Can’t stand the heat? Cool off with the ROM’s bugs, mummies & dinos
Is there any other place where kids can frolic with butterflies, examine creepy-crawlies, uncover mysteries from the Book of the Dead and dig for dinos all under one roof? The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is Toronto’s coolest destination this summer, with unique family programming every weekend from August 8 to September 7. Each adventure will be available for one weekend only, so be sure to bring your kids to the Museum and cool-off from the summer sun.
These can’t miss weekend programs are part of the continuing summer fun at the ROM. In addition to regular ROM family features such as the Patrick and Barbara Keenan Family Gallery of Hands-On Biodiversity, the Dead Sea Scrolls activity area, and the Earth Rangers Studio, families are invited to participate in a new, one-time-only program each weekend. While the kids enjoy their special programming, parents should be sure to visit the ROM’s Dead Sea Scrolls exhibition for a once in-a-lifetime opportunity to see one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century. Best of all, these activities are FREE with admission.
ROM Family Fun Weekends Schedule:
August 8-9, A Bug’s Life: Interact with insects and reptiles. Kids will have the opportunity to touch various live reptiles, such as skinks and snakes, and to hold insects, like walking sticks and cockroaches.
August 15-16, Monarch Madness: Who doesn’t love butterflies? This weekend, the ROM teaches visitors about the life cycle of butterflies and the habitat of the Monarch. Live specimens will be available for viewing.
August 22-23, Planet IndigenUs: Kehewin Native Dance Theatre: Learn all about First Nations peoples with storytelling, music, and dance by Alberta Kehewin Native Dance Theatre. A colourful array of feathers and beadwork complement traditional stories and dancing. The show includes riveting Hoop Dance and traditional Round dance songs. Performances at 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm each day on Level 1 Rotunda.
August 29-30, Ancient Egypt: Unlock the mysteries of Ancient Egypt. Examine the Museum’s very own Book of the Dead while learning about the underworld, mummies, and more.
September 5-6-7, Three Days of Dinos: The Museum’s tallest specimens will be the highlight of the weekend. Dig for bones, partake in activities, and experience dino sneak peaks along with dinosaur mascots Gordo and Gertie. Visitors will experience a once-in-a-lifetime extravaganza this weekend.
Don’t forget to go to the ROM website (www.rom.on.ca) to see flesh-eating creepy crawlies live on web cam. For the first time ever, the ROM is allowing visitors a special glimpse into the Museum’s bug room where you can witness firsthand how the skeletal remains in the ROM acquire their gleam.
For more information about summer Family Fun programming, visit www.rom.on.ca or call 416.586.8000. All programming is subject to change.
Hours of Operation:
Monday to Thursday 10:00 am – 5:30 pm
Friday 10:00 am – 9:30 pm
Saturday 10:00 am – 5:30 pm
Admission Rates:
Adult $22
Student/Senior (with ID) $19
Child (5 to 14 years) $15
Infant (4 years and under) FREE
Members FREE