Depoe Bay: OPRD Whale Watching Center

Although you can see whales from pretty much anywhere facing the ocean in Depoe Bay, Oregon State Parks has a nice location on the sea wall with good view and educational materials.

It makes a point of remembering that whales are not the only wildlife around, with educational material and a board listing the sightings of different species for the day.

Still, most of the artifacts are fairly whale-centric.

This includes getting to examine and touch baleen.

There is a fair amount to see, beyond simply looking out to sea, though the center is well-designed for that.

COVID: As much as my expectations have been lowered, I really thought at least park rangers might still be wearing masks. That was disappointing.

Accessibility: The web site lists everything as being accessible except for the flush toilets. (I did not see the vault toilets, but apparently they are there.)

I saw no other way to the top level or the bottom floor than the stairs. I looked for signs of an elevator and found none.

There was a ramp from the street to the main level, where all of the exhibits are, and also a ramp to the lower level outdoor viewing platform, so there is a lot accessible, but I thought it could use improvement.

https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=183