Astoria is Oregon’s northernmost coastal city. Perched at the top of her many hills, you’ll be offered a sweeping view of the very long Astoria-Megler bridge into Washington state, and the Columbia River spilling out to the Pacific Ocean. In this charming town, there are many things to do, despite her sleepy first impression.
Beaches are not Astoria’s forte. You may find one or two tiny areas of sand with which to sit with a glass of wine and view the sunset. But for the most part, Astoria is a fishing town, through and through. There are several fish canneries along the waterfront. Pier 39 at the east end of the Riverwalk has Bumble Bee fish cannery, complete with a small museum run by the Hanthorn Cannery Foundation.
I had heard tales of Finnish bathhouses here. Since I am a big fan of a steamy relaxing soak, I was keen to see what Astoria had to offer. With sad regret, I found that the bathhouses had closed several years ago, with no apparent hope of opening again.
Nevertheless, when looking for places to go in Oregon, Astoria is a prime destination.
Things To Do in Astoria Oregon
Rent a Bike and ride the Riverwalk. We stayed at the Riverwalk Inn. It’s an older property, but that translates into more affordability (the rooms were comfortable and clean!) The big selling point of this hotel: all rooms have a great view of the marina just outside your balcony. And the best part for me: you can check out a bike for free! We had a lovely two-hour bike ride along the Riverwalk. It was the best part of our entire weekend.
You can literally spend the entire weekend, just on the waterfront. There are so many places to eat, drink, visit (museums!) and gawk at the lazy sea lions perched on the docs at 36th street.
Astoria Oregon Attractions
Ride the Trolley. This trolley from 1913 is run entirely by local volunteers who know a great deal about the history of their city. It traverses three miles along the waterfront, using old train tracks from the Columbia Railroad. However, it only operates during the tourist season, from May to September.
The Columbia River Maritime Museum. I’m not usually a fan of maritime museums, but this was intriguing to me because of the unique waterway that is the mighty Columbia River meeting the vast Pacific Ocean. Ships coming in from the Pacific to traverse the Columbia on their way to Portland have a bit of a challenge to overcome. Many boat capsizing and deaths have resulted from trying to navigate these fatally tricky waters.
Visit the Astoria Column. At 600 feet above sea level, this column is perched high up on a hill with spectacular views of Astoria and the waters beyond. A monument that is a testament to Astoria’s early settlers, the artwork snaking up the surface of the column is unique. Inside, you can climb the spiral stairs to the top for an even better view.
Go Antique Shopping. There are several great antique shops along two of Astoria’s downtown streets. The perfect way to spend a lazy afternoon and browse some great finds.
Visit the Oregon Film Museum. Yes, this is the land of Goonies and Kindergarten Cop, so why not have a museum to commemorate these and other fine films shot in Oregon? Housed in the old Clatsop County Jail, the museum will walk you through such classics as Free Willy, Mr. Holland’s Opus, and My Own Private Idaho.
The Flavel House. This is a stunning Queen Anne-style historic house in the center of town. It was built in 1886 as a retirement home for well-known Astoria river pilot, Captain George Flavel. Today it is a museum run by the Clatsop County Historical Society. At over 11,000 square feet, most of the original design is preserved inside and out.
Fort Stevens State Park. Visit this state park for unsurpassed hiking, biking, and camping. Don’t miss Clatsop spit, a sand spit formed over 8,000 years ago, complete with a slowly decaying ship that ran aground many decades ago.
Where to Eat in Astoria
Go Bar-Hopping. The craft beer phenomenon in Portland has spilled heartily into Astoria! Rogue Ale Public House, Buoy Beer Company, Fort George Brewery, and Astoria Brewing Company, to name but a few.
Step back in time with Custard King. This is a wonderful, drive-in, and walk-up old-time burger joint, and they have AWESOME burgers – even my favorite, the mushroom and Havarti. So. GOOD. They also do really great shakes and custards (hence the name) and all entrees come with fries (or salad for a slight charge). It’s a great way to round out a day of sightseeing or beachcombing.
Blue Scorcher Bakery & Cafe. If you’re in the mood for some house-baked pastries, freshly-prepared breakfast sandwiches and lunch specials, come to this family-owned bakery. We went here for brunch and it was phenomenal! Just come earlier rather than later, as they tend to sell out of a few menu items by noon.
What’s the weather like in Astoria?
Astoria Oregon weather year-round is, for the most part, temperate. Since it’s so close to the Pacific Ocean, the summers here don’t get too hot, nor do the winters get too cold. This makes it a really great destination all year, except for maybe December through February. Still, pick a sunny couple of days no matter what time of year, and you won’t be disappointed!
