In Orillia & Lake Country, we love all things creative! We have an amazing community of talented artists and creators who are passionate about sharing their skills. The are venues across the region where you can dive into painting, stained glass, floral arranging, pottery, and so much more! We’ve rounded up the best places to get creative, for budding artists of all ages.
The Maker’s Circle
17 Peter Street South, Orillia
The Maker’s Circle is a collaborative gallery located in the heart of Orillia’s Art’s district. This cozy, vibrant space is a hub for creativity and community. In addition to being home to the works of over a dozen local artists, The Maker’s Circle offers an exciting variety of classes. Explore painting in watercolour, acrylic and more. Always wanted to learn stained glass? Try a fun and easy 2 hour workshop. Offeringings change monthly, with workshops such as marcreme, basket weaving, ink drawing and more. The Maker’s Circle also offers a free art drop in, Tuesday – Friday from 10am – 2pm. Learn more.
Orillia Museum of Art and History
30 Peter Street South, Orillia
The Orillia Museum of Art and History is a cultural icon in Downtown Orillia. With a variety of permanent and rotating exhibits, OMAH is a great place to learn and be inspired. The museum has an ever-changing list of programs for all ages. Sculpt a funky fish, take a life drawing class, or sign up for a 4 week series that walks you through a selection of different mediums. The Museum also offers excellent children’s programs including summer camps, PA day camps and a toddler play program. Learn more.
Leacock Museum
50 Museum Drive, Orillia
The Leacock Museum is a stunning historical site located on the shores of Lake Couchiching. Once the summer home of writer Stephen Leacock, this lovely property is available to tour and hosts an assortment of fun and unique events. Don’t miss their popular Paint by the Lake classes, with multiple dates throughout the summer. Learn more.
Bear Pen Flower Farm & Market
3498 11 Line North, Coldwater
Step through the doors of Bear Pen Flower Farm & Market and into an enchanting space filled with local goods, unique gift items and all things floral. At Bear Pen they grow many of their own blooms. Get in touch with your inner florist with a great variety of workshops that change with the season. Spend an afternoon making a beautiful bouquet in an a lovely country setting. Learn more.
The STUDIO
24 Coldwater Rd, Coldwater
Take a trip to the charming Village of Coldwater and learn something new at The STUDIO. If you have always wanted to try your hand at pottery, this is the place! With one day and multi-day class options available you can learn throwing, handbuilding and more. They also offer an assortment of workshops in other mediums including mosaic, botanical printing, sewing and more! Contact Whitney at backinthyme22@gmail.com for the details on upcoming classes. Learn more.
Creativity for Kids
Looking for a creative space just for kids? Heartworks Children’s Studio in Orillia is a fun and inclusive spot for children ages 3 months to 10 years. They believe in process over product and offer a wide variety of open ended tools and materials for children to freely explore.
Innokids Park is an exciting new play space in Orillia that includes a big bright beautiful art studio, where kids can explore their creativity. Check out there creative workshops here.
Art & Craft Supplies
If you are looking for art and craft supplies skip the big box stores and support local, in Downtown Orillia. Lahay’s Hobbies and Crafts has been a staple in Downtown Orillia for over 30 years. If you knit or crochet you won’t want to miss their extensive selection of beautiful yarn. Lahay’s has what you need for beading, needle felting, painting, model building, and so much more. In the shop you will also find an array of unique toys and games.
The Shadowbox is located in Orillia’s Peter Street Arts District and has been happily serving customers for over 40 years. They are an excellent resource for paint, canvas, custom framing and more, with helpful customer service provided by experienced artists.
Why not make a getaway out of your creative adventure? Find a great place to stay here.
