Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto - Streetview of the ROM Crystal.
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Royal Ontario Museum Toronto

4.7
·41k reviews·Toronto, Canada

Explore natural history and world cultures at the iconic Royal Ontario Museum, featuring dinosaur fossils and striking modern architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Third Tuesday Evenings

Free admission!

CrowdHigh
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Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto - Streetview of the ROM Crystal.

Royal Ontario Museum Toronto

Best Time

Third Tuesday Evenings

Free admission!

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore natural history and world cultures at the iconic Royal Ontario Museum, featuring dinosaur fossils and striking modern architecture.

4.7
(41k reviews)

"A must-visit for its dinosaur skeletons and the stunning Crystal entrance!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Tuesday Nights

Visit on the 3rd Tuesday of the month for free admission (5:30-8:30 PM). Arrive early!

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot and skip the line by booking tickets in advance online.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dinosaur Skeletons

Dinosaur Skeletons

Currelly Gallery

Stand in awe of towering dinosaur fossil skeletons, a thrilling experience for all ages. A true highlight of natural history.

The Crystal Entrance

The Crystal Entrance

Main Entrance

Marvel at the striking architecture of the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, a modern masterpiece contrasting with the historic building.

Death: A Cultural Exploration

Death: A Cultural Exploration

Special Exhibitions Gallery

Explore diverse cultural perspectives on death and the afterlife in this thought-provoking and interactive exhibit.

TikTok
Ancient Egypt Galleries

Ancient Egypt Galleries

Second Floor

Journey back in time with mummies, sarcophagi, and artifacts from ancient Egyptian civilization. A captivating glimpse into the past.

Planning Your Visit

Free Tuesdays: A Budget Traveler's Dream

Score free admission to the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) on the third Tuesday of every month from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore its vast collections without breaking the bank. Arrive early, as these popular free nights can get crowded. TikTok

Navigating Crowds & Entry

While the ROM is a must-see, be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours or special free events. Some visitors have reported long queues for entry, even in cold weather, due to security screening. Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred entry time and minimize waiting. Reddit

Best Times

When
Third Tuesday Evenings
Why
Free admission!
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

such a cool and ✨FREE✨ exhibition in toronto — book your tickets online for march 5th! #thingstodo #todotoronto #torontodateideas #torontodatenight #torontoart #torontomuseum #torontoactivities #indoo...
@torontotwinss_
70.4K likes • 685.4K views

🎯 Free Tuesday Nights

Visit on the 3rd Tuesday of the month for free admission (5:30-8:30 PM). Arrive early! TikTok

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot and skip the line by booking tickets in advance online. Reddit

i love that the topic of loss and death was examined in different religions and cultures here 🤍 #torontoactivities #romtoronto #royalontariomuseum #datenighttoronto #thingstodointoronti #torontoweeke...
@livsllife
58.3K likes • 713.4K views
The ROM is now free on the third Tuesday of every month, 5:30 - 8:30 pm #toronto #fyp
@torontobynicola
45.3K likes • 582.3K views

🤫 Hidden Gems

Don't miss the paperweights room and the rotunda's ceiling. Reddit

🚗 Transit is Key

Avoid downtown driving. Park at Kipling and take the subway to St. George. Reddit

prob the best visual art museum you can go to in toronto ✨🧘🏻‍♀️ #whattodointoronto #travel #traveltiktok #toronto #museum #torontofinds
@emmadawn222
40.2K likes • 484.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Tuesday Nights

Visit on the 3rd Tuesday of the month for free admission (5:30-8:30 PM). Arrive early! TikTok

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot and skip the line by booking tickets in advance online. Reddit

🤫 Hidden Gems

Don't miss the paperweights room and the rotunda's ceiling. Reddit

🚗 Transit is Key

Avoid downtown driving. Park at Kipling and take the subway to St. George. Reddit

📸 Aesthetic Photo Ops

The ROM offers many visually stunning spots perfect for photos. TikTok

📚 Library Pass Perk

Toronto residents can get a free pass with a library card! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(41k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Royal Ontario Museum for its impressive dinosaur exhibits and the striking modern architecture of the Crystal entrance. The diverse collections offer a rich learning experience. However, some find the ticketing and entry process can be lengthy, especially during free admission periods or peak times.

