Spotlight on Stewardship and Accessibility: Oregon Coast Aquarium Makes Waves
Tourism, stewardship, and accessibility intersect in powerful ways on the Oregon Coast, and this summer our partners at the Oregon Coast Aquarium are standing out as leaders in this space.
Their new temporary exhibit, Washed Ashore, features larger-than-life sculptures of marine creatures, each handcrafted from debris collected from our beaches. The sculptures are becoming well known and loved on the coast, and they serve as a important reminder to rethink out relationship with waste.
In addition to showcasing this creative and meaningful exhibit, the Oregon Coast Aquarium also stands out this summer for their efforts to make their facility more accessible to all travelers.
This summer, Wheel the World and Travel Oregon came out to the coast to check out verified destinations like the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Wheel the World allows travelers to plan ahead by understanding the accessibly features of their accommodations and activities, so they can decide what works for them.
On their visit to the aquarium, they got to check out the accessible parking, restrooms, hearing loop systems, and sensory-inclusive resources which are available throughout the facility. They also got to get up close and personal with some of the animals, thanks to a grant received last year to remodel their touch pool with a larger pool employs the principles of universal design, making it easier for guests of all ages and abilities to reach into the water safely and comfortably and learn about tide pool ecosystems!
We’re proud to spotlight the Oregon Coast Aquarium as a model for engaging, thoughtful, and inclusive tourism. Make sure you make a trip down to check out Washed Ashore (on display until January).
PS: want to share more accessible destinations with your audience? Check out our newly updated Travelabilty page, which includes all the latest information on accessible accommodations, activities, and more.