What could be more relaxing than a summertime lakeside retreat? For a short drive just outside of Toronto, it can be yours! There’s never a dull moment when you spend your summer in Orillia, and this year there’s really something for everyone.
Enjoy a sweet escape from the city with the charm of a cottage town and all the world-class dining you’d expect at home. Experience a vibrant culinary and art scene alongside waterfront views that you’ll only find in lake country. It’s enough to breathe in and make you say “aaahh.”
Ready to pack the car? Let us help you plan your trip. Here are 10 things to do in Orillia this summer:
See You on The Patio
Thinking of making it a weekend trip? You should because Orillia closes several streets downtown every Friday and Saturday night for an unbeatable patio experience. Take a seat outside and sip a glass of wine while you take in the ambiance, or explore the extended art walks that make an appearance every weekend.
The Waterfront Patio
Okay, this one isn’t an event per se, but if you’re visiting Orillia, then you can’t miss the dining experience at FARE restaurant, located on the historic Leacock Museum grounds. The museum looks plucked from a storybook, and the grounds make for a perfect after-dinner stroll. Trust us.
Sunshine Getaway Package
You can get it all without making the plans yourself. Enjoy fine dining, theatre tickets, and a luxe overnight stay with this getaway package. It’s perfect for enjoying the best of summer in Orillia without the fuss.
Orillia Farmers’ Market
Stock up on fresh produce at this charming farmers market located outside the historic Orillia Opera House. Experience the community on a down-to-earth level and take your pick of locally made and grown goods. The farmers market happens every Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM.
Boating Old Brewery Bay Exhibit
Step back in time and explore Canadian writer Stephen Leacock’s historic boathouse. Enjoy the setting that inspired many of his stories while perusing the on-site photography exhibit. It’s a must-see for Canadian lit fans and history buffs alike.
SplashON Waterpark at Tudhope Park
This giant, floating obstacle course is available at Orillia’s must-visit beachy hotspot, Tudhope Park all summer long. Enjoy on-the-water slides, swings, and balance beams while you take in the warm waters of Lake Couchiching.
Gangs, Guns, and Grog Historical Tours
Orillia’s downtown core is rich with history. Take a fun, 19+ walking tour to explore the city’s “wild-west” days of the 1870s. This entertaining evening tour takes place every Wednesday until September and finishes with a pint at local British-style pub, The Hog N’ Penny.
Pedals Pints and Pubs Cycling Tour
If you like biking and beer, then you should definitely sign up for this cycling tour. Exploring the scenic and historic sights of Orillia while making a few pit stops at the best pubs in the city. This tour is over the course of 2 days, so don’t worry, you’ll have plenty of time between pints!
Streets Alive Tribute to Gordon Lightfoot
Summer is the most colourful time in downtown Orillia. The annual Street Alive Festival runs from spring to fall and brings a large number of public art to discover on every corner. This year’s theme is “A Painter Passing Through,” is a tribute to late folk-legend and Orillia native, Gordon Lightfoot and features life-sized hand-painted guitars throughout the downtown core.
Lake life is calling. Don’t you think it’s about time you booked your trip?
SUMMER AT ORILLIA & LAKE COUNTRY
Alicia Lyons
Branded Content Writer
Alicia is a storyteller who chased the sun all the way to Calgary and decided to stay. When she’s not crafting killer content, she can be found stumbling along nature trails, curling under a fuzzy blanket with a good book, or finding any excuse to eat.
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