Posted in Oregon Small Towns, Trips September 16, 2021 by Sarah McCosham

Astoria, Oregon Is Being Called One Of The Best Small Town Vacations In America

Here in Oregon, we have major love for our small towns. While Portland, Salem, and Eugene are all marvelous, there are so many small towns in Oregon that we hold near and dear to our heart. Astoria, Oregon, is one of these superlative little locales — and it seems the rest of the country is catching on to its charms, too! Recently, Esquire named Astoria as one of its Charming American Towns You Haven’t Heard of But Should Visit ASAP, and it truly is one of the best places to escape for a small town vacation in America.

Astoria isn't just Oregon's oldest town; it's also the oldest American settlement on the West Coast. In addition to its impressive historical clout, the town's Astoria-Megler Bridge is a PNW icon.

As a 200-year-old town, Astoria is a dream of a destination for history buffs, which is why the town made Esquire's list.

The media outlet explained, "if you love history, you'll love exploring this interesting town and its many museums, like the Columbia River Maritime Museum."

And it's true: Astoria is home to myriad museums in its 9.95 square miles.

Nearby, the Heritage Museum is actually located in Astoria's former City Hall building, and features numerous exhibits and galleries chronicling the town's history.

A newer museum in Astoria, the Garden of Surging Waves is a city park designed to honor and celebrate the Chinese heritage of Astoria and Lower Columbia River Basin. It's a history lesson that's so important to learn.

In more recent history, film fans likely recognize Astoria as the town where "Goonies" was filmed. While the iconic "Goonies House" is closed, fans can revel in movie memorabilia at the Oregon Film Museum.

Just outside town, Fort Stevens State Park is one of Oregon's most iconic places. Known for the abandoned ghost ship on its shores, this Oregon State Park is located on the former Fort Stevens military base, where barracks, lookout towers, and other features still stand.

History aside, Astoria is also an incredibly scenic small town, offering visitors a delightful experience of the Oregon Coast.

In fact, nearly every restaurant, business, and accommodation in Astoria boasts amazing coastal views, including the acclaimed Bridgewater Bistro.

If you're looking for dinner with a view, Bridgewater Bistro is *the* place to go. And when on the Oregon Coast, fresh seafood is a must.

And when you want to put up your feet for the night, simply book a room at the Astoria Riverwalk Inn.

This small town isn't just a haven for historians; it's also one of the most scenic, charming, and interesting places in Oregon. So follow Esquire's advice, and make Astoria your next getaway in Oregon!

For the record, Oregon actually had three small towns on Esquire’s list; Hood River and Cottage Grove were also named, and we absolutely adore these lovely little places, too!

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Address: Astoria, OR 97103, USA