If you're looking for a wonderful weekend getaway with a loved one, your family, or even solo, then Astoria, Oregon will be an excellent destination for you. This small and inviting town may already be familiar to you because it has appeared in many famous films, but you'll find that it's even more charming in person.

You'll fall in love with Astoria as soon as you arrive. During your visit here, you'll really feel like you got away from it all, without being bored for a minute.

Astoria, Oregon is the oldest city in Oregon and was the first American settlement west of the Rockies. It was founded in 1811 as a port for the export of furs from the region.

Today, around 9,500 people make Astoria their home. One of the first things you'll notice when you arrive in Astoria is the large number of colorful, historic homes. Astoria locals take pride in their town and it shows.

The second thing you'll notice is the impressive Astoria-Megler Bridge. This bridge was built in 1966 and it is visible from almost anywhere in town. It's over four miles long.

There's so much to do in Astoria. You'll find museums here for every interest. You might visit the Flavel House Museum; it's the restored Queen Anne-style home of Captain George Flavel. It was built in 1885.

Astoria's location at the mouth of the Columbia River means it has a rich maritime history. You can learn all about it at the Columbia River Maritime Museum.

If you're into movies, you'll enjoy the Oregon Film Museum. The opening scene from The Goonies was filmed here; Mama and Francis Fratelli break Jake Fratelli out of jail, which begins the car chase witnessed by Chunk. You'll find several very hands-on exhibits and great photo opportunities inside.

Other famous movies were filmed in Astoria, too, including Kindergarten Cop, Free Willy 2, Short Circuit, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III.

Film enthusiasts can also fill their days by visiting the various movie locations around town.

There's plenty to do in this area in the great outdoors. Fort Stevens State Park is a short drive from downtown Astoria in nearby Hammond.

Fort Stevens was a military installation built during the Civil War. It was used for 84 years. Today, it's a 4,300-acre park with campgrounds, great views, and 15 miles of multi-use trails.

The Peter Iredale is a famous shipwreck along Oregon's Coast. It is located at Fort Stevens State Park, near Astoria.

History buffs will also want to stop by Fort Clatsop. This National Historic Park was the site of the end of Lewis and Clark's famous journey west.

The visitor center is full of interesting historical information. There's a replica of their fort on site as well.

For a great sunset, visitors can drive to the highest point in town to watch from the base of the Astoria Column. This monument was built in 1926 to celebrate Oregon's history.

If you're hungry, you should stop by Buoy Beer Company for some food and drink. It's located in an old cannery on the river.

Buoy Beer Company's founder has been brewing beer for more than 40 years. They offer several of their own beers on tap at all times, and their seafood options are tasty and diverse. You can watch sea lions lounging below while you eat and drink.

The Atomic Motel is as comfortable as it is colorful, if you're looking for a fun place to stay.

Another great accommodation option is the Norblad Hotel. Bathrooms here are shared, but you can also borrow a record player to enjoy the property's vinyl record collection in your room.

You'll likely enjoy even just a simple walk around town. There are great views and friendly folks around every corner.

Anyone who has the opportunity to visit Astoria, Oregon will fall in love with this unique and historic city. There is so much to do in Astoria if you choose, or you can simply relax and enjoy the scenery. One thing is for sure, though - you'll be feeling quite refreshed after your visit. Plan a trip to Astoria today; you'll be glad that you did.