Silhouettes of two visitors standing in front of a massive aquarium window at Ripley’s Aquarium Canada watching schools of fish swim through a rocky underwater habitat. The wide viewing tank creates a calm immersive scene.

Visiting Ripley’s Aquarium in Toronto: Is It Worth It?

ByJulie Millan Updated on

If you’re planning a visit to Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, you’re probably wondering if it is actually worth the hype.

Located in the heart of downtown Toronto at the base of the CN Tower, this is Canada’s largest indoor aquarium and one of the most popular attractions in the city. It is often recommended for families with kids, but I was surprised by how much my husband and I enjoyed it on our own.

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I have lived in Toronto most of my life and only recently visited the aquarium for the first time. I genuinely cannot believe I waited so long. We went on a cold, rainy day, and it turned out to be the perfect activity. We spent about two hours exploring two floors filled with every kind of fish imaginable, and I easily could have stayed longer.

🦈 Skip the long ticket lines and walk straight into the shark tunnel experience by grabbing your aquarium tickets online before you go.

I always assumed it was mostly for kids, but after visiting, I can confidently say it’s just as enjoyable for adults, whether you’re visiting as a couple, solo, or with family.

The highlight for me was the shark tunnel. Standing there while sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles swam all around us was incredible. It is one of those experiences that gives you a deeper appreciation for aquatic life and just how complex and fascinating these ecosystems really are.

That said, it is not perfect. It is a great aquarium, but it can get very busy, and tickets are expensive, especially for families.

In this guide, I am sharing my honest Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto review, along with practical tips to help you plan your visit, avoid the busiest times, and make the most of your time inside.

Is Ripley’s Aquarium Worth Visiting?

Two children watch a shark swim in front of them at the Ripley's Aquarium in Toronto.

Is Ripley’s Aquarium worth visiting? In my experience, yes – but with a few important caveats.

The aquarium is home to over 20,000 aquatic animals across nine different galleries, and there is a lot to see! What stood out to me most was how immersive the experience feels. You are not just looking at fish in tanks. In many galleries, you feel completely surrounded by marine life, as if you have stepped into their underwater world.

My absolute favourite part was the moving walkway through the shark tunnel. Standing there while sharks, stingrays, and giant sea turtles glide right above your head is something you do not forget. I found myself going through it more than once because there was always something new to notice. The largetooth sawfish was especially impressive and unlike anything I had seen before.

There are also plenty of great spots for photos throughout the aquarium, and I can see why it is such a popular attraction for families. Kids were completely fascinated by the exhibits, but as an adult visiting for the first time, I enjoyed it just as much.

That said, the biggest downside is how busy it can get. We arrived around 10:30 in the morning and it felt manageable at first, but by noon it was noticeably more crowded. There were strollers, kids running between exhibits, and it became harder to find space along the glass, and at times we had to wait just to step up and properly see some of the exhibits. I can only imagine how packed it gets during peak times like weekends, long holidays, or Spring Break.

We saw a mix of visitors while we were there, including families with young kids, couples, and tourists visiting Toronto for the first time. Kids were especially excited at the shark tunnel, but as adults, we appreciated being able to slow down, read the displays, and really take in the experience.

Overall, Ripley’s Aquarium is absolutely worth visiting, especially for first-time visitors to Toronto. Go at the right time and take it slow, and it easily becomes one of the highlights of your trip.

Where Is Ripley’s Aquarium (and How to Get There Easily)

Exterior view of Ripley's Aquarium of Canada in Toronto, with a modern angular design and crowds entering the glass-paneled building. The iconic attraction is a must-visit for families and marine life enthusiasts.

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is located right in the heart of downtown Toronto, making it one of the easiest attractions in the city to get to.

It sits directly beside the CN Tower and near the Rogers Centre, so you can easily pair your visit with other major sights in the area.

If you are coming from out of town, the aquarium is just a short five-minute walk from Union Station. This is Toronto’s main transit hub, with access to the subway (TTC), GO Transit trains, and the UP Express from the airport. That makes it very convenient whether you are arriving from within the city or traveling in for the day.

If you are staying in downtown Toronto, you can easily walk to the aquarium or take public transit. It is a straightforward and stress-free stop to add to your itinerary, especially if you are already exploring the downtown core.

How to Buy Tickets (and How to Save Money)

Colourful coral reef fish in a aquarium. Text overlay reads First Time Visitor's Guide to Ripley's Aquarium Canada in Toronto.

You can buy tickets at the aquarium when you arrive, but I would strongly recommend purchasing them online in advance.

On one of our visits, the line to buy tickets onsite was so long that we ended up leaving because we knew the aquarium would already be extremely crowded inside. Another time, we had pre-purchased flex tickets online, and the experience was completely different. We walked straight in, had our tickets scanned, and avoided all of the waiting.

Buying your tickets ahead of time not only saves you time, but it also helps you avoid starting your visit in a long, crowded line. It was one of the best decisions we made.

⏳ Make the most of your visit by pre-booking your tickets so you can skip the crowds at the entrance and spend more time exploring.

🎟️ If you are planning to visit multiple attractions in Toronto, it is also worth buying a Toronto CityPASS. It includes admission to several major sights, such as the CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Museum, Casa Loma, and the Toronto Zoo. If those are already on your itinerary, the savings can add up quickly.

How Long You Need at Ripley’s Aquarium

Two children stand silhouetted against a brightly lit reef tank at Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto as colorful fish swim past coral formations. One child points toward the glass, showing the interactive and engaging exhibits.

How long you need at Ripley’s Aquarium depends on how you choose to explore, but I would recommend planning for about 2 to 3 hours.

We spent around two hours there and really enjoyed it, but we easily could have stayed longer. It is not a huge aquarium, so if you rush through, you could be done in about an hour. That said, I would not recommend doing that.

To really make it worth the price, take your time. We actually had to slow ourselves down at times just to fully take it all in, and I can see how kids would want to rush from one exhibit to the next. 

Read the displays, watch the animals, and slow down at the exhibits that interest you most. If you are visiting Toronto with kids, try not to let them rush from one tank to the next. It is much more enjoyable when you pause, look closely, and even turn it into a bit of a scavenger hunt to spot different fish.

If you go at a relaxed pace, you will get much more out of the experience and feel like your visit was time well spent.

What to See at Ripley’s Aquarium (Don’t Miss These)

So what can you expect to see and do while at the aquarium? There is a lot packed into the space, but these were some of the highlights from my visit.

🦈 Dangerous Lagoon: Walk Through a 360° Shark Tunnel

Visitors stand in the shark tunnel at Ripley's Aquarium in Toronto. Two sharks swim above the tunnel and visitors watch and take photos.
A family looks up inside the underwater tunnel at Ripley’s Aquarium Canada as a large shark glides overhead through blue lit water. The curved glass ceiling creates a dramatic view.

This was easily my favourite part of the aquarium.

Dangerous Lagoon is a 360-degree underwater tunnel and one of the most immersive exhibits I have ever experienced. It is also North America’s longest underwater tunnel. As you move through, sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles glide all around you.

There is a slow-moving walkway, so you can just stand and watch without even having to walk. I loved it so much that I went all the way to the end and then did it a second time.

My tip is to slow down here. Stand still, look around, and take it all in. If you feel like you missed something, just go through again. You will notice new fish every time. And if you are up for it, try taking a “shark selfie.” It is not every day you get that kind of photo.

🐠 Rainbow Reef: See Colourful Tropical Fish Up Close

A young child stands close to a large aquarium window watching colorful fish swim past coral and rocks on a sandy bottom. The child’s small figure against the wide tank emphasizes the scale and detail of the underwater scene at Toronto's aquarium.

If you love colourful tropical fish, you will enjoy Rainbow Reef.

This exhibit features over 100 species of fish in a vibrant coral reef setting inspired by the tropical Pacific. The tank holds more than 200,000 litres of water, and it is full of bright, fast-moving fish that make it fun to just stand and watch.

🐟 Ray Bay: Touch and Watch Stingrays Up Close

A child stands close to the glass at Ripley's Aquarium Canada watching a stingray glide smoothly over a sandy bottom with rocky walls behind it. The stingray’s wide wings and slow movement create a calm and focused viewing moment.
Visitors reach their hands into a shallow touch pool as stingrays swim just beneath the surface of clear rippling water at Toronto's aquarium. Staff members stand nearby guiding the interaction while others observe from the edge.

Ray Bay gives you two different perspectives, and both are worth experiencing.

From below, you can watch stingrays and manta rays glide through the water. Seeing them up close really gives you a sense of their size and how gracefully they move.

Up above, there is an opportunity to gently touch stingrays as they swim by. It is a unique hands-on experience and a highlight, especially for kids.

🌿 Pacific Kelp Forest: Explore Canadian Marine Life

Visitors stand in front of a towering kelp forest tank at Ripley’s Aquarium Canada watching schools of fish swim among tall swaying plants. The scene captures the immersive experience described in a Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto review.

This is one of the first main exhibits and focuses on marine life found in Canadian waters.

The two-story tank is filled with swaying kelp and over 80 species of marine life. I found the movement of the kelp almost hypnotic, and it creates a really calming atmosphere.

Keep an eye out for the giant octopus in this section. It can be easy to miss if you are not looking carefully. This is also a great spot for photos thanks to the height of the tank.

🪼 Planet Jellies: Mesmerizing Jellyfish Displays

Several translucent jellyfish float gracefully against a deep blue background at Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto with long trailing tentacles drifting through the water. The glowing movement and vivid color create a calming display that stands out.
A person holding a child stands silhouetted in front of a glowing blue tank filled with bright red jellyfish drifting upward at the aquarium in Toronto. The contrast between the dark figures and the vibrant jellyfish highlights the scale and movement inside the exhibit.

The jellyfish exhibit is one of the most visually striking parts of the aquarium.

There are multiple tanks showcasing different types of jellyfish, including upside-down jellies and Pacific sea nettles. The lighting changes colours and makes the displays feel almost otherworldly.

I could not stop watching the Pacific sea nettles. The way they move and glow is mesmerizing, and photos do not really capture how beautiful they are in person.

⭐ Discovery Centre: Hands-On Fun for Kids

A child sits inside a viewing bubble surrounded by bright blue water and a school of pink and silver fish at Ripley’s Aquarium Canada. The close interaction with marine life highlights the family friendly exhibits.

If you are visiting with kids, this will likely be one of their favourite areas.

The Discovery Centre is designed as an interactive aquatic playground. There is a small crawl-through tunnel where kids can move through while fish swim overhead, and you can even pop your head up into tanks surrounded by fish. I have to admit, I tried that myself.

There is also a water play area and a small café nearby, making it a good place to take a break.

These are just some of the highlights. There are multiple galleries throughout the aquarium, and you will also find everything from seahorses to piranhas and cuttlefish. There is always something new to spot, especially if you take your time exploring.

Best Time to Visit Ripley’s Aquarium (Avoid the Crowds)

Visitors walk through the glass tunnel at Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto looking up as a large stingray swims overhead. The curved ceiling and surrounding water create a fully immersive underwater experience frequently mentioned in a Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto review.

Timing your visit can make a huge difference in how much you enjoy Ripley’s Aquarium.

We visited on a long weekend, and it was much busier than we expected. There was a very long line to buy tickets, and once inside, it felt crowded enough at times that it was hard to move comfortably between exhibits. If you go during March Break or a long weekend, expect wall-to-wall crowds.

If you want a more enjoyable visit, here are a few tips:

  • Arrive right when it opens (around 9 a.m.) – This is one of the best ways to stay ahead of the crowds. When we arrived around 10:30 a.m., it was manageable at first, but it became noticeably busier by noon.
  • Visit later in the evening – The aquarium often offers “Sharks After Dark” tickets, which are slightly discounted and tend to be quieter. You are also less likely to run into large school groups.
  • Check for extended hours – During busy periods like holidays, the aquarium may stay open much later than usual. For example, over Easter weekend it was open until 11 p.m. I wish I had known that before our visit, as it likely would have been much quieter later in the evening.
  • Avoid peak times if possible – Weekends, holidays, and March Break are the busiest times. If you can visit on a weekday, you will likely have a more relaxed experience.
  • Buy your tickets in advance – Grab your aquarium tickets ahead of time and walk right in instead of waiting outside.

If you can plan your visit around these quieter times, you will have more space to enjoy the exhibits and spend time at your favourite spots without feeling rushed.

Mistakes to Avoid at Ripley’s Aquarium

A dense school of tropical fish in shades of silver, yellow, and brown swim through a coral reef habitat with rocky formations and blue water behind them at the aquarium in Toronto Canada. The variety of fish shapes and sizes creates a busy and vibrant underwater environment.

A little planning goes a long way here. Avoiding these common mistakes can make your visit much more enjoyable.

