What Is the Depoe Bay Ocean Wayside?
Today, the Depoe Bay Ocean Wayside is known as the Whale Watching Center!
What Makes It Historical?
After the Oregon Coast Highway brought tourist attention to Depoe Bay, there was a need to accommodate the throngs! The bridge over Depoe Bay Harbor had already been widened in 1940, and the northern end of this popular viewing spot seemed perfect as an easy highway rest stop and concession stand. Designed by Carl Conrad Schneider and built by John Helstrom in 1956, the Wayside was designed to maximize ocean views for visitors, indoors and out, and to minimize its impact on vistas seen from the road! It’s the only state wayside to be constructed after World War II that was specifically designed to accommodate motor tourism in a unique scenic area!
How Can I #HelpTheHelpers?
- Volunteer with Whale Watching Spoken Here!
- Donate to the Oregon Historical Society!
- Be a responsible visitor! Please respect the signs and pathways, and treat all structures and artifacts with respect. They’ve endured a lot to survive into the present. They’ll need our help to make it into the future!
How Do I Get There?
119 US-101
Depoe Bay, OR 97341
(Take Me There!)
When Should I Visit?
Explore the outside and viewing platforms whenever the mood strikes you!