Escape 90 minutes north of Toronto to a lake country paradise. Encapsuling the City of Orillia, townships of Oro-Medonte and Severn and Rama First Nation, Orillia & Lake Country is a summer destination to connect with nature, rediscover your inner child, and create memorable experiences to last a lifetime!
A Place for Gathering
Orillia & Lake Country is home of the Mnjikaning Fish Weirs, sited as the largest and best preserved wooden fish weirs known in eastern North America, in use from about 3300 BC, showcasing the presence of indigenous people in the area for thousands of years. The Chippewas of Rama First Nation are the current stewards of the National Historic Site. The Narrows, connecting Lakes Couchiching and Simcoe where the Mnjikaning Fish Weirs were established, were known as “The Gathering Place” where people would meet to fish, trade, and exchange stories. Orillia and the surrounding area remain a place where people gather together to reconnect, share experiences, and learn from one another.
Outdoor Adventures
Orillia & Lake Country is an expansive region where outdoor adventures await! Get the heart pumping with extreme mountain biking adventures at Horseshoe Resort Bike Park or Hardwood Ski & Bike. Scale high in the trees through the canopied forests with Treetop Trekking in Oro-Medonte. Hike along winding paths and variety of habitats on the region’s recreational trails. If cycling is more your thing, explore rail trails, rural road routes and more! From day treks to multi-day trips on the Simcoe Loop Trail, visit hamlets such as Coldwater to stop, dine, and shop along the way. Severn’s Uhthoff Trail is an attraction for hikers and cyclists alike and features a free downloadable app where you can learn about the area’s heritage and natural significance as you traverse the trail!
Life on the Water
Orillia & Lake Country taps into the north end of the Trent-Severn Waterway: from Lock 45 at Port Severn, through Big Chute Marine Railway, to Lock 42 into Lake Couchiching and finally into Lake Simcoe; there are so many ways to get out and enjoy the lake life. The Port of Orillia is a welcome respite for boaters travelling the waterways. This inviting port connects to Orillia’s revitalised waterfront, steps from the city’s historic downtown full of shopping and dining.
Festivals & Events
2024 is the year of festivals and events! Mark your calendars to enjoy a variety of signature events like the Orillia Scottish Festival, Orillia and Ramara Classic Car Shows, Starry Night Art Tour, and more! Orillia & Lake Country is home to some of Ontario’s biggest music festivals including the Mariposa Folk Festival in July and Boots & Hearts in August. Enjoy pop up street festivals in Downtown Orillia and events at the Port of Orillia, including the ever-popular Pirate Party. Visit Rama First Nation in August for Ontario’s biggest and brightest Pow Wow! It’s a weekend full of Indigenous celebrations, good food, dance competitions and more.
Culinary Capital of Cottage Country
Orillia & Lake Country is home to a world of adventure for the touring foodie! Inspired by international flavours and investing in local community, the region’s chefs and food purveyors invite visitors to explore their menus with delicious delights. Featuring 1000KM Eats and FeastON certified restaurants, farm-to-table partnerships, and robust seasonal agriculture, Orillia & Lake Country has become a culinary destination, highlighting seasonal flavours and local ingredients.
Arts & Culture
“There’s something in the water…” people will say about the artistic talent that comes from Orillia. Hometown to Canada’s troubadour, Gordon Lightfoot, music and performing arts are a large part of the city’s culture. Famed Group of Seven artist, Franklin Carmichael, spent his early years learning to sketch Orillia scenes. The city even became the largest inspiration for Canadian humourist Stephen Leacock, who based his award-winning series of stories, Sunshine Sketches of a Little Town, from which the “Sunshine City” received its moniker.
The region continues to host artistic talent and inspiration across generations. Orillia’s Arts District features several galleries by local artists. In the summer, downtown Orillia is full of beautiful public art with Streets Alive sculptures lining the sidewalks. Any time of year, drive around to visit public art installations including the Art Trees of Oro-Medonte, painted by local artists and inspired by Oro-Medonte’s natural landscapes and destinations; or discover the Simcoe Barn Quilts, frequenting barns on rural roads highlighting our agricultural roots.
Learn more about the region’s history at the Orillia Museum of Art & History, Coldwater Canadiana Museum, Coldwater Mill, or Stephen Leacock Museum & Historic Site. The historic Orillia Opera House is the largest theatre north of Toronto, featuring concerts and quality theatrical productions.
Cozy Accommodations
During your trip rest easy at one of Orillia’s many cozy accommodations. From chain hotels to comfy bed and breakfasts, you’ll find everything you need to suite your needs. With easy access to the region’s outdoor adventures, shopping, and dining experiences.
For those who prefer the outdoors, Orillia & Lake Country also has an array of camping opportunities. Stay at Bass Lake, McRae, or Mara Point Provincial Parks or discover winding riverside sites at Black River Wilderness Park. Owned and operated by Rama First Nation, Black River Wilderness Park hosts a weekly market with local indigenous vendors, activities, and storytelling sessions along the backdrop of the natural landscape.
Make your summer one to remember during a tranquil getaway to Orillia & Lake Country.
