Secrets of Séance
New for 2025 – Secrets of Séance at Discovery Harbour
Step into the mysterious world of Victorian Spiritualism with Secrets of Séance, an immersive new experience at Discovery Harbour. In the 1800s, séances weren’t just quiet gatherings—they were dramatic events where religion, science, and showmanship collided in a public struggle to explain the unexplainable.
Guests will explore how séances captured the imagination of the Victorian era. Expect to encounter ghostly sights, eerie sounds, strange scents, and mysterious objects said to appear from beyond. While deeply rooted in Victorian traditions, Spiritualism also sparked surprising questions about society, class, and gender roles.
Unveil the Secrets of Séance
Step inside one of our historic buildings—set on a site steeped in ghost stories—and take part in an experience that pulls back the curtain on the mysterious world of Victorian Spiritualism.
What to expect:
- Begin with a traditional-style séance, complete with eerie sounds, ghostly movements, and otherworldly surprises.
- Then, discover the truth behind the illusion, as we reveal the clever techniques and hidden tools used to create these supernatural effects.
- Learn how 19th-century spiritualists captivated—and sometimes deceived—their audiences in their quest to connect with the beyond.
This immersive experience is perfect for those fascinated by history, the paranormal, and the power of belief.
Dates and times
Secrets of Séance experiences will take place Saturday evenings from June 28 through August 30, 2025. This is a one hour experience.
- Dates
- June 28
- July 5, 12, 19, 26
- August 9, 16, 23, 30
- Times
- 5:00 p.m. (available in French)
- 6:30 p.m.
- 8:00 p.m.
Image gallery
Please click each image below to see a larger version.
Tickets details
- Tickets are $24.00 per person including tax
- Spaces are limited, advance ticket purchase is highly recommended
- Season passes are not valid for Secrets of Séance
- Please note that Discovery Harbour’s complimentary admission program for First Nation, Métis and Inuit people does not apply to this event
- Please read the information found under “Plan your visit” below for more details including what to expect when attending Secrets of Séance
- Pets are not allowed at this special event (with the exception of service animals)
Are you looking for other eerie events to explore?
Check out the classic Ghost Tour and Bo’sun’s Brig Escape Room experiences – both available on Saturday evenings from June 28-August 30.
Ghost Tours
Step into the shadows of the past with Ghost Tours at Discovery Harbour. As darkness falls, explore the historic site by lantern light and uncover chilling tales of those who may still linger. Along the way, encounter eerie sights, unsettling sounds, and stories rooted in local legend and unexplained phenomena. This immersive tour is perfect for those intrigued by the paranormal, history, and the mysteries that endure through time.
Bo’sun’s Brig Escape Room
You and your guests have run afoul of perhaps the toughest Bo’sun in His Majesty’s Royal Navy, Bo’sun Starkweather! He has concocted a devilish series of puzzles and challenges designed to frustrate, confuse, and mislead you. Outsmart him at his own game and you’ll win your freedom! Fail, and the black-souled Bo’sun may just leave you trapped in this dank, dark place for good!
While we love our furry friends, we are not able to accommodate pets at this special event (service dogs are welcomed of course). Thank you for your understanding.
- Please arrive 15-20 minutes early to allow time to complete payment at admissions.
- Participants may wish to wear a mask for some/all of the tour. A portion of your experience will be held inside historic buildings which have small footprints.
- This experience has a capacity of 8 participants.
- Your tour will include descriptions of real paranormal activity and other stories that may be considered disturbing to some visitors. This experience is not recommended for children under 13 years old.
- Smoking or vaping (including marijuana) is not permitted on Discovery Harbour property.
- Light snacks will be available for purchase at Admission.
- Captain Roberts Table is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, please consult the website for hours and more info
- The building itself is currently not wheelchair accessible. It is located halfway down the historic site, so there is some walking required.
- While the experience takes place indoors, visitors will have to walk outdoors to access it. Please dress accordingly for weather, terrain and bugs
- Photography policy for Secrets of Séance:
- To preserve the unique atmosphere of Secrets of Séance and ensure an immersive experience for all guests, we kindly ask that you refrain from any photography and video recording during the event. Limiting distractions allows everyone to fully engage with the performance and helps maintain the mystery and magic of the evening.
- The event will feature sensory items such as sounds, smells and lights flickering so not recommended for those with sensory challenges.
- These sessions use the traditional tools of the Victorian séance to educate about the history of Spiritualism. These seances are for educational and entertainment purposes. This is not a demonstration of mediumship or a way to contact the deceased. It is not recommended for the recently bereaved.
93 Jury Drive, Penetanguishene, L9M 1G1
Parking info
Please park in the parking lot provided and make your way on foot through the black entrance gates to the boardwalk area and The Charthouse (Admissions building).
Need more info?
Please contact us at hhp@ontario.ca or (705) 549-8064 if you have any questions.
Discovery Harbour traces its roots back to the original British naval and military base in Penetanguishene, built to safeguard access to Upper Canada after the War of 1812.
“His Majesty’s Naval Establishment on Lake Huron”, (as it was first called) kept ships prepared to supply British posts to the northwest. By 1820, it was home to over 70 people, including sailors, officers, shipwrights, and soldiers. Five large ships, 15 smaller vessels, and numerous workshops and dwellings were built.
In 1828, a British garrison on Drummond Island was relocated to Penetanguishene. By 1834, Canada was defended exclusively by these forces. An impressive stone Officers’ Quarters was built in 1845. The military occupied the site until 1856.
Discovery Harbour is operated by Huronia Historical Parks, and is an Attraction of the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries.
