Hatfield Marine Science Center - Newport, OR - a center designed to educate people about science

The Visitors center at Hatfield Marine Science Center can be entered at no cost; however donations to the facility are appreciated. It is open Thursday through Monday from 10am until 4pm during the winter starting on Labor Day and ending on the Memorial Day Weekend. The facilities are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Day. From the 26th of December until the first of January is known as Winter Whale Watch Week during this time the facility is everyday with the exception of Friday. From Memorial Day up to Labor Day the Visitor center is open seven days a week until 5p.m.

The Hatfield Marine Science Center is part of Oregon State University and the goal is to create an environment that proves discovery and exploration. Classes, programs and exhibits at the facility are designed to show that scientific research can enhance the ability to interpret the world around us. It also allows for an increased appreciation and better management of the resources provided by marine and coastal sources. There is also an opportunity to do research on concepts, devices and methods for education in informational science.

The center opened during June 1965 with the assistance of grants from NASA and the U.S. Department of Housing the exhibit space and center were remodeled during 1997. Hatfield Marine Science Center is currently managed by Oregon Saga Grant and is continuing to provide links with marine education and research to the public. The goal is an increase in literacy for everyone in the area of research conservation.

The Hatfield Marine Science Center is now one of twenty-two Coastal Ecosystem Learning Centers nationwide. The center along with the Yaquina Bay Estuary Trail which is paved is accessible to wheelchairs. There are some classes held outdoors than might require assistance, there are audio descriptions or Braille signage included at a number of the exhibits. The center makes every effort to ensure that all visitors' needs are met. The only animals allowed at the facilities are animals that have been trained to aid those with physical disabilities.

Dining facilities are not available at the Hatfield Marine Science Center. There are covered eating areas and vending machines available in the visitor center. There are also concrete walls and benches outside close to the entrance where visitors can enjoy lunches they have packed. Student groups need to be accompanied by their chaperones even when eating. While trash receptacles are provided larger groups are asked to give advanced notice to ensure that these are increased.

There is a picnic area available at Oregon Coast Aquarium and two State Parks close by that have restrooms and picnic areas. The center itself offers Internet access and the library gives the public access to five computer terminals. There are also a number of educational programs offered by the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, Oregon. The center is perfect for anyone with even the slightest interest in science making it the perfect spot for them to visit when in Newport, Oregon.