Oregon Coast Aquarium   

2820 SE Ferry Slip Rd
Newport, OR 97365
541-867-3474
www.aquarium.org

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364 days a year, some 15,000 marine creatures lure visitors to the highly respected Oregon Coast Aquarium, operational since 1992. The aquarium provided a temporary home to Keiko -- the 32-foot orca whale that starred in three "Free Willy" movies -- before he was relocated to Iceland where, sadly, he died of pneumonia. Though now orca-free, there are nonetheless plenty of attractions to delight all ages. While sea otters and harbor seals romp among the rocks and in the water below, guests can tour the Aquarium's centerpiece: "Passages of the Deep," a 200-foot clear underwater tunnel that takes visitors through three distinct ocean habitats. Don't miss the sea bird aviary, the hypnotic jellyfish exhibit, "Jewels of the Sea," or the Rock Shores Gallery, an open tidal pool that allows visitors to touch anemones, starfish, and the like. It's always a thrill to watch the sharks being fed. A few of the special events offered each year include the Oregon Rocket ride in July, the Sea of Lights in December, and the monthly Passages of the Deep Shark Sleepovers. (Space is limited, so call well in advance for reservations.) There's also a diverting shop for those must-have mementoes.