SDG COUNTIES, Ontario - The Historic SDG Jail will officially open for the 2026 season on Wednesday, May 27, welcoming visitors through Sunday, Aug. 23. The Jail will be open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering an expanded lineup of tours, programming, and events designed to elevate the visitor experience.
This season introduces several new and enhanced offerings. Visitors can now enjoy a new 1.5-hour guided tour, alongside an improved self-guided experience featuring a bilingual map brochure and 16 newly-installed directional signs. An expanded group tour program has also been developed to better accommodate tour operators, schools, and community organizations. Accessibility enhancements include a refreshed tour experience in the Warden’s Room, showcasing engaging video content and historical artefacts.
“We’re excited to welcome visitors back to the Historic SDG Jail for another dynamic season,” said Karina Belanger, Tourism Supervisor for SDG Counties. “With new tour options, enhanced programming, and the addition of our dedicated Tourism Ambassadors, we’re creating more engaging, accessible, and memorable experiences for guests.”
A full slate of special events will further animate the Jail throughout the summer, including a Johnny Cash Tribute Concert (May 30), a GO-BOY documentary screening and discussion with producer Rob Lindsay (June 19), Phantoms of Yore paranormal investigations (June 12–13), and a series of popular night tours. The site will also participate in Doors Open Ontario on Aug. 15 and 16.
“This year’s offerings reflect our ongoing commitment to bringing local history to life while showcasing the unique charm and cultural richness of SDG Counties,” said Belanger.
Supporting the 2026 season are six newly-appointed SDG Counties Tourism Ambassadors: Leila Grant, Olivia Chafe, Ariel Colligan, Brooke Guindon, Mac Eamer, and Jaziah Meade. These ambassadors will serve as welcoming guides and storytellers, leading tours, sharing the Jail’s rich and sometimes chilling history, and enhancing visitor engagement. Their role also includes promoting attractions across SDG Counties while providing hands-on support to visitors and strengthening the region’s tourism experience.
Built in 1833, the Historic SDG Jail remains one of the region’s most iconic heritage sites, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to explore the Jail this summer and discover everything the 2026 season has to offer.