"The Royal Ontario Museum is an absolutely necessary stop on any trip to Toronto. A strikingly beautiful building with a vast and fascinating collection. We were fortunate to be visiting on the day of their Block Party, when the museum is open late and they had a dance party/musicians and tons of food and drink options alongside the exhibits. Such an awesome time. The musicians and performances were great. And so were the drinks! Very pleasantly surprising that our admission ticket for the event came with a free drink. Highly recommend!"

Ethan

"Great museum with impressive architecture - the crystal addition is stunning! Loved the dinosaur gallery and diverse exhibits covering natural history and world cultures. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable.
Docking one star because it gets very crowded on weekends and some exhibits feel a bit dated plus admission fees is little high.

Still, there’s plenty to see and it’s a good option to kill some time before your dinner reservations. Would recommend booking tickets online in advance.

Solid museum experience - plan for 3-4 hours to see everything!"

Dee

"We completely lost track of time while enjoying the exhibitions in the different galleries. We spent three hours inside the museum and still couldn’t see it all. The variety is amazing, and every exhibition—whether nature, art, dinosaurs, or history—is truly spectacular. Definitely worth visiting—make sure to plan enough time to explore!"

Mariela Romero Mederos

What People Like

Dinosaur skeletons
Crystal architecture
Diverse collections

What People Dislike

Long entry queues
Crowded free nights

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The ROM is easily accessible via public transit. Take the subway to St. George Station (Bloor-Yonge line) or Museum Station (University-Spadina line). If driving from further out, consider parking at a transit hub like Kipling Station and taking the subway downtown to avoid city traffic. Reddit

Yes, the ROM has underground parking available. However, it can be expensive, and driving into downtown Toronto is generally not recommended due to traffic. Reddit

From Mississauga, it's recommended to drive to a TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) station like Kipling and take the subway into the city. This avoids the stress of driving and parking in downtown Toronto. Reddit

Yes, you can use your Presto card to pay for your subway fare to reach the ROM. St. George and Museum stations are the closest stops. Reddit

While the closest subway stations are St. George and Museum, you can also reach the vicinity of the ROM via streetcar routes that run along Bloor Street or University Avenue, followed by a short walk.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary, but general admission for adults is typically around $26 CAD. Check the official ROM website for the most up-to-date pricing and any potential discounts. Reddit

Yes, you can purchase tickets at the admission desk upon arrival. However, booking online in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular times or special exhibitions, to guarantee entry and avoid long queues. Reddit+1

The ROM offers free admission on the third Tuesday of every month from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Additionally, Toronto Public Library cardholders can access free passes. Check their website for other potential discounts. TikTokReddit

The Royal Ontario Museum's hours typically vary by day and season. It's best to check the official ROM website for the most current opening and closing times before your visit. TikTok

When booking tickets online, you will often need to select a specific entry time. This helps manage visitor flow and reduce wait times. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the impressive dinosaur fossil skeletons, the ancient Egypt galleries, and the striking architecture of the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal. The 'Death: A Cultural Exploration' exhibit has also been a popular draw. TikTok+1

Absolutely! The ROM has many engaging exhibits for children, including the dinosaur galleries, interactive displays, and cultural artifacts that spark curiosity. TikTok

To fully appreciate the Royal Ontario Museum, plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you want to explore in-depth, you could easily spend half a day or more. Reddit

Yes, visitors often overlook the paperweights room, located off the European gallery, and the intricate details of the rotunda's ceiling. Reddit

The ROM offers many visually stunning areas, especially the Crystal entrance and various exhibit halls, making it a great spot for photography. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the ROM has dining options, including a cafe and a restaurant, offering various choices for visitors. Check their website for current offerings and hours.

Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the museum galleries. However, there may be designated areas for consumption. It's best to confirm their policy.

The ROM typically offers a range of options, from quick snacks and coffee at their cafe to more substantial meals at their restaurant, often featuring diverse culinary influences.

The area around the ROM, particularly along Bloor Street and in the Yorkville neighborhood, offers a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to suit various tastes and budgets.

Museum dining can sometimes be pricier than external options. It's advisable to check menus and prices online beforehand or consider dining outside the museum if on a tight budget.

📸 📸 Photography

Personal photography is generally allowed in most galleries, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited to protect the artifacts. Always check for specific signage in each exhibit. TikTok

The Michael Lee-Chin Crystal entrance is iconic. Many exhibit halls, especially those with dramatic lighting or large artifacts like dinosaur skeletons, also make for great photo opportunities. TikTok

Professional photography, including engagement shoots or commercial photography, typically requires special permits and advance arrangements. Contact the ROM's media or events department for details.

