What To See and Do
Wondering what is happening in the Heart of Orléans? You are in the right spot!
The Heart of Orléans BIA is surrounded by incredible outdoor experiences! Ride along the Ottawa River Trails with bikes from PACE – Electrify Your Leisure, Giant Orléans, or E.B.M (Electric-Bike Mobility) Inc., hit the water on a boat from Orléans Boat World, or soak up some beach time and beauty at Petrie Island on the Ottawa River. You can also discover the stunning Princess Louise Falls on St. Joseph Blvd. Whether you’re cycling, paddling, or exploring, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the outdoors right here in the Heart of Orléans BIA!
Whether you’re looking for a cozy corner to enjoy your morning brew or a sweet treat to pair with your coffee, the Heart of Orléans BIA has something special to offer. Here’s a look at four local cafés that make our community’s coffee culture shine:
BBCR Café
BBCR Café (Brown Bag Coffee Roasters) offers more than just great coffee. As local coffee roasters, they supply their expertly crafted beans to other cafés while serving up their signature brews in a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to unwind—just don’t forget to pair your coffee with one of their delicious homemade pastries!
Beyond Café
Beyond Café offers a delightful blend of unique flavors and vintage vibes. Their menu features a variety of beverages and fresh bites, perfect for a quick stop or a longer visit. Enjoy an innovative twist on your coffee routine while supporting a local gem.
Café Amore
At Café Amore, it’s all about love in every cup. Known for their friendly service and comforting atmosphere, this café is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious coffee or indulge in an Italian sweet treat. Whether you’re meeting friends, enjoying some quiet time, stopping by for Paint Night or Book Club, Café Amore has something to make your day special
Looking for activities to keep your kids engaged, active, and inspired? The Heart of Orléans BIA is bursting with places where little imagination and big energy can run wild. From flipping through the air to creating masterpieces, there’s something for every young explorer.
Paddle & Explore at Petrie Island
The Petrie Island Canoe Club offers two fantastic day-camp options for children ages 9-12! The Regatta-Ready Program is a two-week introduction to canoe-kayak, while the Competitive Sprint Program is an eight-week experience for those looking to refine their paddling skills. Campers rotate through team canoeing, single kayaks, dragon boating, and dryland activities, which include games, fitness training, and environmental education.
For a fun-filled family experience, check out Petrie Island’s guided nature tours, where you can explore local wildlife, trails, and wetlands with expert guides. It’s a great way for kids (and adults!) to connect with nature while learning about the unique ecosystem of this scenic area.
Ace Arte Studio & Gloucester Pottery School
Unleash your child’s creativity with art and pottery classes where they can sculpt, paint, and bring their artistic visions to life.
Orléans CrossFIT
Help kids stay active and build lifelong fitness habits with engaging Orléans CrossFit classes designed just for them!
Ottawa School of Art – Orléans Campus
For kids with an eye for design and passion for creativity, the art school offers courses where young minds can explore their talents and express themselves.
STEMquest
Explore robotics, coding, and STEM-focused challenges that inspire critical thinking and innovation for young tech enthusiasts.
Ottawa School of Theatre
Step into the spotlight at the Ottawa School of Theatre, Ottawa’s longest running theatre school. This welcoming theatre school offers engaging drama classes for all ages, helping students build confidence, teamwork, and storytelling skills.
Starr Gymnastics & Parkour
Watch them tumble, climb, and leap as they burn off energy and build strength in a safe, supportive environment.
Douvris Martial Arts, Eastside Jiu-Jitsu Club & Therien Jiu-Jitsu & Kickboxing
Help your kids build confidence, discipline, and self-defense skills while having a blast learning martial arts!
STEAMpunks Discovery Lab
Dive into the world of exciting experiments and hands-on activities that bring science, technology, engineering, art, and math to life in a fun, interactive way!
Kids’ Kingdom Orléans
Kids Kingdom Orléans is the ultimate indoor play centre for kids to learn, play, and have fun! With exciting play structures, an arcade, and a dedicated toddler area, it’s perfect for birthday parties, family outings, and active adventures. Parents can relax at the on-site café while kids explore in a safe and engaging environment.
Cumbrae School of Dancing
Discover the joy of movement at Cumbrae School of Dancing, where students of all ages explore ballet, jazz, tap, and more. With expert instruction and a focus on technique, creativity, and confidence, Cumbrae provides a welcoming space to grow as a dancer.
The Heart of Orléans BIA is home to a variety of hobby shops, each offering unique products and experiences for enthusiasts. From model building and puzzles to retro video games and RC cars, these shops cater to a range of interests and skill levels.
Danireon Cards & Games
From a small basement shop to one of North America’s largest Pokémon destinations, Danireon Cards & Games is a community-driven hub for card collectors. Offering over 150,000 single cards, graded cards, plush toys, and more, this local shop caters to fans of Pokémon and other trading card games.
Hobby Hideaway
Hobby Hideaway is a hub for hobbyists of all kinds, offering products for RC cars, model building, puzzles, and more. The store also hosts exciting events like Mini-Z race nights and model competitions.
GamesZetera
Gamezetera is your go-to destination for retro video games, sports and trading cards, board games, vintage toys, and more. It offers a diverse inventory and a fun, nostalgic shopping experience.
Orléans Hobbies
Orléans Hobbies offers a wide range of model kits, remote control products, puzzles, and hobby supplies. If you’re looking for something specific, they also take special orders to help find the perfect item for your hobby needs.
Whether you’re shopping, dining, strolling, or celebrating—your next great memory starts right here in the Heart of Orléans.
Looking for an upcoming festival or event or perhaps a show? Check out our Events Calendar.
