muskoka River. Located within walking distance to downtown, it makes for a great base to explore Bracebridge and Muskoka from.
But you may have to put up with a few unwanted room guests. The old estate, which was first constructed in the mid-1870s, was built for John Adair. It went on to see various owners over the year and then was reimagined into an inn during the 1930s. Though before it was built, the area is said to have been an old Indigenous burial ground. Similarly, some guests have heard the beating of drums.
Officially, the Inn is said to be haunted by three ghosts. All are reported to be friendly, if that helps you sleep at night! One spirit is a tad mischievous and hangs out in the kitchen, throwing pots, slamming freezer doors, and turning the lights on and off.
Lurking in the corridor and second floor is another ghost. Some say it might be the ghost of William Crosby Mahaffy, a young lawyer who once lived in the estate. People have experienced the smoke from a phantom cigar in the parlour and other strange occurrences that are linked to him.
The most haunted room at Inn at the Falls is Room 105. Once the master bedroom, this guest room is now home to a ghost of a woman. Various things have been reported in the room that include unexplained temperature changes, impressions on the bed, and keys being moved..
Chateau Laurier
It’s no surprise that many castles around the world are inhabited by lost souls. But did you know that you can stay in a haunted castle in Ontario? The Chateau Laurier in Ottawa is another of those iconic grand railway hotels in Canada. Built in a French Gothic style, this castle hotel overlooks the Ottawa River.
This five-star hotel has all the amenities that one could want! Along with large elegant rooms, there’s an indoor pool, various dining options, including afternoon tea, and a health club. Plus, thanks to its ideal location downtown, guests are within walking distance to many of the top attractions in Ottawa!
Commissioned by Charles Melville Hays, the president of the Grand Trunk Railway, and completed in 1912. However, sadly, Hays did not make it to the opening of the hotel because he died aboard the Titanic. Though, some say his spirit haunts the Chateau Laurier, shaking furniture and wandering the halls.
As one of the most famous haunted hotels in Ottawa, there is more then one ghost. Multiple people have reported a phantom touching them, unexplained impressions on beds, and sightings of apparitions. Some have even watched doors open on their own!
Prince Arthur Hotel
A must addition to any northern Ontario road trip is Thunder Bay! Along the waterfront, in the heart of town visitors will find an Ontario haunted hotel that many famous people have graced its doors. Stars like Johnny Cash and Louis Armstrong, along with Queen Elizabeth II and King George VI have stayed at the Prince Arthur Hotel. Though some guests have never left!
This historic hotel opened in 1911 and has a restaurant and stunning architectural features! Suites are lovely and many offer sweeping views of Lake Superior and Sleeping Giant. Plus, thanks to its central location, its location is perfect for exploring all the things to do in Thunder Bay!
The most well-known ghost at Prince Arthur Hotel is Harvey. He’s thought to have once stayed or owned the hotel and his spectre hangs out on the second floor. You’ll know he’s around from the wafting smell of cigar smoke! Another ghost lurks in the basement. Reports are of a former employee skulking in the dark hallways and wearing an old maitre’d uniform.
Arlington Hotel
One of my favourite haunted hotels in Ontario is the Arlington Hotel! I’ve stayed at this historic and charismatic hotel numerous times! Not only is it one of the most unique places to stay in the province but I highly recommend staying or at least visiting during your trip to Paris Ontario!
Known as one of the prettiest towns in Ontario, the Arlington Hotel is one of Paris’s landmarks. This boutique hotel is set within the old Bradford House in the early 1850’s. Towering four stories, it dominates downtown Paris. Now an Ontario Heritage Site, the hotel features rooms inspired by many of the most well-known creative geniuses.
Inside you’ll fine rooms the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Mary Shelley and even Dr. Seuss! The hotel also has an incredible restaurant and bar. Guests who are fans of the Doctor Who franchise will love the elevator. It’s a TARDIS!
Being over 150-year-old, the Arlington Hotel has seen various tragic events within it’s walls. So, it’s no surprise that there are various reports of phantom spirits in the hallways, pictures on the walls moving, and unusual temperature changes. Many people have seen a woman wandering in the hallway of the fourth floor.
Ottawa Jail Hostel
If you’re looking to bunk with a roommate from the other side then consider booking your stay at the Ottawa Jail Hostel. For those ghost hunters on a budget, this haunted hostel is ideal! Once a 19th century jail, this hostel is located within a short walk to many top Ottawa attractions.
