No trip to Lincoln City is complete without a visit to the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Located in Newport, the aquarium offers animal encounters and tours, educational programs, diving, and so much more. Whether you decide to browse through the exhibits, kiss a seal, or swim with the sharks, we guarantee that this will be an experience you won’t soon forget. Here are some of the best things to do at the Lincoln City Aquarium!
If you plan to spend a day at the Lincoln City aquarium, you’ll want to check out the local shops and restaurants nearby. Be sure to download our complimentary Vacation Guide for a complete list of area attractions. It’s full of local tips about the best places to eat, attractions to see, and things to do on the Central Oregon Coast.
Top 3 Things to Do at the Lincoln City Aquarium
1. Browse the Oregon Coast Aquarium Exhibits
With 15 different exhibits, there are so many ways to explore at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Visitors can see beautiful moon jellyfish, giant octopuses, otters, sharks, birds, starfish, and many other species of fish and underwater plants. There is even an exhibit that displays replicas of real artificial reefs caused by shipwrecks around the world. Make sure to visit the “Passages of the Deep.” These underwater tunnels provide a stunning 360 degree view of creatures swimming all around you. With so much to see and do, it is easy to lose track of time.
2. Swim with the Sharks
Are you looking for a more interactive experience? Dive in! At the Oregon Coast Aquarium, you can literally swim with hundreds of fish and sharks. Your professionally trained guide will lead you through the entire diving experience to make sure that you have a safe and unforgettable time. Make sure to call the aquarium ahead of time to make a reservation. The once-in-a-lifetime experience includes your admission, behind-the-scenes tours, a dive into the 26 ft. Halibut Flats Exhibit, and a dive into the Open Sea Exhibit. As you are immersed underwater, you’ll see a wide variety of colorful fish. You may even spot sharks swimming by that are up to 10 feet in length!
3. Kiss a Seal or Sea Lion
If you decide to sign up for one of the animal tours, don’t forget to bring your camera! This 45-minute program begins with a short briefing and an animal training session. Guests will have the chance to ask questions before receiving a kiss from one of the California Sea Lions or Harbor Seals! This program is held every Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. If you would like to learn more about the aquarium, you can also sign up for one of the behind-the-scenes tours. These are offered on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 12:30 p.m.
Oregon Coast Aquarium Hours of Operation
The aquarium is open 364 days a year, excluding Christmas. From September through late May, they are open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. From late May through early September, they are open from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Oregon Coast Aquarium prices range from $22.95 for adults to $14.95 for children aged 3-12. Admission for young adults (aged 13-17) and seniors is $19.95, while infants aged 2 and under are always free. Interactive experiences can be purchased for an additional fee. Don’t forget to stop by the Oregon Coast Aquarium gift shop to browse for unique souvenirs!
Book Your Stay With Meredith Lodging
After a fun day at the aquarium, come relax and unwind in one of our luxurious vacation homes. Meredith Lodging offers a wide array of high-end properties up and down the Oregon Coast, and many of Lincoln City vacation homes are just a short drive from the Oregon Coast Aquarium! Our extensive selection of vacation homes includes cozy condos, beachfront homes, large family homes, pet-friendly options, and more. No matter which you prefer, we are sure to have the perfect property for your stay. Each of our homes and condos features the very best amenities and they are minutes from all of the exciting attractions in Lincoln City. Explore our available properties and book your stay today. Don’t forget to take advantage of our amazing deals and specials. We can’t wait to hear all about your adventures at the Oregon Coast Aquarium!
