Portland is set to unveil a unique artistic endeavor as the Portland Aquarium opens its doors on Friday, transforming an old Sprint store into a vibrant testament to creativity and education.
The aquarium, created by local artist Mike Bennett, immerses visitors in a fantastical underwater world filled with cartoon-style creatures that resonate with the whimsical charm Bennett is known for.
Renowned for spearheading Portland’s slow sign revolution, Bennett’s art has adorned many corners of the city, showcasing slow-moving sloths, snails, and stegosauruses in his distinctive style.
His imaginative projects gained particular attention during the pandemic, as he repurposed his yard into enchanting alphabet-themed worlds—a project that drew significant public interest, leading him to stop at the letter ‘C’ for ‘sea.’
In recent years, Bennett has delighted audiences with displays like “Crypto Zoo” in 2021, followed by “Dinolandia” in 2022, and this year’s evolution of Crypto Zoo into the captivating “Wonderwood Springs.”
The new aquarium promises to be one of his most ambitious works yet, blending art with education through 100 real creatures and art pieces inspired by marine life, all within a central downtown location.
“This is education forward,” Bennett expressed passionately about the aquarium. “This is what drives me as an artist.”
His aspiration is to attract school groups to the aquarium, where students can learn about marine ecology amidst the backdrop of downtown Portland.
The former coffee shop, located at 603 S.W. Broadway, has been transformed into the entrance and gift shop of the aquarium.
Visitors will experience a seamless admission process, with tickets priced at $14 for adults and $10 for children under 12, while free entry is provided for those aged two and under.
To enhance the visit and minimize overcrowding, a virtual queue system will be implemented, allowing guests to explore the best of downtown Portland while they await their turn to step into the aquarium.
Bennett’s vision for the aquarium emphasizes a sense of calm and serenity as visitors navigate through various rooms and habitats, soaking in the soothing soundscapes and lights of Bennett Bay.
What sets this aquarium apart from others is its meticulous artistry—Bennett worked alongside scientists to ensure that the educational aspect ties closely with the creative elements, presenting an accurate portrayal of aquatic life while maintaining a playful cartoon aesthetic.
Each visitor will receive a book, which includes a mission for aspiring young marine biologists, further enriching the educational experience.
The Portland Aquarium showcases Bennett’s most polished and immersive work, extending beyond colorful murals to include dynamic animatronics and animations that capture the imagination.
Early previews have drawn comparisons to the enchanting experiences found in theme parks, with buzz building as Portlanders anticipate the chance to visit.
During a recent press event, the aquarium’s atmosphere was further enlivened by a group of sailors in town for Fleet Week, creating an unexpected yet delightful scene.
As the Portland Aquarium emerges not merely as a destination but as a whimsical art installation, it represents a hopeful revitalization of the downtown area.
In a city cherished for its creativity and uniqueness, the aquarium offers a delightful escape, inviting families to explore the depths of imagination and marine life in a joyful setting.
This blend of artistry, education, and entertainment may just be the quirky addition that Portland needs, shifting perceptions of what an aquarium can be.
image source from：https://www.oregonlive.com/entertainment/2025/06/can-a-fantastical-immersive-aquarium-bring-families-back-into-downtown-portland.html
