About Astoria Oregon
Located where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean, Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains.
Astoria
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Astoria in Photos
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Top Attractions in Astoria
The Astoria Column
Standing 125 feet tall atop Coxcomb Hill, this hand-painted column offers the best view on the coast. Climb the 164 spiral stairs to the observation deck for a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the Columbia River, the Pacific Ocean, and the Coast Range. It's a rite of passage for any visitor.
Parking fee required ($5). Open daily from dawn to dusk.
Columbia River Maritime Museum
Widely considered one of the finest maritime museums in the nation, this facility tells the dramatic stories of the 'Graveyard of the Pacific.' impressive exhibits include the floating lightship Columbia, a Coast Guard rescue boat, and interactive displays about river pilots and shipwrecks.
Located on the waterfront. Open daily 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM.
Flavel House Museum
This impeccable 1885 Queen Anne Victorian mansion was once the home of Captain George Flavel. With its preserved period furniture, intricate woodwork, and manicured gardens, it offers a glimpse into the opulent life of Astoria's 19th-century elite.
Tickets available at the Carriage House visitor center.
Oregon Film Museum (The Goonies Jail)
Housed in the old Clatsop County Jail—famous as the opening scene of The Goonies—this museum celebrates Oregon's legacy in cinema. Visitors can step into the actual jail cell from the movie and explore exhibits on Kindergarten Cop, Free Willy, and Twilight.
Fun for movie buffs. Interactive sets and green screens.
Astoria Riverfront Trolley
Old 300 is a restored 1913 streetcar that rattles along the riverfront tracks for three miles. Operated by knowledgeable volunteers who narrate the history of the cannery piers and waterfront, it's a charming and inexpensive way to see the city.
Runs seasonally (weather permitting). Fare is $1 per ride or $2 for an all-day pass.
Lewis and Clark National Historical Park (Fort Clatsop)
Just south of town lies the replica of Fort Clatsop, where the Corps of Discovery spent the wet winter of 1805-1806. The park features costumed rangers, muzzle-loading demonstrations, and trails that trace the explorers' footsteps.
Part of the National Park Service. Visitor center and bookstore on site.
Pier 39 - Hanthorn Cannery
The oldest and largest waterfront building in Astoria, Pier 39 is a hub of activity. Once a bustling fish cannery, it now houses a museum, coffee shop, brewery, and offices, all suspended over the river on old pilings. The view of the bridge from the end of the pier is unmatched.
Free museum access. Great spot for sea lion watching.
Hiking Trails & Nature
From riverside strolls to challenging climbs, Astoria offers trails for every skill level. Discover ancient forests, waterfalls, and sweeping coastal views.
Cathedral Tree Trail
An urban hike that starts near the Astoria Column. This trail winds through a towering Sitka spruce forest to lead you to the 'Cathedral Tree,' a massive, ancient spruce with a hollowed-out base that feels spiritual in its grandeur.
Astoria Riverwalk
Following the path of the old Burlington Northern Railroad, this paved and boardwalk trail stretches the entire length of the city's waterfront. It's perfect for a flat, scenic walk past canneries, under the Megler Bridge, and alongside the trolley tracks.
Fort to Sea Trail
Retracing the steps of Lewis and Clark, this trail connects Fort Clatsop to Sunset Beach. It transitions from lush forests and cow pastures to coastal dunes, offering a diverse hiking experience.
Youngs River Falls
A short walk leads to a spectacular 54-foot waterfall that featured in movies like Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 3. It's a great spot for a quick nature fix and a swim in the summer.
Saddle Mountain Trail
For the best view in Northwest Oregon, tackle Saddle Mountain. The steep climb is rewarded with wildflower meadows and a summit view that stretches from Mount Rainier and St. Helens to the Pacific Ocean.
Netul River Trail
Located at Fort Clatsop, this gentle trail follows the Lewis and Clark River. It is historically significant as the landing site for the explorers' canoes and offers peaceful, wooded riverside views.
Clatsop Loop Trail
Explore Ecola State Park's forest and cliffs. This loop offers dizzying views of the ocean and the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse ('Terrible Tilly') while winding through old-growth rainforest.
Cape Disappointment - North Head Trail
Just across the bridge in Washington, this trail offers dramatic views of the 'Graveyard of the Pacific' and leads to the wind-swept North Head Lighthouse.
Tillamook Head Trail
A classic coastal hike tracing the high cliffs between Seaside and Cannon Beach. Follow in the footsteps of Captain Clark who called the view 'the grandest and most pleasing prospects which my eyes ever surveyed.'
Mark Your Calendar
Local Events & Festivals
Plan your trip around these upcoming coastal gatherings.
Astoria Second Saturday Art Walk
Great Columbia Crossing
FisherPoets Gathering
Astoria Scandinavian Midsummer
Astoria Regatta
Rigs & Reggae
Where to Stay in Astoria
From oceanfront suites to budget-friendly base camps, find the perfect accommodation for your coastal getaway.
Hilton
Located right on the Columbia River, this modern hotel offers stunning water views, complimentary hot breakfast, and easy access to the Astoria Riverwalk. Perfect for watching the massive cargo ships pass by from your balcony.
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IHG
Situated near the Megler Bridge, this comfortable hotel features an indoor pool with river views, signature cinnamon rolls for breakfast, and is just a short drive to downtown Astoria's main attractions and dining.
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Motel 6
A budget-friendly option offering clean, basic accommodations. It's pet-friendly, conveniently located near the highway, and provides a great base camp for exploring the Oregon Coast without breaking the bank.
