Amazing Things To Do In Astoria Oregon
Living only one and a half hours from the Oregon Coast, we always try to check out a new part of it. Astoria has always been on our list of places to visit. It’s full of history, charm, with many things to do, and food to try! During our weekend in Astoria, our itinerary was packed with all the amazing places we wanted to see and food we wanted to try.
Are you ready for a weekend getaway on the Oregon Coast?
A big thank you goes out to The Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce for setting up this amazing weekend getaway! All thoughts and opinions are our own. Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you click on a product link, we may receive compensation. This compensation comes at no additional cost to you and allows us to keep serving you with great content.
Where is Astoria?
Astoria is a port city that is located on the south shore of the Columbia River, where the river meets the Pacific Ocean. It’s the oldest city in the state of Oregon and has a rich history. The town has had influences from people and cultures from around the world and many of its current residents are descendants from early settlers.
In addition, the Lewis and Clark Expedition spent the winter of 1805-1806 at Fort Clatsop. You can visit it now and imagine what it would have been like to endure a winter of rain and cold while waiting to return back home.
Astoria has the perfect mix of history, adventure, and the outdoors waiting to be explored at any time of the year!
Typical Weather in Astoria
The typical weather in Astoria during the summer months is warm and partly cloudy. Winters can get cold, wet and overcast. The best time to visit for warm weather activities would be in the late spring, summer and fall. During the winter season, Astoria is perfect for a little getaway to go storm watching or whale watching, or do some coffee shop hopping and visiting the museums.
During our first trip to Astoria we went during the fall and loved it! The colors on the trees were beautiful, the temperature was not too cold and we had so much fun visiting the state parks and ocean.
Our second trip to Astoria was in January and the weather was a little bit cloudy and rainy, although we were still able to be outdoors for a few hikes. It was also perfect for cozy coffee shops, warm clam chowder soup, and visiting all the fun museums.
Adventurous Things To Do In Astoria Oregon
Astoria Column and Cathedral Tree Trail
Start your hike from the Irving Avenue Trailhead to the Cathedral Tree. The Sitka spruce tree is over 300 years old and reaches about 8 1/2 feet in diameter and 200 feet in height. It’s a short hike to the tree and the trail continues on to the Astoria Column. Keep hiking along the trail and you will emerge at the top of the hill where the Column stands.
The Astoria Column was built as a monument to the city in 1926. Beautiful artwork begins on the base of the Column and traces Astoria’s history. You can climb the 164 steps to the very top for an amazing view of the city, the Pacific Ocean, the Columbia River and the Astoria-Megler Bridge.
If hiking is not your thing, you can also drive up to the Column. There is a small parking fee.
Wreck of the Peter Iredale
The rusting remains of this English sailing ship from 1906 are located on the beach at Fort Stevens State Park. It’s a popular place for pictures and it’s especially beautiful during sunset time when the sky starts turning different colors.
Fort Stevens State Park
Fort Stevens State Park is a great place to spend your day camping, walking on nature trails, boating, swimming, fishing, biking and watching a sunset on the beach! There’s also a historical military site to check out and a shipwreck “Wreck of Peter Iredale”.
After visiting Fort Clatsop in the morning and biking the Fort to Sea Trail during the day we ended off the evening with a sunset at the shipwreck in Fort Stevens State Park. We then drove to the very tip of the south jetty to catch the last of the sunset and the beautiful colors.
Day use parking is $5 or you can get the 12 month day use parking permit for $30.
Fort to Sea Trail
The Fort to Sea Trail is a 6.5 mile trail that starts from the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park and leads to Sunset Beach. It’s a beautiful trail for all level of hikers or trail runners. Dogs are also welcome but must stay on leash.
Our experience with the trail was very positive although next time we would hike it rather than biking it since the trail is open only partway for bikers and for the rest of it you have to go down unmaintained paths.
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is the perfect place to relax at with a blanket, walk the dog or just stroll along the beach. The trailhead to the Fort to Sea Trail is also located there.
