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A Complete Guide To Visiting The Royal Ontario Museum

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling adventure through time and culture? Look no further than the Royal Ontario Museum, a magnificent institution that holds the key to unlocking the wonders of history. From exploring the fascinating exhibits to immersing yourself in the museum’s vibrant atmosphere, this complete guide will ensure that your visit to the Royal Ontario Museum is nothing short of extraordinary. So grab your curiosity and let’s delve into a world of discovery and awe.

Table of Contents

The Royal Ontario Museum is located in Toronto, Canada. It is one of the largest museums in North America and is known for its diverse collection of art, culture, and natural history. The museum is situated at 100 Queen’s Park, on the northwestern edge of downtown Toronto. It is easily accessible by public transportation and is an iconic landmark in the city.

The history of the Royal Ontario Museum dates back to 1912 when it was established as the Museum of Natural History. Over the years, it has expanded and undergone numerous renovations, becoming a premier destination for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious visitors from around the world. The museum prides itself on celebrating diversity, fostering educational experiences, and promoting curiosity and exploration.

The Royal Ontario Museum offers a wide range of exhibits that cater to various interests. From ancient civilizations to contemporary art, there is something for everyone. The exhibits are organized into different galleries, each showcasing a unique theme or period in history. Whether you have a passion for dinosaurs, world cultures, or ancient artifacts, the museum has it all.

Planning Your Visit

Before heading to the Royal Ontario Museum, it’s important to know the operating hours and admission fees. The museum is open from 10 am to 5:30 pm from Monday to Saturday, and from 10 am to 8:30 pm on Wednesdays. On Sundays, it opens at 10 am and closes at 5:30 pm. Note that the museum is closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

Admission fees vary depending on age and residency. General admission for adults is $20, while senior citizens and children aged 4-14 can enjoy discounted rates of $17. Children under 3 years of age and museum members have free entry. Special exhibitions may have additional fees, so it’s worth checking the museum’s website or contacting them directly for the most up-to-date information.

The Royal Ontario Museum frequently hosts special exhibitions that showcase unique collections or focus on specific themes. These exhibitions often require separate tickets or an additional fee on top of general admission. It’s worth exploring these special exhibitions as they offer exciting and exclusive experiences.

To enhance your visit, the museum offers guided tours led by knowledgeable experts who provide interesting insights and stories about the exhibits. Audio guides are also available for those who prefer a self-guided experience. These resources can greatly enrich your understanding and appreciation of the collections.

The Royal Ontario Museum strives to be accessible to all visitors. It offers services and amenities to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair accessibility, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Additionally, the museum provides assistive listening devices and sensory-friendly resources to enhance the experience for visitors with sensory sensitivities.

Photography and filming policies may vary depending on the exhibits. In general, non-flash photography is allowed in most areas of the museum for personal use. However, some exhibits may have restrictions due to the fragility of the artifacts or copyright concerns. It’s always best to check with the museum staff or refer to the signage within each gallery.

Exploring the Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum boasts a wide range of main galleries, each offering a unique journey through time and across cultures. From the mesmerizing Dinosaurs gallery to the stunning European Art collection, there is plenty to explore and discover. The museum’s well-curated exhibits transport you to different eras and continents, providing a fascinating glimpse into the world’s rich history.

Among the highlights of the collections are the Ancient Egypt and Nubia galleries, which house an impressive collection of Egyptian artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and ancient jewelry. The Indigenous Art and Culture galleries showcase the rich heritage and artistic contributions of Canada’s First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. The World Cultures galleries offer a glimpse into diverse cultures from around the globe, spanning centuries and continents.

The Royal Ontario Museum also offers interactive exhibits and activities that engage visitors of all ages. From hands-on displays to digital installations, these interactive experiences provide a unique opportunity to learn and immerse yourself in the subject matter. Children and adults alike can enjoy activities such as fossil digging, art workshops, and virtual reality experiences.

In addition to its vast permanent collections, the museum hosts temporary exhibits and featured displays that showcase different themes or highlight specific artists or historical periods. These rotating exhibits offer fresh perspectives and allow visitors to engage with new and exciting content each time they visit.

