These projects, alongside the construction of a new admissions annex and lobby renovations, comprise the first phase of the Aquarium’s multi-phase Capital Campaign, which was launched with the goal of completing crucial improvements and creating engaging experiences.
“We have anticipated this for years,” said OCAq President/CEO Carrie Lewis. “We are elated to offer these new experiences to our guests, and we’re so grateful for the support we have received along the way.”
Nature Play Area
The Nature Play Area speaks to OCAq’s historic origins as a former timber mill site. Visitors can engage kinetically with nature when they clamber over massive logs, explore a faux eagle’s nest, climb a watchtower, and plunge down a meandering slide that acts as a mock river chute.
Outdoor Amphitheater
The Outdoor Amphitheater is a dedicated space for educational programs and ambassador animal presentations, featuring expansive seating to accommodate large groups. The amphitheater provides guests with an up-close view of Oregon’s native species and opportunities to engage with animal caretakers and educators.
Headwaters Feature
The scenic headwaters feature includes a recirculating stream that represents the relationship between watersheds and the ocean, emphasizing the importance of headwaters and the role they play in Oregon’s coastal ecosystems.
The renovated lobby delivers a view of the scenic estuary bordering OCAq, and streamlines foot traffic by giving guests a direct route to the headwaters feature and center of the Aquarium. Lobby renovations include improvements to the existing café and the addition of a moon jelly exhibit, which will be completed this summer. Updated wayfinding signage and interpretive materials will also be installed throughout OCAq later this year.
The Aquarium contracted Dangermond Keane Architecture, Andersen Construction, and Walker Macy to carry out the design, construction, and landscaping for this phase of the Capital Campaign.
Completion of Phase 1 is thanks to contributions from major donors, including Roundhouse Foundation, Starker Forests, Inc., Sunderland Foundation, Marcia H. Randall Foundation, Miller Family Holdings, Jeanette Bertea Hennings Foundation, M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund, Ray Hickey Foundation, Oregon Community Foundation, Rose Tucker Charitable Trust, and Oregon Forest Resources Institute.”
The second phase of the Aquarium’s Capital Campaign will begin in fall 2022, and focuses on improvements to OCAq’s indoor galleries. In 2023, OCAq will begin the final phase of the campaign, which includes the construction of a new Marine Rehabilitation Center. Stay up to date on the Aquarium’s progress via our progress page.
Access to OCAq’s new attractions 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 Twitter for the latest updates.