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Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

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Ripley's Aquarium of Canada (Canada)

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Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, located at the base of the CN Tower in downtown Toronto, is one of North America's largest and most technologically advanced aquariums. Since its grand opening in October 2013, it has become a top tourist destination, spanning 12,500 square meters (135,000 square feet). The aquarium holds over 5.7 million liters of water and is home to more than 20,000 marine animals representing 450 species. Its most famous feature is the "Dangerous Lagoon," a 97-meter-long underwater tunnel equipped with a moving sidewalk that takes visitors through a habitat filled with sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Other galleries, such as "Canadian Waters," focus on the diverse species found in the Great Lakes and Canada's surrounding oceans. The "Planet Jellies" exhibit features mesmerizing, backlit tanks showcasing various jellyfish species. The aquarium emphasizes education through interactive touch pools and scientific displays, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of marine conservation. It remains a highlight of Toronto's Entertainment District.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

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📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada in Toronto is open to the public; the main tunnel provides a unique view of sharks and rays. It is an indoor aquarium with many interactive exhibits.
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Typical hours
The aquarium is typically open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, with possible variations on holidays. It is one of the most visited places, so wait times are possible.
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Photography
Photography without flash is allowed everywhere; the tunnel and jellyfish exhibit are especially photogenic. Self-timers and tripods are generally not permitted.
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Time needed
Allow about 2 to 3 hours for a thorough visit, including all exhibits. Children usually linger longer, so plan for extra time.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with the CN Tower and Rogers Centre in the immediate vicinity. The nearby Yonge-Dundas Square with its shopping mall is also worth a detour.
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Getting there
The aquarium is located at the base of the CN Tower in downtown Toronto, accessible by subway (Union Station) or streetcar. Parking is expensive, public transit is recommended.
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Insider tip
Buy tickets online in advance to avoid waiting times. Visit the aquarium early morning or late evening for a quieter experience.

Geography

Coordinates
43.64200, -79.38600

Facts

  • The aquarium officially opened its doors on October 16, 2013.
  • It holds over 5.7 million liters (1.5 million gallons) of water in total.
  • The underwater tunnel in the Dangerous Lagoon is 97 meters (318 feet) long.
  • The "Canadian Waters" gallery features 17 distinct aquatic habitats.
  • Over 100 different species of fish are fed daily by professional divers.
  • The facility features one of the world's largest displays of jellyfish in its specialized gallery.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

CN TowerCN Tower<1 km · SExplore →
Gooderham BuildingGooderham Building2 km · NExplore →
Toronto Financial DistrictToronto Financial District2 km · SWExplore →
Casa Loma (History)Casa Loma (History)3 km · SExplore →
Prince Edward ViaductPrince Edward Viaduct3 km · NExplore →
Ontario Science CentreOntario Science Centre6 km · NExplore →
Richmond HillRichmond Hill8 km · SEExplore →
NewmarketNewmarket12 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Ripley's Aquarium of Canada (15)

Giant Park Bench📍 landmark

A giant park bench that serves as a popular photo opportunity near the aquarium.

Toronto Railway Museum🏛 museum

Toronto Railway Museum is located in Roundhouse Park, displaying historic locomotives and railcars.

🕒 We-Su 12:00-17:00💶

Fleck Dance Theatre🎭 culture

Fleck Dance Theatre is a modern theatre at Harbourfront Centre in Toronto, hosting dance performances.

♿

Studio Theatre🎭 culture

Studio Theatre is an intimate performance space at Harbourfront Centre in Toronto.

The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery🏛 museum

Contemporary art gallery in a former power plant on Toronto's waterfront.

The Second City🎭 culture

The Second City is a famous comedy club and improv theatre in Toronto.

♿

Inner Harbour📍 landmark

Inner Harbour is a sheltered harbour in Toronto, lined by Harbourfront and the Aquarium.

Snug Harbour📍 landmark

Snug Harbour is a small marina in Toronto, known for its quiet location.

TD Gallery of Indigenous Art🏛 museum

The TD Gallery of Indigenous Art displays contemporary and traditional works by Indigenous artists.

🕒 Mo-Fr 08:00-18:00; Sa,Su 10:00-16:00; PH off

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada🎡 recreation

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada is a large public aquarium in Toronto featuring a moving walkway through a shark tunnel.

🕒 Mo-Su 09:00-21:00♿💶

Roundhouse Park🌳 park

Roundhouse Park in Toronto features a historic roundhouse and the Toronto Railway Museum.

Centreville🎡 recreation

Centreville is a children's amusement park on Centre Island in Toronto.

St. Andrew-By-The-Lake Church⛪ religious

Built in 1884, this Anglican church is located on the Toronto Islands near the Aquarium.

Far Enough Farm🎡 recreation

Far Enough Farm is a petting zoo with farm animals in Toronto.

Algonquin Island Park🌳 park

Algonquin Island Park is a park on Algonquin Island in Toronto Harbour, with old trees and picnic areas.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Ripley's Aquarium located?
It is located in Toronto, right next to the CN Tower.
Are combo tickets available?
Yes, combo tickets with the CN Tower are often available.
What is the main attraction?
The moving sidewalk through the shark tunnel is the highlight.
When is the best time to visit?
Weekday mornings or late evenings are the least crowded.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, but flash photography is prohibited to protect the animals.
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada: where is it located?
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada is located in Canada.
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada: what is there to see?
Highlights include Giant Park Bench, Toronto Railway Museum, Fleck Dance Theatre.
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada: why is it worth visiting?
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, located at the base of the CN Tower in downtown Toronto, is one of North America's largest and most technologically advanced aquariums.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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A city between Hamilton and Toronto, often ranked as one of Canada's best places to live.
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Known for its high quality of life and the University of Guelph.

History & landmarks

Stratford — Ripley's Aquarium of Canada (Canada)
Stratford
Stratford is renowned for its annual classical theatre festival and well-preserved Victorian architecture along the Avon River.
Toronto City Hall — Ripley's Aquarium of Canada (Canada)
Toronto City Hall
A distinctive modernist building located at Nathan Phillips Square.