The Royal Ontario Museum also organizes special programs and events throughout the year. From lectures and panel discussions to workshops and family-friendly activities, there is always something happening at the museum. These programs provide unique opportunities to delve deeper into specific topics, engage with experts, and connect with fellow museum-goers.

Dining and Shopping

A visit to the Royal Ontario Museum wouldn’t be complete without enjoying a meal or browsing the museum gift shop. The museum offers a cafeteria where visitors can grab a quick bite or enjoy a leisurely meal. The cafeteria features a variety of food options, including healthy choices, vegetarian and vegan options, and kid-friendly meals. It’s the perfect place to refuel and relax during your visit.

If you’re looking for a souvenir or a unique gift, the museum gift shop is the place to go. It offers a wide range of merchandise inspired by the museum’s collections, from books and jewelry to home decor and toys. Whether you’re a history enthusiast seeking a memento or simply looking for an interesting gift, the museum gift shop has something for everyone.

Practical Information

When planning your visit to the Royal Ontario Museum, it’s important to consider transportation options. The museum is conveniently located near public transit stations, making it easily accessible by subway, bus, or streetcar. If you prefer to drive, there are parking facilities available nearby, although parking in downtown Toronto can be limited and expensive.

Restrooms and other amenities are readily available throughout the museum, ensuring a comfortable and convenient visit. Lost and found services are also provided in case you misplace any personal belongings during your visit. Additionally, the museum takes safety and security seriously, with measures in place to protect both visitors and the collections.

Tips for a Great Visit

To make the most of your visit to the Royal Ontario Museum, here are some helpful tips:

Arrive early: The museum can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early will allow you to beat the crowds and have a more relaxed experience.

Wear comfortable footwear and clothing: With so much to see and explore, comfortable footwear is essential. Dressing in layers is also recommended as the museum can be cool in some areas.

Bring necessary personal items: Consider bringing essentials such as water bottles, sunscreen, and hats, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time exploring the outdoor areas or waiting in line.

Take breaks and utilize resting areas: The museum can be overwhelming due to its vast size and extensive collections. Take breaks whenever you need them and make use of the resting areas located throughout the museum.

Take advantage of guided tours and educational resources: The museum offers guided tours and educational resources that can greatly enhance your experience. Don’t hesitate to join a tour or utilize these resources to deepen your understanding of the exhibits.

Membership and Support

Consider becoming a member of the Royal Ontario Museum to enjoy exclusive benefits and support the museum’s mission. ROM members receive free unlimited admission to the museum, priority access to special exhibitions, discounts on dining, shopping, and educational programs, and invitations to member events and previews.

If you’re not interested in becoming a member, there are still opportunities to support the museum through donations. The Royal Ontario Museum relies on the support of individuals, corporations, and foundations to continue providing exceptional exhibits and educational programs.

Special Considerations

The Royal Ontario Museum welcomes visitors of all ages. For those visiting with children, the museum offers family-friendly exhibits, interactive activities, and educational resources specifically designed for young learners. Strollers are also permitted in the galleries, making it easier for families with young children to explore the museum.

The museum is committed to accessibility and provides various accommodations for individuals with disabilities. In addition to wheelchair accessibility and assistive listening devices, the museum offers touch tours for visitors with visual impairments and sensory-friendly resources for visitors with sensory sensitivities.

Group visits and educational field trips are a great way to explore the museum in a structured and educational manner. The museum offers special rates and resources for school groups and educational programs tailored to different age groups and curricula. It’s recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and to make the most of your visit.

Visitors are advised that large bags or backpacks may be subject to inspection upon entry. To ensure a smooth entry, it’s best to leave large bags at home or in your vehicle if possible. Alternatively, there are storage lockers available at the museum for a small fee.

Nearby Attractions

If you’re looking to explore more after visiting the Royal Ontario Museum, there are several attractions worth checking out in the area. The ROM is located near other prominent cultural and historical sites, including the Art Gallery of Ontario, Bata Shoe Museum, and Casa Loma. These attractions offer a diverse range of experiences and can be easily incorporated into your itinerary.

