The Royal Ontario Museum

From the outside, the Royal Ontario Museum appears to have been struck by a mineral formation from outer space. When the original building was overhauled by starchitect Daniel Libeskind, many locals were dismayed by the new addition, called the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, but most have come around to its angular charms. Visitors to this museum of world cultures and natural history can work their way through galleries showcasing Chinese sculptures, Canada’s First Nations artifacts and crafts, dinosaur skeletons, and Byzantine artwork. Special exhibits have included everything from the intricate textiles of Mexico to an in-depth look at the culture of tattoos.

The Royal Ontario Museum is one of Canada‘s best-appointed centers for culture, arts, artifacts, things that go bump in the night, creepy crawlers (alive and more...er, permanent), and makes a great escape for young and old alike. One of the largest museums in North America, the world history and natural history exhibits are numerous and inspiring.

This event was meant to liven up an institution that many would consider a relic - figuratively and literally. I like to call it “drinking with the dinos.” Some of Toronto‘s popular food trucks and food purveryors come out to feed the masses with some music in the background. Though you can’t drink in the exhibition space, there is a bar in the mezzanine level. Though it’s a seasonal event, I love the idea and hope they reintroduce it next year. Photo by Laura C.T. on Yelp

This weekly party which happens from Spring to Fall is otherwise known as “Drinking with the Dinos.” Visitors pay $12 for entrance after regular hours at the museum and get to drink and view the exhibits and collections. Each week for the duration of FNL, there is a different theme so don’t be surprised if you see people roaming around in superhero outfits in the museum. There are also special performances and a DJ for revelry thereafter. All the while, food trucks and catering companies dish out delicious bites for reasonable prices. My tip: check out the fourth floor if you want a more intimate setting to sit down and listen to some live music (you’ll also get less of a lineup at the bar). It’s great fun and something I recommend if you’re looking for a unique viewpoint on the museum.

Simply put, this place has it all. See which exhibits are currently on display in addition to their permanent display of Ancient Chinese, Egyptian, and First Peoples artifacts. If for nothing else, come for the dinosaur collection on the second level. The kids will love it and so will you. While located downtown, the museum is about one mile north for the cities main attractions. Situated right next to the University of Toronto campus, getting their by foot will be more time consuming than if visiting via car or public transportation.

The name pretty much says it all. The unique aspect of this museum, which somewhat sets it apart, is the incredibly unique architectural design of the building itself. Boasting a flood of natural light, the effect upon entering is quite dramatic. Plus, it’s nice to see a structure that holds interesting items also be an interesting item in its own rite.