5 Hidden Gems only Locals know about in Orillia

Every Ontario city has its charm and treasures. Besides the people and location, Orillia is full of places that only the locals know about. Making a list of all of them would take as long as it does to wait in line for a burger from Webers on a sunny day. Too long! So, here are five hidden gems that’ll make you want to pack up and move to Orillia.

1. Orillia Fairgrounds Farmers’ Market: Open year-round (every Saturday from 8am-1pm), this famers’ market allows the people of Orillia to take advantage of local, fresh grown produce. The Fairgrounds Farmers’ Market is indoors during the winter months but moves outside in May and stays there until the weather says otherwise.
2. The waterfront: Centennial Park and Couchiching Beach are the focal points of the waterfront but it’s the area itself that truly captivates. The Orillia waterfront is located in the heart of the downtown and locals flock to its sandy beach and boat launch. Some even refer to the city’s waterfront as the “jewel of the Trent-Severn Waterway”, a moniker that it absolutely deserves.
3. Big Chute: Another hidden attraction like the waterfront is the Big Chute Marine Railway Lock 44, affectionately called Big Chute by the locals. Big Chute is the only marine railway of its kind in North America and features picnicking areas and boater camping.
4. Kenzington Burger Bar: Located on Mississauga Street East, this place is more than your average burger joint. Locals flock to this restaurant for out of this world food that satisfies even the pickiest of palates. Technically, the Kenzington Burger Bar has become less hidden since it was featured on the popular Food Network show You Gotta Eat Here. However, it is still considered a gem because if you don’t watch the Food Network or live in Orillia you wouldn’t know that this restaurant even exists. Locals come to Kenzington Burger Bar to enjoy fried cheese curds, roasted beet salads and a selection of melt-in-your-mouth patties.
5. Antiques on 11 North: Sometimes you don’t know what you need until you visit Antiques on 11. This antique mall sits on 6,000 square feet and has over 50 vendors. If you’re looking for an end table with character or a mirror that truly reflects who you are, you’ll be amongst friends as you browse Antiques on 11. Locals love this place because everything at Antiques on 11, no matter what it is, is exactly what you’ve been looking for.

Orillia is a charming Ontario town filled with treasures. If you’re lucky enough to live there, you already know that. If not, what are you waiting for?