The Ontario Science Centre, located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, is a renowned cultural attraction that offers an interactive approach to learning about science and technology. History and Mission: The Ontario Science Centre opened in September 1969 and was one of the first interactive science museums in the world. Its mission is to inspire a lifelong journey of curiosity, discovery, and action to create a better future for the planet. Exhibits and Features: The Centre houses several permanent exhibits, including those focused on space, the human body, nature, and technology. It's well-known for its hands-on approach, allowing visitors to interact with exhibits to learn through experience. The Science Centre also features a planetarium, an IMAX theatre, and various temporary exhibitions that change throughout the year. Educational Programs: It offers a wide range of educational programs for children, students, and adults. These programs include school visits, science workshops, camps, and special events designed to engage and educate visitors on various scientific topics. Community Engagement: The Ontario Science Centre is deeply involved in community engagement, striving to make science accessible to a diverse audience. It hosts special community events and offers discounted or free admission to underprivileged groups. Research and Collaboration: The Centre collaborates with scientists and researchers to develop new exhibits and educational programs. These collaborations ensure that the content is current and reflects ongoing scientific discoveries and advancements. Sustainability and Innovation: The Ontario Science Centre also focuses on sustainability, with several initiatives in place to reduce its environmental impact. This includes the use of green technologies and promoting environmental awareness through its exhibits and programs. Visitor Experience: Visitors to the Ontario Science Centre can expect a blend of education and entertainment. The Centre is designed to be family-friendly, offering a variety of experiences to cater to different age groups and interests. The Ontario Science Centre continues to be a significant institution in promoting science education and literacy, attracting visitors from all over the world. Its emphasis on interactive learning makes it a unique and valuable resource for both the local community and tourists.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

We were visiting Toronto for the weekend and saw there was a pretty cool looking science museum when we were searching for things to do. My husband loves science museums, so we try to visit one when we visit a new city. The Saturday that we went, (first Saturday of May) happened to be free admission, so it worked out. Or so we thought. The museum opens at 10 am, and we thought we were getting there early at 9:45, but there were hundreds of people in line already. They must have been there since at least 9. There's also nobody there directing people where to go, until the museum actually opens. We hopped on line for what we thought was for the entrance, but by the time we got towards the front, we realized it was actually just for the SHUTTLE to get to the entrance. We waited about 40 minutes and it was only a 2 minute ride. Something we could have easily walked if someone would have been there to organize traffic. Inside was pretty much just chaos, as you would expect. We only stayed for an hour before we gave up and didn't want to deal with the crowds anymore. If it weren't for that, it seems like a pretty cool museum. There are things to learn for adults too, so it's not just a kiddie activity museum. I wouldn't mind coming back and just paying full price one day if I'm ever in Toronto again. But I definitely wouldn't recommend going on the free admission day, unless you like to stress yourself out.

Was very excited to come here, we arrived later in the day due to other plans having been priority. The main entrance- we realized we needed to take a shuttle to the exhibits as the bridge is closed? We didn’t have to wait long for a ride thankfully (each way). The exhibits don’t seem to have an order to follow and sometimes we found ourselves a little turned around. There’s some on different floors as well. Probably should’ve done research on areas to see prior to going but usually museums and things like this have a better flow. we used a city pass to get tickets which was well worth it since this experience wasn’t our favourite. It’s aimed more so at children and families. It has a lot of fun experiments but it seems very dated in some ways and a lot of things were out of service which was sad. I enjoyed the Moderna exhibit- maybe because I’m in health care. I didn’t learn too much- but what I did was fun little tidbits and I really liked seeing the models and human body in action. We didn’t try food court. Parking was 12$ on entry. It’s a lot of walking as well but they have a lot of accessibility options. A little underwhelmed and disappointed, it seems if you plan your day to do the live experiments and events with the staff it would be better. Also staff was super involved and fun.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

A mixed bag. I’ll start off by explaining that I haven’t been to the Science Center in well over a decade. But when I was a kid I would come all the time and would attend summer camps and would have some amazing experiences. But SO much has changed. Start off by the bridge being closed for no posted reason which is really a shame because that entrance really immerses you in nature and starts your journey off right at the Science Center. Instead, you wait in line for a shuttle to take you down the hill to the rear entrance. (Is walkable, but we went in Mid November with a 4 year old and a 7 week old). Walked in the rear entrance and the place seems empty. Lots of empty spaces and missing exhibits. The areas seemed unorganized except for the original Space and Living Earth exhibits. The way the exhibits were laid out really had so rhyme or reason and it was a really odd layout. The food in the cafeteria is WAY overpriced. Bring your own food! Now for the positives. The exhibits themselves are great! Amazing information for all ages and lots to explore and get your hands on. My 4 year old loved the rainforest and the interactive Dino exhibit. And loves playing with other kids at the interactive floor in the lower level main hall.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

