Newport, Oregon — The Oregon Coast Aquarium (OCAq) opens its renovated Connected Coasts gallery and new Sea Jelly gallery to the public on Oct. 31.
The reimagined Connected Coasts gallery, formerly Coastal Waters, reflects the interconnectedness of ocean ecosystems, with new exhibits that highlight diverse marine life found near and far from the Oregon coast, and the conservation efforts that protect them. Connected Coasts houses iconic tropical species, including potbelly seahorses, lionfish, and live corals, which were diligently reared behind-the-scenes over the past several years in preparation for the gallery’s debut.
The Sea Jelly gallery is an entirely new gallery. The shadowy corridor is lined with glowing tanks, where guests can view Pacific sea nettles, blue blubbers, and spotted lagoon jellies. At the center stands a sphere filled with moon jellies, water rippling over its surface and inviting visitors to feel the flow.
Both galleries feature unique species and educational signage in English and Spanish. Behind-the-scenes, updated life support systems maintain the galleries’ new and upgraded tanks.
“The opening of the Sea Jelly gallery and the renovations to the Connected Coasts gallery represent our commitment to both our guests and marine life,” said OCAq President and CEO Carrie Lewis. “We can’t wait for our visitors to explore these new spaces and be inspired by the beauty of our coastal ecosystems.”
OCAq invites all to celebrate the occasion by “dressing like a jelly” during the opening weekend; guests are encouraged to visit in-costume from Oct. 31-Nov. 3.
These galleries are made possible thanks to contributions from major donors, including the State of Oregon, Jeanette Bertea Hennings Foundation, Dave and Julie Shafer, Al Gleason, M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, James and Shirley Rippey Family Foundation, Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund, John & Nancy Dennis Family, Jim Pattison/Roth’s Fresh Markets, Clark Foundation, Travel Oregon, Hillman Family Foundations, Marta & Ken Thrasher, Christine & David Vernier, Miller Family Holdings, and Aquarium Volunteers.
Access to the galleries is included with general admission; learn more and buy tickets at aquarium.org.
About Oregon Coast Aquarium
Since opening in 1992, the Oregon Coast Aquarium has been a premier attraction on Oregon’s central coast and an enduring advocate for the health of our ocean. For over three decades this 501(c)3 non-profit organization has supported marine wildlife and fostered environmental stewardship through its education programs, community partnerships, and rehabilitation efforts. Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 aquariums in the U.S., providing visitors with opportunities to connect with 15,000 animals spanning 300 different species. The Oregon Coast Aquarium is located at 2820 S.E. Ferry Slip Rd., Newport, OR. aquarium.org, 541-867-3474. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram for the latest updates.