Yes, some special exhibitions may have restrictions on photography to preserve the integrity of the displays or due to copyright. Look for signs indicating 'No Photography' zones. TikTok

A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial, as some galleries are dimly lit. A versatile lens that can capture both wide shots of architecture and details of artifacts would be ideal. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Royal Ontario Museum is a fantastic destination for families. The dinosaur fossil skeletons are a guaranteed hit with children, sparking wonder and excitement. TikTok The museum offers numerous interactive exhibits and engaging displays that make learning fun and accessible for younger visitors. TikTok

Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the largest crowds. The museum's layout is generally stroller-friendly, and there are often family-focused programs or activities available. Don't miss the chance to explore the ancient Egypt galleries, which often captivate children with their mummies and artifacts.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the ROM offers a significant perk: free admission on the third Tuesday of every month from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. TikTok This is an excellent opportunity to experience the museum's vast collections without the admission fee. Be prepared for higher crowds on these evenings. Reddit

Another great tip is to check if you're eligible for a free pass through the Toronto Public Library if you're a resident. Reddit This can save you the regular admission cost. When it comes to getting there, utilizing public transit and potentially parking at a suburban station like Kipling can be more economical than paying for downtown parking.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Royal Ontario Museum is a photographer's dream, offering a striking blend of historic architecture and modern design. The Michael Lee-Chin Crystal entrance is an iconic subject, with its sharp angles and glass facade. TikTok Many visitors find the stairwells and the rotunda's ceiling in the older sections to be visually interesting. Reddit

Inside the galleries, the dinosaur skeletons provide dramatic subjects, and the dimly lit ancient Egypt galleries offer a moody, atmospheric backdrop. Remember to check for any restrictions on flash photography, as it's often prohibited to protect the artifacts. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the ROM's Architecture

The Royal Ontario Museum is a fascinating blend of old and new. The original building, a grand Beaux-Arts structure, stands in stark contrast to the modern, angular Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, designed by Daniel Libeskind. This architectural juxtaposition is a visual treat in itself. TikTok

Visitors often find themselves captivated by the Crystal's dramatic, deconstructed form, which seems to pierce the sky. Inside, the stairwells are also noted for their unique design, offering interesting perspectives and photo opportunities. Reddit The contrast between the historic galleries and the contemporary entrance creates a dynamic visitor experience.

Don't forget to look up! The rotunda's ceiling in the older section is a detail many miss but is worth marveling at. The ROM's architecture is as much a part of the attraction as its collections, offering a rich visual narrative for visitors. Reddit

Maximizing Your Visit: Tips from the Community

To make the most of your Royal Ontario Museum experience, consider these insider tips. Many visitors recommend booking tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially for popular free admission nights or during peak seasons. Reddit+1 If you're a Toronto resident, explore the possibility of obtaining a free pass through the Toronto Public Library – a fantastic money-saving tip! Reddit

When exploring the galleries, keep an eye out for the lesser-known gems, such as the paperweights room, which is a favorite secret spot for many. Reddit Also, take time to appreciate the rotunda's ceiling and the unique design of the stairwells, elements that are often overlooked. Reddit For those interested in specific exhibits, like the popular 'Death: A Cultural Exploration,' be sure to check the ROM's website for current dates and details. TikTok

Finally, plan your transportation wisely. Driving into downtown Toronto can be challenging. Many recommend parking at a transit hub like Kipling Station and taking the subway to St. George Station, which is a convenient way to reach the museum without the hassle of downtown driving and parking. Reddit

The ROM's Diverse Collections

The Royal Ontario Museum boasts an incredibly diverse range of collections, spanning natural history and world cultures. From the awe-inspiring dinosaur fossil skeletons that dominate the Currelly Gallery to the intricate artifacts of ancient Egypt, there's something to captivate every interest. TikTok

Beyond the well-known highlights, the museum houses extensive galleries dedicated to Canadian history, Indigenous cultures, East Asian art, and European history. Each section offers a unique window into different societies and eras, providing a comprehensive educational experience. The 'Death: A Cultural Exploration' exhibit, for instance, delves into how various cultures have approached mortality, offering a thought-provoking perspective. TikTok

Whether you're fascinated by the natural world, ancient civilizations, or contemporary global issues, the ROM's vast and varied collections ensure a rich and engaging visit for all.

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