As with most hostels, the rooms are simple. Yet, in this case they are in the old jail cells! There are dorm rooms with shared baths or single and double rooms with private bathrooms available. Plus, you’ll get a continental breakfast, a free tour of the jail, and there’s an on-site pub.
The Ottawa Jail Hostel is listed as one of the spookiest buildings in the world by Lonely Planet! As one of the city’s main prisons, the stone fortress housed all sorts of madmen and murderers. And the stories are endless and include everything from tormented souls howling in the night to thieving spirits stealing items from guests.
Both guests staying at the hostel and employees have encountered a long list of strange occurrences. Employees have reported being slapped by unseen hands. While guests staying on the ninth floor, where innocent wives and children of insolvents were housed, say they hear their cries. Plus, there’s even an apparition of a hooded woman.
Known as one of the most haunted places in Canada, the old Ottawa jail has a famous ghostly resident. It’s said that the ghost of Patrick James Whelan, the man suspected in killing Thomas D’Arcy McGee, a Father of Canadian Confederation, is forever haunting the site.
Grand Hotel
The best place to stay in Carleton Place is also considered one of the most haunted places to visit in Canada. That place is the Grand Hotel.
So, it’s no surprise that one of the fun activities in Carleton Place is explore the town’s haunted places.
Built in 1872 as the Mississippi Hotel, the Grand Hotel is now a stylish boutique hotel that saw a number of deaths in its early days. A former owner reported a number of happenings. These include shadow figures, people hearing knocking when no one there and more.
The Canadian Haunting and Paranormal Society investigated the hotel in 2009. During their investigation they described a heavy feeling in their chest and unexplained smoke filling the air. They also caught an apparition on camera.
I didn’t encounter any spirits during my stay but did hear about a particular room that isn’t the friendlies to women. But I do love the great location in downtown Carleton Place, the tasty pub, and the modern amenities.
Olde Angel Inn
In the heart of one of the most charming small towns in the province is the Olde Angel Inn. Niagara-on-the-Lake is famous for the numerous ghost stories that are littered throughout its history. The Old Angel Inn is not only one of the most haunted hotels in Ontario but it’s also known as the most haunted pub in Canada!
For well over 200 years an inn has stood on this property. However, during the War of 1812 the inn was severely burned. In 1815 it was rebuilt and given its current name. It might even be the oldest operating hotel in Canada! Many historical figures have stayed in the Old Angel Inn, like John Graves Simcoe, Prince Edward, and the Irish poet – Thomas Moore. Though, a few guests haven’t exactly left!
The Inn is home to a handful of rooms that are named in honour of its interesting history. Some of the cozy room names include Governor’s Room, Colonel’s Suite, and even Irish Fertility Bed. (Honeymooners take note!)
Rumors of ghosts have lingered within the Inn dating back to the War of 1812. The most famous ghost is that of Captain Swayze, a victim of the war. It’s said that he was killed in the cellar and hasn’t left. Guests and staff have experienced strange things at the Inn. In the Colonel’s Room, guests report odd sound during their stay. One even saw the apparition of a captain in the washroom mirror!
Prince of Wales Hotel
Another lovely, yet haunted hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake is the Prince of Wales Hotel. Set along the picturesque main street, this Victorian building oozes luxury. Perhaps that’s why some guest never check out!
The Prince of Wales Hotel, built in 1864, is home to elegant rooms, a pool and spa, and various dining options, including high tea!
After all the bloody battles fought in the area between the United States and the British, the sheer volume of hauntings is not surprising! The most notorious ghost of the Prince of Wales Hotel is said to be Molly McGuire. Though reports on her story are murky, one thing is clear, she haunts room 207.
Some say that room 207 was her old bedroom and where she met her death. In one story while standing at the window awaiting the return of her husband she was pierced by a bayonet. The American soldier mistook her silhouette for a British soldier.
Now, inside the room guests report lights turning on and phantom footsteps across the floor. Others have seen the spirit of a woman in the room and in the lobby. Whatever the truth is, this is a popular hotel, and if you want to stay in room 207, you’ll want to book in advance!
