A charming riverside town with maritime soul and Pacific Northwest spirit

Astoria, Oregon, population just under 10,000, is one of those places that rewards slow travel. Set at the mouth of the Columbia River where water meets sky and land, this little town blends rich history, maritime grit, and naturally dramatic scenery in a way that almost feels curated. You won’t find a rush here — and you shouldn’t. Astoria is meant to be savored.

From its working waterfront to its grand historic homes and easy, stroll-able downtown, this town wears its character proudly. Astoria has been shaped by river pilots, canneries, explorers, and the Indigenous Chinook and Clatsop peoples long before that, all of whom left their imprint on the landscape and community.

Whether you’re visiting on a cruise stop, are here for the history, the scenery, or just a quiet weekend on the Oregon Coast, Astoria has a peaceful but inviting energy that makes it a standout small-town getaway.

Here are a few recommendations for a great getaway in Astoria, Oregon.

Things to Do in Astoria, Oregon

Astoria feels like a destination and a base camp at the same time. It’s rich in history, perched on the water, and close enough to rugged beaches and state parks that you can mix laid-back exploring with natural beauty.

Here’s how to make the most of your time:

Explore the Waterfront & Riverwalk

Start your visit with the Astoria Riverwalk. This gentle, flat trail that takes you along the Columbia River and through the heart of the town’s maritime life. You’ll see working vessels, historic piers, cruise ships, tugboats and, on clear days, wide views of the Astoria-Megler Bridge stretching toward Washington State.

It’s a great way to orient yourself and understand the river’s presence in day-to-day life here. If walking feels like too much, hop on the historic Astoria Riverfront Trolley (“Old 300”) for part of the route. It’s a charming, easy-going way to explore the waterfront with friendly volunteer conductors.

Official Riverwalk website here.

Watch the Ships at the Astoria–Megler Bridge Area

One of Astoria’s most iconic sights is the Astoria–Megler Bridge, four miles of steel connecting Oregon to Washington across the Columbia on US Highway 101. While most people drive across it, it’s just as captivating from the shoreline. Note that pedestrian access isn’t available to cross the bridge, but you can appreciate the scene from shore.

From viewpoints along the Riverwalk and nearby overlooks, you can watch barges, fishing vessels, and freighters slide beneath the structure. The bridge doesn’t dominate the landscape; it frames it — a perfect mirror for Astoria’s relationship with the river.

For an extra comfy view of traffic on the Columbia River, stay at the Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa and watch the vessels from the comfort of your room.

Climb or Relax at the Astoria Column

High above town on Coxcomb Hill, the Astoria Column is a 125-foot tribute to the region’s layered history. Its spiraling murals tell the story of the land — from Indigenous heritage to exploration and settlement.

Climbing the narrow staircase rewards you with sweeping views of town, river, bridge, and (on clear days) the Pacific beyond. If the climb isn’t your thing, and it wasn’t mine, the surrounding grassy park is a peaceful place to picnic, breathe, and take it all in.

Step Back in Time at the Captain George Flavel House Museum

For history lovers, the Captain George Flavel House Museum offers an intimate look at 19th-century life in Astoria. This Queen Anne mansion belonged to one of the town’s most influential bar pilots, and on of Astoria’s most prominent figures during the late 19th century.

The carefully preserved interiors give a sense of life during Astoria’s early boom. It’s not showy, but thoughtful, fascinating, and deeply rooted in the town’s past.

Location: 714 Exchange Street, Astoria. Official website here.

Discover the Maritime Legacy at the Columbia River Maritime Museum

If you love a museum that’s both educational and engaging, the Columbia River Maritime Museum is a highlight. It is widely regarded as one of the best small maritime museums in the country.

Exhibits explore the challenges of navigating the treacherous Columbia Bar, shipbuilding, navigation, fishing heritage, and life-saving operations.

Included with admission is a visit to the Lightship Columbia, a historic vessel that once served as a floating lighthouse at the mouth of the Columbia. It will give you a sense of what life was like aboard these working vessels.

Location: 1792 Marine Drive, Astoria. Official website here.

Have Some Movie Fun at the Oregon Film Museum

Astoria might be small, but it has a big on-screen presence. Films like The Goonies (1985) and Kindergarten Cop (1990) were shot in and around town.

If you’re curious about this side of Astoria’s identity, the Oregon Film Museum housed in the old Clatsop County Jail offers rotating exhibits tied to movies shot in the region, memorabilia, and local film history.

For fans of The Goonies, there are a handful of recognizable shooting locations scattered through town (including the “Goon Docks” waterfront), though many are best enjoyed from a distance with respect for private property.

Location: 732 Duane Street, Astoria. Official website here.

Stroll Historic Downtown

Astoria’s downtown is charming, compact, and walkable. The streets climb and dip with the hillside, and the buildings, many dating to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, give the area a subtly vintage atmosphere 

You won’t find a lot of big-box stores or flashy chains here. Instead, you’ll discover independent shops, galleries, and cafes where you can pick up local art, handmade goods, or just enjoy a coffee while watching the town go by. The Liberty Theatre, with its classic marquee, adds a touch of old-school charm and is worth a glance even if you don’t catch a show.

Walking slowly, pausing at a cafe or browsing a gallery, is the best way to take in downtown Astoria. It’s a place that encourages wandering, noticing small details, and soaking up the town’s relaxed riverfront rhythm.

Official downtown Astoria website here.

