Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

A slick, modern aquarium at the base of the CN Tower, best known for its moving-walkway shark tunnel. Great for families and a solid rainy-day pick, but it's pricey and gets packed. Buy timed tickets online, visit off-peak, and consider the after-5pm discount.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Is Ripley's Aquarium good for toddlers?

Very, the tunnel, touch tanks and colourful tanks hold small kids' attention, and it's stroller-friendly and climate-controlled. The main downsides are crowds and the fact that dim galleries can be a lot for nap-schedule toddlers on a busy day.

How do I get to Ripley's Aquarium?

It's at the base of the CN Tower, about an 8-minute walk from Union Station, which links the subway, GO and the airport UP Express. Downtown driving and parking are pricey, so transit wins.

Can I combine Ripley's with the CN Tower?

Yes, they're steps apart, so pairing them in one downtown outing is common, and CityPASS-style bundles often cover both plus other attractions for a discount. Do the aquarium first thing and the tower for sunset.

When is Ripley's least crowded?

A weekday morning right at 9am opening is your best shot, and after 5pm also thins out. Weekend and holiday afternoons are the crush, expect slow shuffling through the tunnel.

How much are Ripley's Aquarium tickets?

Adult admission generally runs in the mid-to-high $40s, and the aquarium uses dynamic pricing, so weekdays and shoulder hours are meaningfully cheaper than peak weekend afternoons. Buying online in advance beats walking up to the counter.

How long does it take to walk through Ripley's Aquarium?

Most people spend 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Families with young kids who linger at the touch tanks and the shark tunnel's moving walkway tend toward the longer end.

Is there a cheaper time to visit Ripley's?

Yes, the 'after 5pm' entry knocks about $5 off and lines out front are shorter, plus the aquarium stays open late (to 11pm in summer). If you visit twice or more a year, an annual pass pays for itself fast.

Is Ripley's Aquarium worth it?

For families, and as a rainy-day downtown option, it's a solid yes, the shark tunnel and jellyfish galleries are genuinely cool. If you're a couple of adults on a budget, the price-to-time ratio feels steep.

Nearby in Ask Toronto

• Day Trips from Toronto: Niagara and BeyondAttraction0.04 km · 1 min walk
• CN TowerAttraction0.09 km · 1 min walk
• Ontario Science CentreMuseum0.47 km · 6 min walk
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