Fort Clatsop Lewis and Clark National Historical Park
Here you can find the replica of the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s winter quarters. You can also go inside the visitors center to find exhibits, educational programs, a bookstore, audio-visual programs and a map of hiking trails. During our visit we went inside the visitors center to learn more about the history of Lewis and Clark and their expedition and then headed outside to explore the replica of the winter quarters. We also started the Fort to Sea trail from there and left our car in the parking lot until we retuned back in the evening.
The entrance fee is $10 per person (16 years old and up) and it’s free for 15 and younger. The pass is valid for 7 days.
You can also get a Oregon Coast Pass ($35) which covers entry, vehicle parking and day use fees at all the Oregon State and Federal fee sites along the coast.
If you have a National Parks Pass that covers your entrance and parking. An Interagency Annual Pass is $80 and is valid for 12 months! It’s perfect for those who love visiting National Parks!
Youngs River Falls
The beautiful falls are located about six miles from Fort Clatsop and are surrounded by a beach and a swimming hole. They can be viewed form the parking lot or by a short 0.3 mile hike along the trail.
Go Kayaking on Coffenbury Lake
Coffenbury Lake is located in Fort Stevens State park, just 10 miles west of Astoria. It’s a freshwater lake and offers great swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, hiking and more. The water gets warm during the summer months and is perfect for water activities and swimming. To rent a kayak, stop by Astoria Scuba and Adventure Sports. They also have inflatable stand up paddle boards available. Kayaking on the lake is great anytime of the year even during the off season. If being on the water isn’t your thing, take the 2.4 mile loop trail around Coffenbury Lake which offers a beautiful and easy hike with no elevation gain!
Cape Disappointment State Park
Cape Disappointment is located across the river in Washington just 20mins from Astoria. It got it’s name from Captain John Mearess who failed to cross the river bar in 1788. There’s a lot of history that’s tied to this place! The State Park is large and has a diverse landscape of old-growth forests where you can hike, freshwater lakes for boating, saltwater marches, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, and two lighthouses (North Head Lighthouse and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse)
We spent half the day exploring the park, first starting out by hiking to Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, stopping to look at the Dead Man’s Cove, and then visiting the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. During sunset time we drove over to the North Head Lighthouse which was recently renovated. The park has a lot of camping as well and Alex grew up camping there almost every summer.
Whale Watching, Fishing or Take a Boat Excursion
Take a river tour with Columbia River Eco Tours while you observe wildlife, the river, city and learn more about the area. If you are interested in going on a fishing experience with a local check out Astoria Fishing. Whale watching is great most of the year. In the early winter the whales migrate south for warmer waters, and can be seen a little further out. In the spring/early summer they are coming back north, and generally travel closer to shore.
Ziplinning with High Life Adventures
Ready for some height and adventure? Go on a guided tour of eight zip lines that showcase the best of the Oregon Coast! The zipline tour takes you over beautiful natural landsscape, trees, ponds, and a seven-acre lake. The highly trained guides will watch and assist as you glide through the air! Any age or experience level is welcome!
Check out their website and restrictions before deciding to go.
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Columbia River Maritime Museum
The Columbia River Maritime Museum is nationaly distinguished and features marine transportation from the time of dugout canoes until the present time. You can also discover stories of the legendary Columbia River Bar which is one of the most dangerous passages in the world. There’s exhibits on the U.S. Coast Guard and the Columbia River Bar Pilots.
Astoria-Megler Bridge
The Astoria-Megler Bridge connects Washington and Oregon by way of US 101. This bridge is one of the longest (4.1 miles) continuous three span truss bridge in North America.
Our favorite way to experience it is to go on the Astoria Riverwalk. Also, you can get great views of it from the top of the Astoria Column. During one of the evenings as the sun was setting we decided to go on a drive and went across it. It was a beautiful drive and was totally worth it. There are no tolls on the bridge so it’s free to experience!
Astoria Riverfront Trolley
Ride the restored trolley along the scenic 2,6 miles of the Columbia River. You can catch the trolley from a dozen different shelters between Basin and 39th Streets.