Nearby Oregon Beaches

Astoria is close enough to reach several Oregon beaches without needing to change hotel.

Miles of sandy shoreline near Seaside, Gearhart, and other small coastal towns are just a short drive away. These beaches are best for walking, exploring tide pools, watching the waves, or taking in the open skies. They’re less about sunbathing and more about experiencing the natural, windswept character of the Pacific Northwest coast.

Get information about the Oregon Coast here.

Where to Eat and Drink in Astoria, Oregon

In addition to great local attractions, small towns usually have terrific local restaurants, diners, and bars. It’s a chance to avoid the large chain restaurants and fast food establishments, and patronize a small business. The food is great, and you’re helping a local family business.

Here are some of our suggestions, in no particular order. Our list of favorite spots, along with a few that we still have to try, gets longer after every visit:

• Blue Scorcher Bakery Cafe – Local artisanal breads and pastries, and a popular spot for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free fare. The rustic feel is casual and family-friendly.
• Bar 600 (at Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa) – Stop off for drinks with a view. Enjoy your favorite beverages (try the local Pinot Noir) and light bites as you start off (or wrap up) your evening.
• Broder Strand – Featuring a Nordic menu, reminiscent of Astoria founders, this is a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and brunch. You’ll find old-fashioned Swedish meatballs on the menu as well as innovative Scandinavian-style open-face sandwiches.
• Labor Temple – Fans of diners and divey bars will love Labor Tample, with a diner in the front part of the building, dive music joint in the back. There’s also a back patio for summer sipping. Try the omelettes, they’re big enough to share.
• Bowpicker Fish & Chips – Think of it as a food truck on a boat. The boats on shore, not floating, but the distinctive design makes it easy to find. Bowpicker’s serves up fish and chips to the long lines of fans waiting in line. The line moves relatively quickly, but allow extra time.
• Surf 2 Soul – A soul food food cart that’s a local favorite. You can’t go wrong trying fried chicken and/or the biscuits.
• Busu – A small take out spot offering great Japanese food. This is not my favorite cuisine, so I don’t have a personal recommendation, but friends recommend the kimchi and the pickle plate.
• Fede – This Italian trattoria on the waterfront has house-made pasta, so it’s our go-to spot when that’s what we’re jonesing for. Lots of elevated offering of classic dishes (Calabrian pasta with nudja sausage paste is one of my faves). They don’t take reservations, but if you call ahead they can give you an estimate of availability and wait time.
• Carruthers Restaurant – Steaks and seafood in a special occasion restaurant. We’ve never coordinated our visitss to give it a try, but it is consistently recommended by local friends.
• Daphne – Upscale and small, this farm-to-table restaurant is located in downtown Astoria. Menu changes often, with a three course prix fixe menu often available. Great for a special occasion or celebration.
• OleBob’s Seafood Market – Sells fresh oysters and crab from locations on Pier 11 and Pier 39, along with clam chowder. Get some to take out, eat on the pier, of pick up fixings for cooking at home or your rental.
• Coastal Smash – Food cart (two locations) offering burgers and fries. Plan to arrive early, or order online, they often sell out.
• South Bay Wild Fish House – This sea/river to plate spot is still on our must-visit list. The menu features coastal seafood dishes, with seating at a large communal. We’re told the fish and chips are delicious, we’ve just never seemed to get organized enough to get here.
• Brut Wine Bar – Our go-to wine bar offers affordable wines from around the world. On a sunny day, we like to sit on the patio with a charcuterie board and glass of bubbly.
• Favorite breweries – Astoria is a beer town, and while I prefer wine to beer, I still think these are worth a visit. Fort George Brewery, Obelisk Beer Co., Astoria Brewing Company. We enjoy lunch at Astoria Brewing, right on the riverwalk, and usually get there on every trip. Lots of others, though, are worth a stop for a bite and a brew.

Where to Stay in Astoria, Oregon

You’ll find several budget and mid-range hotels and motels in Astoria, and the surrounding area. Home rentals are also available, both in Astoria and further out along the coast.

Here are some suggestions for staying more centally located in Astoria (in no particular order):

Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa – Our favorite slice of luxury in Astoria, this over-the-water property has that wonderful Pacific Northwest vibe and river views. You can walk the Riverfront trail into downtown (it’s an easy walk, with all sorts of stopping spots along the way), or catch the trolley.

Bowline Hotel – Located on the waterfront in downtown Astoria, the Bowline captures the maritime heart of the town. Walkable to most things around town.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Hotel Elliott – A historic boutique hotel, with 32 uniquely restored rooms, that blends 20th century elegance with modern amenities. Located in the downtown historic district.

Astoria Riverwalk Inn – Budget friendly property overlooking the marina. It books up fast with families, some rooms have a kitchenette and bunkbeds.

Commodore Hotel – A historic hotel in downtown Astoria dates back to 1925 and an era of gamblers, bootleggers, and dockworkers. If you love quirky old hotels, this is worth a look.

Getting to Astoria, Oregon

Most visitors will get arrive in Astoria by car, whether choosing it as a drive destination, or renting a car and driving there as part of traveling to the area.

By car, Astoria is about a two hours drive from Portland along Highway 26 or US 30. It’s about a 3 1/2-4 hour drive from Seattle via I-5 and US 30.

The closest major airport is Portland International (IATA code PDX). General aviation can be served at Astoria Regional Airport (IATA code AST).

Disclosure: My trip to Astoria was sponsored by the Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa. This post contains affiliate links which may result in earnings to support this site.

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