The Best Small Town Getaway In Oregon: Best Things To Do In Astoria
By Megan Todaro|Published August 08, 2023
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Megan Todaro
Author
Megan Todaro was born and raised in Miami, Florida, and still calls The Sunshine State home today. While saving lives and putting out fires during the day, Megan is also passionate about writing and travel, especially when it comes to sharing her knowledge of her home state. A few of Megan's favorites include: favorite Florida vacation destination - New Smyrna Beach. Favorite Florida restaurant - Eastside Pizza in Miami. Favorite Florida hidden gem - Shibuya Sushi Art. Favorite Florida OnlyInYourState article: Take A Terrifying Florida Road Trip That Will Surely Haunt Your Dreams.
Astoria, Oregon, is a hidden gem on the Pacific Northwest coast that captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene. It’s hard not to fall in love with this magical town, especially after you spend some time exploring all the nooks and crannies that make it so special. But not only does this coastal town offer a picturesque stop between the Columbia River and lush forests, but there is also quite a bit of historical significance worth exploring. For instance, did you know this small coastal town boasts the title of the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies? And that’s just the tip of the iceberg regarding things to do in Astoria, Oregon.
Astoria offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, kayaking, and beachcombing. The town’s thriving arts and culture scene is evident in its numerous galleries, theaters, and festivals, while the delightful downtown Astoria area entices with unique shops, cozy cafes, and delicious culinary offerings. Astoria, Oregon, truly has it all, making it a fantastic Small Town Getaway for those seeking a blend of history, nature, arts, and small-town charm.
From its fascinating history to its breathtaking scenery, thriving arts scene, and diverse recreational opportunities, Astoria, Oregon, is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or a culture lover, Astoria promises a memorable and enriching experience.
Nestled on hills overlooking the majestic Columbia River, Astoria is a postcard-perfect town that exudes charm as the oldest settlement west of the Rockies. This port city embraces its Scandinavian heritage, with Victorian-era homes dotting the landscape.
Established in 1811 as a hub for fur trading, Astoria holds the distinction of being the first permanent U.S. settlement on the Pacific coast. Today, visitors are treated to a delightful blend of old-world charm and contemporary attractions, making Astoria a captivating destination that seamlessly merges history and modern experiences.
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How To Get To Astoria
Getting to Astoria, Oregon is relatively straightforward. Here are a few common ways to reach this charming coastal town:
By Car: If you prefer driving, Astoria is accessible via Highway 30 (also known as the Historic Columbia River Highway) from Portland, Oregon. The drive takes approximately two hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, if you're coming from Washington state, you can cross the Astoria-Megler Bridge on Highway 101, connecting Astoria with the city of Long Beach.
By Air: The nearest major airport is Portland International Airport (PDX), located about 97 miles southeast of Astoria. From the airport, you can rent a car and drive to Astoria following Highway 30, or you may consider taking a shuttle or public transportation to the city and then renting a car locally for exploring the area.
Getting Around Astoria
Similar to many other small towns in Oregon, Astoria is a very walkable place, especially the downtown area.
However, perhaps one of the most adored ways to get around town is via the old-fashioned streetcar trolley, known as the “Old 300.”
The original trolley system operated from 1890 to 1926 before being replaced by buses. In 1999, a group of dedicated volunteers initiated efforts to restore the trolley line, bringing back a piece of Astoria's transportation history. As far as activities in Astoria go, this one is always a winner.
Best Time To Visit Astoria
The best time of year to visit Astoria, Oregon, especially for anyone who prefers milder temperatures and fewer crowds, is from April to May and September to October. These shoulder seasons are the perfect time to avoid peak tourist season but still be able to capitalize on the warmer weather and outdoor activities.
Spring brings blooming flowers and emerging wildlife, while fall offers beautiful autumn colors. The weather can be variable, so pack layers. It's a great time for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the town without the peak-season rush. Fun fact, this is also one of the best times to head on up to the observation deck near the famous Astoria Column! Get ready for panoramic views high above this small town.
But, something must be said about visiting Astoria, Oregon, during the winter months. Winters in Astoria are likely to be wet and foggy, with occasional rain and often clouds.
However, the town's holiday decorations and festivities add a charming touch, and indoor attractions like museums and galleries are still open for exploration. Plus, with a charming town like this blanketed in snow? It doesn’t get more picturesque than that.
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But if you want to build your visit around a few covered festivals, we have some to keep in mind:
For more than half a century, the Astoria Scandinavian Midsummer Festival has been a cherished tradition on the North Coast of Oregon. This vibrant annual festival takes place the third full weekend of June, bringing to life the cultural legacy inherited from Nordic emigrants who settled in the Astoria, Oregon, region. It is a family-friendly and fun celebration that pays homage to the rich heritage and traditions of the Scandinavian lands.
Mark your calendars for the annual Astoria Warrenton Crab, Seafood, and Wine Festival, organized by the Astoria-Warrenton Area Chamber of Commerce since 1982. This festival showcases approximately 150 vendors offering a delightful array of hand-crafted arts, delectable coastal cuisine, Oregon's finest wines, and locally brewed beers. This is a great way to taste, sip, and indulge in Astoria in one fell swoop!
Where To Stay In Astoria
If you’re looking for a quintessential overnight experience in Astoria, head over to Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa. Located right next to the Astoria-Megler Bridge on the Columbia River, this five-star hotel has views that you won’t find elsewhere.
