Who We Are

Ontario Science Centre


The Science Centre is a space where visitors of all ages can learn-through-play and discover ways to think like a scientist every day

On September 26, 1969, a radio signal from over 1.5 billion light-years away struck a circuit that raised the curtain at the Ontario Science Centre’s official opening.

As a gift to the people of Ontario to mark Canada’s Centennial, the provincial government commissioned architect Raymond Moriyama in 1964 to design the Ontario Science Centre—one of the first interactive science museums in the world. The Science Centre has since welcomed more than 54 million visitors.

We’re one of Ontario’s most significant cultural attractions—more than a destination, the Science Centre is a space where visitors of all ages can learn-through-play and discover ways to think like a scientist every day.

Guided by the belief that science, technology and innovation will help us shape a better future, we continue to lead the way internationally with our incredible team of scientists, educators and exhibition creators who conceive, develop, design and build world-class exhibitions, award-winning educational programs and innovative science learning experiences.

See our mission and vision statement.

Quick Facts

  • Officially opened in 1969
  • Principal architect: Raymond Moriyama
  • Visitors to date: 54 million
  • Estimated annual visitors: one million
  • The OMNIMAX® Theatre opened in 1996, seats 324 people and is Ontario’s only IMAX® Dome screen
  • Approximately 20% of our visitors come from outside Ontario—13% are from outside Canada
  • More than 165,000 Ontario school students visit each year
  • 56,800 active members
  • More than 77,000 people visit annually through community access programs
  • Nearly 41,000 people joined our special 50th Birthday Community Weekend in 2019

Unique Experiences

The Ontario Science Centre’s mission is to inspire passion for the human adventure of discovery. Here is a short overview of some unique programs and experiences we offer: 

  • Our Hosts—Our white-coated Hosts can be found anywhere there are visitors around the Centre, ready to unveil thought-provoking demonstrations and make your trip memorable.
     
  • Science School—Our Science School invites students to gain Grade 12 science credits during an enriched semester inside the Ontario Science Centre.
     
  • School Trips—We are a one-of-a-kind destination for school trips. A wide range of programming is available to open the minds of young students.
     
  • Community Access—For members of our community who may not have the opportunity to experience the Science Centre, we’ve created Community Access Programs.
     
  • Research Live!—Our visitors can choose to take part in actual scientific research! Real science doesn’t just happen in the lab—you can contribute to scientific progress during your visit.
     
  • Day Camps—Four to 14-year-olds can discover and explore scientific concepts through themed hands-on science activities.

As a not-for-profit agency of the Government of Ontario, the Science Centre relies on provincial support as well as generous individuals, corporations and foundations that share a commitment to science and education for additional operating support. Learn more about supporting the Ontario Science Centre.​

Media Inquiries

If you have other questions about the Ontario Science Centre—recent events, photos or our vision for the future—visit the Media Room for more information.