OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY
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Currently, we require visitors to make a reservation which is good for an hour-long visit. The QR code (left) also goes directly to reservations.
Rose, a VC volunteer, is piloting a new interpretive science project for our visitors - Science a la Carte. Informal, hands-on presentations are made from a cart rolled out for visitors and then put away when it is not in use. The first topic for Science a la Carte is sea otters. Our volunteer docents discuss otters and kelp forest health, the current state of otters in Oregon, and compare sea and river otter characteristics.
We are delighted to announce that our resident Giant Pacific Octopus is back in the main tank of the Visitor Center. She’s a curious and inquisitive gal, and we hope you can visit us and see what she’s up to.
If you are curious about these eight-armed wonders, check out this frequently asked questions page. Below is a video of a resident octopus playing with its toys.
Why did the octopus cross the reef? To get to the other tide!
This interactive simulator let's you experience what it feels like to be at the helm of a large research vessel and steer it through Yaquina Bay.
This exhibit showcases crustaceans found along the Oregon coast. By displaying these animals in smaller interconnected tanks, it is possible to keep more than one species in harmony.
Visitors of all ages are welcome to play in this sandbox. At this exhibit, you move the sand in the sandbox and watch how the contour lines, projected on the sand, change.
Moonglow anemones live in intertidal and shallow subtidal zones throughout the Pacific Northwest. They are often found partially or fully buried in the sand with their body column stretched down into the sand to find a solid place to attach themselves. They can also be found in holes in rocks carved out by boring clams or urchins. Unlike their more common cousins green anemones, moonglows are often found singly or in small groups.
While they look delicate, any animal that lives in the intertidal zone has to be hardy to survive in the ever-changing conditions. You can see these incredible animals in their natural habitat at local beaches like Seal Rock State Park, and in the Visitor Center, currently residing with the Northern Kelp Crab in the Crustacean exhibit!
This text is based on an article by Emily Bjornsgard for our March volunteer newsletter (pdf).
Do you have a group interested in exploring the Visitor Center? You can make a reservation for your group here.
Open: 10 AM - 4 PM Thursday - Monday
Reservations Required
Closed: Tuesday - Wednesday
Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day
Hatfield Marine Science Center Visitor Center
2030 SE Marine Science Drive
Newport, OR 97365-5229
Phone: 541-867-0100; Option 2
Email
Click on "More Options" to get directions from your location.
