The Oregon Town That Looks Sleepy Until You Actually Spend a Day There

I rolled into Astoria expecting a slow-paced fishing village where the biggest event of the day would be watching seagulls fight over a sandwich. Boy, was I wrong.

This Oregon town sits at the mouth of the Columbia River, and it hides more adventure, history, and quirky charm than most cities triple its size. One minute I was standing on a Victorian porch, and the next I was climbing a 125-foot tower with views that made my jaw drop.

Then I found myself eating fish and chips on a boat that hasn’t touched water in years.

Seriously, Astoria is the kind of place that sneaks up on you. You think it’s all misty mornings and quiet docks, but then you stumble into a museum packed with maritime treasures or a trolley ride that feels like time travel.

I spent an entire day here and still didn’t see everything. Pack your curiosity and maybe some good walking shoes because this town is about to surprise you in the best way possible.

The Astoria Column Delivers Views That Will Make You Forget Your Fear of Heights

Climbing 164 spiral steps inside a narrow tower might sound like a workout you didn’t sign up for, but trust me, the Astoria Column is worth every huff and puff. Perched on Coxcomb Hill, this 125-foot monument towers over the landscape like a giant painted sentinel.

The murals wrapping around the exterior tell the story of the region’s history, from early explorers to the pioneers who settled here.

Once you reach the top, the view explodes in every direction. I could see the Columbia River snaking toward the Pacific Ocean, Youngs Bay glittering in the sunlight, and the rolling green hills of Oregon stretching as far as my eyes could take me.

On a clear day, you can even spot the Astoria-Megler Bridge cutting across the water like a steel ribbon.

The best part? You can buy little wooden gliders at the top and toss them into the wind, watching them spiral down to the park below.

It’s silly, nostalgic fun that makes you feel like a kid again. The address is 1 Coxcomb Dr, Astoria, OR 97103, and it’s open year-round for anyone brave enough to tackle those stairs.

The Goonies House Is a Pilgrimage for Movie Fans and Nostalgia Seekers

If you grew up in the 1980s or have ever watched The Goonies on a rainy afternoon, you know this house. It’s the iconic Victorian home where Mikey and his friends started their treasure hunt, and it’s become one of the most photographed spots in Astoria.

I pulled up to the curb and immediately recognized the steep driveway and that unmistakable roofline.

Now, here’s the thing: the house is privately owned, and the owners have had mixed feelings about visitors over the years. Sometimes it’s open for photo ops, and other times it’s closed to respect the residents’ privacy.

When I visited, I kept a respectful distance and snapped a few pictures from the street. It felt surreal standing in the same spot where a beloved movie was filmed decades ago.

The neighborhood itself is charming, with Victorian homes lining the hillside and sweeping views of the river below. Even if you’re not a superfan, it’s a fun piece of pop culture history.

Just remember to be courteous, keep noise down, and don’t trespass. The magic of the movie is still there, and that’s enough to make any visit memorable.

Columbia River Maritime Museum Takes You Deep Into Seafaring History

Walking into the Columbia River Maritime Museum felt like stepping onto the deck of a ship frozen in time. This place is packed with artifacts, interactive exhibits, and stories that bring the maritime history of Oregon to life.

I spent over an hour wandering through galleries filled with vintage fishing gear, shipwreck relics, and displays about the treacherous Columbia River Bar, also known as the Graveyard of the Pacific.

One of the coolest exhibits is the actual Coast Guard lightship Columbia, which is docked right outside the museum. You can board it and explore the cramped quarters where crews lived while guiding ships to safety.

Inside the main building, I learned about the fishing industry, naval operations, and the Lewis and Clark expedition’s arrival at the river’s mouth.

The museum does an incredible job making history feel alive and relevant. Kids and adults alike will find something fascinating here, from the detailed ship models to the simulators that let you try your hand at navigating rough waters.

The address is 1792 Marine Dr, Astoria, OR 97103, and it’s open daily. If you have any interest in the sea, this is a must-visit stop.

Astoria-Megler Bridge Stretches Across the Water Like a Steel Giant

Driving across the Astoria-Megler Bridge is an experience that sticks with you. This massive structure spans over four miles, connecting Oregon to Washington and earning the title of the longest continuous truss bridge in North America.

As I cruised across, the bridge seemed to go on forever, rising and dipping over the Columbia River with the Pacific Ocean shimmering in the distance.

The views from the bridge are absolutely stunning. On one side, you see the river stretching wide and powerful, dotted with cargo ships and fishing boats.

On the other, the town of Astoria hugs the hillside, its colorful Victorian homes peeking through the trees. The bridge itself is an engineering marvel, and I couldn’t help but marvel at the scale and ambition it took to build something this impressive.

If you’re nervous about heights, take a deep breath because the bridge does climb pretty high in the middle. But the experience is worth it.

I recommend driving across at least once, then pulling over in Washington to snap some photos from the other side. It’s a landmark that defines the region and a reminder of how humans can create something truly awe-inspiring.

Fort Clatsop Brings the Lewis and Clark Expedition to Life

History came alive for me at Fort Clatsop, a replica of the winter encampment where the Lewis and Clark expedition hunkered down from 1805 to 1806. Located within Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, this site sits just a few miles south of Astoria and offers a fascinating glimpse into what life was like for the explorers after their grueling journey across the continent.

The fort itself is a rustic wooden structure surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery. I walked through the small rooms where the Corps of Discovery slept, cooked, and repaired their gear during the cold, rainy winter.

Park rangers were on hand to answer questions and demonstrate period skills like fire-starting and canoe-building. It felt like stepping back in time, and I could almost imagine the hardships those explorers faced.

