Oregon Coast Aquarium

Widely regarded as a world-class marine education destination, the Oregon Coast Aquarium appeals to all ages. Located on Yaquina Bay in Newport, the aquarium is one of Oregon's top tourist attractions as well as a partner in regional ocean literacy and conservation efforts. USA Today, Coastal Living magazine and Forbes magazine all named the facility one of the top 10 aquariums in the nation.

Best and worst time to go to the Oregon Coast Aquarium
The aquarium is open year-round, but tends to be most crowded during the summer. For a clearer look at its many exhibits, some people prefer to visit in the fall, winter or spring. However, since one-third of the exhibits are located outdoors, it is a good idea to wear layers of clothing and bring hats or umbrellas to prepare for possible mist or rain.

Must see/do at the Oregon Coast Aquarium
The aquarium's two gift shops provide a large collection of marine-related items, including books, videos, jewelry and apparel. The Shark Territory shop, which is the second of the two, the first being a general gift store, provides merchandise related specifically to sharks, including many items that appeal to children.

Admission to the Oregon Coast Aquarium
Admission to the aquarium varies considerably by age, with infants and toddlers 2 and under admitted free of charge. Adults pay $19.95 each, while seniors and young adults are admitted for $17.95 each. Tickets for children ages 3 to 12 are $12.95 each. The aquarium offers special packages for school group admission, professional tours and general group admission. It also provides additional discounts for AAA members and college students.

Parking at the Oregon Coast Aquarium
The aquarium provides ample free parking, including spaces for RVs. Parking lots are within a short walking distance from the entry gate.

Public Transportation to the Oregon Coast Aquarium
The local Lincoln County Transit system provides regular stops at the aquarium as part of its Newport Loop, which operates throughout the day and evening daily except for on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Food at the Oregon Coast Aquarium
The aquarium's Ferry Slip Café offers seafood dishes with many entrées available for less than $9 each. There is no need to purchase an admission ticket to dine at the cafe, which is open to the public. The Ferry Slip Cafe Coffee Bar, meanwhile, provides snacks, coffee drinks and other beverages. Both the cafe and coffee bar are located inside the aquarium's main lobby.

Insider tip for visitors to the Oregon Coast Aquarium
Those wanting to be sure to see certain aquarium inhabitants -- from sea otters to sharks -- in action can check the animal feeding schedule on the facility website or at the front desk in the lobby. The aquarium also offers guided Animal Encounters tours when prearranged.

Author's bio: LeeAnn Neal is a journalist, blogger and Pacific Northwest native.