Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: A Must-See Underwater Adventure in Toronto

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, located in the heart of downtown Toronto, is one of the city’s top attractions and a mesmerizing destination for marine life enthusiasts of all ages. Opened in 2013, it’s home to over 20,000 sea creatures, featuring both exotic and native species from around the world. With its interactive exhibits and breathtaking displays, the aquarium provides an immersive experience that educates and entertains visitors about the diversity of life beneath the waves.

Highlights of Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

1. Rainbow Reef
   • A vibrant display of colorful coral reefs and tropical fish, Rainbow Reef is one of the aquarium’s most popular exhibits. Here, you’ll find species like angelfish, butterflyfish, and clownfish swimming gracefully through the water. This exhibit provides a glimpse into the rich diversity of coral reefs and the importance of preserving these delicate ecosystems.
2. Dangerous Lagoon
   • The Dangerous Lagoon is an exciting walk-through tunnel with a moving sidewalk, allowing visitors to see sharks, sea turtles, and other marine predators up close as they glide above and around. This thrilling exhibit is designed to simulate the awe-inspiring feeling of diving into deep waters where some of the ocean’s most powerful creatures reside.
3. Canadian Waters Gallery
   • Dedicated to the unique aquatic habitats found in Canada, this exhibit showcases a variety of native species, including Pacific salmon, rainbow trout, and American lobster. It highlights the importance of Canada’s freshwater and saltwater environments and the need for conservation of these natural resources.
4. Planet Jellies
   • The Planet Jellies exhibit is a magical display of mesmerizing jellyfish in tanks that change colors, providing a calming and captivating experience. The exhibit showcases different species of jellyfish, including the moon jelly and the Atlantic sea nettle, and educates visitors on these fascinating creatures and their delicate lifecycles.
5. Discovery Centre
   • Perfect for families, the Discovery Centre offers hands-on exhibits and interactive displays where kids can touch stingrays, horseshoe crabs, and other gentle sea creatures. It’s designed to engage young minds and give them a closer look at marine life through fun and educational activities.

Events and Special Programs

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada also hosts various events and educational programs throughout the year. From sleepovers in the shark tunnel to interactive diving shows and daily fish feedings, there’s always something exciting happening at the aquarium. Additionally, the aquarium offers educational workshops, group tours, and special programs for schools to promote marine conservation and awareness.

Visitor Information

• Location: 288 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, Ontario, near the CN Tower.
• Hours: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., though hours may vary depending on the season.
• Tickets: Tickets are available online, with discounts for children, seniors, and groups.