Ontario Science Centre

Since this pioneering interactive science museum opened in 1969, generations of Toronto's kids, and their offspring, have proven loyal fans. It's not surprising: The hands-on approach to exploring the wide world of science is absolutely thrilling. With more than 800 exhibits, there is an abundance of things to touch, push, pull, or crank. Test your reflexes, or balance, or heart rate, or grip strength; watch frozen-solid liquid nitrogen shatter into thousands of icy shards; study slides of butterfly wings, bedbugs, fish scales, or feathers under a microscope; land a spaceship on the moon; see how many lights you can turn on or how high you can elevate a balloon using pedal power. The fun goes on and on.

In addition, the city's only planetarium, an Omnimax cinema, and a collection of small theaters showing assorted documentaries and slide shows are located here. A recent addition is the C$40-million Weston Family Innovation Centre, with new exhibit halls and a focus on interactive learning and problem-solving. There are also some outdoor improvements, including a music-making water garden. The food is much less exciting: Spots for hungry visitors are Galileo's Bistro, a buffet-style restaurant, and Valley Marketplace, a cafeteria. The on-site gift shop, a Mastermind outlet, has a good collection of educational toys and games. This is one Toronto attraction that always seems to be busy (blame school groups), so arrive at 10am to see everything. Make no mistake: The OSC provides a full day's entertainment.

A Night at the OSC -- Pack your PJs and grab your sleeping bag for a unique sleepover opportunity at the OSC. Fun for the whole family, the OSC hosts these unique pajama parties on a handful of Saturday nights each season. Sleep among the exhibits, watch a science show, do fun activities, take part in a DJ/PJ party, watch a film, and wake up to breakfast to start your Sunday. At C$54 per person, it's not surprising these special events sell out quickly. Go online and check it out: www.ontariosciencecentre.ca.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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