The Ontario Science Center is a fantastic destination for both kids and adults alike, offering a multitude of engaging exhibits and activities. The Science Arcade on Level 6 is perfect for young kids, providing hands-on exploration of physics concepts through magnets, pulleys, weights, and sound experiments. The interactive Plasma Globe adds an exciting element to the experience, captivating the kids' curiosity. The Space Hall is a wonderful attraction for space enthusiasts, showcasing meteorites from Mars and providing a fascinating glimpse into cosmic rays. It offers an educational journey for kids to learn about space shuttles, rockets, planets, the solar system, and the vastness of the observable universe. It's a captivating and enlightening experience that sparks curiosity about the wonders of outer space. Kidspark is a haven of fun and learning for younger kids. With numerous activities tailored for the little ones, it offers an engaging environment for hands-on exploration and discovery. The variety of activities ensures that children are entertained and inspired while learning new things. Overall, a great educational experiences for children of all ages. It's a must-visit destination for families seeking a fun and enriching scientific adventure.

The Ontario Science Centre - A Journey of Wonder My visit to the Ontario Science Centre was nothing short of delightful. From the moment I stepped inside, I felt like a child again, filled with wonder and excitement. The Science Centre is a place where learning is an adventure, and during my time there, I had a very good time exploring the various exhibits and interactive displays. However, the true highlight of my trip was the mesmerizing rainforest housed within the building. Walking through the lush greenery, surrounded by exotic plants and the sounds of tropical birds, was a truly immersive experience. It felt like a journey to a distant land, right in the heart of Toronto. The Ontario Science Centre offers an opportunity to not only learn but to rediscover the joy of discovery. It's a place that sparks curiosity and encourages you to ask questions. Whether you're young or young at heart, a visit here is a journey filled with excitement and knowledge. I can't wait to return and explore even more.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Such a great educational experience. You can go there with your family, too much fun for kids and adults. The staff was friendly. If you are visiting during winter better to know that when you arrive and get your tickets you have to wait for shuttle buses around 5 minutes so don’t take off your jacket ( if you have strollers or wheelchairs you will take accessible buses) There are 6 levels. The best for me were levels 6 and 4. There is no level 1 actually. (the shuttle bus will drop you off in level 6) Level 4 is great for kids they will play music, do gardening, bakery, building and other activities they can also play with water and build dams and … the good point is that level 4 has nursing room too. There are sanitizers everywhere. Clean washrooms with changing table. Better to bring your own snacks and water bottles. But there is restaurant and snack bar inside the building as well. Parking lot costs 12$ Admission fee is: 22$ for adults 16$ for seniors 13$ for child 3-12 Under 3 is free
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

I have to say any science centre is always fun. We have a yearly pass from Telus World of Science in Edmonton, and if you hold a pass from one in Canada, you can enter any science centre in Canada at no additional charge for the general admission. The sad thing about the Ontario Science is that they are moving it down town and downtown has enough attractions. So this means a few things: 1. They are no longer maintaining it. The bridge that gets you to the exhibits.os deemed unsafe and instead of fixing it. they are just running shuttles. There is a wait for the shuttles unless you walk it all the way down the hill. 2. Because the shuttles need a welcome zone, there are no special exhibits happening. It looks like exhibits got reduced. 3. Once it moves to Ontario Place grounds, I'll stop going when I visit Toronto because it is not longer accessible for us. Ontario Place grounds has never been accessible and I don't want to go all the down town for the experience the science centre offers.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

