Ontario Science Centre Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Ontario Science Centre
Photo provided by Ontario Science Centre
Photo provided by Ontario Science Centre
Photo provided by Ontario Science Centre
Ontario Science Centre


Discover why people get older, understand how to play music, and learn about the Milky Way and constellations in this educational museum with an OMNIMAX theater.

Learn everything from science and nature to geology and human anatomy during a family visit to the Ontario Science Centre. The museum opened to the public in 1969. Today, its 10 large rooms contain over 600 hands-on activities and demonstrations. The center is spread over three main buildings connected by bridges, elevators and escalators for ease of getting around. Strollers and wheelchairs are available free of charge.

Start your trip at the Great Hall and look up to see David Rokeby’s Cloud, a hanging mechanical mobile. This dynamic computerized sculpture has 100 identical panels that create changing shapes. Be sure to investigate The Living Earth exhibition hall. Walk through a replica rainforest to learn about poison dart frogs and Madagascar hissing cockroaches.

Younger visitors to the Ontario Science Centre will enjoy building houses and roller coasters in the KidSpark hall. Be brave and find out how you will look 50 years from now at the Amazing Aging Machine!

The center’s Sleepover program on select spring Saturdays is ideal for families. This event includes interactive science workshops, stargazing, an OMNIMAX movie and a night of indoor camping. Book online in advance to be sure to get a spot. There is also an in-house cafeteria and gift shop.

Pay extra to watch a movie at the OMNIMAX theater. The giant wraparound screen with 44 speakers displays a variety of rotating shows, so check the center’s website before your visit.

The science museum is built on the side of a valley of the Don River, a 20-minute drive from downtown Toronto. The parking fee is relatively high, but buses stop outside the main entrance, so you can take public transportation to save money and help the environment.

Ontario Science Centre is open daily, except December 25. Enjoy slightly longer opening hours on weekends and public holidays. You can purchase combination tickets for the OMNIMAX films. Admission is cheaper for children, seniors and students. Infants aged 2 and under enter for free. Check the official website for the film and event schedules and prices.

Plan a trip to see Ontario Science Centre

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Best Lodging Options Near Ontario Science Centre

Toronto Don Valley Hotel and Suites

Toronto Don Valley Hotel and Suites

3.5 out of 5
175 Wynford Drive, Toronto, ON
Toronto Don Valley Hotel and Suites
GLOBALSTAY Modern Sonic Way Condos

GLOBALSTAY Modern Sonic Way Condos

2.5 out of 5
6 Sonic Way, Toronto, ON
GLOBALSTAY Modern Sonic Way Condos
Urban Retreat A Modern 4BR Townhouse

Urban Retreat A Modern 4BR Townhouse

4 out of 5
71 Blair St, Toronto, ON
Urban Retreat A Modern 4BR Townhouse
Chelsea Hotel, Toronto

Chelsea Hotel, Toronto

4 out of 5
33 Gerrard St W, Toronto, ON
Chelsea Hotel, Toronto
Pan Pacific Toronto

Pan Pacific Toronto

4 out of 5
900 York Mills Rd, Toronto, ON
Pan Pacific Toronto
Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre by IHG

3.5 out of 5
30 Carlton Street, Toronto, ON
Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre by IHG
Sunrise Tree Guest House

Sunrise Tree Guest House

3 out of 5
15 Chapman Ave, Toronto, ON
Sunrise Tree Guest House
Sherwood Stays - Parking/HotTub/Gym/Sauna

Sherwood Stays - Parking/HotTub/Gym/Sauna

Toronto
Sherwood Stays - Parking/HotTub/Gym/Sauna
GLOBALSTAY Modern Lillian St Apartments

GLOBALSTAY Modern Lillian St Apartments

4.5 out of 5
98 Lillian St, Toronto, ON
GLOBALSTAY Modern Lillian St Apartments
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Ontario Science Centre

At the Ontario Science Centre, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including exploring fascinating attractions, participating in engaging class trips, and taking informative tours. Nearby, you can indulge in entertainment, shopping, and scenic walking paths. For those seeking thrills, nearby theme parks and ski parties offer additional excitement, making it a perfect destination for families and adventure seekers alike.

Shopping

The Ontario Science Centre offers a delightful shopping experience nearby. CF Toronto Eaton Centre and St. Lawrence Market are both 8.0km away, perfect for unique gifts. Fairview Mall, only 6.4km away, boasts family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, explore additional shopping spots further afield.

Recreation

For a rejuvenating experience near the Ontario Science Centre, visit the Rogers Centre for an exhilarating sporting event, or enjoy live performances at The Danforth Music Hall. For a relaxing day outdoors, the Dentonia Park Golf Course offers a serene setting for golf enthusiasts.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of winter sports at Earl Bales Ski and Snowboard Centre, located 8.0km from the Ontario Science Centre. Enjoy scenic hikes along the Martin Goodman Trail, also 8.0km away, or challenge yourself at True North Climbing, 11.3km away, for an outdoor adventure.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the Ontario Science Centre at Massey Hall, Ed Mirvish Theatre, and Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres, all within 8.0km. Enjoy captivating performances, cultural events, and a romantic atmosphere perfect for family entertainment and a memorable evening out.

Find the best attractions near Ontario Science Centre

When visiting the Ontario Science Centre, you can explore a variety of attractions nearby, including urban parks, history museums, and historic colleges and universities. These points of interest provide a rich cultural experience, making them ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're keen on learning or simply enjoying the outdoors, there's plenty to discover in and around this vibrant area of Toronto.

  • University of Toronto - St. George Campus: This historic college campus features stunning architecture and beautiful green spaces, creating a vibrant cultural atmosphere. Visitors can stroll through the iconic Hart House and enjoy the diverse student life.
  • Royal Ontario Museum: As Canada's largest museum, it showcases an extensive collection of art, culture, and natural history. The striking architecture and engaging exhibits make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and families alike.
  • Casa Loma: A magnificent Gothic Revival castle, Casa Loma offers a glimpse into Toronto's past. Explore the lavish rooms, secret passages, and beautiful gardens, providing a unique experience reminiscent of fairy tales.

Best time to go to Ontario Science Centre

Visitor numbers around Ontario Science Centre is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Ontario Science Centre can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Ontario Science Centre falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Ontario Science Centre falls in January and February. February has slightly low visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January25.2°F (-3.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February25.2°F (-3.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March33.3°F (0.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
May54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June64.4°F (18.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July71.6°F (22.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August71.2°F (21.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September65.1°F (18.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November41.5°F (5.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December32.9°F (0.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ontario Science Centre

To save money during your visit to the Ontario Science Centre, consider exploring nearby free attractions like CF Toronto Eaton Centre and the University of Toronto - St. George Campus. Plan your trip between December and February for lower accommodation prices, particularly on Sundays, while Saturdays tend to be more expensive. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels and consider package deals that bundle flights and activities for added savings. Look for eco-certified hotels to ensure a sustainable stay without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Ontario Science Centre are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June and August to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Ontario Science Centre is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Ontario Science Centre is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to choose your budget, favoured location, and additional preferences. You can easily arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type—selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the Ontario Science Centre with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.