Hatfield Marine Science Center

Explore this neat educational center in Newport, Oregon.

This building is an extension of the Oregon State University campus’ Marine Life building. The laboratories and classrooms serve aquatic life common to the Pacific Coast but are closed to the general public. Guests are welcome to enter the visitor center for free, but they do accept donations. The interactive queue draws many tourists and local citizens. Some creatures that they may feature include octopi, many species of fish, and ocean floor dwellers. The touch-pool is a popular attraction for young children as well as the small sandboxes. 

Fish tanks offer guests the chance to watch different species of fish and learn from the informational signs. Volunteers are there to answer any questions you may have. You can also look at the photographs, murals, and light displays honoring all aquatic life. Children are often entertained for long periods of time here; however, it is not as large as an average aquarium. Field trips are common so that it may become crowded at certain times during the week.