One of the standout features of the Ontario Science Centre is its commitment to providing a dynamic and educational experience. The IMAX theatre and planetarium shows are a must-see, offering immersive journeys into space and the natural world. Visitors often praise the center’s knowledgeable and friendly staff, who are always ready to answer questions and assist with demonstrations. The facility is well-maintained, and the cafeteria offers a variety of food options, making it easy to spend a full day exploring and learning. Overall, the Ontario Science Centre is an excellent place to both learn and have fun with family and friends, making it a valuable educational resource for anyone interested in science and technology. Be sure to check their website for the most up-to-date information on exhibits and hours of operation.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I took my 6 year old boy, but I am trying to assess from the lens of all kids from 6 to 66. I can agree with the opinion I hear a lot, which is that the place could use some revitalization. The exhibits are good - they really are. But I don't think they have the initial appeal to hook in the youth who have so many distractions and other things competing for their attention. Same for the adult who will readily assume they know what the exhibit is about on a surface level, not realizing there may be more there, just a little deeper. The fact that it has stayed mostly the same for so long plays well to the nostalgia of the 30+ crowd; that makes us better tour guides for the next generation. Hoping to see things evolve with the times, regardless of the address of the Ontario Science Centre.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min

Meh. Maybe because both my kids are 12+, or maybe because we're all so exposed to so much knowledge and information, thanks to the internet that the incremental thrill/knowledge gained from such places is diminishing. That said, the Royal Ontario Museum or the Railway museum didn't make me or the kids feel bored after just 30 - 40 min. Here we saw so many exhibits not working, non functional tablets lying around, jaded and worn out look of so many installations. Parking was confusing - no clarity whether we could park or if it was staff only. If you find their paid parking too expensive or confusing or full, there's a big plaza across the road.... Shuttle services were frequent between the parking lot and entrance.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Total disappointment. This was our second visit and probably the last one. Place is totally under construction and full of empty halls, with no volunteers guide. It says there are 6 floors but honestly I feel there’s only 1.5 floors to explore. Rest are places with halls and empty places. I’d rather go spend $22 per person somewhere else. If the place needs redone why is even open? I could see literally all the visitors wandering around on all different floors trying to find something to see. An outdoor area is open too but I’d rather go some other place to hike. Ahh! This place is total mess and way below the expectations. Even $2 entrance fees is too much for this place.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No

This is my first time visiting this science center. There are lots of hands on display, definitely able to stimulate your kid's interest. This science center spreads on a multi level building and guarantees you lots of steps for your pedometer. They have a corridor telling you how to identify different wood types; a collection of movable dinosaurs made of metal, a room full of displays about lights and sounds, and many more. For sure you can spend a whole day there if your kid plays with everything. One star is removed because a few displays are malfunctioning and not playable, but not clearly labeled or fixed.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Since my family and I have a membership, we decided to come and visit the museum today. The bus ride was about 20 minutes. We walked instead of taking the shuttle bus because the line was too long. Previously, we have had experiences of food poisoning from the cafe, so we packed our own lunch and were able to get seating. This museum is amazing. There are exhibits for all- from deep water exploration to bat caves to the reproductive system. Came with kids and explored the play area on the second floor. Had a blast. Overall a great experience and would come back again.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I haven't been back here for a while (a decade +) and forgot how fun and educational this place is! It's definitely a great place to spend the day with kids. There are plenty of interesting things for the adults as well. Did you know there's a big plant called Tulip Tree? I didn't. I like it that the entire place is spacious with high ceilings. There are so many interactive & interesting things strategically placed not too far from each other so visitors don't crowd into one place. Can you spot the dragon lizard?
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Aweful time. This place is like a full day care. completely not interactive or there just so many unattended children. Absolutely no organization. The one hallway was closed making you have to shuttle to the other buildings. People walking out in front of the shuttles none stop. This was an aweful time with 3 kids... absolutely do not recommend to anyone. Our kids had way more fun learning about casa loma. They should learn from science north in sudbury. Way better experience there.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No

Nice place for family with young kids. Many hand-on experiments. However, for older kids and adults may not be that interesting. Still, it's worth the visit. Might spend 3 to 4 hours there. Nice IMAX experience. Just the layout is confusing and needs time to find the different exhibitions. We personally liked the Space section and the Rainforset. And it's funny that you need a bus shuttle to move between the two buildings of the museum. It's provided free by the museum and it's fast.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I can imagine how busy this place is on weekends but going early in the morning just after opening there was plenty of parking and could enjoy the different exhibits comfortably. Got a little busier by the time I left after lunch but there were also a few (not many) school trips or programs during the day. They moved quickly though. Update: the bridge is still under construction..... So you will need a shuttle, rain, snow or shine from the entrance to the back entrance.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

This is great place to spend a day, specially if you have kids. They, for sure will have an amazing experience. There are many interactive exhibits that will allow them, as well as you, to learn many things. I recommend including one of the IMAX movies presented along the day. Ensure to get there early to be able to go through all the exhibits. There is a bus the will take you from the main building to one closeby. The waiting time might be an issue.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