Dining options abound near the Royal Ontario Museum, with a variety of restaurants and cafes to suit every taste. Whether you’re craving international cuisine, a quick bite, or a fine dining experience, there are numerous options in the vicinity. Additionally, there are plenty of accommodation choices nearby, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options.

Contact Information

For any inquiries or further information, the Royal Ontario Museum can be reached at the following:

Address: 100 Queen’s Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6, Canada Phone number: +1 416-586-8000 Email: [email protected]

Stay connected with the Royal Ontario Museum through their website and social media channels for the latest news, updates, and upcoming events. The museum’s website offers comprehensive information about exhibits, operating hours, admission fees, and more. They can be found on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, providing multiple platforms for engagement and interaction.

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In the Spotlight: Royal Ontario Museum

Welcome to canada’s largest museum. home to more than 13 million objects spanning art, culture, and nature..

The beautiful, attention-grabbing facade, inspired by the museum’s own gem and mineral collection, is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to all ROM (100 Queens Park) has to offer. The museum’s exterior, a.k.a. the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, was quickly dubbed the 'crystal' because of its crystalline shape. The structure resembles an actual crystal right on the streets of Toronto! Visitors to the museum are reminded of the chunky geometry of a mineral up close—which they can view at the museum—as they walk through the doors of ROM.

The striking exterior welcomes you into a vast museum filled with exhibits that speak to the world’s past, present and future. ROM is considered one of the continent’s most important cultural institutions.

Spend the day hanging out with dinosaurs, travelling to ancient Egypt, and discovering awe-inspiring works of contemporary art, among other adventures. ROM houses 13 million objects spanning art, culture, and nature from around the world and across the ages. If you have just one afternoon to spend in Ontario, buy a ticket and hop on the bus to ROM, located right in the heart of Toronto’s downtown.

The Royal Ontario Museum tickets vary (an adult general admission is $26.00), however, visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance for the best savings. Check out the ROM website for more information. 

ROM Immortal New Brand Platform & Film

As the country moves beyond the pandemic, a new ROM is emerging, one that will change the way people think about the role of the museum and its place in the city. As part of this transformation, ROM has unveiled a dynamic new brand voice and a powerful film.

Places to eat in or near ROM

From upscale dining to casual eateries, there’s no shortage of classic Toronto spots to eat around the Royal Ontario Museum. Whether you’re after a drink at the end of your day or want to treat yourself to the meal of a lifetime, you won’t have to go further than a few blocks.

Amal Toronto

This gorgeously decorated Lebanese restaurant will have you licking your lips and sinking satisfied into the crushed velvet upholstery. Almost as beautiful as the museum itself, Amal is located just a few blocks from  ROM on Bloor Street. 131 Bloor St. W.

Duke of York

Just up Bedford Road off of Bloor Street, this casual pub offers all the local brews you’ve been wanting to try. Enjoy the sunshine from the upstairs patio, or cozy up in one of the classic pub booths. 39 Prince Arthur Ave.

ROM Exhibitions & Collections

Take a deep dive into the cultural treasures of times past and present. Whether it’s fashion history, pop culture, or ancient relics, ROM highlights the beauty and worldly significance of even the simplest objects.

With a carousel of new exhibitions all the time, spanning a wide range of topics like Kent Monkman’s own interpretation of ROM’s collection, rare wildlife photography, Canada’s Atlantic whales and Ethiopian artist Elias Slime’s artwork, to name a few.

ROM also offers a wide range of digital exhibitions that visitors can experience long after they’ve left the museum. Online exhibitions include the Blue Whale Project’s bittersweet story, an exploration of the Burgess Shale, and an in-depth look at the silks of highland Madagascar.

Along with fresh new exhibits, ROM’s permanent collection includes around one million objects of art and culture gathered from around the world. With objects dating back to a range of time periods, from prehistoric civilization to present-day, visitors can explore the artwork, archaeology, fashion, and decor of ancient Asian, European, Greek, Roman, African, and Indigenous culture.

