The Royal Ontario Museum is one of Toronto’s top attractions, and for good reason. It’s not just a huge collection of artifacts and art — it’s a place where you can walk through history, explore ancient cultures, and marvel at natural wonders. If you love dinosaurs, the ROM’s massive Barosaurus skeleton is a must-see.
For those interested in unique exhibits like sculptures of Buddha or bat caves with over 20 specimens, the museum offers plenty of compelling experiences.
We especially appreciate how accessible and well-curated the collections are, making it a perfect spot for a day’s exploration.
And if you’re pressed for time or want to make your visit more special, there are great curated tours and tickets that enhance your experience.
In this guide, we’ve picked out two of the best tours and things to do at the Royal Ontario Museum. From straightforward admission to immersive exhibit access, each option offers distinct advantages depending on what you’re after. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just want to see Canada’s largest mounted dinosaur, these experiences are worth considering.
1. Toronto: Royal Ontario Museum Admission Ticket
For just $19 a person, the Royal Ontario Museum Admission Ticket provides a full day of access to one of Canada’s most visited museums. This ticket covers the entire museum, which houses more than 18 million artworks, artifacts, and specimens.
It’s perfect if you want flexibility — explore at your own pace, from the Tomb of General Zu Dashou, a fascinating Ming Dynasty burial site, to the rare skeleton of the Barosaurus, which is the largest mounted dinosaur in Canada.
What makes this ticket stand out is its simplicity and value. You get a full day to wander through diverse exhibits, including ancient civilizations, natural history, and contemporary art.
Visitors often comment on how easy it is to spend hours here, especially with the immense dinosaur skeletons and captivating cultural displays. The price of $19 makes it a budget-friendly choice, especially for travelers who prefer to explore on their own.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in the breadth of the ROM’s collections and want the freedom to explore at your own pace, this ticket offers excellent value and flexibility. It’s ideal for solo travelers, museum buffs, or families looking for an affordable cultural outing.
2. Toronto: Royal Ontario Museum Special Exhibits Voucher
Priced at $25 per person, the Special Exhibits Voucher offers more than just general admission. This experience includes access to the museum’s current special exhibitions, which often feature unique sculptures, ancient artifacts, or themed displays. One highlight is the ROM’s bat cave, showcasing over 20 bat specimens and 800+ models, giving visitors an up-close look at these fascinating creatures.
This voucher is especially well-suited for travelers who want to see something extra during their visit. It’s perfect if you’re interested in exclusive exhibits that change periodically or want to experience the museum’s best displays without the hassle of planning multiple visits.
Visitors praise the gorgeous sculptures of Buddha, which are often part of the special exhibitions, offering a deeper cultural perspective.
Reviews reflect that this ticket offers excellent value for those keen on special exhibits, with many noting that access to the bat cave and other rare displays makes it a richer experience. The slightly higher price is justified by the chance to see the museum’s most popular and intriguing exhibits in one visit.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a more curated experience, with access to exclusive or rotating displays, this voucher offers a more immersive visit. It’s ideal for museum lovers eager to see the museum’s standout exhibits.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend. The admission ticket is best if you want the freedom to explore the museum at your leisure and see the iconic dinosaur skeleton and Ming tomb. It’s a straightforward choice for those on a budget or with limited time.
The special exhibits voucher is perfect if you’re fascinated by temporary displays or unique sculptures, or if you want to experience specific highlights like the bat cave. It’s a slightly more curated visit, ideal for those who want to focus on particular exhibits or enjoy a richer cultural experience.
Think about your interests — if ancient civilizations or dinosaurs excite you, the basic ticket will serve you well. But if you’re eager to see extra features or special displays, the voucher gives you that added layer of access. Both can be booked easily through the museum’s website, so plan ahead to avoid missing out.
Final Thoughts
The Royal Ontario Museum offers a wide range of experiences that cater to various interests and schedules. For those seeking value and flexibility, the admission ticket is hard to beat, providing access to everything. If you’re after special exhibits and immersive displays, the special exhibits voucher is a better fit, especially for art and natural history aficionados.
For different types of travelers, these options deliver unique ways to enjoy one of Toronto’s top cultural attractions. Families can appreciate the dinosaur skeletons and interactive exhibits, while history buffs will love the Ming Dynasty tomb and ancient sculptures. No matter what your focus, booking your tickets early ensures you get the best experience — the ROM is popular, after all.
Enjoy your visit, and don’t forget to leave enough time to wander through the galleries — some of the best moments happen when you least expect them.