The Oregon Coast is a dynamic, ever-changing place that sparks both imagination and curiosity. While you may not be able to visit Seaside in person right now, our coastal town still has much to share virtually. Use this time to explore our shores and inspire a future visit.
The seals and sea creatures at the Seaside Aquarium miss you, for sure, but you still can check in on them via the aquarium’s Facebook page. Plus, the aquarium’s website is teeming with learning opportunities for kids. Read about all things seal here and check out the aquarium’s Discovery Cards — fun facts and photos about ocean burps, sea gooseberries, squid eggs and more.
Situated along the Pacific Flyway and the Oregon Coast Birding Trail, Seaside is a mecca for birds and bird-watchers. In preparation for a future birding visit to Seaside, brush up on your bird IQ. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology has developed some great online resources and lessons for kids, grades K-12. Study up on some of Seaside’s frequent visitors and year-round residents: brown creeper, northern pygmy-owl, osprey, red-winged blackbird, tufted puffin and western grebe. Then when it’s time to return to Seaside, consult our birding guide and head to one of our ideal birding spots: Mills Ponds, Necanicum Estuary, Seaside Cove and more.
It’s the perfect time to take a deep dive into Seaside’s history. The Seaside Historical Society Museum has a collection of photos online that spans decades. See how people and places have changed — and how they haven’t. Then head over to the Oregon Historical Society’s website. Use the Oregon History Wayfinder map to click on photos related to Seaside’s past and read the stories of people who shaped the region, like Tsin-is-tum, a member of the Clatsop tribe.
Parents also can utilize the Experience Oregon curriculum. Originally developed for teachers, these online lessons can be adapted for use with all students from kindergarten through high school. Finally, spend some time watching the Ken Burns film Lewis and Clark: The Journey of the Corps of Discovery online at OPB to understand what part Seaside played in their famed expedition. You’ll likely fall into a rabbit hole of binge-worthy shows and specials.
Photo courtesy of the Seaside Aquarium
