OUR HISTORY

our history

Starting off as simple fishing gear sheds in the early 1970s, Aquarium Village has come a long way. While the ’80s brought some new paint, the ’90s saw a decade of changes. 

Nessie the Crown Lizard (Kronosaurus Queenslandicus) became the official mascot of the park and Keiko the Whale, of “Free Willy” fame moved next door (at the Oregon Coast Aquarium). 

Retail space converted from a row of fishing gear sheds was done, providing an outlet for the over-flow Keiko’s visitors. This retail “boulevard” has provided quite an eclectic collection of storefront facades over the years from “ship butts and Victorian houses to castles and riverboats. “Whimsical” is the word most used in its description. 

The new millennia also brought a few visitors that just wouldn’t leave. Orca the Whale and Wally the Walrus along with a few pirate pals now grace the isles of Aquarium Village. They have been known to mug camera’s as they just love having their pictures taken! 
Backed by natural wetlands, larger sized warehouse units went from generic warehouse/storage to customized artist studios. Tenant’s of these studios include mural painters, leather workers, glass blowers, pottery makers, graphic artistry and even a didgeridoo designer.
Pirate’s Plunder was the next addition to Aquarium Village. Offering 8,000 square feet of vendor-filled treasures including antiques and collectibles from the high seas! 

In 2004, a 7,000 fiberglass and foam pirate ship, “The Brigantine,” was dismantled at the River Palms Casino in Laughlin, Nevada and trucked to Aquarium Village where it was put back together again. It now can be viewed in “Yo Ho Ho Indoor Bounce.”

A few years later, three rows of mini-units were demolished to make room for a 6,000 square foot multi-use venue which has seen a bridal faire, jazz festival, numerous dances & quinceaneras and a flea market among other before the Newport Interactive Zoo made it their home.

Today, Aquarium Village, located just South of the Yaquina Bay Bridge offers not only warehouse and storage options but also offers one of Newport’s most distinctive shopping experiences, a family-friendly environment for all ages. Wander throughout the whimsical atmosphere, take advantage of photo ops with the Mariner themed cutouts created by tenant and local artist Jac Genovese and visit the charming shops and get something to eat at one of the two restaurants on site. Kids are sure to love the indoor bounce house and petting zoo. 
aquarium village history

Don’t forget those cameras, as there are loads of memory-making pictures to be had!

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