The visitor center is equally impressive, with exhibits detailing the expedition’s route, the Native American tribes they encountered, and the scientific discoveries they made. There’s also a short film that sets the stage for your visit.

The address is 92343 Fort Clatsop Rd, Astoria, OR 97103, and it’s open year-round. If you love American history, this is an essential stop.

Bowpicker Fish and Chips Serves Up the Best Meal on a Boat That Never Sails

I’ve eaten fish and chips in a lot of places, but never on a boat parked in a gravel lot. Bowpicker Fish & Chips is housed in an old gillnet fishing boat that’s been converted into a tiny kitchen, and it’s become one of Astoria’s most beloved food spots.

The line was long when I arrived, but the smell of fresh-fried fish kept me rooted to the spot.

The menu is simple: beer-battered albacore tuna and crispy fries, served in a paper basket. That’s it.

No frills, no substitutions, just perfectly cooked fish that flakes apart at the touch of a fork. The tuna is caught locally, and you can taste the difference.

It’s fresh, flavorful, and fried to golden perfection. I devoured my basket while standing on the sidewalk, and it was hands-down one of the best meals I had in Oregon.

Bowpicker is cash-only, so come prepared. The location is 1634 Duane St, Astoria, OR 97103, and it’s only open during lunch hours, so plan accordingly.

This quirky spot is proof that you don’t need a fancy restaurant to serve incredible food. Sometimes all you need is a boat, some fish, and a whole lot of heart.

Flavel House Museum Offers a Peek Into Victorian Elegance and Astoria’s Past

Stepping into the Flavel House Museum felt like walking into a time capsule of wealth and sophistication. Built in 1885 for Captain George Flavel, a prominent river pilot and businessman, this Queen Anne-style Victorian mansion is one of the most beautifully preserved homes in Oregon.

The exterior alone is stunning, with intricate woodwork, a wraparound porch, and a tower that overlooks the town.

Inside, the rooms are filled with period furniture, elegant wallpaper, and decorative details that showcase the opulence of the era. I wandered through the parlor, dining room, and bedrooms, imagining what life must have been like for the Flavel family.

The museum also tells the story of Astoria’s development as a bustling port town, and how families like the Flavels shaped its history.

The gardens surrounding the house are equally impressive, with manicured lawns, blooming flowers, and plenty of spots to sit and soak in the atmosphere. Guided tours are available, and the staff is knowledgeable and passionate about the home’s history.

The address is 441 8th St, Astoria, OR 97103, and it’s open year-round. If you appreciate architecture and history, this museum is a must-see.

Riverfront Trolley Rolls You Back in Time Along the Columbia River

Hopping on the Riverfront Trolley was one of the most charming experiences I had in Astoria. This vintage trolley car, lovingly restored and operated by volunteers, runs along the old railroad tracks that hug the Columbia River.

The ride is smooth, the pace is leisurely, and the views are absolutely gorgeous. I settled into a wooden bench seat and watched the waterfront roll by, feeling like I’d stepped into a different era.

The trolley makes several stops along the route, so you can hop off to explore shops, restaurants, or the river walk, then catch the next one that comes along. The conductors are friendly and full of local stories, pointing out landmarks and sharing tidbits of history as you go.

It’s a relaxing way to see the town and get a feel for its layout without the hassle of driving or parking.

The trolley operates seasonally, typically from spring through fall, so check the schedule before you visit. It’s a donation-based service, which makes it accessible to everyone.

I loved the nostalgic vibe and the chance to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the Oregon coast. It’s a simple pleasure that makes a big impact.

Downtown Astoria Buzzes With Local Shops, Breweries, and Coastal Character

Downtown Astoria surprised me with its energy and personality. For a town that looks sleepy from the outside, the streets are lined with independent shops, art galleries, cozy cafes, and some seriously good breweries.

I spent a few hours wandering the blocks, popping into vintage stores, admiring local artwork, and sampling craft brews that are brewed right here in Oregon.

Fort George Brewery was a standout, with a spacious taproom, creative beers, and a menu full of tasty bites. The atmosphere was laid-back and welcoming, filled with locals and travelers swapping stories.

Buoy Beer is another favorite, located in a restored cannery building right on the river. The views from their deck are incredible, and the beer selection is top-notch.

Both spots showcase the town’s thriving craft scene and commitment to quality.

Beyond the breweries, downtown is full of hidden gems. I found a quirky bookshop, a candy store with homemade fudge, and a coffee shop that served the best latte I’ve had in months.

The walkability makes it easy to explore at your own pace, and the mix of old and new gives the area a unique charm. Astoria’s downtown is proof that small towns can pack a big punch.

Uppertown Firefighters Museum Honors Brave Heroes and Astoria’s Fire-Fighting Legacy

The Uppertown Firefighters Museum might be small, but it packs a powerful punch when it comes to storytelling. Housed in a historic firehouse, this museum celebrates the brave men and women who fought fires in Astoria over the decades.

The building itself is a piece of history, with its classic red brick facade and vintage charm that takes you back to a time when horse-drawn engines rushed through the streets.

Inside, I found an impressive collection of antique fire equipment, uniforms, helmets, and photographs that document the evolution of firefighting in Oregon. One of the highlights is a beautifully restored hand-pumper fire engine from the 1800s, polished to a gleaming shine.

The volunteers who run the museum are often former firefighters themselves, and their passion and knowledge bring the exhibits to life. They shared stories of historic fires, heroic rescues, and the tight-knit community of firefighters who protected the town.

The museum is located at 2968 Marine Dr, Astoria, OR 97103, and it’s open on select days, so check ahead before you visit. It’s a quick stop, but it left a lasting impression on me.

This is a place that honors courage, service, and community, and it’s a fitting tribute to the everyday heroes who keep us safe.