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Nestled at the mouth of the Pacific and the Columbia River, discover Astoria, a quiet and charming city. This underrated town has many gems to unlock. Follow me for an immersive visit!
A pinch of history
- The region was inhabited by the Clatsop tribe
- Astoria is the oldest city in Oregon (1811)
- The city was named after fur trader John Jacob Astor, who never visited Astoria!
- America and England fought over Astoria’s sovereignty between 1812 and 1846.
- The city was rebuilt and reshaped after the 1883 and 1922 devasting fires.
8 AM – Cannery and Coffee
Start your day on Pier 39 for a coffee in the oldest cannery on the Columbia River. Take a seat at Coffee Girl to enjoy a panoramic view.
Step inside the Hanthorn Cannery Museum to learn about this commercial industry established in 1875. This waterfront building also includes a few boutiques, a brewery, and a seafood restaurant.
Location: Pier 39, 100 39th St, Astoria, OR 97103
10 AM – Traveling through Astoria History at Fort Astoria and Heritage Museum
Set a foot on the first American-owned settlement on the Pacific coast of North America. Built in 1811 by John Jacob Astor’s Pacific Fur Company, Fort Astoria (renamed Fort George in 1813) was an operating fur trading post until 1848.
Today, only a lookout tower replica and a mural stand on site. Archeologists excavated many artifacts from different periods and established a map of the fort buildings.
Location: Fort Astoria/Fort George, 1498 Exchange St, Astoria, OR 97103
Across the street stands Astoria’s original city hall. The 1905 Neo-classical building exhibits Astoria’ history and development since the First Nation.
The first floor is dedicated to the people (Native Americans and 19th century immigrants mainly from Asia, Hawaii, and Europe), and the fur trade industry.
The second floor highlights daily life and local industries like fishing, cannery, lumber, and dairy.
Location: Heritage Museum, 1618 Exchange St, Astoria, OR 97103
Noon – Stroll Downtown and Riverfront
For dining and shopping, stroll downtown Astoria. Then engage on the riverfront trail. There are plenty of retail shops, coffee, breweries, and restaurants.
Did you know?
Clark Gable started his acting career at the Astoria theater stage.
For an immersive experience, hop aboard the 1913 trolley. The conductor provides explanations about the city while running the 2.6-mile rail.
Don’t miss the picturesque four miles Astoria-Megler bridge. Built in 1966, it is the second longest continuous three-span, through-truss bridge in the world!
Location : US-101, Astoria, OR 97103
2 PM – Stop in Jail for a short at the Oregon Film Museum
Stop by the previous Clatsop County Jail (1914-1976) to explore the Oregon Film Museum.
The self-guided two-room museum displays a few artifacts from the Goonies. There are also three small sets with green screens to act. The plus? You can film up to 5 shorts (less than two minutes each) and send it to your email address.
Location: Oregon Film Museum, 732 Duane Street, Astoria
2:30 PM – Tea Time at Flavel House, the finest Victorian Home
Captain George Flavel’s (1823-1893) retirement home is an example of Queen Anne architecture and a prominent house.
Experience this Victorian period by walking through the elegant interior featuring original furniture. Don’t miss the garden with trees acquired by Captain Flavel during his voyages worldwide .
Read more about the Flavel House
Location: 714 Exchange St, Astoria, OR 97103
4:00 PM – Explore the Columbia River Maritime Museum
Navigate the Columbia River, from early explorers’ canoes to present-day boats. There are many artifacts and exhibits to experience legendary vessels and dangerous waves.
Location: 1792 Marine Dr, Astoria, OR 97103
6:00 PM – Pay a tribute to Native American
Since 1961, the replica of Chief Comcomly’s (1765-1830) burial canoe overlooks Youngs Bay atop Coxcomb Hill. This memorial is dedicated to one of the Chinook Tribe chiefs. He was a skilled navigator and diplomat who partnered with fur traders, explorers, and early Astorians.
Did you know?
According to the legend, native tribes of the Lower Columbia River are Thunberbird’s children.
6:15 PM – Climb the Astoria Column for a panoramic view
Last stretch of the day with 164 stairs climbing at the Astoria Column. Built in 1926, the 125-foot-high monument celebrates the history of the city. From the observation deck, enjoy the 360 panoramic views with Astoria to the North, Mt. Saint Helens to the east, Saddle Mountain to the south, and the Youngs River to the West.
Did you know
The goal was to rival the French Eiffel Tower.
If you’re not up for the exercise, relax at its surrounding park (there are a few benches and tables). The view is also spectacular, especially during sunset hours.
Tip: Before climbing, don’t forget your $1 wood plane from the gift store. The tradition is to fly it from the observation deck. It’s so much fun!
Location: 1 Coxcomb Drive Astoria, OR 97103
Based on my visit on July 2023
Ready to explore Astoria?
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Plan your visit:
- Location: Astoria, Oregon, 97103
- More information is available at https://www.astoriaoregon.com/
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