Hatfield Marine Science Center, Newport

Part museum, part active science lab, Hatfield Marine Science Center operates thanks to Oregon's flagship university and sits right next to the Yaquina Bay. The facility's public education wing houses a visitor center, featuring exhibits that showcase everything from new developments in modern marine research to the local fishing industry. You won't want to miss the major daily event--the feeding of the center's giant octopus, which occupies a large tank at the entrance into the exhibit area. The center strives to teach the public about ocean resource management, microscopic sea life, tide-pool habitats, and the effect of tsunamis on fragile coastal environments. Although admission is free, you can make a donation at your own discretion. Make Hatfield Marine Science Center part of your personalized Newport itinerary using our Newport vacation planning tool.