Bayfront in Newport Oregon
Tourists Mingle with the Trendy in a Fishing Village Atmosphere
Restaurants and shopping in the coastal town of Newport Oregon.
Newport is a small town on the Pacific Coast in Oregon where the Yaquina River flows into Yaquina Bay. The Bayfront area has been transformed into an entertainment center with shopping and restaurants.
The area now attracts tourists and the in-crowd, but still retains its ambiance as a fishing village.
Arriving in Newport Oregon
U.S. Route 101, the Pacific Coast Byway, runs through heart of Newport. To the west of 101 are the beaches of Newport, along with the allegedly haunted lighthouse.
To the east of 101, several roads run down to the Bayfront. The route to the Bayfront is clearly marked with signs, and Bay Street runs directly to the entertainment area. Parking is available and free, but limited, with a few lots and some on-street parking.
Restaurants in Bayfront Newport
The entire Bayfront area, about one half mile long, is lined with bars, restaurants and shops. Seafood is most popular here, headed Oregon Coast tradition Mo’s at 622 SW Bay Blvd (541-265-7512).
Mo’s Annex is right across the street on the water. Both are famous for chowder, but the popular broth can also be found next door at Fish Peddler’s Market Restaurant (541-265-7057). The list of seafood choices at these and other seafood restaurants on Bay Street is extensive, the atmosphere casual, and the prices reasonable (under $10 for most selections).
If you don’t have any particular restaurant in mind, take some time to stroll up and down the Bayfront and view the menus of the various establishments. Reservations are not taken at many places, and there can be a wait on weekend evenings.
The smells of coffee and fresh made donuts entice amblers on Bay Street, surprising hawked by a Pittsburgh Steelers fan, out in the Great Northwest.
Several restaurants offer quick meals of pizza, and the Rouge Ale’s Public House (748 Bay Blvd. 541-265-3188 offers specialty beers and a wide variety on the menu.
Activities in Newport Oregon
Befitting its heritage as seaside village, there arefishing and whale watching tours that leave from the bayfront piers. The trips offer great views of the Bay Bridge, beyond which lies the might Pacific Ocean.
There are a number of gift shops on the Bayfront, as well as the Undersea Gardens. Other area attractions include the Hatfield Marine Science Visitor Center, Marine Discovery Tours Ripley’s and the Wax Works.
The Newport area is a popular tourist destination in summer to enjoy the mild days on the beaches of the Pacific Ocean. Any time is a good time to enjoy the restaurants and fun of the Newport Bayfront.
