Orillia brings together performing arts, visual art and local history, with a strong connection to the water. The Orillia Opera House, the Orillia Arts District and the Orillia Museum of Art & History offer different cultural perspectives; the Port of Orillia and the historic Trent-Severn Waterway round out a visit to the city. When looking for a place to stay, it helps to start by deciding which of these themes will shape your visit.

Performing Arts, Art and Culture

Since opening in 1895, the Orillia Opera House has been a focal point of the city’s cultural life. The Great Hall at St. Paul's Centre has 400 seats and hosts concerts, workshops and cultural events throughout the year. St. Paul's Centre is also the venue for the annual Roots North Music Festival. So, alongside the opera house’s cultural role, the hall’s year-round program and a recurring festival offer different ways to shape a cultural getaway.

The Orillia Arts District is in Downtown Orillia and spans more than two city blocks, with independent galleries, studios and creative spaces. Streets Alive offers a different format: this annual art project displays life-size sculptures in downtown Orillia from spring through fall. Each year’s presentation has its own theme. This gives you a choice between galleries and studios on the one hand, and a seasonal art display in the urban landscape on the other.

Orillia’s History and Museums

The Orillia Museum of Art & History explores art and local history through exhibitions, programs and tours. One historical thread leads to Stephen Leacock: he acquired Old Brewery Bay in 1908 and had Leacock House built there in 1928. Twenty years separate the acquisition and the construction—two dates that bring the timeline of this local history into focus.

The Leacock Museum offers self-guided tours daily. Since daily availability and ticket policies may change, check the current information before your visit.

Water, Trails and Exploring

Orillia is a stop along the historic Trent-Severn Waterway, which is 386 kilometres long. The Port of Orillia is a municipal harbourfront facility operated by the Orillia & District Chamber of Commerce. The waterway is a historic route, while the port is a harbour facility in Orillia. Boat services and reservations are seasonal; if you plan to use them, take the season into account and check what is currently available.

Trails and digital tours offer different ways to explore the city. The City of Orillia maintains a trail network more than 29 kilometres long. Tripvia Tours is a free app with three guided mobile tours of some of Orillia’s main attractions. The trail network and the app are separate offerings; digital visitor services can change, so it’s worth checking the app’s current availability in advance.

Market Visit and When to Travel

The Orillia Farmers’ Market offers fresh produce and handmade goods. Market hours and location may change; check the current information before planning your visit.

There is a clear difference when it comes to timing your trip: Streets Alive runs from spring through fall, Roots North takes place annually, and the Great Hall hosts events year-round. If a particular event is the reason for your trip, check the latest dates before planning your stay.

Discover more destinations: Oro, Borden, Alliston, Innisfil, Port Mcnicoll, Wasaga Beach, Waubaushene, Penetanguishene

For the regional travel overview: Simcoe County.