Discover Orléans: A Gem in Ottawa’s Landscape
As National Tourism Week unfolds, it’s the perfect time to explore and appreciate the local flavours and sights of Orléans, a vibrant community rich in culture, nature, and history. This year, we’re revisiting the diverse attractions that make Orléans a must-visit destination, complete with new additions and traditional favourites that together weave the unique tapestry of this charming locale.
Natural Splendor and Outdoor Activities
Petrie Island: A serene getaway, Petrie Island offers a picturesque beach and tranquil settings ideal for a summer day’s relaxation. Home to a thriving canoe club and a Marina, visitors can rent paddle boats, canoes, and kayaks to explore the waters. The island is a summer hotspot and a winter retreat for ice fishing and cross-country skiing, thanks to its well-maintained trails and abundant wildlife.
Riverside Trails: Stretching from Trim Road to Blair Road, this trail is beloved by locals for walking, running, and biking. Known as Ski Heritage East during winter, it transforms into a professionally groomed trail that supports a variety of winter sports, from skate skiing to fat-biking.
Cultural and Historical Highlights
Princess Louise Falls: Hidden along St-Joseph Boulevard, these falls offer a stunning natural display across sedimentary rocks, accessible via a network of trails that provide scenic views from both the base and summit.
Historic St-Joseph Boulevard: The cultural artery of Orléans showcases the French influence pervasive in Orléans’ heritage, with numerous plaques detailing its transformation from Ottawa Street to a bustling hub.
Shenkman Arts Centre: This centre is a cultural beacon in Orléans. It offers a plethora of artistic endeavours, from live performances and galleries to studios and special events, enriching the community’s artistic landscape.
Must-Visit Local Businesses and Gastronomy
Stray Dog Brewing Company: This local microbrewery welcomes visitors with their dogs and has also partnered with The Heart of Orléans BIA to create “Roundabout,” a special brew named after the local roundabout at Jeanne D’Arc and St-Joseph. This exclusive beer is launched just before the Orléans Craft Beer Festival and featured throughout the event, celebrating local flair and craftsmanship in every sip.
Broadhead Brewing Company & Orléans Brewing Co.: Continue your craft beer journey by visiting these establishments, contributing to Orléans’ reputation as a burgeoning hub for craft beer enthusiasts.
Diverse Dining Options: From Vietnamese and Lebanese to French and Indian cuisines, Orléans’ restaurants, like the longstanding Turkish and Thai establishments, offer dishes as varied as they are delicious, often utilizing fresh, local ingredients.
Specialty Shops and Boutiques: St-Joseph Boulevard is home to unique shops offering everything from a bridal store to bespoke chocolates. These shops embody Orléans’ friendly, small-town feel in a big city.
Place D’Orléans Shopping Centre: With hundreds of stores , this is the largest shopping hub in Orléans. It features a variety of shops and a food court, catering to all your shopping needs.
Festivals and Community Events
Orléans PoutineFest & Street Food Frenzy (May 3-5): Dive into over a hundred variations of poutine and many street foods at the Orléans PoutineFest. This event also features a new Bevvy Garden, a kids zone, and live entertainment, making it a gastronomic celebration.
Orléans Blooms (May 12): The Kin Club of Orleans hosts this garden event, which offers premium plants for sale, gardening advice, and local art displays. The event promotes community engagement and green practices.
Orléans Craft Beer Festival (June 7-8): Sample craft beers from over 25 vendors, enjoy exquisite foods, and experience live entertainment in the heart of Orléans at the Centrum Plaza.
Recreational Destinations
Orléans Bowling Centre: Experience duckpin bowling at this retro-themed alley, a unique recreational activity that promises fun-filled family time.
Orléans Farmers’ Market: Open from May through October, this market at Ray Friel Recreation Complex offers fresh, local produce and crafts from over 35 vendors, celebrating local agriculture and craftsmanship.
Orléans Tennis Club: This year, the Club is proud to host Ottawa’s first pickleball festival on Father’s Day, organized by Big Brothers Big Sisters. The Club will feature a fast-growing sport which combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis.
Orléans Fruit Farm: Linked to the city’s Francophone heritage, this farm provides fresh, local produce and a touch of history. It was once owned by the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, founders of the University of Ottawa.
Elizabeth Manley Figure Skating Arena: At the heart of the Bob MacQuarrie Recreation Complex lies the Elizabeth Manley Skating Rink, a nod to the Olympic silver medalist who trained here and put Orléans on the sporting map.
Location and Contact Information:
- Orléans Client Service Centre: 255 Centrum Boulevard, Ottawa, Ontario
- PoutineFest and Craft Beer Festival Websites:
Orléans checks all the boxes for a fulfilling tourist experience with scenic vistas, historical sites, and vibrant community events. It also continues to grow and embrace new trends and activities, ensuring that each visit is unique and memorable. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, a cultural journey through local history, or a lively festival atmosphere, Orléans welcomes all to discover its treasures. So next time you’re asked about a tourist destination with charm, culture, and adventure, let Orléans be your enthusiastic reply!