Things To Do
in Orillia

Orillia, Canada, is a picturesque city located at the shores of Lake Couchiching and the Severn River, known for its vibrant arts scene and rich cultural heritage. It serves as a gateway to the beautiful Lake Country and is famous for its outdoor recreational activities. The city hosts festivals year-round, including the Mariposa Folk Festival, attracting visitors from near and far.

With its charming downtown and welcoming community, Orillia is an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown and Cultural Sites
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the Orillia Museum of Art and History to learn about the city's past and its artistic contributions.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the beautiful downtown area and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the Leacock Museum, the former home of humorist Stephen Leacock.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, then take a leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Couchiching to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

After breakfast, head to Couchiching Beach Park for a morning walk, followed by a visit to the nearby Mara Provincial Park for some hiking.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in the park, then rent a kayak or canoe to explore the waters of Lake Couchiching.

evening
:

Return to Orillia for dinner at a popular local pub, followed by live music at one of the many bars or venues in the city.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🏨Hotel (Nightly)$100-$200
🚍Public Transportation (One-way)$3
🛒Groceries (Weekly)$50-$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings with lakes and parks.
  • Vibrant cultural scene with festivals and events.
  • Friendly and welcoming community.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Cold winters may deter some visitors.
  • Some attractions may have seasonal hours.

Places to Visit in Orillia

Visit one of these nice places.

Couchiching Beach Park

With its stunning waterfront views and beautiful sunsets, this park is a perfect spot for capturing nature's beauty.

Leacock Museum

The historic architecture and lush gardens provide a charming backdrop for photos.

Orillia Waterfront

The scenic views along the waterfront are ideal for capturing both sunrise and sunset shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Orillia

Orillia offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its diverse heritage and local flavors. From farm-to-table options to street food, there is something for every palate.

Orillia Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Whitefish

A local delicacy, often prepared grilled or fried, served with seasonal vegetables.

Must-Try!

Butter Tarts

A classic Canadian dessert, these sweet pastries are filled with a buttery, sugary filling and are a must-try.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Orillia Farmers' Market

Held weekly, this market showcases fresh produce, homemade goods, and local street food vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Orillia experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. Summers are warm and pleasant, with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F). Spring and fall are transitional, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage in fall. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with summer thunderstorms being common.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians value politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is important in everyday interactions.

Personal Space

Respect for personal space is customary; stand at a comfortable distance during conversations.

Queuing

Forming a line is expected at shops, restaurants, and events; cutting in line is considered rude.

Safety Guide

Safety

Orillia is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates. However, it’s advisable to remain aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Always keep personal belongings secure and avoid isolated areas after dark. Emergency services can be contacted at 911, and local hospitals provide good healthcare access.

Tipping in Orillia

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip between 15-20% in restaurants, and rounding up is common for taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but cash is also useful, especially at markets and small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists to the lakes for swimming, boating, and various events, with a lively atmosphere.

Fall

The fall foliage offers breathtaking views, perfect for hiking and photography, along with harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold temperatures bring opportunities for winter sports like snowshoeing and ice fishing, along with a festive atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Orillia at Night

Orillia's nightlife offers a variety of options, including pubs, bars, and live music venues. The downtown area comes alive in the evenings with local bands, karaoke nights, and themed events. Popular spots include The Brownstone Cafe for live music and The Tap Room for a vibrant bar scene. Whether you're looking for a laid-back evening or a lively night out, Orillia has something to cater to all tastes.

Hiking in Orillia

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mara Provincial Park Trail

This trail offers a range of hiking options, with scenic views of the lake and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Torrance Barrens Trail

A unique hiking experience with exposed bedrock and rare flora, ideal for those looking for a more rugged adventure.

Airports

How to reach Orillia by plane.

Lake Simcoe Regional Airport

Located about 30 minutes from Orillia, this airport offers limited domestic flights and is a convenient option for regional travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Orillia is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are pedestrian crossings at major intersections. However, some areas outside the downtown might require a car for better accessibility.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Orillia is home to many families, attracted by its community events, parks, and recreational facilities.

Retirees

The city is also popular among retirees seeking a peaceful lifestyle near nature, contributing to its friendly community atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Ice hockey is immensely popular in Orillia, with local teams and community leagues engaging residents year-round.

Fishing

With abundant lakes and rivers, fishing is a popular pastime, attracting both locals and tourists to its waters.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Orillia is generally light, though it can increase during peak tourist seasons and events. Public transportation options include local buses, but many visitors find it easier to navigate by car or on foot within the downtown area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Orillia.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, but it's best to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets, but always inform the staff about your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Orillia is accessible, with several clinics and a regional hospital providing services. Emergency care is available at the Orillia Soldiers' Memorial Hospital. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance and to understand that wait times can vary in non-emergency situations.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide