Posted : May 7, 2025
Our blog is chock full of great ideas for fun things to see and do in York Durham and Headwaters. We are always adding new content and updating old posts, but sometimes you might stumble upon something from our vault. If this article has inspired you to hit the road, be sure to double-check that the featured stops in this post are still welcoming visitors.
When visiting downtown Orangeville, it’s hard to miss the gorgeous 19th century train station that is a town staple. While many know it’s home to the Barley Vine Rail Co, one will also find a unique link to the times of Prohibition.
As you step inside the ornate doors of Revival 1863, you may be a little confused to be met with what looks like a common hallway and a random bookshelf. Upon further investigation however, one of these novels isn’t like the others as it unlocks the doorway to a sneaky speakeasy!
Leave the 21st century behind as you enter the “blind pig” as they were referred to during the Prohibition era. Owners Angela and Mark have crafted this gorgeous establishment from scratch. You can tell so much thought and passion went into every inch of Revival 1863, starting with the decor. Interior brickwork alongside stone pillars set a powerful aura as lavish velvet couches and sparkling chandeliers establish the element of extravagance not unknown to that epoch. One would say that Revival 1863 is the cat’s pyjamas!
As for the cocktails themselves, you won’t find giggle water like this anywhere else. Their timeless concoctions are made from scratch with housemade syrups that ensure these beverages are the bees knees. For those who like something a bit stiffer, the Smoked Vanilla Manhattan is bound to be a hit. If you’d enjoy something a little more on the down-low, try their Breakfast in Graceland. Some may think you’re being a wet blanket for ordering tea at a speakeasy but just one sip will show them this isn’t your average brew! Though their most iconic cocktail has to be their Bubble Bath Time Gin. It’s a nod to the days when gin was crafted in a bathtub – complete with bubbles and a rubber ducky. Don’t worry though, you won’t find any bath water here as only the finest spirits are used at downtown Orangeville’s favourite juice joint!
Food and drink go hand-in-hand and you’ll find a plethora of great eats at Revival 1862. Their menu is comprised of shareable dishes perfect for enjoying with your favourite dames and fellas. You’ll find classics like charcuterie and oysters rockefeller but for those who are a little more daring, try their beef cheek poutine with wild mushrooms (and yes, the cheese curds are from Quebec!) or their beetroot and vodka cured salmon. Crispy baguette slices are adorned with a whipped dill cream cheese, cucumber pickles, crunchy capers and of course, their unique cursed salmon slices. Be sure to ask about any features Chef Nekko may be cooking up behind the scenes during your visit!
For those who love live entertainment, there is no shortage of acts gracing the state at Revival 1863. Live music is often on the docket both Friday and Saturday nights with a number of special events occurring on Thursdays as well. Whether you’re looking to rock out with the band, laugh until it hurts at a comedy show or get sassy with some fabulous drag queens, there’s bound to be an event that tickles your fancy. Keep an eye on their Instagram to stay up to date on events and happenings.
While Revival 1863 is certain to entertain you, it may do so in some very unexpected ways. This historic building offers a little more than meets the eye! Spirit mediums have found ghostly evidence of mischievous souls causing a bit of a ruckus around the space. You may notice a trick of the eye or a sudden clang that seems out of the ordinary. This space has housed a variety of businesses, one being an antique market that is said to have been frequented by some unsavoury characters. There are also stories of a lost soul setting up camp in the back of the kitchen, occasionally making employees think twice about what they’ve heard or if they’re actually alone. Keep your eyes peeled for any unexplained occurrences or ask some of the staff to see what they’ve experienced after hours!
RELATED: If you’re a fan of things that go bump in the night, you may want to check out some of our spine-tingling self-guided tours that will show you a new side of York Durham Headwaters!
Before you plan your visit, be sure to take a gander at their house rules. From a business casual dress code to what to do if the Bulls show up for a raid, they are bound to give you a laugh while ensuring everyone enjoys the best possible experience while frequenting this local watering hole. While cellphones are frowned upon (do you think Al Capone had WiFi?), they’re encouraged for snapping a quick photo or two.
If you’re looking for plans this weekend, throw on your glad rags and head for Orangeville’s unsuspecting bookcase! Doors open from 7:00 pm until late and while reservations aren’t necessary, they’re strongly encouraged. No need to be a killjoy by being unprepared! So, what are you waiting for? Hop in your jalopy and get a wiggle on to Revival 1863!
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