It costs $1 one way trip or buy a $2 all day pass.
Flavel House Museum
In the Flavel House Museum you can experience the elegance of the late Victorian period by walking through the home of Captain George Flavel. This 1886 home features beautiful woodwork, furnishing and home additional exhibits.
Oregon Film Museum
Did you know that more than 300 major moves have been filmed in the State of Oregon!
To name a few, “Are we there yet“, “The Goonies“, “Free Willy“, “Into the Wild“, “Wild“, and so many more!
This museum invites visitors to learn about the production behind making movies by being the star in their own film. The museum is located in a historical building that was once an actual working jail. It was also in a scene from the Goonies!
Hanthorn Cannery Foundation Museum
The Hanthorn Cannery Museum is located on Pier 39 and is situated in the oldest cannery building still standing on the Columbia River. It features historic canning equipment and recounts the story of 130 years of cannery history with photos, boat displays, equipment and Bumble Bee artifacts.
Astoria Sunday Market
Every Sunday, starting in May and going into October, Astoria holds it’s weekly Sunday market. It’s a 3 block stretch on 12th St in downtown. You can treat yourself to fresh fruit, garden vegetables, farm products, local arts and crafts, music and so much more!
Sunday from 10AM-3:00PM
Astoria Riverwalk
Wander along the Astoria Riverwalk with a coffee or tea in hand. The paved pathways goes along the river 6 miles from the Port of Astoria to Tongue Point. You can also rent a bike and ride the trail. If you want to challenge yourself, check out the trails that take you up to Astoria’s neighborhoods.
We really enjoyed riding along the riverwalk on our bikes and making stops for coffee and food. The views are beautiful and it’s a great way to get a feel for Astoria!
McClure Park’s Giant Slide
Go be a kid again on the giant slide in McClure Park. The 45ft slide that goes down the grassy hill of 8th street was opened to the public in June 2018. If you have children with you or you just want to go down a slide, check out this park’s main attraction!
Boutique Shopping in Astoria
There are so many cute boutiques to shop at in Astoria. Some favorites to check out,
Doe & Arrow– A cute clothing boutique shop
Finn Ware– a traditional Scandanavian home goods store
La Loca Luna– Unique artisan made goods from around the world.
Vintage Hardware– It’s antique mall/furniture store and part residential surplus where you can find vintage items such as signs, furniture, and more!
Lucy’s Books- A bookstore
And more!
Delicious Places To Eat At in Astoria
Coffee Girl
A unique little coffee house located on the Columbia River in an old cannery building. You can get coffee, pastries, breakfast or lunch!
Bowpicker Fish and Chips
Bowpicker Fish and Chips is located in a converted boat with a walk-up window. They have some of the best beer battered Albacore tuna Fish and Chips! Definitely a must go to spot in Astoria!
Blue Scorcher Bakery and Cafe
Blue Scorcher Bakery and Cafe is located in the heart of Astoria. It’s a perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or for some pastries and coffee. It’s a bakery and cafe which specializes in artisan breads, pastries and homemade seasonal meals.
Street 14 Cafe
Street 14 Cafe is also located in the heart of Astoria. The cafe is in an old historic building right next door to the Commodore Hotel. They serve Stumptown Coffee, breakfast, sandwiches, lunch and yummy pastries. It’s a perfect spot for some writing, reading, eating and people watching.
During our visit we got a Green Matcha with Oatmilk, a Good Green Sammy Sandwich with the soup of the day and Eggs Benedict with hollandaise sauce.
Frite & Scoop
Frite & Scoop is the best spot in town to get hand-crafted ice cream and Belgian style fries! Their menu changes often with 12 different delicious ice cream flavors to choose from and including one dairy-free sorbet.
Columbia River Coffee Roasters & Three Cups Coffee House
Columbia River Coffee Roasters have been roasting coffee since 1992. They source their beans through importers and through a number of direct trade relationships. Through these trade relationships they are able to connect with the people who own the farms and who grow the coffee.
