| Flanked by two shimmering lakes, Simcoe and Couchiching, Orillia is an oasis 90 minutes north of Toronto. Many private vessels ripple the waters, as does the public cruise boat, the Island Princess. The city has a few public beaches for those wishing to wiggle their toes in the sand, although one of the finest is slightly east of Orillia in Mara Provincial Park. The city beams with pride over two of its past residents -- international folk star Gordon Lightfoot (whose name was given to the auditorium in the Orillia Opera House) and esteemed humourist Stephen Leacock, whose summer home has become a museum in his honour. Visitors can participate in the hands-on displays or view interesting exhibits at the OPP (Ontario Provincial Police) Museum. The prospect of wealth and dazzling stage shows beckon people to Casino Rama, an extravagant entertainment centre. |