Ripley’s Aquarium: Sharks After Dark Entry (After 5PM)

If you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy Toronto’s top aquarium, the Sharks After Dark evening experience at Ripley’s Aquarium might just fit the bill. It’s a chance to see Canada’s largest indoor aquarium after hours, when the crowds are smaller and the atmosphere feels a little more relaxed. The experience promises an up-close look at marine life, including the mesmerizing sharks, along with some special evening events.

What we really like about this experience is how it offers skip-the-line entry, saving you time and hassle, and the chance to explore nine different galleries filled with 20,000 aquatic animals without the daytime buzz. Plus, on certain nights, you get to enjoy live Jazz Fridays, which add a fun, musical backdrop to your underwater adventure.

A potential consideration is that this ticket is strictly for after 5 PM, so if you’re someone who loves daytime water adventures or has a packed schedule, it might not fit. Also, note that food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, but there’s onsite availability if you get hungry later.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a more intimate, evening setting—whether you’re a couple, a group of friends, or even travelers wanting to avoid daytime crowds. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy the idea of combining marine exploration with some live entertainment.

Key Points

• Skip the lines and enjoy a more relaxed visit after 5 PM
• Smaller crowds mean less rushing and more time to take in exhibits
• Nighttime atmosphere enhances the experience, especially with live Jazz Fridays
• Diverse galleries showcase a variety of marine life, including sharks and jellyfish
• Accessible location in downtown Toronto, near Union Station
• Affordable price point offers good value considering the size and quality of the aquarium

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience at a Glance

The Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada offers a chance to visit after hours, starting at 5:00 PM, with a special ticket that skips the long lines usually seen during the day. This is a significant advantage if you’re visiting during a busy season or just prefer a quieter, more uncrowded setting. The two-hour window gives you plenty of time to walk through the exhibits at your own pace without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Night Visit Special?

The nine galleries really shine here—each one offers a different aquatic theme, from mesmerizing jellyfish displays to vibrant coral reef habitats. However, the real highlight is the underwater tunnel, where sharks glide above your head as you walk through the tunnel, providing a feeling of walking in the ocean itself. Several reviews highlight the stunning views and the chance to see sharks swimming effortlessly overhead, which is an experience you won’t forget.

Live Dive Shows and Touch Exhibits

One of the standout features is the daily live dive shows—a chance to see divers feed the fish or provide commentary about the marine animals. The touch pools are another favorite, allowing visitors to gently feel rays or other sea creatures, adding an interactive element to your visit.

Jazz Fridays and Evening Entertainment

The second Friday of every month features Jazz Fridays, which means live music plays throughout the aquarium. This gives the experience a more festive, relaxed vibe and turns your visit into a kind of underwater concert. Several reviewers mention that this adds a fun, sophisticated touch, making the evening feel special. Bars are set up throughout the aquarium, so you might find yourself enjoying a drink while gazing at the aquariums.

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Practical Details

Your advance purchase allows you to skip the line, which can be a real time-saver especially during busy evenings. The ticket also includes taxes, so no hidden fees. The location is centrally situated, easily accessible by foot or public transport with Union Station just nearby. If you’re traveling with mobility considerations, the venue is wheelchair accessible, which is always good to know.

What’s Not Included

While the ticket covers entry and the evening activities, food and drinks are not included, although you can purchase them on-site. The ticket is strictly for after 5 PM, so plan accordingly if you want a daytime aquarium experience.

The Real Deal: What Do Visitors Say?

From reviews, it’s clear this experience is well-liked. Many praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views of marine life. For example, one reviewer noted, “It was a very nice aquarium and it was very well done,” despite occasional crowds at 5 pm. Others appreciate the reduced crowds and the less hectic pace of evening visits, with comments like “Going after dark was great with reduced crowds.”

A common theme is the value for money—at $33 per person, visitors feel the experience is worth the price, especially with the additional bonus of skipping lines and the ambiance of the night. Several reviewers mention that the live dive shows and touch pools are particularly memorable, making this more than just a standard visit.

Some feedback points out that the mirrors could be cleaner, but overall, the exhibits are highly praised for their size and variety. The atmosphere after hours seems to elevate the experience, giving it a more relaxed, intimate feel.

In Summary: Who Is This Tour For?

This Sharks After Dark experience is best suited for travelers who value less crowded environments and are interested in marine life. It’s ideal if you want to enjoy the aquarium in a more relaxed setting, with the bonus of live entertainment on some nights. If you’re a night owl or enjoy evenings filled with music and underwater views, this experience should fit you perfectly.

While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s suitable for a broad audience—especially adults who appreciate a quieter, more atmospheric visit. If you’re visiting Toronto and want a different take on the usual aquarium trip, this evening tour offers a memorable way to see marine life in its own time.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for kids, the aquarium itself is very educational and engaging for all ages. However, the after dark setting and sometimes adult-oriented live music might make it more suitable for older children or teenagers.

Can I purchase tickets on the day of my visit?
It’s best to buy your tickets in advance to secure entry, especially since the ticket is inflexible and only valid for the booked date and time.

How long does the visit last?
Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours, which is enough time to explore all nine galleries and enjoy the shows without feeling rushed.

What are the main benefits of visiting after 5 PM?
The biggest perks are smaller crowds and the ability to enjoy the exhibits in a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere, plus the chance to experience Jazz Fridays if visiting on the second Friday of the month.

Is food available during the experience?
Food and drinks are not included with your ticket, but you can purchase them at the onsite café if you need a snack or beverage.

How accessible is the venue?
The aquarium is wheelchair accessible and located conveniently near Union Station, making it easy to reach via public transit or on foot.

Are there any special events included?
Yes, Jazz Fridays occur on the second Friday of each month, offering live music that complements the underwater views.

Is the experience suitable for large groups?
Yes, groups of all sizes are welcome, and the skip-the-line tickets help streamline entry for bigger parties.

What should I bring or prepare?
Just your curiosity and maybe a camera—though flash photography is discouraged during some shows. Remember, food and drinks are not part of the ticket price, so plan to purchase if needed.

If you’re in Toronto and want to see marine life in a quieter, evening setting with added entertainment, Ripley’s Aquarium Sharks After Dark offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience. You get good value for the price, fewer crowds, and the chance to see sharks and other sea creatures in a beautifully lit environment—an outing that’s both fun and a little different from the usual daytime aquarium visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: