The 12 Best Museums in Toronto [2023]

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As a city that embodies cultural diversity, Toronto has become a hub for artistic and historical preservation. With a vast collection of museums, visitors to the city have the chance to explore some of the most significant cultural and historical artifacts in the world. The museums in Toronto cover a broad range of topics from natural history to contemporary art, allowing people from all walks of life to learn and explore. If you’re looking for the best museums to visit in Toronto, you’re in luck! In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the city’s most exciting and engaging museums, perfect for both locals and tourists alike. So, sit back and get ready to discover some of the most fascinating cultural experiences in Toronto.

For more fun ideas of things to do in Toronto, check out our list of the city’s best garden centers, list of weekend activities in Toronto or the best places to catch the sunrise.

Summary

What Kind of Museums are in Toronto?
The Best Museums in Toronto
1) The Royal Ontario Museum
2) The Art Gallery of Ontario
3) Aga Khan Museum
4) The Ontario Science Centre
5) The Bata Shoe Museum
6) The Gardiner Museum
7) The Museum of Contemporary Art
8) The Fort York National Historic Site
9) The Black Creek Pioneer Village
10) The Spadina House
11) The Toronto Railway Museum
12) The Hockey Hall of Fame
FAQs About Toronto Museums
Final Thoughts

What Kind of Museums are in Toronto?

There is a museum for almost everything you can think of in Toronto – from art and history to science and technology. Toronto’s museums offer a great way to learn about the city, its people, and its culture.

You can find world-renowned museums like the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario, as well as smaller, more specialized museums like the Bata Shoe Museum and the Textile Museum of Canada.

Best of all, many of Toronto’s museums offer free admission or discounted rates for students, seniors, and children. So, there is no excuse not to visit one of these amazing places!

The Best Museums in Toronto

Now that you know a little bit more about Toronto’s museums, it’s time to start planning your visit! Here are our picks for the best museums in Toronto:

1. The Royal Ontario Museum

Photo Credit: Ken Gee

The Royal Ontario Museum is a world-renowned museum of art, natural history, and culture located near Yorkville. With over six million items in its collections, the ROM is one of the largest museums in North America. The museum is also home to a number of research institutes and galleries, making it a great place to learn about the world around us.

The ROM first opened its doors to the public in 1914, and since then it has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Toronto. Every year, millions of people visit the ROM to see its world-class exhibitions and galleries.

If you’re looking for a place to explore new ideas and cultures, the Royal Ontario Museum is definitely worth a visit.

Business Information:

Address: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6
Phone: +14165868000
Website: rom.on.ca

Visitor Reviews:

"It is absolutely amazing, you can spend a whole day in the museum. It has different sections of historical ages from all over the world. You can see many things from different civilizations. I loved the geology part. You can find brilliant minerals and stones. It is one of the best museum I have ever seen. Highly recommended to visit."

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2. The Art Gallery of Ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario is one of the largest art museums in North America, with a collection of over 95,000 works of art. The gallery has an extensive Canadian collection, as well as European, African, and Asian art. The AGO also has a number of temporary exhibitions, which are always worth checking out.

Whether you’re a fan of paintings or sculptures, there’s something for everyone at the AGO. And if you’re not sure what you’re looking at, there are plenty of helpful staff members and volunteers who are more than happy to explain it to you.

If you’re ever in Toronto, be sure to add the Art Gallery of Ontario to your list of must-see attractions.

Business Information:

Address: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 1G4
Phone: +14169796648
Website: ago.ca

Visitor Reviews:

“I spent approximately four hours in the museum just checking out the ground floor. There were four other levels that I didn't have the time to visit. There's A LOT to see here. It's worth it. Just make sure you have ample time to make the most out of it. There's even a restaurant and a gift shop, so you can pretty much spend most of your day here.”

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3. Aga Khan Museum

The Aga Khan Museum is a stunning cultural landmark located in the heart of Toronto. Established in 2014, this museum is dedicated to showcasing the artistic, intellectual, and scientific contributions of Muslim civilizations to world heritage. The museum’s collection features over 1,000 artifacts, including rare manuscripts, ceramics, textiles, and metalwork, dating from the 8th century to the present day. With its unique architectural design and thought-provoking exhibitions, the Aga Khan Museum offers visitors a unique perspective on Islamic art and culture. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events throughout the year. Visitors can also explore the museum’s beautiful grounds, which include a reflecting pool, landscaped gardens, and a stunning outdoor courtyard. Whether you’re interested in Islamic art or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the Aga Khan Museum is a must-visit destination in Toronto.

