While rolling up the west coast, we had the opportunity to visit one of the best aquarium experiences we’ve seen: the Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport, Oregon.
Oregon Coast Aquarium: Conservation First
The first thing we noticed was the aquarium’s dedication to conservation. The grounds had commissioned sculptures of sea creatures throughout. These sculptures were made from flotsam, mostly beach trash, and were a very non-invasive way of showing humankind’s impact on the environment and the creatures our lack of care can affect. The other deliberate way the aquarium fostered conservation was with a commitment to native landscaping. There were displays about how native plantings conserve resources, as these plants have adapted over generations to the region’s water cycles, temperature cycles, and soil chemistry. This means the plants are both ornamental and don’t require water, shelter, or fertilizer to thrive. These native plants also support native populations of insects, birds, foragers, and a whole host of others that would otherwise be displaced or threatened by ill-suited exotics!
A Unique Experience
The Oregon Coast Aquarium is pretty small compared to other zoos and aquariums we’ve visited; however, the way they used the space was inspired. Outdoors, they had three primary enclosures: pinnipeds (seals and sea lions), otters, and shore birds. We made sure to see each area during scheduled feedings and zookeeper talks. We learned about individual animals and the aquarium’s further conservation efforts, including their alliance with Costa Research Centers and other zoos to revive the populations of California sea otters. Our favorite enclosure was probably the shorebird aviary, as guests walked on a pathway between two habitats. The shorebirds flew back and forth, making the experience immersive and memorable.
The real magic is indoors. There were several rooms dedicated to the various biomes found around the Pacific Northwest, as well as the reefs of the South Pacific. In addition, they have the most immersive aquarium experience we’ve ever seen. Most large aquariums have underwater viewing galleries, where visitors can look into the aquarium enclosures from the side. The Oregon Coast Aquarium takes this to the next level. They have three large aquariums with transparent tunnels passing through the habitats! We walked through the tanks and had sharks swimming over our heads. We stood mesmerized by the shimmering patterns of schools of anchovies and mackerels. Each tank showcases a different ocean biome, from near shore to open ocean.
Choose Your Day Wisely
When we visited, the museum was VERY busy. Dad got in free on the day due to it being his birthday, but it was also a Sunday. On Sundays, locals only have to pay $5 to get in, down from about $30 per person for general admission. However, even with the crowds, the volunteers and staff were still energetic and outgoing. One staff member even brought out an otter pelt just for The Girl to touch! This, coupled with everything else, made the Oregon Coast Aquarium a treasured and magical visit that we won’t soon forget, and may never replicate.
