Quebec : Death in New-France Animated Walking tour

Quebec: Death in New-France Animated Walking Tour — A Spooky Journey into the Past

For those intrigued by history and the macabre, the Death in New-France animated walking tour offers a compelling glimpse into 17th-century Quebec’s approach to death and burial customs. Running for about 75 minutes, this guided experience takes you through the shadows of Old Quebec’s cemeteries, stories of epidemic epidemics, and the funeral rites of early settlers. Priced at just $19 per person, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to explore the city’s darker corners.

What makes this tour stand out? First, its detailed storytelling shines, with guides bringing history to life through vivid tales. Second, the mix of outdoor sites like the Notre-Dame Basilica crypt and the Irish Quarter adds authentic, historical atmosphere. Third, the price-to-value ratio feels excellent, especially considering the depth of stories and sites covered. On the flip side, some travelers might find the outdoor-only format limiting, especially in bad weather. Those with an interest in history, legends, or ghost stories will appreciate this tour’s blend of education and entertainment.

This experience suits curious travelers who enjoy atmospheric walks, historical mysteries, and a touch of the eerie. While not suitable for those seeking indoor visits or detailed cemetery access, it’s perfect for a relaxed, evening stroll with a spooky twist.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At $19, it offers good value for a 75-minute guided walk packed with stories.
• Rich Content: Explores funeral rites, old cemeteries, and colonial beliefs about death.
• Authentic Sites: Stops include Notre-Dame Basilica, the Irish Quarter, and the Morrin Centre.
• Historical Insights: Learn about epidemics like smallpox and how the city’s poor and elite were laid to rest.
• Outdoor Experience: All activities happen outside, so weather can impact the experience.
• Bilingual Guides: Available in both French and English, making it accessible for diverse travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Death in New-France Tour

Starting Point and Initial Impressions

The tour begins at Place d’Armes, once a frontier burial ground. Meeting your guide next to the Saint-François de Laval statue, you immediately step into an atmospheric setting full of stories waiting to be uncovered. The guide, whose insights are often praised as lively and engaging, kicks off with an introduction to funeral rites in New France—a period when death was both a spiritual passage and a community affair.

Exploring Old Cemeteries and Burial Grounds

One of the tour’s highlights is the walk by Notre-Dame Basilica’s outdoor crypt, which reveals the city’s earliest burial practices. The guide recounts the crypt’s history and its significance as a place of honor for Quebec’s elite. Moving through the Latin Quarter, you’ll visit the Cemetery of the Poor and the Smallpox Cemetery, where victims of epidemics like smallpox were laid to rest. These sites offer a stark reminder of the hardships faced by early settlers and the city’s resilience.

Travelers often comment on the haunting atmosphere of these cemeteries. As one reviewer put it, “Walking among these graves makes you feel like you’re stepping back into a time when death was close, and community bonds shaped funeral rites.”

Key Sites and Their Stories

Next, the tour visits the Hôtel-Dieu of Quebec, a crucial care facility during epidemics, which played an essential role in end-of-life care. The guide shares stories of the nurses and patients, highlighting how death was handled during times of crisis. Moving into the Irish Quarter, the tour discusses the Irish community’s contributions and the moving Celtic Cross, a symbol of remembrance.

Finally, the Morrin Centre, a former jail and colonial college, serves as the tour’s final stop. Here, the guide weaves in legends and ghost stories, blending historical facts with local lore. Many reviewers find this part especially entertaining, describing it as “a perfect mix of history and spooky storytelling.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers a lot—beginning with an introduction to funeral rites, then visiting cemeteries, the crypt of Notre-Dame Basilica, and the Morrin Centre. It’s all outside, with no entry into buildings, so weather considerations are important. The tour is designed to be leisurely enough for those who want to absorb the stories without rushing.

A bonus is the bilingual guide, allowing both French and English speakers to enjoy the experience fully. The tour’s cost-effectiveness is notable, especially given the depth of historical detail, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.

What Travelers Say

Many reviewers emphasize the engaging narration and well-chosen sites. One shared that the stories about epidemic victims were particularly moving. Others appreciated the atmosphere created by outdoor historic sites, which added to the spooky vibe. A common note is that weather can impact the experience, so dressing appropriately is essential.

Practical Details

This tour runs mainly in the evening at 8:30 p.m, perfect for a somewhat spooky night walk. It lasts 75 minutes, and since it takes place outdoors, comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are key. The meeting point next to the Saint-François de Laval statue is central and easy to find.

Tickets are flexible—cancellable up to 24 hours in advance—and booking is straightforward. Since it’s a group tour, expect a small, intimate atmosphere that encourages storytelling and questions.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

The Death in New-France animated walking tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, legend, and outdoor exploration. It’s an excellent choice for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, or anyone curious about how early Quebecers dealt with death and epidemics. Its affordability and accessible outdoor format make it appealing, but travelers should be prepared for weather conditions and the fact it doesn’t include indoor site access.

If you’re looking for a unique, atmospheric way to discover Quebec’s past—especially its darker moments—this tour packs in engaging stories, stunning historic sites, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed, educational experience with a spooky twist, rather than a fast-paced or indoor-focused activity.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 75 minutes long, making it a manageable evening activity.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $19 per person, delivering good value considering the sites and stories covered.

Is it suitable for all weather?
Yes, but since it’s outdoors only, rain or shine, you should dress appropriately for the weather.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides are available in both French and English.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is next to the Saint-François de Laval statue in central Quebec.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Does the tour include inside visits?
No, it is an outdoor walking tour and does not include entry into buildings.

What sites are visited?
Highlights include Notre-Dame Basilica’s crypt, cemeteries in the Latin Quarter, Hôtel-Dieu, Irish Quarter, and the Morrin Centre.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the storytelling might appeal to older children interested in history or ghost stories, but parents should use discretion.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, rain gear, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

To sum it up, the Quebec: Death in New-France animated walking tour offers a fascinating, atmospheric look at how 17th-century Quebecers confronted death. It’s a perfect fit for travelers interested in history, legends, and a little spooky fun, especially if you enjoy outdoor walks and engaging storytelling. For the price, it delivers a memorable glimpse into Quebec’s darker past, making it a worthwhile addition to your itinerary if you’re seeking something different from typical city tours.

You can check if your dates are available here: