Ripley's Aquarium Of Canada

Overview

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Toronto, offers an immersive journey into the aquatic world. Situated prominently beside the iconic CN Tower, this state-of-the-art facility is one of three aquariums owned and operated by Ripley Entertainment. Since its opening on October 16, 2013, it has become a cornerstone of Toronto's tourism landscape, drawing visitors from across the globe. Spanning 135,000 square feet, the aquarium houses an astonishing 5.7 million liters of water, creating diverse habitats for over 20,000 aquatic animals from more than 450 species.

Visitors can explore ten distinct galleries, each meticulously designed to showcase marine and freshwater environments from around the world and locally. Key exhibits include the Canadian Waters, Dangerous Lagoon, Rainbow Reef, Discovery Centre, Ray Bay, and the mesmerizing Planet Jellies. The aquarium is celebrated for its commitment to both entertainment and education, providing clear explanations and interactive experiences that appeal to all ages.

History & Cultural Background

The journey of Ripley's Aquarium of Canada to its current Toronto home was not without its own fascinating history. Initial plans in 2004 envisioned an aquarium near Niagara Falls, but these were eventually redirected, leading to Toronto as the chosen location. Construction commenced in August 2011, culminating in its grand opening in October 2013, with a final investment nearing CA$130 million.

This significant project was a collaborative effort, underpinned by partnerships with three levels of government. The federal government, through Canada Lands Company, contributed CA$10 million to enhance the surrounding 'John Street Corridor,' connecting the aquarium with other major attractions like the CN Tower. The Government of Ontario provided CA$11 million, while the City of Toronto offered property-tax incentives ranging from CA$8 million to CA$12 million over the aquarium's first twelve years. The arrival of Ripley's Aquarium expanded Toronto's tourism offerings, reinforcing the city's status as a premier global destination and injecting new life into its entertainment district.

What Makes It Special

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada distinguishes itself through several world-class features and interactive opportunities. It proudly boasts North America's longest underwater viewing tunnel, the Dangerous Lagoon, where a slow-moving conveyor belt transports guests beneath a swirling spectacle of sand tiger sharks, green sea turtles, roughtail stingrays, and even sawfish. This immersive experience provides unparalleled, up-close encounters with these formidable creatures. The aquarium is also renowned for housing one of the world's most extensive jellyfish exhibits, 'Planet Jellies,' where five species of jellyfish gracefully drift through specialized Kreisel tanks, illuminated by ever-changing colors that create an otherworldly ambiance.

Beyond passive viewing, the aquarium offers engaging hands-on experiences. In the Shoreline Gallery, visitors have the unique opportunity to gently touch the smooth skin of various stingrays and horseshoe crabs, facilitated by knowledgeable staff. The Discovery Centre further engages younger visitors and the curious-at-heart with viewing bubbles, a pop-up research submarine, and additional touch pools. Educational dive shows and aquarist talks are regularly scheduled, offering deeper insights into marine biology and conservation efforts. Remarkably, the facility also prioritizes environmental stewardship by purifying and recycling 95% of its water daily.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The architectural design of Ripley's Aquarium of Canada itself tells a story. The roof of the main entrance was crafted to evoke the illusion of Earth's crust peeling away, symbolically revealing a window into the mysterious and captivating aquatic world within. Its strategic location places it within easy walking distance of other major Toronto attractions, including the CN Tower and Rogers Centre, and it's conveniently accessible from Union Station via a pedestrian pathway known as the SkyWalk.

In 2017, the aquarium even contributed to local festivities by sponsoring an elaborate aquarium-themed float in the annual Toronto Santa Claus Parade, featuring a green sea turtle and various marine animals. Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, Ripley's Aquarium of Canada has been designated a Certified Autism Center, offering sensory-friendly days with adjusted lighting and reduced sound to ensure a comfortable experience for all guests. For those seeking truly unique experiences, the aquarium has previously offered special events such as morning yoga sessions amidst the vibrant Rainbow Reef and even overnight stays within the Dangerous Lagoon, allowing a select few to sleep under the watchful gaze of sharks.

Visitor Perspective

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada consistently ranks as a top attraction in Toronto, celebrated by both local families and international tourists. To fully appreciate its extensive exhibits and interactive elements, visitors should plan to spend approximately two to three hours exploring the facility. For a more relaxed experience and to avoid peak crowds, it is highly recommended to visit on weekday mornings, steering clear of the busier hours between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM on weekdays, and 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM on weekends and holidays.

Purchasing tickets online in advance is advised to save time and bypass potential queues, especially during busy seasons. The aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all guests can navigate its wonders comfortably. It's important to note that the aquarium typically operates with a no in-and-out privilege policy once a ticket has been scanned. Upon concluding their aquatic adventure, guests can browse the gift shop for souvenirs, taking a piece of the underwater magic home with them.