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Riverside Charm · Budget-Friendly
Experience riverside charm with beautiful river views right from your room. This budget-friendly motel offers a convenient location near downtown Astoria, making it a perfect, affordable base camp for your coastal adventures.
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Ascend Collection Luxury on the Bay
Experience upscale waterfront hospitality at Lloyd Hotel Astoria Bayfront, an Ascend Collection Hotel. This premium property offers stunning views of the Columbia River and Astoria Bridge, featuring modern amenities, a full-service restaurant, and easy access to downtown attractions. Perfect for travelers seeking elevated comfort and service.
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Best Western Waterfront Excellence
Discover comfort and convenience at Best Western Columbia River Waterfront Hotel. Located directly on the waterfront with panoramic river views, this hotel combines Best Western reliability with premium amenities including an indoor pool, hot tub, and complimentary breakfast. An ideal base for exploring Astoria's maritime heritage.
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Hotel
Enjoy your stay at Astoria Rivershore Motel located in beautiful Astoria. Book now for great rates and comfortable accommodations on the Oregon Coast.
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Hotel
Enjoy your stay at Astoria Crest Motel located in beautiful Astoria. Book now for great rates and comfortable accommodations on the Oregon Coast.
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Hotel
Enjoy your stay at Astoria Riverwalk Inn located in beautiful Astoria. Book now for great rates and comfortable accommodations on the Oregon Coast.
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Dining in Astoria
From fresh-off-the-boat seafood and world-class breweries to cozy cafes in converted canneries, Astoria is a foodie's paradise.
Fine Dining & Seafood
Bridgewater Bistro
Upscale SeafoodLocated in a historic boatyard building, Bridgewater Bistro offers panoramic river views and a menu highlighting fresh, local ingredients. The architecture, with its exposed timber beams, is as impressive as the food.
Highlight
Riverfront dining, extensive wine list, Sunday brunch.
Silver Salmon Grille
SeafoodA downtown staple known for its warm, old-school hospitality and generous portions of clam chowder. It feels like a classic coastal dining room.
Highlight
Famous chowder, cedar plank salmon, family-friendly.
Carruthers Restaurant
New AmericanStylish and moody, Carruthers brings a touch of 1920s glamour to Astoria. The menu is adventurous, and the craft cocktails are among the best in town.
Highlight
Craft cocktails, historic ambiance, gluten-free options.
Fresh catch of the day served with river views
Astoria's legendary craft beer scene
Breweries & Pubs
Fort George Brewery + Public House
Brewery/GastropubThe beating heart of Astoria's beer scene. Occupying an entire city block, Fort George serves legendary IPAs and wood-fired pizzas in a lively, communal atmosphere.
Highlight
Wood-fired pizza, rooftop taproom, local beer hub.
Buoy Beer Company
BreweryBuilt right on the pier, Buoy Beer lets you watch sea lions through a glass floor while sipping a crisp lager. The food is elevated pub fare with a focus on fresh seafood.
Highlight
Glass floor viewing of sea lions, riverfront patio.
Local Favorites
Bowpicker Fish & Chips
Casual/Food TruckA converted gillnet boat parked on the corner, serving only one thing: albacore tuna fish and chips. The line usually wraps around the block for a reason.
Highlight
Albacore tuna, outdoor seating only, cash only (usually).
Clemente's Cafe & Public House
Casual/SeafoodA fantastic spot for lunch or a casual dinner, known for its seafood baskets and relaxed vibe. It captures the essence of a working waterfront cafe.
Highlight
Locally sourced seafood, great lunch spot.
Cafes, Sweets & Light Bites
Frite & Scoop
Dessert/SnackSmall-batch ice cream and Belgian-style fries. The flavors are inventive (like sticky toffee pudding), and the fries are perfectly crispy.
Highlight
House-made waffle cones, dipping sauces.
Coffee Girl
CafeLocated on Pier 39 inside the old cannery, this cafe serves excellent coffee and pastries in a space that feels suspended in time (and over the water).
Highlight
Historic cannery location, river views.
The Blue Scorcher Bakery & Cafe
Vegetarian/BakeryA worker-owned cooperative specializing in organic, vegetarian, and vegan fare. Their artisan breads and pastries are beloved by locals.
Highlight
Organic, cooperative-owned, kid-friendly play area.
T. Paul's Urban Cafe
EclecticA funky, eclectic spot downtown offering a wide variety of dishes from quesadillas to pastas. It's a crowd-pleaser with art-filled walls.
Highlight
Vegetarian options, quirky decor, central location.
Essential Planning Tips
Make the most of your trip to Astoria with these local insights and practical recommendations.
Best Time to Visit
Late summer (August-September) offers the clearest skies and warmest weather. Fall brings dramatic coastal storms, perfect for cozying up indoors with a view.
Getting Around & Parking
Downtown Astoria is very walkable, but you'll need a car for the Column and state parks. Street parking downtown is metered, so bring coins or use the parking app.
Weather Preparation
The coast is famously unpredictable. Always pack layers and a waterproof rain jacket, even in summer. The wind coming off the Columbia River can be brisk.
Local Cuisine
Don't miss the fresh local seafood! Astoria is famous for its fish and chips, often caught the same day. The local craft brewery scene is also world-class.
The Riverwalk
The Astoria Riverwalk stretches for miles along the waterfront. It's flat, paved, and perfect for a morning jog, sunset stroll, or taking the historic trolley.
Day Trip Ideas
Fort Stevens State Park is just 20 minutes away featuring a historic shipwreck. Across the Megler Bridge lies Washington state and the stunning Cape Disappointment.