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Ontario Science Centre

770 Don Mills Road, Toronto, Ontario

Description

Ontario Science Centre is located in the outskirts of Toronto and displays exhibits relating to the scientific method, the human body, Canadian trees, the concept of ecological habitats, and space. There are also some arcade-style games with a scientific topic and an outdoor area. The museum complex is housed across three buildings with Brutalist designs that are connected by a series of bridges and escalators set in a parkland.

Access & Transport

The science museum is 11km northeast of downtown Toronto, near the Don Valley Parkway. There are some limited paid parking spaces on site (C$12). Buses 25 and 925 stop nearby Don Mills Rd at 'Don Mills Rd at St Dennis Dr - Ontario Science Centre'. Directions & parking: https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/plan-your-visit/transit-directions-plus-parking

Instructions & Recommendations

Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. There are combined ticket for the Science Centre + Imax Film for C$28/22/19. We suggest combining a visit there with the nearby Aga Khan Museum.

Meta review

There is consistent online feedback that the content will be of interest to children (not too young) and even adults but that the museum is showing its age (incl. several exhibits not working) and needs a serious upgrade / facelift. Also, the layout is confusing and there are some ongoing work + a shuttle system from the entrance that results in quite a bit of time wasted. As for the onsite food, there are contradictory comments: some find the choice limited, unhealthy and expensive whereas others found the options great. Go figure!

Environmental & Social

One generic paragraph about "commitment to the environment" in the annual business plan but no specific data available online + some debate around a possible extension/renovation given the sensitive local ecosystem. The museum has school programs and generally helps spread culture and interest in sciences

Conclusion

The Science Museum is a good educational activity for Toronto and regional residents, but it doesn't quite have the calibre and state of the art exhibits to be considered a tourist highlight for inter-province and international visitors

Key positive

Fun and interesting interactive exhibits for kids

Key negative

Many exhibits feel a little behind the times

Inefficient buildings layout

Suitability

Suitable for all ages but children might actually get more out of it than adults. The museum is accessible to visitors with limited mobility.

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

October 2023

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:0h 45m

est. visit time:2h 15m

Regulated hours

Monday -

Tuesday10:00 - 16:00

Wednesday10:00 - 16:00

Thursday10:00 - 16:00

Friday10:00 - 16:00

Saturday10:00 - 17:00

Sunday10:00 - 17:00

Pricing
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
CA$16
Adult
18 - 64
CA$22
Teen & Young
13 - 17
CA$16
Child
3 - 12
CA$13
Infant
0 - 2
CA$0
Price for the Science Centre, not including IMAX film

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