Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada houses both marine and freshwater species. It’s organized into nine galleries, each focused on a different type of marine habitat. The walk-through shark tank is one of the most popular, along with the jellyfish gallery where visitors can see the alien-like creatures in all their glory. For a close encounter, head to the Discovery Center, where you can interact with horseshoe crabs and board the research submarine for views of the shark tank.

• Ripley’s aquarium is ideal for families with children.

• Save time by booking skip-the-line tickets in advance. Note that admission is reduced after 7pm.

• There are a café and souvenir shop on-site.

• The aquarium is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

The aquarium is located at 288 Bremner Boulevard, close to the CN Tower and Rogers Centre in downtown Toronto. It’s walking distance from many major downtown locations, and there is paid parking nearby. The closest subway stations are Union and St. Andrews; the nearest streetcar stop is John Street.

The aquarium is open 9am to 11pm, with occasional early closures (check online for the current schedule), 365 days a year. The aquarium is busiest early- to mid-afternoon, so plan your visit outside of these times for a quieter experience.

When the CN Tower was built in 1976, it was the tallest freestanding structure in the world. Although other buildings have dwarfed it since, a trip to the top is a classic Toronto activity and offers panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario. Ride to the top in a glass-fronted elevator and test your nerve by walking over the clear glass floor with all of Toronto beneath you.