Islands and Ocean Visitor Center is a comprehensive establishment on the Bypass that houses the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, dedicated to understanding and conserving the marine environment. Their indoor exhibits feature a Bering Sea bird rookery in the Seabird Theatre, dramatic re-creations and Aleutian artifacts, and a field camp where you can delve into the fascinating work of biologists.
Many of the Islands and Ocean Center's interpretive programs are outdoor experiences. Visitors and locals are guided down to the Beluga Slough, just a short stroll down a slope, to explore the beach. The trail passes through a little woods where it's not unusual to sight moose and other wildlife. The center also guides hikes down through the wetlands to Bishop's Beach to stroll the sand and watch for sea life like whales, otters, sea lions and more.
In the visitor center, the naturalists offer information and tips on wildlife viewing, refuge information and points of interest. A self-guided tour of the Center features sculpted re-creations of wildlife and settings, interactive stations and a simulated journey through the nation's most far reaching wildlife refuge.
They also have a theatre where they feature award-winning movies such as "Journey of the Tiglax." The Tiglax is their boat that cares for wildlife in the nature preserves.