Business Information:

Website: agakhanmuseum.org
Phone: +14166464677
Address: 77 Wynford Dr, North York, ON M3C 1K1

Visitor Reviews:

“Pretty stunning location with superb collection of art from all over the Islamic world. The building and setting is ascetically minimalist. A haven of peace amid the hustle amid the commercial buildings in its neighbourhood. The gift shop contains some beautiful ceramics and other items brought in from across the globe. Well worth a visit. I will have to go back and use one of the audio tours as the collection is so extensive it needs a story to hang together.”

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4. The Ontario Science Centre

Photo Credit: Jimmy Awesome

The Ontario Science Centre is a place where people of all ages can learn about science and technology. The Science Centre has over 800 exhibits, making it one of the largest museums of its kind in the world. The galleries at the Science Centre are always changing, so there is always something new to see.

The Human Body Exhibit is a popular gallery that provides visitors with an up-close look at the human body. The Discovery Gallery is another popular gallery that is perfect for those who want to learn about different scientific concepts.

Whether you are young or old, the Ontario Science Centre is sure to have something that will interest you.

Business Information:

Address: 770 Don Mills Rd., North York, ON M3C 1T3
Phone: +14166961000
Website: ontariosciencecentre.ca

Visitor Reviews:

“I haven't been to the Science in years, but our Godson just turned 5 and they have never been before. It really hasn't changed as in hands on and exhibits to see. Some of the new exhibits were really good. He loves space, so level 4 was visited a couple of times. Excellent place to take the kids so they can learn, touch and experiment. We arrived there just after 10 and left after 3. Staff great , exhibits and everything else was really good. Thank you for a good day.”

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5. The Bata Shoe Museum

Photo Credit: Bata Shoe Museum

The Bata Shoe Museum is a one-of-a-kind museum that explores the history of shoes and footwear. With over 13,000 items in its collection, the museum has something for everyone. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits, making it a great place to learn about the history of shoes.

From ancient Egyptian sandals to modern sneakers, the Bata Shoe Museum tells the fascinating story of footwear through the ages. Visitors can even try on some of the shoes on display, getting a glimpse into how our ancestors lived and worked.

Whether you’re a shoe aficionado or simply looking for a unique museum experience, the Bata Shoe Museum is definitely worth a visit.

Business Information:

Address: 327 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1W7
Phone: +14169797799
Website: batashoemuseum.ca

Visitor Reviews:

“A hidden gem a block over from the Royal Ontario Museum. Learn history and the history of shoes. Designer shoes-check, shoes for dolls-check, shoes for celebrities and royals-check. Some amazing historical facts are also presented in great detail and keeping in mind the sensitive nature of some of the topics. Kids can have fun trying to find the different images in a scavenger hunt, paint a shoe and even try out different styles of shoes. Overall a unique experience that will surprise you.”

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6. The Gardiner Museum

Photo Credit: Leonardo F.

The Gardiner Museum is one of the world’s leading museums of ceramics. With a collection of over 2,600 objects, the museum has something for everyone. The museum also offers a number of educational programs, making it a great place to learn about the history and art of ceramics.

The museum’s collection includes works from all over the world, spanning a wide range of styles and periods. From ancient Chinese vases to contemporary European sculpture, the Gardiner Museum has something for everyone.

Whether you’re a casual visitor or a serious student of ceramics, the Gardiner Museum is sure to have something that will interest you.

Business Information:

Address: 111 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C7
Phone: +14165868080
Website: gardinermuseum.com

Visitor Reviews:

“Such a unique and beautiful collection of ceramics. The first floor consists of pottery from the Americas and some new exhibits. The second floor has a wide collection of Japanese and Chinese ceramics - vases, tea sets, plates, and figurines. There is a beautiful set of figurines in the European section on the same floor. If you appreciate decorative ceramics and glass, then this is a must see!”

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7. The Museum of Contemporary Art

Photo Credit: Jason Huang

The Museum of Contemporary Art is one of the leading museums of contemporary art in the world. With a collection of over 6,000 objects, the museum has something for everyone. The museum also has a number of temporary exhibitions, which are always worth checking out.