ROM holds Canada’s largest collection of natural history specimens, giving visitors the chance to explore an extensive treasure trove of findings. Perhaps the most alluring is the collection of gems that sparkle and shine as you walk through the gallery. Diamonds aside, if you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to have the fossil of a 200 year-old dinosaur tower over you, or what it’s like to walk through a bat cave, check out ROM.

Don’t forget to enjoy the views and look up when you’re at the museum—you just might find the ROM’s gorgeous mosaicked ceiling!

Fun facts about the ROM

• ROM was founded in 1914
• ROM is located on ancestral lands of several First Nations
• ROM’s courtyard is a public space where Torontonians can enjoy a garden and a view of the crystal-shaped facade
• ROM is the biggest museum in Canada
• ROM is the fifth biggest museum in North America
• The museum is home to more than 13 million objects, including artwork, fossils, cultural items and more
• The museum’s dinosaur fossils span hundreds of millions of years

How to get to ROM

From the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW ): Take the Gardiner Expressway to Spadina Avenue. Continue north on Spadina to Bloor Street West and turn right. Continue on Bloor until arriving at Queens Park Avenue.

From the 401 : Take the Don Valley Parkway south to the Bloor Street West ramp. Continue on Bloor until arriving at Queens Park.

Parking : The ROM doesn’t provide parking but there are many parking lots nearby.

By TTC : The closest stops are St. George Station (on the Bloor-Danforth Subway Line) and Museum Station (on the Yonge-University Subway Line).

By GO Transit : Transfer at Union Station and take the Yonge-University Subway Line to Museum Station.

By UP Express : Transfer at Union Station and take the Yonge-University Subway Line to Museum Station.

Save On Entry With The Toronto Museum Pass

The Toronto Museum Pass is the best way to visit up to seven museums for one exclusive price. Explore iconic Toronto landmarks and immerse yourself in centuries of art, history and culture.

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Toronto: Downtown and City Highlights Walking Tour

Canada, Toronto

From €20,79

And of course, wherever you find multiculturalism, you also find an epic gastronomy scene. On our Toronto walking tours, expect to be given the inside scoop on everything from its thrilling theatre scene to its art, shopping, gastronomy scene, and more.

Let us introduce you to the city of Toronto with our Downtown and Waterfront guided tour, where you will discover some of its most character-defining spots. Starting at Meridian Hall, a Mid-century masterpiece of a performing arts centre, your guide will take you past St. Lawrence’s Market to shop for locally made produce and crafts and then amble along the waterfront. Then you will get a dose of culture at the renowned Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit and Powerplant Contemporary Art Museum. On the second half of the tour, your local guide will take you to the city’s most famous buildings, including Union Station, Brookfield Place, Scotiabank Arena, and the iconic CN Tower. After revelling in the city views from 553 metres in the sky at the top of the tower, we will head back down to Earth to finish the journey at the Hockey Hall of Fame.

After you’ve become well acquainted with, see what else the city has to offer on our Highlights tour. While it is packed with history, the tour focuses more on the delicious commercial and cultural sides of the city. From the Bell Lightbox, home of the Toronto International Film Festival, to the Alexandra Theatre, Roy Thompson Hall, and Wintergarden Theatre, you will deep dive into Toronto’s obsession with cinema and theatre. Along the way, you will pass Canada’s Walk of Fame and spot the stars of celebrities that hail from this talented city. Before completing the tour in Yonge Dundas Square, the city’s commercial centre, a stop at Toronto Eaton Centre is in order, an excellent mall for a spot of shopping.

These guided walking tours of Toronto are just 2 of 6 itineraries. With our free self-guided tours included in your Vox City app. In the Art Gallery self-guided tour you will discover the most artistic side of the city, visiting the Arg Gallery of Ontario and strolling through Toronto’s Chinatown. Meanwhile, the Parliament and Museum self-guided tour will show you the best museums in town as well as the impressive University of Toronto and the emblematic Parliament of Ontario buildings!

So, once you’ve completed our guided tours with your guide and feel like an honourary Toronto citizen, use the free Vox City app (included in your ticket) to discover more delightful self-guided routes in and around the city.

Inclusions & exclusions

What you get:  ✔️'Downtown and Waterfront' walking tour ✔️‘Toronto Highlights’ walking tour ✔️ Unlimited access to walking tours for 3 days ✔️7 FREE self-guided walking tours in the Vox City app ✔️ Live commentary in English ✔️ Multilingual audio commentary in English, French, Spanish, Italian, German

What you don’t get: ✖️ Mobile Device ✖️ Headphones ✖️ Entry to Attractions ✖️ Public Transportation Tickets

Meet your guide next to the Information Booth in Yonge/Dundas Square. Your tour guide will be wearing a Vox City Blue Shirt. They will start the tour in the square, before walking across the street and into the Eaton Centre. Toronto's iconic retail centre. Exiting the Eaton Center we pass the Church of the Holy Trinity before we enter Nathan Philip Square which houses Toronto's City Hall. Heading south via Yonge Street, the longest street in the world your guide will point out the Bay-Adelaide Centre, before arriving at the Hockey Hall of Fame. Continuing through Brookfield Place we cross into Union Station, Toronto's main train terminal, before seeing the Scotiabank Arena. Home to the Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors. Your tour comes to a close after a short walk to the CN Tower. This area is home to the Rogers Center and Ripley's Aquarium. Across the street is Roundhouse Park, Steam Whistle Brewery and Toronto's Railroad Musuem. 

The tour will take about 90 minutes in duration.

If you would like to continue on, your tour guide will walk you through Round House Park to the shore of Lake Ontario, the Harbourfront Centre and point out the ferry terminal if you would like to visit the Toronto islands.

THE ACTIVITY WILL END AT RIPLEYS AQUARIUM, 288 BREMNER BLVD, TORONTO.

Know before you go

⚬ The tour will depart at the time you have booked ⚬ The tour guide will be wearing a dark blue “Vox City Walks” uniform ⚬ Download the Vox City app (we recommend doing this pre-arrival) to access your free self-guided tours 

Frequently Ask Questions

What is a self-guided tour?

A self-guided tour is a type of tour where visitors explore a destination on their own using an audio guide or a map. Unlike a guided tour, visitors are not led by a tour guide and are free to choose their own pace and explore the sights that interest them the most. Self-guided tours offer more flexibility and freedom to visitors. They are a popular option for those who prefer to explore a destination independently. 

Is a Walking Tour suitable for all ages?

The walking tour is suitable for all ages, but keep in mind that it involves a fair amount of walking and standing, so participants should be able to walk for at least 2.5 hours. Additionally, wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing a water bottle can help ensure that you're comfortable throughout the tour

What is a Multilingual Audio tour?

A multilingual audio tour is a type of tour that provides visitors with audio guides in multiple languages. Visitors can use headphones to listen to the audio guide as they explore a destination, with the audio guide providing information about the sights, history, and culture of the area. The audio guides are typically pre-recorded and offer visitors the option to choose their preferred language.

Rated By Vox Citizens.

Overall rating

Review summary

The tour was well-paced and engaging, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and interact with the guide. The guide was friendly and approachable and kept the group engaged throughout the tour.

Overall, I felt that the Vox City walking tour in Toronto was a good value for the price. The tour covered a lot of ground and provided a great introduction to the city, and I would definitely recommend it to other visitors.

The Vox City Toronto walking tours covered some great sights and landmarks, including the CN Tower, Van Gogh Exhibit, and the St. Lawrence Market. The guide provided interesting insights and stories about each location, making the tour even more enjoyable.

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Museum Tours

Daily tours.

Free with Museum admission, daily tours are offered to the public by trained volunteer Docents. Tours include general Museum tours, specific gallery tours and tours of special exhibitions.

Upcoming  Daily Tours

Access Tours

The ROM is committed to accessibility for all visitors and offers a range of access tours and programs.

Upcoming ASL Tours

Upcoming Tactile Tours