The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is Canada’s largest museum and one of Toronto’s most iconic cultural attractions. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto beside Queen’s Park, the ROM welcomes more than one million visitors each year to explore fascinating exhibits covering natural history, world cultures, dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, wildlife, minerals, art, and Indigenous heritage.

Recognizable by the dramatic Michael Lee-Chin Crystal entrance, the museum combines historic architecture with modern design, creating one of Toronto’s most photographed landmarks. Whether you’re travelling with children, exploring Canada’s history, or simply looking for one of the best indoor attractions in Toronto, the Royal Ontario Museum offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

With over 18 million objects and specimens in its collections and dozens of permanent galleries alongside rotating special exhibitions, every visit offers something new to discover.

Why Visit the Royal Ontario Museum?

The ROM is much more than a traditional museum. It is a place where science, history, archaeology, biodiversity, art, and culture come together under one roof.

Visitors can:

• Explore massive dinosaur skeletons
• Discover ancient Egyptian mummies
• See gemstones and rare minerals
• Learn about Indigenous cultures
• Experience wildlife galleries
• Visit rotating international exhibitions
• Enjoy interactive family programs
• Participate in educational workshops
• Attend seasonal events and lectures

It is considered one of the top museums in Canada and is a must-visit attraction for both first-time visitors and Toronto residents.

Top Things to See at the ROM

Dinosaur Gallery

One of the museum’s biggest highlights is its impressive dinosaur collection.

Visitors can see:

• Tyrannosaurus rex
• Triceratops
• Stegosaurus
• Duck-billed dinosaurs
• Fossils from millions of years ago

Life-sized skeletons and interactive displays make this gallery especially popular with children.

Ancient Egypt Gallery

Travel back thousands of years and discover one of the museum’s most fascinating collections.

Highlights include:

• Egyptian mummies
• Sarcophagi
• Hieroglyphics
• Ancient jewellery
• Statues
• Burial artifacts

This gallery provides insight into one of the world’s greatest civilizations.

Wildlife Galleries

Explore animals from around the world through beautifully preserved displays.

Visitors can learn about:

• Canadian wildlife
• African mammals
• Arctic ecosystems
• Birds
• Marine life
• Biodiversity

The exhibits help visitors understand ecosystems and conservation.

Earth and Mineral Galleries

Marvel at colourful gemstones, crystals, meteorites, and rare minerals collected from around the world.

Popular displays include:

• Gold specimens
• Giant quartz crystals
• Diamonds
• Meteorites
• Fluorescent minerals

These exhibits are among the museum’s most photographed attractions.

Indigenous Collections

The ROM showcases Indigenous history, art, traditions, and cultures from across Canada.

Visitors can explore:

• Traditional clothing
• Artwork
• Carvings
• Ceremonial objects
• Historical artifacts

These galleries highlight the rich heritage and ongoing contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities.

Family-Friendly Experience

The Royal Ontario Museum is one of Toronto’s best attractions for families.

Children especially enjoy:

• Dinosaur exhibits
• Interactive discovery areas
• Hands-on activities
• Wildlife displays
• Fossils
• Educational programs

School holidays often include additional family programming, making the museum an excellent destination during March Break and summer vacations.

Special Exhibitions

Alongside its permanent collections, the ROM hosts internationally recognized travelling exhibitions throughout the year.

Past exhibitions have featured:

• Ancient civilizations
• Wildlife photography
• Space exploration
• Fashion
• Pop culture
• Natural history
• Archaeological discoveries

Special exhibitions may require separate admission depending on your ticket type.

Accessibility

The Royal Ontario Museum is designed to accommodate visitors of all abilities.

Accessibility features include:

• Elevators
• Accessible washrooms
• Wheelchair access
• Family washrooms
• Stroller-friendly galleries
• Assistive listening devices (where available)

Visitors with accessibility needs are encouraged to check current services before visiting.

Dining and Shopping

Visitors can enjoy cafés and dining options inside the museum.

The ROM Boutique offers:

• Educational toys
• Books
• Jewellery
• Canadian gifts
• Fossil replicas
• Dinosaur souvenirs
• Science kits

The shop is popular with both children and collectors.

Nearby Attractions

The museum’s location makes it easy to combine with other Toronto attractions.

Nearby places include:

• University of Toronto
• Queen’s Park
• Yorkville
• Gardiner Museum
• Bata Shoe Museum
• Philosopher’s Walk
• The Annex neighbourhood

Many visitors spend a full day exploring this area.

Parking

Paid parking garages are available near the museum.

Public transportation is highly recommended.

Museum Station on Toronto’s Line 1 subway provides direct access within a short walk.

Admission

General admission tickets can be purchased online or at the museum.

Prices vary depending on:

• Adults
• Seniors
• Students
• Youth
• Children
• Family passes
• Special exhibitions

Booking tickets online in advance is recommended during weekends, holidays, and special exhibitions.

Best Time to Visit

For a quieter experience:

• Weekday mornings
• Outside school holidays
• Early opening hours

Families often visit during weekends and school breaks when interactive programming is available.

Visitor Tips

• Purchase tickets online before arriving.
• Allow at least three to five hours for your visit.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Check the schedule for special exhibitions.
• Visit the dinosaur galleries early if travelling with children.
• Use public transportation to avoid downtown parking.
• Explore nearby Yorkville after your museum visit.