Whether you’re a fan of abstract expressionism or you prefer more traditional forms of art, you’ll find that the Museum of Contemporary Art has something to offer. In addition to its impressive collection, the museum also hosts a variety of events, such as lectures and workshops.

If you’re looking for a place to expand your horizons and see some incredible art, the Museum of Contemporary Art is definitely worth a visit.

Business Information:

Address: 158 Sterling Rd #100, Toronto, ON M6R 2B7
Website: moca.ca
Phone: +14165302500

Visitor Reviews:

“MOCA brings regularly rotated contemporary artists from all over the world and brings them to this gorgeous and spacious building! At the moment, there typically is only 3 floors and less than 5 exhibits/artists being featured, but its always awesome and thought provoking works of art! Every first Sunday of the month is free, sponsored by TD, so consider coming on one of those days.”

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8. The Fort York National Historic Site

Photo Credit: The Fort York National Historic Site

The Fort York National Historic Site is a great place to learn about the history of the area. The site is home to a number of museums and galleries, making it a great place to learn about the history of the area.

The site is also home to a number of historic buildings, including the Fort York Visitor Centre, which was built in 1813. The visitor centre features a number of interactive displays that tell the story of the fort and the role it played in the War of 1812.

The site also features a number of historical reenactments, which are held throughout the year. These reenactments give visitors a chance to see what life was like during the War of 1812.

Business Information:

Address: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3K9
Phone: +14163926907
Website: toronto.ca/fortyork

Visitor Reviews:

“The new visitor and interpretive centre adds a lot to the historic site. As of June the museum is free and definitely worth seeing. Do check the website before going as sometimes the visitor centre is closed for events, or the outdoor fort has festivals or other events going on.”

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9. The Black Creek Pioneer Village

Photo Credit: M J

The Black Creek Pioneer Village is a living history museum that recreates life in 19th-century Ontario. With over 40 buildings and homes, the village is a great place to learn about the history of the area.

The village also has a number of interactive exhibits, making it a great place to learn about life in the past. For example, visitors can try their hand at making candles or soap, baking bread, or even churning butter. There are also a number of demonstrations throughout the day, including blacksmithing, carpentry, and quilting.

In addition, the village is home to a number of animals, including horses, chickens, and goats. The Black Creek Pioneer Village is a great place to step back in time and learn about life in 19th-century Ontario.

Business Information:

Address: 1000 Murray Ross Pkwy, North York, ON M3J 2P3
Phone: +14167361733
Website: blackcreek.ca

Visitor Reviews:

“Living my Anne of Green Gables Fantasy… As beautiful as the Haunted Walk was… it was amazing to learn a little more about the History of this beautiful city … travel back in time and experience the lifestyle from an era gone by. Great work by our guide Casandra and the whole team of Haunted Walks Toronto!”

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10. The Spadina House

Photo Credit: Martin Paquin

The Spadina House is a historic house that was once home to one of Toronto’s most prominent families. The house is now a museum that showcases the lifestyle of the wealthy in the early 20th century. The house is also home to a number of temporary exhibitions, which are always worth checking out.

The Spadina House is a great way to step back in time and see how the other half lived. The grandiose rooms and lavish furnishings offer a glimpse into a world of luxury and privilege.

And, with its convenient location in the heart of the city, the Spadina House is definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in Toronto’s history.

Business Information:

Address: 285 Spadina Rd, Toronto, ON M5R 2V5
Phone: +14163926910
Website: toronto.ca/spadina

Visitor Reviews:

“I really liked this museum. Excellent preservation of the home with very knowledgeable guides to take you on a tour of each room. There’s also the beautiful, really well-maintained grounds where you can grab a drink, do some reading or just sit and soak in the peace and quiet. Highly recommend a visit, especially on a nice summer day.”

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11. The Toronto Railway Museum

Photo Credit: Toronto Railway Museum

The Toronto Railway Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the city’s history. As the name suggests, the museum explores the role of the railway in Toronto’s development, with over 100 artifacts on display.

The collection includes everything from locomotives and streetcars to photographs and documents, providing a comprehensive overview of the railway’s impact on the city. In addition to the artifacts on display, the museum also offers a number of educational programs.

These programs are designed to teach children about the history of the railway and its importance to the city. As a result, the Toronto Railway Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Toronto and its development.

