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Hatfield Marine Science Center Visitor Center

2030 SE Marine Science Drive · Newport, OR

Why you should go…

The Hatfield Marine Science Center Visitor Center is operated by Oregon State University on Yaquina Bay in Newport, Oregon. Visitors can see indoor tide pool touch tanks and marine animal exhibits, plus a 70-foot blue whale skeleton, while learning about OSU's coastal and marine research. Admission is free, with a suggested donation.

  • #marine science
  • #aquarium
  • #family
  • #free
  • #education

Good to know

General museums guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Check the special exhibition separately

    Touring shows usually carry their own ticket and their own opening hours, listed apart from general admission.

  • Look for the free window

    Many museums run community days, member evenings, or discounted late openings. It is worth a look before you pay full price.

  • Travel light through the door

    Large bags and backpacks often have to go to a coat check, and lines for it move slowly at opening.

  • Weekday mornings beat weekend afternoons

    School groups clear out by early afternoon midweek, while weekends stay busy from late morning on.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Hatfield Marine Science Center Visitor Center, ordered by straight-line distance.

  • Sightseeing
    Outdoor Adventure

    Oregon Coast

    Free

    The full Oregon coastline of beaches, lighthouses, aquariums and small towns, promoted by the region's tourism association.

    0.4 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Attractions
    Quirky Fun

    Mariner Square

    Under $25

    A Newport, Oregon bayfront complex still anchored by Ripley's Believe It or Not, though earlier tenants have closed.

    0.7 mi awaySwitch it up: Attractions

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Newport Visitor Information Center

    Free

    The official visitor center for Newport, Oregon, on the central Oregon coast.

    1.0 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Sightseeing
    Outdoor Adventure

    Newport

    Free

    Oregon coast city known for fishing heritage, beaches, whale watching, and the Oregon Coast Aquarium.

    3.0 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Tours
    Outdoor Adventure

    Whale Research EcoExcursions

    $25–$50

    Marine biologist-led Zodiac whale watching trips from Depoe Bay to see the Oregon Coast's resident gray whales.

    13 mi awaySwitch it up: Tours

  • Attractions
    Family Favorite

    Sea Lion Caves

    Under $25

    An elevator descends into a coastal cave where visitors can view wild Steller sea lions on the Oregon coast.

    35 mi awaySwitch it up: Attractions