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 theatre.

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 centre 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 centre’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 theatre. The giant wraparound screen with 44 speakers displays a variety of rotating shows, so check the centre’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.

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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
Chelsea Hotel, Toronto

Chelsea Hotel, Toronto

4 out of 5
33 Gerrard St W, Toronto, ON
Chelsea Hotel, Toronto
Urban Retreat A Modern 5BR Townhouse

Urban Retreat A Modern 5BR Townhouse

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

Sunrise BnB

2 out of 5
17 Elmont Drive, 17 Elmont Dr, Toronto, ON
Sunrise BnB
Sunrise Tree Guest House

Sunrise Tree Guest House

3 out of 5
15 Chapman Ave, Toronto, ON
Sunrise Tree Guest House
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
Pan Pacific Toronto

Pan Pacific Toronto

4 out of 5
900 York Mills Rd, Toronto, ON
Pan Pacific Toronto
Sherwood Stays - Parking/HotTub/Gym/Sauna

Sherwood Stays - Parking/HotTub/Gym/Sauna

Toronto
Sherwood Stays - Parking/HotTub/Gym/Sauna
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

When visiting the Ontario Science Centre, you can enjoy a variety of engaging activities, including fascinating exhibits that spark curiosity, interactive science demonstrations, and IMAX films. Nearby, take advantage of the surrounding entertainment options, scenic walking paths, and unique shopping experiences, making your trip an enriching and enjoyable adventure.

Shopping

The Ontario Science Centre is surrounded by great shopping options. CF Toronto Eaton Centre, 8.0km away, offers a lively atmosphere with diverse shops. St. Lawrence Market, also 8.0km away, features local vendors. Fairview Mall, just 6.4km away, combines entertainment and shopping for the whole family.

Recreation

Experience the thrill of the Rogers Centre, just 9.7km away, where you can catch a game or event amidst the vibrant sports atmosphere. For music lovers, the Danforth Music Hall, located 4.8km away, offers an entertaining vibe with live performances. Enjoy a round of golf at Dentonia Park Golf Course, also 4.8km away, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Adventure

Explore the Martin Goodman Trail for a scenic hike, immersing yourself in nature's beauty, located 8.0km from the Ontario Science Centre. Experience thrilling skiing or snowboarding at Earl Bales Ski and Snowboard Centre, also 8.0km away, or challenge yourself with climbing at True North Climbing, 11.3km away.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the Ontario Science Centre with a show at the Canon Theatre or Tarragon Theatre, both offering rich culture and entertainment just 8.0km away. For a shorter stroll, catch a performance at the Panasonic Theatre, only 6.4km away, perfect for a romantic evening.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Ontario Science Centre

When visiting the Ontario Science Centre in Toronto, you'll find a variety of attractions such as urban parks, history museums, and historic colleges and universities. This area offers engaging cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and outdoor adventures. Don't miss the chance to explore the Ontario Science Centre itself, as well as nearby highlights like the downtown area and the Toronto Zoo for a well-rounded vacation experience.

  • University of Toronto - St. George Campus: Explore the stunning architecture and lush green spaces of this historic campus, known for its vibrant culture and academic excellence. Wander through its picturesque grounds and soak in the scholarly atmosphere.
  • Casa Loma: Step into a fairy tale at this magnificent castle, complete with beautiful gardens and opulent rooms. Casa Loma offers a unique glimpse into Toronto's history and architectural grandeur, making it a must-visit attraction.
  • The Distillery Historic District: Experience a lively blend of history and modernity in this charming pedestrian area. Enjoy boutique shops, art galleries, and delicious eateries, all set against the backdrop of beautifully restored Victorian industrial architecture.

Best time to go to Ontario Science Centre

The best time to visit Ontario Science Centre is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
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 SunnySlightly HighSlightly 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 SunnyAverageSlightly 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 on your visit to the Ontario Science Centre, consider travelling between December and February when accommodation prices are lower, especially on Sundays. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly hotels, utilizing filters for eco-certified options. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal can also yield significant savings. For public transport, take advantage of local transit options to navigate the city affordably. Lastly, keep an eye out for discounts and deals on booking websites to ensure you get the best rates available.

  • 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 lets you specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable accommodations first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation for the Ontario Science Centre with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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