Business Information:

Address: 255 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3M9
Phone: +14162149229
Website: torontorailwaymuseum.com

Visitor Reviews:

“In an area of a giant tower, giant fish bowl and giant stadium filled with birds. It's easy to forget the little engine that could. However, this place is the diamond in the rough! It's not a big place. But, definitely a must see if you are in the area. It's fun for the hole family with history, art, trinkets, tours, a coloring area and even a train simulator. Lastly, the staff is super nice and friendly 😊”

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12. The Hockey Hall of Fame

Photo Credit: Burt Hurt

The Hockey Hall of Fame is a must-see for any hockey fan. Located in Toronto, the museum Celebrates the history of hockey in Canada with over 65,000 artifacts on display. The collection includes items such as jerseys, sticks, and skates worn by some of the sport’s greatest players.

The museum also offers a number of interactive exhibits, making it a great place to learn about the history of hockey. For example, visitors can take a shooting test to see how they stack up against some of the game’s greatest snipers.

They can also try their hand at virtual reality experiences that put them on the ice in some of the most iconic moments in hockey history. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking to learn more about the sport, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a great place to start.

Business Information:

Address: 30 Yonge St, Address: Toronto, ON M5E 1X8
Phone: +14163607765
Website: hhof.com

Visitor Reviews:

“Oh it was an amazing experience. Walking around seeing all the great scenes and items hanging on display. The shot the puck and shootout were fun for the family. The main item was walking up the stairs into the great Hall. The presentation of the trophies and all the hall of fame walls was amazing. The staff members that took my family picture with the cup was great to talk to, as he even knew the Windsor area where we were from. He was talking like he still lives there and how he went to University and watched lots of hockey. It was a great way to experience everything.”

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FAQs About Toronto Museums

How much does it cost to visit museums in Toronto?

Many museums in Toronto require an admission fee ranging from $10-$30. Some museums offer free admission on certain days.

What are the operating hours of museums in Toronto?

Most museums in Toronto are open from 10 am to 5 pm or 6 pm. Some museums have extended hours on certain days, and a few are open late on Fridays.

Can I take photos inside the museums?

Most museums in Toronto allow photography, but flash photography may be prohibited in certain areas. It is best to check with the museum staff beforehand to be sure.

Is there a way to save money on museum admissions in Toronto?

Yes, some museums offer discounted admission for students, seniors, and families. Additionally, visitors can purchase a CityPASS or Toronto Museum Passport, which offers discounted admission to several museums in the city.

Final Thoughts

Toronto is a city that is rich in culture and history, and its museums offer visitors an incredible opportunity to explore and learn about the world around us. Whether you’re interested in art, science, or history, there is a museum in Toronto that will satisfy your curiosity. From the stunning architecture of the Royal Ontario Museum to the thought-provoking exhibitions at the Aga Khan Museum, Toronto’s museums offer an experience like no other. By visiting these museums, you can travel through time, learn about different cultures, and gain a deeper appreciation for the world we live in. So, if you’re planning a trip to Toronto, be sure to add some of these museums to your itinerary.

More things to do in Toronto:

If you enjoy visiting museums, you might also be interested in the following articles:
Must-visit historical buildings Toronto
Drive-in theatres to visit around Toronto
Things to do on the weekend in Toronto

Moru Li

Meet Moru, a talented marketing manager who has called Toronto home for over a decade and truly adores the city. Learn More About Moru

The 12 Best Museums in Toronto [2023]

Summary

What Kind of Museums are in Toronto?

The Best Museums in Toronto

1. The Royal Ontario Museum

Business Information:

Visitor Reviews:

Pros

Cons

2. The Art Gallery of Ontario

Business Information:

Visitor Reviews:

Pros

Cons

3. Aga Khan Museum

Business Information:

Visitor Reviews:

Pros

Cons

4. The Ontario Science Centre

Business Information:

Visitor Reviews:

Pros

Cons

5. The Bata Shoe Museum

Business Information:

Visitor Reviews:

Pros

Cons

6. The Gardiner Museum

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7. The Museum of Contemporary Art

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8. The Fort York National Historic Site

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9. The Black Creek Pioneer Village

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10. The Spadina House

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11. The Toronto Railway Museum

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12. The Hockey Hall of Fame

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FAQs About Toronto Museums

Final Thoughts

Moru Li

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