Orillia Museum of Art & History
Discover diverse art, local history, and unique events like pet-friendly 'Pawtraits' at OMAH.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art focus
Orillia Museum of Art & History
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art focus
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover diverse art, local history, and unique events like pet-friendly 'Pawtraits' at OMAH.
"Beautiful arts and amazing atmosphere. Easy 5 star."
🐾 Bring Your Pet!
Check out the 'Pawtraits' exhibition for a unique chance to visit with your furry friends.
📅 Check Exhibition Schedule
OMAH hosts rotating shows; visit their site to see what's on.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gordon Lightfoot: Turning Back the Pages
Permanent Exhibition
Immerse yourself in the life and music of the beloved Canadian singer-songwriter.
Rotating Art Exhibitions
Various Galleries
Explore diverse mediums and styles from local and contemporary artists.
+2
Local History Displays
History Galleries
Delve into Orillia's rich past with engaging historical exhibits.
Pawtraits Exhibition
Special Exhibition Space
A unique exhibition allowing visitors to explore with their pets and even get a portrait.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to OMAH
+1Timing Your OMAH Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Bring Your Pet!
Check out the 'Pawtraits' exhibition for a unique chance to visit with your furry friends.
📅 Check Exhibition Schedule
OMAH hosts rotating shows; visit their site to see what's on.
🚶♀️ Explore Downtown
The museum is a short walk from the main street and lake.
📚 Local History Books
Discover books about Orillia's history available at the museum.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Bring Your Pet!
Check out the 'Pawtraits' exhibition for a unique chance to visit with your furry friends.
📅 Check Exhibition Schedule
OMAH hosts rotating shows; visit their site to see what's on.
🚶♀️ Explore Downtown
The museum is a short walk from the main street and lake.
📚 Local History Books
Discover books about Orillia's history available at the museum.
🎨 Participate in Workshops
Join fun art workshops like ceramic selfies.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Orillia Museum of Art & History for its diverse art displays, engaging local history exhibits, and the unique 'Pawtraits' event. The permanent Gordon Lightfoot exhibition is a significant highlight, and the museum is noted for its welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff. Some visitors found the museum tucked away, but ultimately felt the visit was well worth the emission.
"Made the trip out here to see Peter Fyfe and John Notten's show, "Yours To Uncover." Totally worth taking a road trip to see a gallery ABOUT road trips. :)"
Shaggy Shanahan
"The permanent Gord Lightfoot exhibit is worth admission right there. Some great other shows the community should check out regularly, like the history shows. Great space for ambitious artists!"
Peter Fyfe
"Wandering about and found the Museum is tucked away not too far from the main Street and just a few minutes walk from the gorgeous lake worth the emission. For a moment I felt like I was in some quaint European village. Beautiful arts and amazing atmosphere. Easy 5 star"
Wall-E Rabka
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Orillia Museum of Art & History (OMAH) is located downtown Orillia, a short walk from the main street and the lake. Parking is available out back.
Yes, there is sneaky parking available out back of the museum.
While specific accessibility details aren't widely shared, the museum is generally described as having a welcoming atmosphere. It's best to contact them directly for detailed accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary, but the permanent Gordon Lightfoot exhibit is often cited as being worth the cost. Special events like 'Pawtraits' have a set fee of $30.
Opening hours can vary depending on the season and special events. It's recommended to check the official Orillia Museum of Art & History website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Yes, during the 'Pawtraits' exhibition, families and their pets can explore the museum together on specific dates.
For general admission, booking in advance is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check their website, especially for special events or exhibitions.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
OMAH features a wide variety of mediums and styles, including permanent exhibitions like the Gordon Lightfoot collection, and rotating shows by local and contemporary artists. +1
Yes, the museum showcases local history with engaging displays. They also have books about Orillia's history available.
Absolutely! OMAH frequently hosts events, including art workshops like ceramic selfies and special exhibition openings.
The 'Pawtraits' exhibition allows visitors to explore the museum with their pets and get a portrait keepsake. It's a unique, pet-friendly experience.
Yes, with its diverse exhibits and special family-friendly events like 'Pawtraits', OMAH offers an engaging experience for all ages.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed in museums, but it's always best to check for specific signage or ask staff about any restrictions, especially for flash photography or during special exhibitions.
The art displays themselves, the permanent Gordon Lightfoot exhibit, and the unique 'Pawtraits' event offer great photo opportunities. The museum's downtown location also provides scenic views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 This unique event makes art and history accessible and fun for younger visitors. Beyond special events, the museum's diverse art and history exhibits can spark curiosity in children, especially when presented in an interactive way. Consider visiting during weekday mornings to enjoy a less crowded environment, which can be beneficial when exploring with little ones. The museum's downtown location also makes it easy to combine a visit with a stroll by the lake or a stop at a local park, creating a full day of family-friendly activities in Orillia.
🐾 Pet Lovers
+1This is a rare opportunity to experience a cultural institution with your pets, making it a must-visit for animal enthusiasts. Be sure to check the museum's schedule for the specific dates and times of the 'Pawtraits' events, as they are not a permanent offering. It's a fantastic way to combine your love for art and history with your passion for pets.
+1🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Beyond this, OMAH consistently features diverse works from local and contemporary artists, showcasing a broad spectrum of styles and mediums. +2Keep an eye on their exhibition schedule, as OMAH frequently hosts new shows, providing fresh perspectives and opportunities to discover emerging talent. Participating in their art workshops can also offer a hands-on creative experience, allowing you to engage with art in a more personal way.
The museum's commitment to showcasing ambitious artists makes it a valuable stop for anyone interested in the vibrant art scene. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Art Collections at OMAH
+2Beyond the rotating exhibitions, OMAH is home to significant permanent collections. The Gordon Lightfoot: Turning Back the Pages exhibition is a major draw, offering an in-depth look at the life and legacy of the iconic Canadian singer-songwriter.
This permanent fixture ensures that a piece of Canadian musical history is always accessible to visitors. The museum also dedicates space to historical art, often connecting it to the local Orillia narrative. OMAH also fosters artistic engagement through various programs. They host art workshops, such as ceramic selfie sessions, allowing visitors to get hands-on with creativity.
These events, along with exhibition openings and special tours, make OMAH a lively and interactive cultural destination. The museum's commitment to showcasing both established and emerging artists, alongside its historical context, makes it a cornerstone of Orillia's cultural landscape.Discovering Orillia's History at OMAH
Beyond the general historical narratives, OMAH provides access to books about Orillia's history, allowing for deeper exploration for those interested. This resource is invaluable for researchers, students, or anyone wanting to learn more about the area. The museum's location in the heart of downtown Orillia also places it within a historically significant area, making a visit to OMAH a natural part of exploring the town's heritage.
OMAH has also hosted unique historical experiences, such as the Haunted History Tours, which blend local lore with engaging storytelling.
Unique Experiences at OMAH: Pawtraits and More
+1This innovative approach highlights OMAH's commitment to community engagement and making art and history accessible to everyone, including their four-legged companions. The 'Pawtraits' events often include a tour of the museum and a swag bag, adding extra value to the experience. It's a testament to how museums can adapt and create novel ways for people to interact with their collections and the space.
+1In addition to pet-friendly events, OMAH also hosts community workshops like ceramic selfie sessions, encouraging hands-on creativity.
They also celebrate significant anniversaries with special galas, as seen with their 25th anniversary celebration. These diverse events, from the artistic to the historical and the downright fun, solidify OMAH's reputation as a dynamic cultural center in Orillia.
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