How to See Orillia in One Day

Photo by @takeflightdronevideos

Whether you’re visiting family, in town for a day trip, or have your boat moored at the Port of Orillia on your way to the next Trent-Severn lock, you can do a lot in the Sunshine City in just one day.  

Orillia is known for its unique restaurants and bistros with a focus on food-to-table culinary creations throughout its downtown core.

The Common Stove, whose mantra “Fire, smoke and good folk,” has quickly garnered a strong following by local epicureans who appreciate the restaurant’s farm-to-table philosophy and unique dining atmosphere, inside and out. It’s a place for friends to meet for exceptional food that runs from classic prime rib Sunday dinner with all the traditional sides to Sunday brunch, wood-fired steaks, and delectable vegetarian options.

For a more casual licensed dining experience, Eclectic Café offers unique, farm-fresh, and creative dishes that hit every taste, from soups, salads, and sandwiches to bowls that offer layers of flavour. Chef Melanie, winner of Episode 9, Season 3 of Chopped Canada, will no doubt make your meal memorable, whether you bring the kids or meet friends for lunch, or bring take-out back to your boat. Calling ahead is advised.

Whatever your food preference – from steak and roadhouse to vegan or bakery-style sandwiches – you can find what you’re in the mood for in Orillia. And, with the whole day ahead of you, you can have multiple dining experiences!

In the heart of the Peter Street Arts District in the downtown core, Peter Street Fine Arts Gallery & Studio celebrates art in various forms through a collective gallery and studio space. Tour the gallery for an opportunity to talk to the artists about their work and bring home something special.  

Across the street is the Orillia Museum of Art and History, a heritage building in the downtown core that inspires reflection with historical artifacts and local artwork. Its events calendar showcases upcoming exhibitions and art classes.  

For an opportunity to chat with local artisans and purchase their work, be sure to stop by the Orillia Farmers’ Market on the grounds of the historic Orillia Opera House every Saturday morning. It’s one of Ontario’s oldest and most treasured farmers’ markets. Amongst the fresh fruits, vegetables, and baked goods, there are many crafters and artists that offer unique pieces.   

Literary aficionados simply can’t miss visiting the Leacock Museum, the summer homestead-turned museum of Orillia’s most beloved humourist, Stephen Leacock. Most famous in this region for his book entitled Sunshine Sketches of a Little Town, it was this piece of fiction from which Orillia got its moniker, the Sunshine City. Take a walk through the grounds at Old Brewery Bay, a quiet spot on the shores of Lake Couchiching, and explore his home and lush gardens, which have been meticulously kept true to life.   

Orillia is fortunate to be surrounded by two freshwater lakes with beaches along Lake Couchiching. Located steps from downtown, near the Port of Orillia, the 14.5-acre Couchiching Beach Park offers a sandy beach and clear shallow water for every age to enjoy. You can also rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. The kids will also love the updated playground area. It’s a great place for them to have fun and enjoy a picnic lunch. Plan your visit around a special event taking place at this park. You won’t be disappointed! 

The 65-acre J.B. Tudhope Memorial Park on Atherley Road is known for Moose Beach, a wide swath of sandy beach on the shores of Lake Couchiching, with modern play equipment – including a splash pad – just steps away. Tudhope Park is also known for its baseball diamond, beach volleyball courts, Barnfield Point Recreation Centre (curling club), and the quiet waterfront trails that lead to the Golden Leaves Gordon Lightfoot statue. This park is also home to Mariposa Folk Festival each July. There are plenty of picnic tables throughout the park if you want to bring your lunch or purchase food there.

Although Orillia is known for its phenomenal lakefront parks, you don’t need a beach to have fun. Walter Henry Park in Orillia’s west end boasts a maple syrup theme that comes from the legion of maple trees surrounding the playground that has been tapped for maple syrup for decades. Opened in 2020, it’s the newest and largest recreational space in Orillia, with plenty to offer all ages. It includes a splash pad, creative climbing features, sling seats, wobble boards, post and rope course, and huge tube slide. For older age groups, there’s also a quarter pipe, free skate zone, pickleball court, basketball nets, toboggan hills, and outdoor fitness equipment. 

There’s nothing like gathering friends and family for some good old-fashioned fun in bumper cars, at the bowling alley, or at the arcade. Orillia’s 2wo Zer01ne (Two Zero One) Grill and Game Bar at 201 Woodside Dr. (in the Quality Inn & Conference Centre) offers all the fun of growing up before technology took over, with the bonus of a full-service restaurant and bar.

Celebrating a birthday or just need a break from the stresses of everyday life? You don’t need kids to enjoy this experience. It’s sure to bring you back to a simpler time and put a smile on your face.   

For those who love a good game of cards or board games with their favourite kid-friendly beverage or dessert, Cards and Coasters has an exceptional selection of games to play at the café. From old-school arcade games to Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons, there is something for everyone. You can even purchase games and accessories to take home.