Oh, The Places You Can Go!
Things to do in Orillia during the COVID-19 pandemic
Orillia is a small town, and for Lakehead students West Ridge and McDonald’s can be some of the only places frequented in the average school year. During COVID 19, Orillia has changed quite a bit: making this far from an average school year! Since Simcoe County introduced mandatory masks and limited gatherings, finding things to do in town has started to feel like even more of a struggle. So what is there to do now and during Thanksgiving?
The beaches are open, both Tudhope (off highway 12) and Lake Couchiching. The walking paths are beautiful, and both are accessible by transit, car or on foot. Strolling along the beaches can be an excellent way to get exercise while gyms are closed or have limited availability. The beautiful outdoor space provides a comfortable place for social distancing and tends to be mask free as long as you're 6 feet apart.
The patios around the campus are also open if you're looking for food or drinks. Wimpy’s, Twisted Indian and Starbuck’s are located directly across campus, and other locations are open down University road until the weather gets too cold. Customers are also able to partake in indoor dining or take out to suit your comfort level.
Mississauga Street also has tons of accessible local businesses just waiting for you to stop by. Manticore Books, The Bird House, and art studios are available year-round. Home and decor establishments are also located here if you are looking for local pieces to liven up your dorm room. Some town favourites are Rustica, Brewery Bay and Kennzingtons. There is plenty of available parking on the street or behind certain buildings, where rates are one dollar per hour and free after 5:30pm on weekdays, on Sundays and on holidays. A new business, Creative Nomad is opening soon with the intent of renting out studio space to anyone looking for a place to explore art. The business is co-owned by Steph Whalan, an artist local to Orillia.
Sports and games will still be operational in many fields until mid-October. Tennis can be played across from the cornfield at Rotary Place. They also have two soccer fields and a football field, making a fun game with friends easy and accessible. Golf is also available, with three courses in Orillia and the surrounding area. Additionally, the new recreation centre is set to open soon, so if you are looking for a job during the school year, you can find the postings online at careers.orillia.ca.
LINX transit is also operating on limited hours if students want to leave Orillia and explore Barrie as a day trip. If Barrie doesn’t interest you, LINX transit also travels to Midland and Collingwood (with a just quick transfer in Barrie) providing you with options for your mini adventure. The bus can pick you up right on campus and passes through a few times a day. Check their site for full details if you or your friends want to learn more!
The campus itself may have limited access, but with walking trails, outdoor recreation, and good food, you will never run out of interesting things to do and new things to try while you're here. Of course, you should always remember to bring your mask and social distance to create a safe environment for all of us here in Simcoe County!