Located on the edge of the harbor in Charleston, Oregon, the Charleston Marine Life Center is an exciting place of discovery for all ages. The waters off Oregon are filled with spectacular animals and rich ecosystems. The CMLC’s aquaria, exhibits, interactive exploration area, and views reveal the hidden and remarkable diversity of life off Oregon, from the coast to the deep sea.
From the CMLC’s windows you can watch fishing boats unload their catch, and seals, sea lions and birds a few feet away. Walk under and around whale skeletons; explore a tidepool touch tank; and get face-to-face with fish, an octopus, brightly colored sea slugs, and much more. A deep-sea gallery highlights the spectacular animals found offshore with specimens, live animals, and video from deep reefs and undersea vents.
The center is part of the University of Oregon's Institute of Marine Biology (OIMB), and an important goal of the CMLC is to share research going on at OIMB, and engage visitors in their own explorations. The education gallery highlights ongoing research and has a growing collection of specimens visitors can handle and look at more closely through table-top and projecting microscopes.
Check out our website for a list of public programs and to learn about and register for school field trips.
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