Paranormal Investigations at the Historic SDG Jail

Public Investigations

Next Available: June 12, 2026
210 minutes
$76.99 per person | All fees included
Spookiness Scale

The Historic SDG Jail (aka the Cornwall Jail) in Cornwall, Ontario, is a site we have been asked about for years and we are thrilled to be able to offer weekends of investigations there with Phantoms of Yore. Constructed in 1833 and active until 2002, the jail served as both a minimum and maximum security facility over that time. Several executions were carried out on-site, in addition to the suicides and murders. Due to the jail’s dark history and frequent ghost stories, it has attracted the interest of ghost hunters from across North America. This 3.5-hour special event will begin with a full briefing on the haunted history of the site, the equipment to be used, and the best practices to follow when collecting and analyzing evidence. Then you will have the opportunity to venture inside the jail – in the dark – to see what you can discover. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to investigate one of the most sought-after haunted sites in Ontario. With such small groups, tickets are extremely limited. Transportation not provided. DATES: March 21 & 21 and June 12 & 13, 2026

What makes the Historic SDG Jail a great place to investigate?

Eric from Phantoms gives a tour of the spooky site!

Wondering what the Historic SDG Jail is like? Join Eric as he shares some of the highlights from the location and places of particular paranormal importance. 

Who are Phantoms of Yore?

Phantoms of Yore are the Haunted Walk’s official paranormal investigations partners. POY was founded in March 2018 by Elliot Luijkenaar (left) and Eric Oickle (right). The pair wanted to assist in the preservation of unique historical sites by facilitating public Paranormal Investigations. Over the past three years they have hosted dozens of popular events and have helped raise thousands of dollars for restorative work, renovations and other funding needs. Some of the sites include: L’Original Jail, Murney Tower, Ninette Sanatorium, Cornwall Jail, Mill of Kintail and the HI Ottawa Jail Hostel.

What happens at public investigations?

Simply put, these events allows guests to be paranormal investigators for the evening. These suspenseful, entertaining and informative experiences share the history, folklore, paranormal accounts about the site, and the theories and hypothesis behind paranormal investigations. Investigators film their own experiences and the footage is uploaded so it can be reviewed for possible paranormal captures. Live feeds are also included in most events, allowing for patrons to have instant access to the footage. Many paranormal enthusiasts and experienced investigators watch the live feed to help detect anomalies.

Upcoming Investigations

Check out what other amazing haunted sites you can explore!

More Spooky Fun!

Discover the hidden stories and fascinating history of Ottawa’s most famous castle, the iconic Fairmont Château Laurier. Join us for a 75-minute guided tour as we go behind the scenes and explore the secrets of this majestic landmark. Learn about concealed passageways, hear about political rendezvous, and stand in the ballrooms where countless grand galas have taken place. See the luxurious swimming pool and the exclusive areas typically reserved for guests. Immerse yourself in captivating tales of the Château Laurier’s notable guests and its storied past. While the focus isn’t on ghost storieswe might just share one. Book your adventure today and let our captivating guides unlock the magic of this majestic castle. Tours by Hidden InSite. Cette visite est également disponible en français.

Next available: May 4, 2026
75 minutes
Adults $32.99 | Youth (14 & under) $24.99 | Save $5 Monday through Wednesday | All fees included

This is not a ghost tour. It is a guided paranormal investigation, and YOU are part of it. Over two hours, we’ll explore four heated heritage buildings: the old church, the schoolhouse, the train station, and the family home. With the village closed to the public and only a handful of guests exploring after dark, the experience feels immersive, quietly eerie, and far removed from an ordinary night out.

Along the way, our expert hosts will guide you through paranormal experiments using both ancient and modern techniques. You will listen closely. You will observe carefully. You will decide for yourself what, if anything, still lingers there.

Some guests come for the thrill. Some for the atmosphere. Some because they have always been curious about what they cannot explain. What they share is curiosity and the willingness to find out. Nothing is staged. Nothing is guaranteed. That is what makes Alone in the Dark so compelling.

6 nights remain.

Spaces are limited. Reserve your spot now. Nights are few. Participants must be 16+. Choose curiosity over fear. Join us in the dark.

Next available: May 2, 2026
120 minutes
$67.99 per person | All fees included

Some stories can only be told at night! Be captivated by our friendly and talented storytellers, each wearing one of our iconic black cloaks, as they recount the area’s most spine-tingling ghostly tales. Using lanterns to light our way, we’ll lead you to Ottawa’s most haunted places, such as Grant House, the elegant Fairmont Château Laurier, and the city’s infamous haunted high school. This memorable evening will forever alter your perception of the city and its historic buildings. Ideal for all ages, this tour is a favourite among families, the curious, and paranormal enthusiasts alike. Cette visite est également disponible en français.

Next available: May 2, 2026
75 minutes
Adults $32.99 | Youth (14 & under) $24.99 | Save $5 Monday through Wednesday | All fees included