In the Spotlight: Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
Experience an underwater adventure with over 20,000 marine animals from around the world.
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada features a mesmerizing collection of Canadian creatures and fascinating marine life from across the globe. With one of the world’s most extensive jellyfish exhibits, 65+-year-old giant lobsters, stingray touch pools and live dive shows, you can explore creatures from various depths.
Containing over 5.7 million litres of water, the 12,500 square-metre (135,000 sq ft) interactive aquarium immerses guests in a thrilling underwater adventure.
Look up, down and all around in North America’s longest underwater viewing tunnel
Things to do at Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
With many fun, family-friendly options, there’s no shortage of things to do at Ripley's Aquarium of Canada. So whether you’re planning a date night, or taking the kids out for an enchanting and educational day, here are some things to help you plan the perfect day.
Learn about the ecosystems of Canada
Take a journey through the aquarium by learning what life is like for the underwater creatures in Lake Ontario and the other Great Lakes at the Canadian Waters gallery.
Take a heart-pounding journey
The Dangerous Lagoon provides an experience you will never forget. Step onboard the moving sidewalk to be transported through North America’s longest underwater viewing tunnel.
Home to the aquarium’s most fearsome-looking animals, you can’t help but oooo and aaaah as the majestic creatures glide above your head.
Enjoy a mesmerizing light show from dancing jellyfish
With hundreds of jellies surrounding you, you will truly feel like you’ve visited another planet at the Planet Jellies exhibit. Be hypnotized by the backlit and colour-changing displays filled with different species of jellyfish.
Don’t forget to look up, where the ceiling exhibit showcases the beautiful and translucent Moon Jellies!
Guests can connect with stingrays and even pet them in the Shoreline Gallery
Touch a stingray
The Shoreline Gallery at the top of Ray Bay provides visitors with an educational and tactile experience. Run your fingers against the silky smooth skins of the four species of stingrays while friendly educators will teach you about these amazing creatures. You’ll fall in love at first touch!
Be transported to tropical waters
Home to over 100 species of fish, Rainbow Reef transports you to the Indo-Pacific ocean and is one of the most bio-diverse exhibits at the aquarium!
Watch interactive daily dive shows
Marvel as the aquarium’s divers swim alongside the graceful marine life.
Learn something new
A favourite among kids and underwater explorers of all ages, the Discovery Centre provides interactive exhibits where you can engage with different animals. The centre also offers various opportunities for young visitors to learn and play!
Elevate date night
On the second Friday of every month, Ripley’s Aquarium becomes a soulful one-of-a-kind jazz bar. Wander through the aquarium while treating your ears to live jazz music.
Drop by the cash bar for refreshments and watch the marine animals move and groove to the rhythm. Friday Night Jazz is the perfect spot for a memorable date night.
Enjoy interactive dive shows at Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
Places to eat in or near Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Inside the aquarium, PizzaForno is a pizza vending machine providing a quick meal to keep your underwater adventure going. If you are searching for more food options at different prices, multiple restaurants nearby will fit your mood and budget.
Steam Whistle Biergarten
Looking for a more casual vibe with a fun atmosphere, great pub-style food and delicious beer options? Steam Whistle is the place to go. 255 Bremner Blvd.
Taverna Mercatto
Perfect for dates and family outings, head here for delicious pizza and pasta in an elegant setting. Don’t forget to try the tiramisu.
Located right down the street from Ripley’s Aquarium, Taverna Mercatto is a great place to grab drinks and appetizers before heading out on your next adventure. 120 Bremner Blvd.
Evviva Breakfast and Lunch
In the mood for breakfast and a great casual atmosphere? If you plan to spend the day at the aquarium, we suggest you grab a bite at Evviva before your visit. This spot offers an extensive breakfast and lunch menu, perfect for the whole family. 25 Lower Simcoe St.
The jellyfish exhibit is just one of many sights to see at Ripley's Aquarium
Fun facts about Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
- There are over 20,000 marine animals on display
- Includes 450 species of fish and invertebrates and one species of reptile (sea turtle)
- The marine animals are housed in 5.7 million litres of water
- There are 50 live exhibits and over 100 interactive displays
- Marine and freshwater habitats from around the world
Keep even the youngest of explorers busy and entertained with interactive displays
How to get to Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
By Car, East of Toronto: Take Highway 401 to the Don Valley Parkway and continue south to the Gardiner Expressway. Once there, travel west to the Spadina Avenue exit. Exit on Spadina travelling north and turn right (east) on Bremner Boulevard.
By Car, West of Toronto: Take Highway 401 to Highway 427 and go south on the 427 to the Gardiner Expressway. Once there, travel east to the Spadina Avenue exit. Exit on Spadina travelling north and turn right (east) on Bremner Boulevard.
By Car, North of Toronto: Take Highway 404 until it becomes the Don Valley Parkway. Continue south on the Don Valley Parkway to the Gardiner Expressway. Once there, travel west on the Gardiner to the Spadina Avenue exit. Exit on Spadina travelling north and turn right (east) on Bremner Boulevard.
Where to Park: There are several parking lots within walking distance of Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. Parking can be found on Rees and Queens Quay, the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC), underground parking by Lower Simcoe Street, south of Bremner Boulevard, Front Street and Blue Jays Way and Blue Jays Way and Navy Wharf Court.
By TTC: Take the subway to Union Station. Follow the SkyWalk west or walk west on the south side of Front Street to York Street or Simcoe Street. Follow York Street or Simcoe Street south to Bremner Boulevard. Walk west on Bremner Boulevard.
Alternate route by TTC: Take the subway to St. Andrews Station. Walk west on King Street to John Street and follow John Street south, across the John Street bridge to Bremner Boulevard.
By GO Train: Once you have arrived at Union Station, follow the SkyWalk west or walk west on the south side of Front Street to York Street or Simcoe Street. Follow York Street or Simcoe Street south to Bremner Boulevard. Walk west on Bremner Boulevard.
By UP Express: Once you have arrived at Union Station, follow the SkyWalk west or walk west on the south side of Front Street to York Street or Simcoe Street. Follow York Street or Simcoe Street south to Bremner Boulevard. Walk west on Bremner Boulevard.
Avoid crowds by planning your visit during non-peak hours
What are the hours of operation?
When is the best time to visit?
If you are looking to avoid crowds, try to plan your trip during non-peak hours. Peak hours include 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. on weekends, during summer months, and on holidays or between 11:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. on weekdays during their off-season.
Do you need to book tickets in advance?
While you can purchase tickets upon arrival, it is suggested that you buy your Timed Tickets or Annual Pass online prior to your visit.
Does the aquarium have parking?
While there is no on-site parking - other than two accessible parking spaces, which function on a first-come, first-serve basis - there are plenty of places to park nearby.