We came here as a year end event with the kids and kinda disappointed to see that a lot of things has been taken out. Especially the space area so little to see now. The gift shop is also gone just a small little both in the way out. They have 2 dinning area one with nicer tables and seats. The other just like high school lunch tables and seats. The kids had the most fun running around in the great hall as there was nothing there just open space. Not too sure if this was due to renovation of the bridge.
Visited on
Weekend

We had a birthday party at Science Centre and it was great! Our party staff was amazing, they did some magic-themed activities, kids loved it and were engaged all the time, John and his colleague (forgot her name unfortunately) helped with everything, starting with entertaining our kid before guests arrived, ordering and distributing pizza, ending with packing leftover food to bring home so that we could relax and enjoy. Highly recommend! Exhibition was great too, kids and parents had fun!

Great place to take the kids of all ages over 1 and let them go wild. Even my one year old was having a blast! Make sure you use the coupons available online and get a discount and buy in advance! Food is also reasonably priced there so family can have a decent outing without breaking the bank too much. Definitely recommend it - My kids are addicts now. Recommend weekdays so it is not crazy busy.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Past the cafeteria and the rainforest area there's a physics rich exhibit that was quieter than the other areas, and I found that really enjoyable. The crochet coral area was gorgeous, and the moving dinos were really neat! I went on a really busy weekday, when there were a lot of large groups visiting. The shuttle service took a while, and I quickly passed through the extra crowded areas.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Absolutely great place. We loved the space section, a lot to learn in a fun and an intuitive way. Kids had a lot of fun learning. It would take half a day if you intend to take your time to see, learn and interact. There is easy access via transit, enough parking and accessible washrooms. Kids might get tired walking. But over all a great place to take your kids. Imax theatre was also cook.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

New to science? Pay a visit to the Ontario Science centre. You will definitely love science. This place reminded me of all the basic science principles I've learnt from my High school days, ranging from simple machines, pulleys and V.R, magnetic fields, sound etc, the list is huge. Please, don't forget to visit the "Moment of Truth" hub on the Level 5 arena. My overall experience was GREAT.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Fun place, especially if you have a young child who needs stimulation- as a dad I had fun too engaging with my son. There were alot of things and they can find 1 thing they enjoy and stick with it for hours. Although the weekends can get busy with all kids running around, will feel like a daycare with no parental supervision. Other than that it is advisable to go on a weekday if possible.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Loved my first visit to the science centre! We could not even complete the ground floor in three hours and aim to go again! Highly interactive with the kids experiencing sound by playing on drums or just going into a silent zone! Excellent exhibition on the developing embryo inside a mothers womb! Fascinating actually ! The small rainforest with its colourful frogs etc etc kids can have their run recorded and test their rowing skills as well ! Enough said.. go experience

My 9 year old son had a blast at the Ontario science center! Highly recommended. Great experience for kids of any age to explore and have fun. Outside food and beverages is allowed which was a bonus! There's also a food court if you wish to purchase food . Overall, great experience and easy to navigate your way around. There are a lot of staff to assist you if you have any questions.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

great place to visit with kids. Even adults liked it. many different themed rooms. there is an observation deck. Every day there are additional video screenings in the cinema. there is a coffee shop inside. the bus takes you and picks you up from the museum. Parking is paid $12. there is a small tropic park. You need to spend at least 5 hours here to see everything))
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Specifically went to see Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen talk about his upcoming Artemis II mission and it was great. It was all very organised and fair in terms of entry. Also had a good chance to explore the centre afterwards, with lots of interactive displays. Renovations being done so had to get shuttled to the exhibits. A bigger gift shop would have been great.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

The Ontario Science Center in Toronto is good for kids and families. It offers a wide array of interactive exhibits that engage and educate visitors of all ages. The facility is clean, with well-maintained spaces and restrooms. The center's emphasis on interactivity and educational experiences make it a memorable destination. It has a restaurant that provides standard fare like pizza and burgers, it serves its purpose as a convenient dining option.

