Ghost Hunting in Niagara Falls

April 9, 2015 10:30 am

Almost everyone loves a good ghost story, regardless of their age or gender. There’s something downright delightful about being given the willies while in a perfectly safe environment, whether that is around a campfire with your grade-school buddies, in a movie theater, or waiting for your flight at the airport while reading a Stephen King novel.

image001While the passive, benign terror of being told a ghost story is something we never seem to outgrow, growing up does give us all the opportunity to take a more active role when it comes to uncovering and experiencing ghost stories.

Like most places with a past, the Niagara region has heard and told its fair share of ghostly tales, and while most visitors to the area content themselves with the fabulous Falls and the lush and quaffable vineyards, those who love the thrill of a potential dalliance with the paranormal should take note that ghosts can be sought and — some say — caught on any night of the week in Niagara. Here are a couple of ghost tours for anyone staying a night or two in Niagara Falls — one in Niagara-on-the-Lake and one right in the heart of Niagara Falls.

Ghost Tours of Niagara

This tour centers on Fort George. Built in the late 18th century, it played an important role for the British — and then the Americans — in the War of 1812. For years, the site has been synonymous with paranormal sightings or a wide variety, from the sweet Sarah Ann to a frightening presence known to locals as “The Watcher.” Located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, tour guides outfitted with only a candle take the willing through Fort George each spring and summer evening, weaving in and out of ghost tales, ghost sightings, and the history of the fort. The tour lasts roughly 1 1/2 to two hours, but private tours are also available and will be lengthier due to their more investigative nature. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, this ghost tour will give you ample opportunity to feel the hairs on the back of your neck prickle.

Ghost Walks

image003Amble through the most notoriously haunted streets of Niagara Falls on this lantern-lit ghost walk and tour that takes place all year around (although the number of days each week is more limited during the off-season). Knowledgeable tour guides dressed in spooky attire will tell you the origins of the city’s ghosts and paranormal activity.

Tales of murder, betrayal, and daredevilry gone awry are told with suspense and precision as you walk downtown with eyes and ears trained toward any potential paranormal events and sightings. Learn about the mob wars and the ghosts that resulted. Find out about the local haunted bed and breakfast that outside investigators have confirmed as having paranormal activity. Ponder the eerie way in which the mighty waterfalls seem to keep hold of those who sought to conquer them and failed — even long after their deaths.

Feel the thrill of another world, and entertain yourself with Niagara’s ghosts on one of these excellent ghost walks and tours.

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