For some, the most wonderful time of the year doesn't come in December — it's actually the entirety of fall, better known as spooky season.
This autumn, Ontario's most haunted city, aka Kingston, brings all the centuries-old stone buildings, winding streets, crisp air, crunchy leaves and long shadows that make it the perfect setting for your Halloween adventuring.
As Canada's first capital, Kingston has seen its fair share of hair-raising events and mysterious tales. From haunted military forts to lingering spirits in historic homes, the city's ghostly side runs deep.
And with locals leaning into this time of year with downtown markets and themed restaurants, Kingston has become one of Ontario's best spots to celebrate the season of the witch.
Whether you're looking for family-friendly fun or heart-pounding scares, these five attractions rooted in bone-chilling history offer a mix of excitement.
Ghost and Mystery Trolley Tour
Ghost and Mystery Trolley TourCourtesy of Visit Kingston
This 90-minute evening ride takes you off the beaten path into Kingston's mysterious past. From notorious neighbourhoods to ghostly landmarks, the trolley is a moving storybook of hauntings. It's enough to keep you on edge while still being great for a night out with the fam.
Ghost and Mystery Cruise
Sailing across Kingston Harbour after dark just hits different. This 90-minute cruise dives deep into tales of shipwrecks, murders and unexplained disappearances — including the infamous Marysburgh Vortex, the northern tip of which lies just off Kingston’s shores.
Haunted Walks
Haunted Walks, Kingston. Courtesy of Visit Kingston
Kingston's haunted walks are a classic for a reason, with tours for every level of scary seeker. Explore ghostly courtyards and hidden burial grounds while listening to stories of graverobbing, executions and haunted hotels that strike the right balance between frightening and fascinating.
Fort Fright at Fort Henry
Every October, Kingston's 19th-century fortress transforms into one of Ontario's most immersive supernatural experiences. Fort Fright is packed with animatronics, live actors and detailed sets that bring the spirit of Halloween to life for visitors of all ages.
Improbable Escapes
For those who like their scares mixed with puzzles, Improbable Escapes has three Halloween-ready rooms. At the Wonderland location on the west end, families can take on "The Mysterious Miseries of Franklin M. Stein," a high-tech escape that's great for the kiddos.
At the downtown locations, "Coroner's Report" throws you into an abandoned hospital with a sinister past, while "The Cure for the Common Zombie" has you racing against an undead outbreak.
Whether you're chasing thrills or family fun, Kingston's embodiment of spooky season proves there's no better way to spend October in Ontario.