Orillia City Guide

Food options include Canadian staples like poutine and maple treats plus Italian, Chinese, and Indian cuisines. Vegetarian and vegan choices are growing. Limited late-night dining except fast food.

Nightlife is mostly casual with pubs, bars, and a nearby casino. Not much clubbing.

Growing coffee scene with independent shops and chains offering specialty brews.

Tipping is customary: 15-20% in restaurants, 10-15% for rides, similar for personal services. Small tips appreciated at coffee shops.

Buy SIM cards at Bell, Rogers, Telus stores or their sub-brands. Bell, Rogers, and Telus have the best coverage. ID or passport needed for activation.

City is clean with good waste and recycling services.

Limited 24/7 services. Some grocery stores open late, few or no 24/7 pharmacies, fast food drive-thrus offer late-night options.

Major supermarkets like Zehrs, Metro, Food Basics, and No Frills sell international and local products. Orillia Farmers' Market offers fresh local produce. Stores usually open from early morning to late evening.

Cards are widely accepted for most purchases. Cash is accepted but less commonly used.

Branches and ATMs for RBC, TD, CIBC, Scotiabank, and BMO are available across the city. Using ATMs outside your bank's network may cost $2-$3 CAD per withdrawal.

Local schools include Orillia Secondary and Twin Lakes Secondary. Mainly English instruction. No international schools, but there are private options like Orillia Christian School.

Very small or no active digital nomad community.

Excellent parks and green areas for walking and running.

Good running routes along lakes and parks. Generally safe with good air quality.

Multiple gyms and fitness centers are available.

Tennis courts available at parks and recreation centers, booking varies.

Padel courts are not common here.

Several studios offer various styles and drop-in classes with English-speaking instructors.

Dojo options with karate, taekwondo, and grappling. English-speaking instructors common.

Ski resorts like Horseshoe and Mount St. Louis Moonstone are 30-40 minutes away, open December to March with rentals and mixed terrain.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular with rentals and calm summer conditions.

No ocean surf breaks, inland on freshwater lakes.

Freshwater diving in lakes with limited visibility and local fish species. Best in summer with rentals and some certifications nearby.

Orillia Soldiers' Memorial Hospital provides quality public healthcare with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall offer OTC meds with extended hours. Emergency number is 911.

Tap water meets all safety standards and is safe to drink.

Good for families with parks, playgrounds, kid-friendly cafés, and cultural spots like the library and museum.

Generally accepting with legal protections, but not a major event hub.

Pet-friendly with parks and veterinary services. Pet-friendly places are increasing.