Experience the magic of autumn in Orillia – where brilliant fall colours meet live music, art, food and culture. From crisp morning hikes to cozy evening shows, here’s how to make the most of your fall weekend getaway.
Savour Fall Colours: Drives, Trails & Rides
- Scenic Fall Drives in Orillia
Take a relaxing drive around Orillia’s lakefront and surrounding backroads for sweeping views of golden forests, sparkling water, and classic autumn scenery. The routes around Couchiching Beach Park, Bass Lake and Lake Couchiching are particularly stunning as the leaves turn (Orillia & Lake Country Fall Tours). - Scout Valley Loop Trails
Just minutes from downtown, Scout Valley features three interconnected 2km look trails that wind through hardwood forests and wetlands. It’s the perfect way to breathe in fresh autumn air while spotting wildlife (Scout Valley Trails). - Cycling in Orillia
Orillia is a cycling-friendly city with waterfront trails and quiet roadways that offer breathtaking views of fall foliage. Pack your bike (or rent one locally) and explore the Millennium Trail, Couchiching Beach trails, and nearby routes that show off the best of Orillia’s changing colours (Orillia Cycling Routes).
Festivals & Cultural Highlights
- Orillia Fall Fair (October 3-5, 2025 ODAS Park)
a 175 Year tradition of farm fun – featuring agricultural exhibits, demolition derbys, tractor pulls, contests and live entertainment, perfect for families (Orillia Fall Fair). - Lightfoot Days Festival (October 31-November 3, 2025)
Celebrate the legendary Gordon Lightfoot in his hometown. Enjoy four days of music, guided tours, storytelling, and special tributes – including commemorations of the Edmund Fitzgerald anniversary (Lightfoot Days). - OMAH Exhibits
At the Orillia Museum of Art & History (OMAH), experience the Tradition Transformed juried landscape exhibition alongside John Gould: Travels of the Mind and Body, a fascinating look at sketches and multimedia reflecting his journeys (OMAH Exhibits). - Orillia Opera House Events
Shipyard Kitchen Party’s Newfoundland Songbook (October 25, 2025)
A lively, music filled evening of storytelling and song celebrating Newfoundland’s cultural heritage. Throughout the fall, the Opera House stage hosts shows ranging from classic musicals like Jesus Christ Superstar to tribute acts such as Rumours: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Show. For full list of all Opera House Events (Orillia Opera House).
Eat, Drink & Discover: New & Noteworthy Restaurants
- Seto – A stylish new downtown spot blending Southeast Asian Flavours with a modern cafe and grocery concept
- Provenance Wine Bar & Commissary – A refined wine bar with local inspired dishes and an international wine list
- Brewery Bay Food Co. – A long-time local favourite, recently refreshed with a new location and menu.
- The Social – A new downtown addition offering Canadian inspired dishes, brunch and a lively dining and evening atmosphere.
Rest & Recharge: Where to Stay
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Orillia
- Best Western Plus Mariposa Inn and Conference Centre
- Champlain Hotel Orillia
Each offers cozy accommodations and modern amenities, making them perfect home bases for your fall adventure.
Plan Your Fall Getaway
From fiery fall foliage to live music, art and mouth-watering dining, Orillia is the perfect destination for a weekend of discovery this autumn. Pack your hiking boots, bring your appetite and get ready to experience the very best of Dine, Play & Stay in Orillia.
