For some reason, it turns out that Portland has a surprising amount of aquariums compared to other cities in the US. Whilst I don’t know why this is, it’s certainly not a bad thing either! In this article, I shall be looking at the top 5 aquariums in the PDX area.

Aquariums are great for a family day out and can educate not only your kids, but also yourself as an adult. In general, there’s something very intriguing and equally calming about seeing marine wildlife. With this in mind, here’s my top 5 aquariums local to Portland.

Oregon Coast Aquarium

Located in Newport, Oregon Coast Aquarium is one of the best aquariums in the state and is well worth the drive. It features a wide range of marine animals, including sea otters, sharks, and giant Pacific octopuses.

Address: 2820 SE Ferry Slip Rd, Newport, OR 97365

Tillamook Forest Center

The Tillamook Forest Center, located in Tillamook, Oregon, is another museum dedicated to the environment and forests. It features an exhibit on the local watershed and the animals that live there, including fish and amphibians.

Address: 45500 OR-6, Tillamook, OR 97141

Bonneville Fish Hatchery

The Bonneville Fish Hatchery, located in Cascade Locks, is a hatchery that breeds and raises salmon and steelhead trout. Visitors can see the fish at various stages of development and learn about the hatchery’s efforts to conserve and restore fish populations.

Address: 70543 NE Herman Loop, Cascade Locks, OR 97014

Hatfield Marine Science Center

Located in Newport, the Hatfield Marine Science Center is a research facility that is open to the public. Visitors can see exhibits on marine life, including touch tanks with starfish and sea anemones.

Address: 2030 SE Marine Science Dr, Newport, OR 97365

Seaside Aquarium

Located in Seaside, the Seaside Aquarium is a smaller aquarium that is still worth a visit. It features a touch tank with sea stars and sea urchins, as well as exhibits on local marine life, including seals and sea lions.

Address: 200 N Prom, Seaside, OR 97138