  • Not buying your tickets in advance – The lines to buy tickets onsite can get very long. We have seen them stretch quite far, and on one visit, we left because of it. Buying tickets ahead of time lets you walk straight in and saves you a lot of time.
  • Rushing through the exhibits – It’s very easy to rush through, especially when it’s busy, but that’s when the experience feels less worth the price.
  • Not checking feeding times and talks – We completely missed these on our visit and wished we had planned better. These sessions are a great way to learn more and see the animals more active, so it is worth checking the schedule ahead of time.
  • Bringing a wagon – Strollers are allowed, but wagons are not permitted. It is something to keep in mind if you are visiting with young kids.
  • Eating at the Ripley’s Cafe – There is a small cafeteria inside if you want a snack, but options are limited and it’s low quality. Pack your own snacks (you can bring your own food) or eat at Union Station – a much better option, especially for families.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can have a much smoother and more enjoyable visit.

🐟 Want a smoother, stress-free visit? Grab your aquarium tickets ahead of time and walk right in instead of waiting outside.

Parking at Ripley’s Aquarium (What You Need to Know)

There is no dedicated parking lot for Ripley’s Aquarium, but there are several convenient public parking options nearby.

One of the closest options is the parking at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, which is just a short walk away. This is a good choice if you want to be as close as possible.

We usually park at the underground Green P lot at Front and York Street, near Union Station. It is still within easy walking distance and can sometimes be a bit more affordable than other downtown options.

If you need an above-ground parking, use the Rees Street Parking Lot at Harbourfront but you should expect a slightly longer walk from there.

Keep in mind that parking prices in downtown Toronto can vary quite a bit depending on what is happening in the city. Events, weekends, and holidays can all impact pricing, so it is worth checking ahead if you can.

Close up of a camouflaged bottom dwelling fish resting on gravel inside a tank at Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto with purple coral and sea anemones in the background. Its textured skin and wide mouth blend into the rocky habitat, highlighting the diversity of marine life on display.

Best Hotels Near Ripley’s Aquarium

If you want to stay close to the aquarium, the best area is around Union Station. You will be within walking distance of major attractions, transit, and the waterfront.

All of these hotels are within a short walk of Ripley’s Aquarium and close to many of Toronto’s top attractions.

Things to Do Near Ripley’s Aquarium (Plan the Perfect Day in Toronto)

If you are visiting Ripley’s Aquarium, you are already in one of the best areas of Toronto for sightseeing. It is easy to turn your visit into a full day by adding a few nearby attractions.

  • CN Tower – This is Toronto’s most iconic attraction and a must-visit for first-time visitors. Head up for incredible views over the city and Lake Ontario.
  • Rogers Centre – If you are visiting between April and September, consider catching a Toronto Blue Jays game. Even if you are not a baseball fan, it is a fun and very local experience.
  • Toronto Islands – In the summer, take the ferry over to the islands for a relaxing afternoon. You can enjoy the beach, walk through the gardens, or have a picnic with skyline views.
  • Hockey Hall of Fame – A great museum for families and sports fans, with interactive exhibits, memorabilia, and the chance to see the Stanley Cup up close.
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus – There is a stop right outside the aquarium, making it very convenient. This is a great option for first-time visitors who want an easy overview of the city. You can stay on for the full loop (about 2.5 hours) or hop off at major attractions along the way.

With so much nearby, it is easy to plan a full day in downtown Toronto without needing to travel far.

🎟️ Plan ahead and book your tickets online so you can avoid the chaos at the entrance and start enjoying the exhibits right away.
💡 Planning to visit multiple Toronto attractions? Grab the CityPASS and save money compared to buying each ticket separately.

Final Verdict: Is Ripley’s Aquarium Canada Worth It?

A shark glides through a blue lit tank surrounded by smaller fish and rocky coral formations at Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto. The clear water and open space emphasize the scale of marine life visitors can observe up close.

Absolutely, yes!

I enjoyed it so much that I ended up buying a season’s pass so I could go back anytime. I originally thought the aquarium would be fairly small, but it was larger than I expected, with so much to see and do.

What surprised me most was how much I learned. From colourful tropical fish to species found right here in Canadian waters, it is both entertaining and educational, with each gallery offering something completely different to see and explore.

I left with hundreds of photos, huge smiles, and one of those “that was actually better than expected” feelings.

To really make the most of your visit, I strongly recommend buying your tickets in advance so you can skip the lines and visit during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds. That alone can make a big difference in how much you enjoy it.

Whether you are visiting Toronto for the first time, planning a family outing, heading out for a date night, or even exploring solo, Ripley’s Aquarium is an experience that is well worth adding to your itinerary.

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Julie is a travel blogger from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. She loves to travel and has learned so much from other travel bloggers that she now wants to share her travel knowledge with others.