Have you ever wondered what it’s like to spend a night in a jail cell—without breaking the law? My stay at the Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel offered exactly that. This one-of-a-kind hostel in downtown Ottawa is housed in a former jail, blending over 150 years of history with modern comforts. From staying in a real cell block to exploring the eerie history of infamous inmates like Patrick Whelan, my time at Canada’s most haunted hostel was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.

Keep reading to discover why this is a must-visit spot for adventurous travellers and paranormal enthusiasts alike!

Table of Contents

• A Night in a Real Jail Cell
• The Perks of Staying Here
• A Historic Guided Tour
• The Haunted History of Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel
• Why You Should Stay Here

A Night in a Real Jail Cell

Walking into the Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel felt like stepping back in time. The stone walls, iron gates, and narrow hallways are all preserved from its days as the old Carleton County Jail Gaol, more commonly known as the Nicholas Street Gaol or Ottawa Jail. Today, the space is reimagined with cozy beds, fresh linens, and modern conveniences like free WiFi.

Staying in a real jail cell was a humbling experience that gave me a deep appreciation for the hostel’s thoughtful transformation. Imagining the harsh realities faced by the inmates who once occupied these stone walls made me all the more grateful for the modern comforts and welcoming atmosphere that now fill the space.

The Perks of Staying Here

Location: Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel location is unbeatable—just steps away from landmarks like the Parliament Buildings, Byward Market, and the Rideau Canal.

Free Breakfast: Every morning started with a hearty breakfast served in the common area, perfect for fueling up before a day of exploration.

Exclusive Discounts: You can snag 20% off for a one-week stay or 15% off for a three-night stay until *October 2025. It’s a great deal for budget travellers!

Free Activities Galore! One of the highlights of staying at the Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel is the incredible variety of free activities offered to guests. These unique experiences make it easy to explore Ottawa, meet fellow travellers, and dive into the local culture.

1. Discover Ottawa’s Many Museums

Every Thursday evening, Canada’s national museums offer free entry—and the hostel organizes group outings to take advantage of this. Skip the lines and explore world-class exhibits while making new friends. Each week, the chosen museum changes, so there’s always something new to discover!

2. Explore Ottawa’s Nightlife

Join the hostel’s mini pub crawl and experience the vibrant mix of history and modernity that defines Ottawa’s nightlife. Visit hidden gems and iconic spots around the city with a group of fellow adventurers—all while ensuring you get back to the hostel in time for a good night’s rest.

4. Stroll Along the Canal Trail

Take a leisurely walk along the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Rideau Canal. The hostel provides suggested routes that lead you through vibrant neighbourhoods, bustling markets, and scenic spots, perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy moments.

5. Explore Ottawa’s Cafés

Start your morning with the Coffee Crawl, a curated tour of Ottawa’s best cafés. This activity not only introduces you to the city’s thriving coffee scene but also ensures you’re fully caffeinated for the day ahead. Plus, enjoy unlimited coffee during the crawl—what’s not to love?

A Historic Guided Tour

The hostel offers exclusive guided tours of the jail, which I couldn’t resist. These tours take you through the history of the building, sharing chilling stories of its infamous past. The tour is free for hostel guests, making it a must-do. For non-guests, tickets are $22 for adults and discounted for kids.

If you’re travelling with family or friends, it’s a fascinating way to dive into Ottawa’s history.

The Haunted History of Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel

Once the Carleton County Jail, this building bore witness to countless harrowing tales, including that of Patrick J. Whelan, one of its most infamous inmates. Whelan was convicted for the assassination of Thomas D’Arcy McGee, a Father of Confederation, and was publicly hanged in 1869—a chilling spectacle watched by thousands from the jailyard.

The prison’s dark past extends beyond Whelan’s story. The inhumane conditions of the jail unfortunately led to the deaths of many inmates over its 150-year history. From cramped stone cells to bitterly cold winters, the environment was unforgiving. Some say the energy of those turbulent times still lingers within the walls.

Reports of strange sounds, eerie footsteps, and unexplained phenomena have fueled beliefs that the hostel is haunted. Whether it’s the restless spirit of Whelan or echoes of other inmates, the Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel continues to intrigue visitors, blending its haunted reputation with its role as a haven for adventurous travellers.

Why You Should Stay Here

If you’re looking for a memorable place to stay in Ottawa, the Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel is an easy choice. With its unique history, modern amenities, and vibrant community of travellers, it offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else. The staff are welcoming, the activities are engaging, and the atmosphere is something you have to experience for yourself.

So, whether you’re visiting Ottawa for the first time or you’re a seasoned traveller, don’t miss the chance to stay in one of Canada’s most distinctive hostels.

Safe travels,

Carina

One Girl and the Big World is a travel blog dedicated to sharing inspiring adventures, practical tips, and unique experiences from around the globe—all available for free to readers.

The site is a passion project committed to bringing fresh content to travel enthusiasts everywhere. Donations are welcome to keep the blog running smoothly and cover the maintenance costs. Every contribution, whether big or small, directly supports the continuation of this journey, ensuring that the blog remains a valuable resource for fellow travellers.

Thank you for being a part of this global adventure!