Ontario Unveils Final Design for New Science Centre at Ontario Place

The province of Ontario has unveiled the final design for the new Ontario Science Centre, which will be constructed at Ontario Place. The announcement, made on Thursday, marks a significant milestone in Ontario’s vision to transform Ontario Place into a vibrant, year-round destination for families. The new centre will encompass 400,000 square feet and aims to provide more space for innovative programming compared to its previous location.

The design emphasizes a modern approach, featuring a structure that accommodates exhibitions, immersive visitor experiences, and dynamic programming, which includes hands-on exhibits and educational workshops. Notably, the design incorporates “renovated and enhanced pods” that will facilitate science-themed interactions for visitors. The iconic Cinesphere at Ontario Place will also be included in the plans, undergoing upgrades to double its seating capacity.

The government awarded a $1.04 billion contract to Ontario Science Partners, a consortium led by Hariri Pantarini Architects, who are recognized for their work on the Tom Patterson Theatre in Stratford, Ontario. This partnership will not only design and build the new centre but also finance and maintain the facility. Renderings showcase a futuristic building adorned with large windows and a green roof, connecting various levels through a raised walkway. A boardwalk will also line the front of the structure, enhancing accessibility and visitor experience.

Commitment to Accessibility and Education

The new Ontario Science Centre is set to meet all accessibility regulations and aims for certification from the Rick Hansen Foundation, which evaluates meaningful access to public buildings. John Carmichael, Chair of the Board of Trustees for the Ontario Science Centre, highlighted the significance of this project: “Today’s milestone reflects a shared commitment to build a dynamic, state-of-the-art Science Centre that will inspire discovery for generations to come. Through innovative exhibits and dynamic programming, this remarkable new home at Ontario Place will provide meaningful learning experiences to visitors of all ages.”

These developments come following controversial decisions regarding the previous Ontario Science Centre, which has been in operation since 1969 in the Flemingdon Park area of North York. In 2023, Premier Doug Ford announced its relocation to Ontario Place, followed by the abrupt closure of the original centre due to reported structural issues with the roof. Critics have expressed concerns regarding the closure, suggesting that alternatives were available and speculating that the move was intended to divert attention from the controversial Therme waterpark project also underway at Ontario Place.

Further complications arose when the roof of the original centre remained intact through the winter of 2024, raising suspicions about the rationale behind the closure. Additionally, a report from the auditor general indicated a nearly $400 million increase in project costs since the original business case was presented in spring 2023, which has added to public scrutiny.

Future Prospects and Job Creation

In December 2025, the Harbourfront Centre was designated as the interim location for the Ontario Science Centre until the new facility at Ontario Place is completed. The anticipated completion date for the new centre is 2029. The province asserts that this project will generate over 1,000 jobs in construction and tourism, along with long-term employment opportunities at the facility.

As Ontario continues its efforts to develop Ontario Place into a world-class destination, the new Ontario Science Centre is positioned to play a pivotal role in fostering educational experiences and community engagement for years to come.