Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, located in Toronto, Ontario, is one of the most popular and iconic attractions in the city. With over 20,000 animals from around the world, it’s a must-visit destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. But have you ever wondered just how big this massive aquarium really is? In this article, we’ll dive into the details of Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto’s size, layout, and features to give you a better understanding of what to expect when you visit.
The Size of Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto
Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto covers an impressive 135,000 square feet of space, making it one of the largest aquariums in North America. To put that in perspective, it’s roughly the size of two football fields combined. The aquarium is divided into several zones, each featuring a unique environment and collection of marine life.
Zone Breakdown
| Zones | Size (square feet) |
|---|---|
| Shark Tank | 15,000 |
| Ray Lagoon | 10,000 |
| Discovery Zone | 20,000 |
| Water’s Edge | 15,000 |
| Planet Jellies | 10,000 |
Each zone is designed to mimic a specific environment, from the deep ocean to the shallow waters of the Caribbean. This allows visitors to explore and interact with marine life in a way that’s both educational and entertaining.
The Layout of Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto
The layout of Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto is designed to be easy to navigate, with clear signage and ample walking space. The aquarium is divided into several levels, each featuring a unique collection of exhibits and interactive experiences.
Upper Level
The upper level of the aquarium features the Shark Tank, Ray Lagoon, and Planet Jellies zones. This area is home to some of the aquarium’s most impressive exhibits, including the 360-degree acrylic tunnel that takes visitors on an underwater journey through the shark tank.
Shark Tank
The Shark Tank is one of the most popular exhibits at Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto. This massive tank is home to over 1.5 million liters of water and features a variety of shark species, including sand tiger sharks, bonnethead sharks, and nurse sharks. (See Also: How to Clean Aquarium Gravel Before Use? A Step By Step Guide)
Ray Lagoon
The Ray Lagoon is a large exhibit featuring a variety of ray species, including southern stingrays and spotted eagle rays. Visitors can walk along the edge of the tank and get up close and personal with these gentle creatures.
Lower Level
The lower level of the aquarium features the Discovery Zone and Water’s Edge zones. This area is home to a variety of interactive exhibits and experiences, including a touch pool and a play area for kids.
Discovery Zone
The Discovery Zone is an interactive area where visitors can learn about marine life through hands-on activities and exhibits. This area features a variety of touch pools, where visitors can get hands-on with marine animals like starfish and anemones.
Water’s Edge
Water’s Edge is a large exhibit featuring a variety of marine animals, including fish, sea turtles, and even a few sharks. Visitors can walk along the edge of the tank and get a glimpse of the underwater world.
Features and Attractions
Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto is home to a variety of features and attractions that make it a must-visit destination for families and marine life enthusiasts. Some of the top attractions include: (See Also: How Do I Lower Ammonia Levels In My Aquarium? – A Step-By-Step Guide)
- Shark Encounter: Get up close and personal with sharks and other marine animals in this interactive exhibit.
- Ray Touch Pool: Touch and learn about southern stingrays and spotted eagle rays in this interactive exhibit.
- Sea Turtle Exhibit: Get a glimpse of these gentle creatures as they swim and play in their natural habitat.
- Interactive Play Area: Kids can enjoy a variety of interactive games and activities in this play area.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Take a guided tour and get a behind-the-scenes look at the aquarium’s operations and animal care.
Conclusion
Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto is a massive and impressive attraction that offers something for everyone. With its unique zones, interactive exhibits, and variety of marine life, it’s a must-visit destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Whether you’re a marine life enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational experience, Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto is the perfect place to explore.
Recap
In this article, we explored the size and layout of Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto, as well as its features and attractions. Here are the key points to remember:
- Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto covers an impressive 135,000 square feet of space.
- The aquarium is divided into several zones, each featuring a unique environment and collection of marine life.
- The upper level features the Shark Tank, Ray Lagoon, and Planet Jellies zones.
- The lower level features the Discovery Zone and Water’s Edge zones.
- The aquarium is home to a variety of interactive exhibits and experiences, including a touch pool and a play area for kids.
- Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto offers a variety of features and attractions, including shark encounters, ray touch pools, and behind-the-scenes tours.
FAQs
Q: What is the best way to get to Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto?
A: The best way to get to Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto is by taking the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) subway to the Union Station stop. From there, it’s a short walk to the aquarium.
Q: Are there any special events or exhibits at Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto?
A: Yes, Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto hosts a variety of special events and exhibits throughout the year. Check the aquarium’s website for more information on upcoming events and exhibits.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drink into the aquarium?
A: No, food and drink are not allowed in the aquarium. There are, however, a variety of dining options available on site, including a café and a restaurant. (See Also: Was Fressen Garnelen Im Aquarium? A Complete Guide)
Q: Are there any discounts or promotions available for Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto?
A: Yes, Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto offers a variety of discounts and promotions throughout the year. Check the aquarium’s website for more information on current deals and offers.
Q: Can I take pictures or videos inside the aquarium?
A: Yes, you are welcome to take pictures and videos inside the aquarium for personal use. However, please be respectful of the animals and other visitors, and refrain from using flash or disturbing the animals during feeding times.