Arts and Culture in Orillia

Orillia’s rich history dates back to when it was founded as a village in 1867 and boomed as a commercial and summer resort centre with rail links running to Georgian Bay and Toronto.  

While many people flocked to the area to enjoy the summer resorts, beaches, and lakes, the variety of heritage sites throughout the town has also been a significant cultural focus. Most notably, the historic Orillia Opera House has been attracting crowds to the Sunshine City with its first-class entertainment productions since its inception in 1895. Every summer, tourists see theatre at its very best and enjoy concerts by exceptional performers throughout the year. 

For a deep dive into the area’s history and a chance to look at some cool exhibits, visit the Orillia Museum of Art and History in the heart of the city’s Arts District on Peter Street. This summer saw the return of two favored guided city tours; Historical Orillia, a guided walking tour of downtown Orillia, and Gangs, Guns and Grog: True Stories of Orillia Wild West Days, an 18+ historical adventure in partnership with the Hog N’ Penny Pub. Thrill seekers can look forward to the museum’s upcoming ghost tours, stay tuned for the announcements coming this fall. 

Looking to tour on a budget? Choose from touring Historical Downtown Orillia, witness the scenic beauty of the Leacock Museum grounds, or learn about the waterfront monuments along the Millennium Trail with the free Tripvia Tours app.

Another museum in Orillia that offers a glimpse into the past is the Leacock Museum, the former summer residence of the famed author, Stephen Leacock. Now a National Historic Site, the museum offers guided tours, seasonal exhibits, and family-fun programming. History and film buffs won’t want to miss this summer’s Mary Pickford, Queen of the Silver Screen Exhibit. The museum is open for just $5.00 self-entry from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, Wednesday to Sunday, or guests are welcome to pre-book guided tours on their website here. 

For a into view into the past and present of the Ontario Provincial Police, the OPP Museum hosts itself at the impressive Ontario Provincial Police Headquarters. Over 100 years of Ontario’s policing traditions and practices are showcased at the headquarters, with interactive displays for young and old alike to enjoy. Viewers won’t want to miss the rare and fully restored 1931 Henderson motorcycle, the oldest original OPP vehicle. The museum is open 8:30 am – 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, and remains free for all admissions. 

Our area is ripe with Indigenous land and history, too. Those who boat between lakes Simcoe and Couchiching are familiar with the Narrows, where the two lakes meet, but they may not know that historic Mnjikaning fish weirs, more than 5,000 years old, lay as sharp wooden stakes beneath the water. These protected weirs have great historical significance as they are the best-preserved fish weirs in eastern North America. 

On Aug. 27-28, witness the pageantry and glory of Turtle Island’s finest pow wow singers and dancers at the annual Rama Pow Wow. Known as the ‘loudest and proudest pow wow in Ontario,’ the two-day event includes Grand Entries on both days, as well as singing and dance contests. Food and craft vendors are also on-site at the John Snake Memorial Community Grounds on Rama Road in Rama First Nation, not far from Casino Rama Resort. If you’ve never been to a pow wow, join those who return year after year to take part in the excitement as a spectator.  

If you only know Orillia as a recreational paradise, now is an excellent time to discover our arts and culture side too! Visit our Heritage Matters page for a comprehensive look at the designated heritage sites and cultural communities in Orillia. 

For more Sunshine City news, events, and activities, return to the main page here.
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