Astoria Oregon

Astoria is an historic town, with a superb location at the mouth of the Columbia River in Oregon.  It’s the perfect town for a weekend getaway, with charming victorian-era dwellings, and an abundance of attractions including the Maritime Museum, Flavel House, shipwreck at Fort Stevens State Park, and Astoria Column.  There’s also a steady stream of festivals throughout the year, such as the:

• Annual Music Festival in June
• Craft Beer Month in July
• Astoria Regatta in August
• International Film Festival in October

History of Astoria

Astoria is recognized as the oldest US permanent settlement west of the Mississippi River. Famous explorers Lewis and Clark passed through Astoria when ending their overland expedition to the West Coast in 1804-6.  An attempt was made by early industrialist John Astor to make Astoria the main port on the West Coast. However the treacherous conditions of the Columbia River thwarted those ambitions, and San Francisco became the foremost port of the western United States. 

Astoria Lodging & Hotels

There are an abundance of accommodation choices in Astoria.  For a luxury hotel with unsurpassed views of the Columbia River, try the Cannery Pier Hotel, or if you’d prefer to be in downtown Astoria, book a room at the elegant Hotel Elliot or trendy Commodore Hotel. 

In recent years Astoria has experienced a resurgence with hip new hotels and a vibrant cafe scene.   The Commodore Hotel has a chic, modern interior, yet offers rooms at a price that will appeal to the more budget minded traveler.  The lobby has a mid-century, retro feel, with floor-to-ceiling shelves crammed with an eclectic mix of books.  There’s also a walkway from the lobby through to the bustling Street 14 Cafe. 

If you’re drawn to the romance of picture perfect Victorian homes, try the Astoria Inn, Benjamin Young Inn, Grandview B&B, or Rose River Inn.

Astoria Restaurants

Astoria has a diverse range of dining options.  The Bridgewater Bistro is a favorite with visitors, located on the water’s edge in a modern space, with views of the Astoria Bridge.  Some options closer to downtown include the sophisticated Clemente’s Restaurant, and relaxed Silver Salmon Grille, Paul’s Supper Club or Fulio’s Pastaria.  Urban hipsters can have dinner and cocktails at the Astoria Coffeehouse and Bistro, or enjoy the unique decor in T Paul’s Urban Cafe.  Visitors seeking traditional american fare can stop by the Fort George Brewery and Public House, or experience authentic Bosnian cuisine at the Drina Daisy.     

For a lunch-time treat, drive to Josephson’s Smokehouse on Marine Drive and sample the wine-maple hot smoked salmon, or hot smoked pepper blend salmon, and purchase some goodies to take home with you.  The surroundings are very simple, but the smoked salmon is amongst the best in the Pacific Northwest. 

Breakfast and Coffee

Some delicious breakfast options in downtown Astoria include the Astoria Coffeehouse and Bistro, and the Blue Scorcher Bakery and Cafe.

Things to do in Astoria

Astoria has a wealth of activities for visitors:

1. The Maritime Museum is a must-see attraction, and provides fascinating insight into the treacherous conditions of the Columbia River, and the brave rescue missions of river bar pilots and the US Coast Guard.  This is a world-class museum worthy of a few hours of your time.  
2. The exquisite Flavel House provides a window into an earlier era, and is one of Astoria’s finest buildings.  It was built in 1885 by Captain George Flavel, a river bar pilot and entrepreneur. 
3. Just across the street, the small Oregon Film Museum housed in the old Clatsop County Jail, provides a great overview of Astoria’s rich history as a backdrop for movies, including the Goonies, Kindergarten Cop, Free Willy and Short Circuit.  Goonies fans can see the original jail cell featured in the movie. 
4. For breathtaking views of Astoria and the surrounding area, climb to the top of the 125-foot Astoria Column.  The column is a short drive from the downtown area.
5. Finally, don’t forget to spend some time strolling Astoria’s historic streets.  The magnificent Astor Hotel now houses a vintage hardware store.  The grand old lobby is in a state of disrepair, but has an abundance of old world charm and atmosphere. 
6. Another architectural highlight is the 1920’s vaudeville-style Liberty Theater in downtown, with a full schedule of events (call 1.800.992.8499 for details).  The vintage interior is exquisite, and popular for weddings and other events. 
7. Fernhill Glass is another highlight in downtown, and visitors can relax in a comfortable seat whilst watching a glass blowing exhibition.
8. The shipwreck at nearby Fort Stevens State Park, is a must-see.

Things to do near Astoria

• Fort Stevens State Park - 10 miles west (includes the Peter Iredale Wreck)
• Cannon Beach - 26 miles south (stunning sea stacks)
• Oswald West State Park - 31 miles south (famous surfing beach)
• Manzanita - 39 miles south