Our family had the absolute pleasure of visiting the brand new Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada recently. Let me preface this by saying that I love aquariums. I find them absolutely fascinating. I have visited a few aquariums, in various cities over the years. It was no surprise to me that as soon as we walked inside the aquarium I had goosebumps…really. If you are wondering what to do in Toronto over the weekend weekend, it is time to visit the largest aquarium in Canada, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.
What to do in Toronto with Kids
I could go on and on about how much my kids (ranging in age from my 18 month old nephew to my 10 year old daughter) enjoyed simply staring at gigantic tanks filled with shimmering fish. However, let me take you through a few of our favourite spaces, starting with the “Dangerous Lagoon”. Visitors are filed onto a moving sidewalk that slowly carries everyone along through this shark filled aquarium tunnel. Riding along passengers discover that the aquarium is all around – reef sharks swim overhead as the aquarium arcs above. It really is incredible to see the underside of sharks and sting rays. We also spotted sawfish, spadefish and even a green sea turtle…an absolute favourite of my daughters.
Next on the “must see” list is Planet Jellies, a magnificent collection of jelly fish. Behind a 2 story aquarium wall, jelly fish dance every so slowly. It really is a beautiful sight to see. My girls learned a lot in this section of the aquarium…facts and information about the jelly fish lifecycle line the walls of Planet Jellies.
Hands-On Fun in the Discovery Centre
The Discovery Centre is a fun, hands-on section of the aquarium. Kids can ride down a lobster slide, operate a pretend submarine, climb inside a “bubble” inside the shark aquarium and actually touch a horseshoe crab. The Discovery Centre is a great spot for kids to run around and have some fun actively playing and learning about sea life. At the end of our visit our entire family was ready to head back inside and visit all over again. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is a fabulous addition to Toronto.
There’s some important information you will want to know if you’re adding the aquarium to your list of what to do in Toronto with small childre. First, there are easily accessible washrooms. There is also a small cafe where you can purchase lunch. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is accessible by public transit. When you arrive you will find a super kid-friendly environment, complete with stroller-riendly ramps and walkways.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
www.ripleyaquariums.com/canada | Facebook | Twitter
288 Bremnar Boulevard, Toronto, 647-351-3474
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