Okish place to visit with small kids. Not too much to view as I had thought of. Apart from one level 6, not much at any other place. Ticket cost is hard to justify, however it deserves 4 stars for rekindling interest in basic science, Some concepts are described very nicely, for example - cosmic rays impact on the human body, Hindu moon calendar....
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Аn excellent place to relax with the whole family. your children and you will be happy to get to this amazing place. There is a restaurant on the territory of the science center, so you will not go hungry. For an excursion to the science center, you need to allocate a whole day, since you will not be able to quickly get out of this labyrinth.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

So many cool displays and experiences... but it's also looking a bit run down. There didn't seem to be as many displays .. especially interactive ones .. than I remember. Also the tunnel is closed so you have to take shuttle busses. So strange. No signs as to why. IMAX theater was great and the movies are top notch. Highly recommended!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

The content is outdated and the methods are outdated. Today, with the rapid development of high-tech, it is completely out of the pace of scientific and technological progress of the times and lags behind the science and technology museums all over the world. It is time to improve and rebuild! The service of the service staff is very good (these three stars are for them).

Visited the OSC on an August Tuesday. It was very underwhelming for me. I feel that it is mainly catered to children. For adults - it’s extremely lacklustre. There weren’t too many interactive activities for adults that were interesting. I was hoping for a better experience.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

I came here with my 2 kids as tourists from Israel. We came in the summer. There were many kids there because of summer break. A lot of noise, very crouded. This place feels more like a playground than a science museum. The kids had fun. The place is nice, the staff is very helpful, but I feel this place is not as educational as it is playful.

On the whole, it is a good place but needs maintenance and replacement of older items so that it keeps on attracting the people, specially the students. Such places develop interest of younger generation in science and technology and these fascinations help produce great scientists, engineers and other professionals.

Goof museum approaching some subjects of science like space, biology, or tree of America. Sadly, some spot were closed due to work. It is an interesting museum approachable for neophytes
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

I was honestly not overly impressed. Although my kids had fun, I would say the majority of the place felt dated. The staff was fantastic, very friendly and very helpful.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

This place is very interactive and cool. I really enjoyed it! Very suitable for children, but adults can also be engaged in the space. Definitely worth the visit
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

We had a fantastic time at the KidSpark area. My toddler would have stayed there all day given the opportunity, but unfortunately for her, nap time is sacred.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Lots of educational stuff for kids. Good way to spend a day. 4 stars because, there was not enough staff to direct us. But clean and well maintained.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure

I will say the content of this centre is very extensive and can really be enjoyable and informative to folks of all ages. However, having parts of the centre closed was not what I was expecting such as the outdoor area which was odd to me

Do not go. I was deeply saddened how poor my experience was. Get there and wait like 30 minutes or more to get admission. 2 staff members moving at a glacial pace. They were nice just really slow. Then the bridge is closed and we have to

I am not sure what I was expecting however I left feeling underwhelmed. We (family with a 5 year old) arrived right at opening and were immediately bussed to the science center rear entrance. (The bridge is closed so you cannot walk from

First time coming to the Ontario Science Centre. It was a good and positive experience for our kids. There were multiple floors for them to enjoy learning about things and getting to build/play/experiment with what they are learning. A

Ontario science center has a learn-science-by-handson museum kind of institution. There are various similar locations like this all over the world. E.g. We in Berlin have the "Spektrum", which is basically the same. But the variety of

Having not grown up in the GTA, I really wanted to check out the Science Centre before it gets closed/moved. The exhibits are a tad dated but I would've loved this place if I was a child. There are tons of activities and interactive

The free charging station is a big plus! Thank you for that!!! The IMAX is a sure hit! Kids of all ages can easily spend good amount of time learning there. Things are very well explained making it fun and easy to learn!

The kids can spend the whole day there. We spend 3 hrs not having enough time to visit everything . Love the kidspark in the museum.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

There are a lot of activities for small kids. My 5 year old and 4 year old kids loved the experience. We needed more than 3 hours to truly experience the whole place, which unfortunately we didn't have.

Need to be improved but still good for visit. Recommended for any age. Science is science and always interesting...
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Science Centre is our favorite place in Toronto. Each time we find some new interesting corners. It looks like the brigde was closed so they organised shutles to drive visitors

I haven't been in years! Took my grandson and my son. We had a great time. So many different things to do and see. I'm glad we got to go before they move it. More

Had wonderful experience. There is so much to do and there are machine and devices to try yourself. Will plan to visit again soon. More

A great place for kids of all ages. This place is both interactive and educational. You will enjoy spending time with your kids.

So much to explore, so much to learn, great place to go with kids. This kind of centres are must have everywhere More

Excellent place for kids and family members and friends with lots of fun and exciting activities. Good place

I've been going since I was a kid. Now I bring my kiddos.