Spirits of the Past: Visit the Places Where Former Residents Refuse to Rest
A road trip to Ontario’s cottage country touring haunted houses offers a thrilling blend of history, mystery, and adrenaline that attracts both skeptics and believers alike. These atmospheric locations, from century-old mansions to historic hotels, are steeped in a rich tales of dramatic scares and genuine paranormal intrigue. From a former Hollywood A-Lister to a shopkeeper who refuses to retire, read on to learn more about these unreal encounters.
Bala Bay Inn
The hotel opened its doors to guests the summer of 1910. Originally branded ‘The Swastika Hotel”, it was named for a symbol that originally signified fortune and luck. The inn was renamed after the misappropriation of the symbol in WWII became unpopular. Since then, it has had a long history of hosting overnight guests and day visitors, and a recent change of ownership has seen a lot of modernization. Still, it’s said to be watched over by founder Ephraim Browning (E.B) Sutton, who keeps an eye on visitors to the establishment.
The Carnegie Library building in Bracebridge
Until the new town library was openend in 2024, the Andrew Carnegie Library in downtown Bracebridge was the hub for the bookish set in town. It opened in 1906 and sights of an elderly gentleman ghost forever searching for the perfect reading material have been recorded. (Hope you returned your books on time!)
Canoe Lake Algonquin Provincial Park
Artist Tom Thompson drowned while paddling on this Lake in 1917 under mysterious circumstances, many people have claimed to have seen his ghost paddling in the same spot. It’s unclear if Thomson’s spirit is alerting people to possible foul play in his death, or simply enjoying the activities he adored during his life. Either way, the Tom Thomson Cairn remains a popular destination for paddlers in Algonquin Park every year.
Commanda Museum Loring/Restoule
Some believe that James Arthurs, who built the store in 1885, still tends the shop. Staff have heard spectral footsteps and felt as if they were being watched. Staff also believe a ghost named Amelia may reside within the building.
Gravenhurst Opera House
Hauntings that go back more than 50 years of a dramatic spirit that wants to remain centre stage!
French River Bungalow Camp
This spot was once a secluded vacation getaway for celebrities desiring anonymity. Among those who stayed there was Marilyn Monroe. Some says she still visits the former Cabin 15 from time to time.
RMS Segwun Gravenhurst
A ghostly female passenger that refuses to disembark has been spied in the corners of this classic steamship. She probably just really loves the view of Lakes Muskoka and Rosseau.
The Hill House at Muskoka Heritage Place Huntsville where the past will occasionally meet the future. Literally.
Inn at the Falls Bracebridge.
Sudden temperature changes, smell of cigar smoke, a woman in a long dress, a stable boy walking on the old floors, and former resident Judge William Mahaffy wandering his old residence. Not to mention an incredible view of the Bracebridge Falls – what’s not to love?
Woodchester Villa Bracebridge
130 years ago the Bird family moved into this fascinating octagonal house where father Henry and daughter Mary have been known to pop in from time to time.
Did we miss any haunted spots in the region? Email [email protected] to share your encounters.