Queen’s Inn
I couldn’t have a list of haunted hotels in Ontario and not put one from Stratford! With a long list of things to do, including the Stratford Festival and outdoor adventures, Stratford one of the best destinations in Ontario.
One of the many great places to stay in Stratford is the Queen’s Inn! Located right downtown, it’s close to all the best restaurants and is a short walk to the Avon Theatre. Inside guests will find cozy rooms with everything you’ll need, plus there’s a pub and classic restaurant.
The Queen’s Inn was built in 1905 and is one of the many places to find ghosts in Stratford! Reports mostly focus on the second floor of the hotel where most of the activity occurs. Some guests say they’ve heard violin music throughout. Plus, the former owner, Mr. Pinkney is said to haunt his old suite.
Walper Hotel
A landmark in downtown Kitchener is the Walper Hotel. The hotel as you see it was built in 1893 on the grounds of a former tavern.
There have been a number of ghost sightings from staff and visitors alike over the years. When I stayed at the Walper a few years ago, I sadly didn’t have any paranormal occurrences.
Though I do love that the hotel is full of historic charm, both throughout the main spaces and in each room. It’s close to all the downtown attractions and has a restaurant within.
A frequent ghost is said to be Abel Walper, who was one of the hotel owners. Many report that they see a shadow figure that matches his tall, skinny description. The figure is commonly seen entering and exiting the main elevator.
More Haunted Places to Stay in Ontario
Can’t get enough haunted hotels in Ontario?! The list above is just the tip of the iceberg of chilling places to stay! With such a rich history, there is a long list of haunted places to stay in Ontario. So, book a night in one of the following Ontario haunted hotels. But be prepared to share your room with those not of this world.
Beck House
One of Simcoe County’s most beautiful buildings is haunted. The Beck House is located in Penetanguishene, and makes for the perfect haunted place to stay near Midland! It was built in the late 1800s by lumber giant Carl Beck.
This grand home, now turned apartments and Airbnb, has a similar vibe to the Norman Bate’s home in Psycho. It is said to be haunted by the daughters of Carl Beck who have been reportedly seen peering out the upstairs windows.
King George Inn
In the historic town of Cobourg is another place where you can stay in an old jail. Once a jail for nearly 100 years, the King George Inn has seen its fair share of paranormal activity! Along with uniquely decorated rooms, the inn has a few that harken back to its gory days.
Some of their rooms are jail themed. Plus, they also have a jail museum as well as Canada’s only escape game where you can stay and play in a haunted jail!
Hochelaga Inn
One of the top destinations in Ontario that’s known for its ghost tours is Kingston! There are reports of many haunted places in the city and one is the Hochelaga Inn. Located in a mansion built in 1879, it offers an ideal central location.
Rooms are elegant and feature fireplaces, stained-glass windows, and complementary breakfast. However, your comfort will be tested as many guests and staff say they have experienced ghostly encounters.
Windermere House
Just north of Bracebridge sits a magnificent historic hotel known as “The Lady of the Lake.” The Windermere House overlooks the tranquil shores of Lake Rosseasu. This iconic Muskoka landmark has been around since 1870.
The hotel is home to a restaurant, spa, polished rooms, and a few spirits! Strange noises, phantom footsteps, and things moving on their own are some of the ghostly happenings in the hotel. Legend is that it’s the ghost of Thomas Aitken, founder of the Windermere.
Albion Hotel
There are numerous reasons to visit Ontario’s West Coast! This special place in the province offers quaint towns, Caribbean-like beaches, and interesting accommodations. One of them is the Albion Hotel set in the charming village of Bayfield.
The hotel dates to the 1850s and is ideally located in the heart of town and close to Lake Huron and Pioneer Park. Rooms are country chic, there’s an English-style pub on site, and a few ghosts! Guests and staff have experienced ghostly encounters throughout the hotel, from the bar to Room 4!
Books about Haunted Places
For those looking for more ghostly tales, consider purchasing one of the many books that reflect that Ontario haunted hotels and other places.
Haunted Ontario 4: Encounters with Ghostly Shadows, Apparitions, and Spirits
Haunted Ontario: Ghostly Inns, Hotels, and Other Eerie Places
Can’t get enough? Are you looking for more haunted hotels in Canada? Then check out these creepy Canada locations: Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Fort Garry Hotel in Winnipeg, Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City, and The Algonquin Resort in St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick.
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