OSU Hatfield Marine Science Center

After visiting the aquarium nearby, we visited the Marine Science Center.  I actually liked it better than the aquarium. 

Outside the center is the yellow submarine.  It was used for some early exploration, but was retired to the center.

 Inside, there are numerous exhibits, including one of animal skulls, such as this walrus skull.  You could spend a lot of time at each exhibit.  I didn't take very many pictures because I was looking at the exhibits. 

The octopus tank is a pretty impressive exhibit.  It's front and center after you walk in the door.  This octopus is named Pearl.  They rotate octopi through the tank to help keep them healthy.  There's an octopus webcam at www.hmsc.oregonstate.edu/visitor/octocam that shows the octopus tank.  You could even watch the feedings every Monday, Thursday, and Saturday at 1:00 PM (Pacific Time). 

We liked this starfish in the octopus tank.  He was in the process of forcing a clam open to eat it.  It can take a while, but the starfish will win eventually and be rewarded with dinner. 

There was a whole lot to see here and I wish we could have spent more time, but the kids were fussy and needed naps so we cut our visit short.

Nearest City: Newport, OR
Location: 2030 SE Marine Science Drive, Newport, OR
Time Needed: 2+ hours
Difficulty: Easy
Kid Friendly: Older kid friendly.  This place would rock for teenagers.
Additional Info: Visit the OSU Hatfield Marine Science Center Website for hours and more info.  The center is free, but is supported by donations, so bring a few bucks to help keep it open!