First-time Visitor Tips

Welcome to the Ontario Science Centre! We’re excited for you to experience our exciting exhibitions, films, science shows and more

Whether you’re a first-time or returning visitor, we’ve covered all the basics for you to get the most out of your visit with these handy tips.

Avoid crowds

If you prefer visiting when there are fewer people, low traffic times typically include the last two hours of each day, sunny (nice-weather) days and Mondays during the school year (when we have the fewest group and school visits).
When you arrive, start your visit at the very bottom of the Science Centre (Level 6) and work your way up to the top. It’s the best way to make sure you see everything while avoiding the crowds making their way down.

Enjoy peak periods

Visiting on a busy day? Parking is limited, so if you’re driving, arrive early. Alternatively, take transit to save yourself a wait (and feel good about being environmentally-friendly, too).
Sometimes, busy days are also exciting days: peak periods come with extended hours and extra programming. The three busiest (and most exciting) times of the year at the Science Centre are Family Day, March Break and Winter Break.

Get around easily

Our building can be tricky. Did you know Level 1 is at the top of the Science Centre and Level 6 is at the bottom? When you enter the front doors, you start on Level 2! Check out our phone-friendly online Science Centre map and keep it handy during your visit.
We can help you get around with courtesy wheelchairs and strollers, available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Level 2 entrance.

See all the shows

The Planetarium is popular and has limited seating—so line up early.
Remember: demonstration schedules change daily. Ask our staff or check the boards on Levels 4 and 6.

Maximize your visit

Catching an IMAX^® film? Sit near the big black box in the centre of the seating area—that’s right in front of the projector—to get the most immersive experience.
Enjoy the wildlife. Look out the window for raccoons, cardinals, squirrels, blue jays, blackbirds, chipmunks and more as you travel down the escalators.

Benefit from personal experiences

Look for our Hosts in the white lab coats. They can give you tips specific to your visit, provide additional explanations for the exhibits or just help you find the mysterious Level 5 (hint: you have to go all the way down and then up again).

Plan your meals

The Valley Restaurant (Level 6) serves made-to-order burgers, pasta, daily specials and more.
The Lobby Café serves coffee, muffins, pizza, sandwiches and salads on Level 2 by the Membership Desk.
Vending machines are at the front of the building on Level 2 and the foot of the escalators on Level 6.
On a sunny summer day, you can enjoy your food on the TELUSCAPE (note that our outdoor spaces are open seasonally).
Bringing your own lunch? Check out the tables—and the view—in the RBC Foundation Lunch Room (Level 2).