Nicknamed Astoria’s “Jewel On The River,” the Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa oozes coastal charm. Begin your day indulging in a complimentary Sunrise Hot Breakfast, and in the evening, relax with Wine Hour, where you can unwind with a selection of regional wines and delectable hors d'oeuvres. Did we mention you can end the night with fresh-baked cookies?
Or if you want to stay somewhere that is a bit cozier with a more “homey” feel, then check out this incredible waterfront VRBO rental.
Located on the upper level of the history Pier 14 Pilot Station, this VRBO rental comfortably sleeps up to eight guests. Being surrounded by water with views of the river, plus having all the creature comforts of home, sounds like pure perfection to us!
Day One: Hiking, History, and Hops!
We’re going to start our first day of our day trip to Astoria with some coffee and breakfast from Coffee Girl on the pier.
Coffee Girl offers patrons deliciously fresh breakfast options, from bagels and scones and beyond, plus piping hot coffee just the way you like it. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that this coffee shop sits right on the river, too.
Next up on the itinerary, after food and fueling, is the Flavel House Museum.
Flavel House Museum, 714 Exchange St, Astoria, OR 97103, USA
This captivating historic landmark lets visitors glimpse the city's elegant past. Featuring a Queen Anne-style house built in 1885, this was once the residence of a Columbia River bar pilot and a prominent early millionaire. Today, it serves as a museum, showcasing beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, period furnishings, and exhibits that shed light on Astoria's history.
After diving into a little bit of Astoria’s history, we’re headed for a hike along the Cathedral Tree Trail.
This 1.6-mile out-and-back trail in Astoria is a very popular place to grab some time in nature. The trail is named after the "Cathedral Tree," a massive Sitka spruce that stands as a majestic centerpiece along the path. Taking an average of an hour to complete and considered moderately challenging, we suggest hiking this trail between March and November for the best conditions!
We’re going to end this incredible day with some food and libations at Buoy Beer Company.
Buoy Beer Company, 1152 Marine Dr, Astoria, OR 97103, USA
Astoria's Buoy Beer has become a cherished destination for beer enthusiasts. The brewery's taproom offers a vibrant and family-friendly ambiance where visitors can delight in a pint or two. The food menu is also worth a gander, highlighting locally sourced favorites such as mouthwatering fish and chips, succulent beer-simmered bratwurst, and fresh oysters sourced from nearby waters. Make sure to stick around for the after-dinner doughnuts, too!
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Day Two: Movies, Maritime, & Meat
Are you a fan of 1980’s cult-classic films? Heyyyyyy youuuu guysssss, it’s time to visit various locations that were shot throughout the film The Goonies.
Oregon Film Museum, 732 Duane St, Astoria, OR 97103, USA
What is Astoria known for, you ask? The 1980s film The Goonies! Visitors can take a self-guided tour of some of the best film locations within the film. Check out the actual Goonies House, one of the main attractions in Astoria, which served as the residence for a few main characters in the film. Or stop by the Oregon Film Museum, which showcases the rich film history of Oregon, including exhibits dedicated to The Goonies.
After hitting all those film locations, you’ve probably worked up an appetite. Next stop: Gaetano’s Market & Deli.
Gaetano's Market & Deli, 1004 Commercial St, Astoria, OR 97103, USA
As Astoria’s very first Italian market, guests can order up deli-style Italian sandwiches in either a made-to-order or grab-and-go style. We’re fans of the Italian sandwich, which features Prosciutto, sweet coppa, genoa salami with mozzarella, arugula, balsamic glaze, and sandwich oil. Delizioso!
We’re heading off next to learn all about the rich maritime history of the northwest United States at the Columbia River Maritime Museum.
This museum showcases maritime history through engaging exhibits, including the stunning Lightship Columbia. Visitors can explore various aspects of maritime heritage, such as fishing, naval history, shipwrecks, and navigation. Plus, the museum offers educational programs and houses a vast collection of artifacts and collections, providing insights into the region's maritime past and the significance of the Columbia River.
Are you ready for one of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ve ever seen? We’re traveling over to Clatsop Spit!
Located where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean, this sandy stretch offers unobstructed views of the water, perfect for catching a sunset and maybe even some marine life!
But the day isn’t over yet! We’re wrapping things up with a trip to Coastal Smash to try one of their famous Astoria Smashburgers!
COASTAL SMASH, 1343 Duane St #2, Astoria, OR 97103, USA
This food cart pod is right outside of Reach Break Brewing and features scrumptious burgers with thin, crispy patties, delicious toppings, and thin-cut fries. This is the perfect place to grab a soul-satisfying meal while also mingling with the locals.
Next time you’re seeking an idyllic small-town retreat in Oregon, make sure to consider the spectacular town of Astoria. Have you had the pleasure of visiting this captivating town before? Which Astoria attractions were your absolute favorite? Sound off in the comments section! We’d love to hear if you have your own personal recommendations about things to do that our readers should know.
Ready to keep learning about Astoria, Oregon? Check out this beautifully detailed documentary from Oregon Public Broadcasting about this delightful small town:
Thanks for letting us at OnlyInYourState be your ultimate Astoria travel guide. Once you’ve experienced the wonders of Astoria, you might find yourself yearning to discover other charming small towns in Oregon or in the United States. Explore a few other Small Town Getaways across America and start getting inspired.
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