Three Cups Coffee House is located in the same building and that’s where you can get your amazing cup of coffee and fresh baked goods. It’s also located in the perfect location if you wanted to grab coffee to go and then take a walk along the Astoria Riverwalk.
During our visit we tried the seasonal special, Cardamom Latte.
Astoria Coffee Co
Astoria Coffee Co is a family owned retail coffee roaster that also carries in addition to delicious coffee, a wide choice of loose-leaf teas.
Fort George Brewery
Fort George is definitely a place to check out while in Astoria. Not only for the crafted beers, but also for delicious food! Upstairs in the building they specialize in pizza and have a separate menu for their wood-fired pizza, salads, soups and small plates. Downstairs in the building the building they have the orginal pub that features a locally sourced menu and specials! Lastly, the Lovell Taproom has hot dogs, nachos, and lots of beer with views of the production brewery.
During our visit we tried the specials which were ribs, a massive delicious mushroom burger and their menu quinoa salad “Say Wah”.
South Bay Wild Fish House
South Bay Wild Fish House is a small family owned and operated fishing vessel that harvests only the highest quality and sustainable seafood. They have a nice market and restaurant where you can try some of the best seafood.
The Naked Lemon
Located in the Pier 11 mall, Naked Lemon is a bakery featuring French macarons, cupcakes, cakes, cookies and more. Everything is made from scratch and baked fresh daily.
Ship Out Fish and Chips
This place is an amazing spot to stop into for a quick lunch. They have some of the best fish and chips we’ve tried. You can also choose the fish. The clam chowder is soooo tasty too! We got a large order of fish and chips and a bowl of soup and that was plenty for the both of us.
Pink Elephant Juice Emporium
A great place to get a healthy smoothie, bowl or juice.
Best Food Carts to Try in Astoria
You can find the food carts in two main areas,
11th Street and Duane St-That’s where you will find Soul to Surf, Sasquatch Sandwich Shop and others
Reach Break Brewing– That’s where you will find Mai Tong Thai and other great food carts.
Sasquatch Sandwich Shop
A gourmet sandwich food cart serving sandwiches like Reuben, Korean Reuben, Garden, Cubano, and others! Each sandwich comes with a choice of spicy kimchi, pickled cucumber salad, macaroni salad, or chips.
During our visit we got the Reuben with a side of spicy kimchi. It was so filling and good!
Busu Astoria
Busu is a walk-up eatery that serves Japanese style cuisine by the owner and chef himself. Be prepared for a big, flavorful meal and experience. The menu changes constantly with unique dishes. Everything is sourced locally and only top quality Japanese ingredients are used.
During our visit we had the Yakisoba noodles and an Oregon Black Truffle Ramen with Pork Belly! It was out of this world!
Mai Tong Thai Food
Traditional Thai food and all meals are gluten free!
Surf to Soul
Southern-style food with a twist.
Accommodations in Astoria
Windwater Bed and Breakfast Suite
Windwater B&B is the kind of place that will make you feel like you’re at home. This urban home overlooks the Columbia River and the city. When we stayed here we enjoyed the house all to ourselves, it included a kitchen, bathroom, living room, and a small upstairs loft area for reading. There’s also a cozy fireplace that you can enjoy during the evenings. In the mornings the wonderful host, Rafael, severed us a delicious breakfast. We truly loved our stay.
Some other great accommodations include,
Commodore Hotel, Norblad Hotel, Cannery Pier Hotel, Hotel Elliott, Fisher Bros. Flats and more!
Get $55 towards your next stay with airbnb.com
Get $25 off your next stay with booking.com
Booking.comPlanning Your Trip To Astoria Oregon
We hope this has been helpful in your planning your getaway to Astoria! We really enjoyed our adventures in Astoria and can’t wait to come back for more because theres always more!
Oregon is full of amazing places and that’s why we are taking the time to explore our beautiful state! If you need more inspiration or ideas, follow us on our Instagram @thatoneadventurecouple!
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