Ontario Science Centre Design Unveiled, Contract Awarded for 2029 Opening

The Province of Ontario has officially unveiled the final design for the new Ontario Science Centre, which will be situated at Ontario Place. On Thursday, the government announced the award of a contract valued at $1.04 billion for the construction of the facility, marking a significant step in its plan to transform Ontario Place into a year-round, world-class destination for families.

The upcoming Ontario Science Centre will cover 400,000 square feet and will feature more space dedicated to programming compared to its previous location. The design aims to create an engaging environment for exhibitions and immersive experiences, incorporating hands-on exhibits and educational workshops. Additionally, the plans include renovated and enhanced pods intended to host science-themed experiences.

Design and Features of the New Centre

A key feature of the new design is the revitalization of Ontario Place’s iconic Cinesphere, which will receive upgrades to double its previous seating capacity. The structure will showcase a futuristic aesthetic, characterized by large windows, a green roof, and multiple levels of open spaces. A raised walkway will connect the main exhibition building to the pods, while a boardwalk will extend along the front of the facility for visitors.

The new Ontario Science Centre will adhere to all accessibility requirements and aims to achieve certification from the Rick Hansen Foundation, which evaluates meaningful access in buildings. John Carmichael, Chair of the Board of Trustees for the Ontario Science Centre, expressed optimism about the project, stating, “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.”

Background and Controversy Surrounding the Relocation

Originally opened in 1969 in Flemingdon Park, the Ontario Science Centre has been a staple of education and engagement in science for over five decades. In 2023, Premier Doug Ford announced plans to relocate the institution to Ontario Place, but the announcement was met with controversy. Following concerns about structural issues with the existing facility’s roof, the government abruptly closed the Ontario Science Centre, despite criticism that alternative solutions were available.

Critics have suggested that the decision to close the centre was aimed at diverting attention from the controversial Therme waterpark and spa under construction at the same location. The original roof withstood the winter of 2024, further fueling skepticism regarding the rationale behind the closure.

Further complicating the project, the opening date for the new facility has been pushed back from 2028 to 2029. An auditor general report released in late 2024 highlighted a nearly $400 million increase in estimated costs for the design and maintenance of the new centre, compared to initial estimates presented in spring 2023.

In December 2025, the Harbourfront Centre was designated as the interim home for the Ontario Science Centre until the new facility is completed. Once operational, the centre is expected to create over 1,000 jobs in construction and tourism, along with long-term employment opportunities at the new facility.

The completion of the Ontario Science Centre is eagerly anticipated, promising to be a hub of learning and exploration for visitors of all ages.