11 Unbelievable Coming Attractions in Astoria, Oregon [Unique Infographic]
Have you ever wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life? To explore a place full of vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse attractions? Astoria Oregon is just that. An oasis waiting to be explored. A paradise where you can feel free to reconnect with yourself in ways only nature can allow. Famous for being the site of the classic 1985 film The Goonies, Astoria is a small town on the mouth of the Columbia River near the Oregon coast. With its breathtaking scenery as far as the eye can see, it’s no wonder why Astoria has become known as a “gem” among locals and tourists alike.
As if the beauty isn’t enough, coming attractions are sure to awe even the most experienced wanderer. From outdoor activities such as hiking amongst towering trees or skiing through snow-capped mountains, to restaurants serving up delicious dishes from the freshest ingredients – there really is something for everyone in Astoria! Whether your idea of a perfect day involves exploring historical sites like Fort Stevens State Park or discovering new tastes at a food truck rally, get ready for an adventure unlike any other when visiting this lovely corner of Oregon.
And what better way than to start off your journey than by attending one of Astoria’s premiere events, The Fisher Poets Gathering? This annual celebration brings fishermen together from all around the world to share their stories in song and verse – truly providing an unforgettable experience that will leave you inspired and eager for more! So come on down and discover what makes Astoria so special; You won’t regret it!
7 Unbelievable Coming Attractions in Astoria Oregon – Infographic
1. Astoria Warrenton Crab, Seafood & Wine Festival
The Astoria Warrenton Crab, Seafood & Wine Festival is a staple of the Oregon Coast. Every year in June, locals and tourists alike gather to celebrate all that Astoria has to offer. From the iconic Astoria Column to the charming Astoria Riverwalk, visitors can explore this historic town while tasting some of the best seafood, wine and beer around.
The Astoria Warrenton Crab, Seafood & Wine Festival, is an annual event that has been taking place on the North Oregon Coast for 40 years. It is a celebration of the region’s culture and cuisine, featuring local arts and crafts, microbrews, and, of course, delicious seafood and wine. The festival is organized by the Astoria Warrenton Area Chamber of Commerce. It is a popular event that draws thousands of visitors each year, with the Saturday being the busiest day.
The atmosphere is lively and vibrant, with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out or a chance to sample some of the best seafood and wine, the region has to offer, the Astoria Warrenton Crab, Seafood & Wine Festival is the perfect place to be.
2. Great Columbia Crossing 10k Run/Walk
The Great Columbia Crossing 10k Run/Walk is an event that offers a unique experience for runners and walkers alike. With the majestic backdrop of the iconic Columbia River, The Great Columbia Crossing 10K Run/Walk in Astoria, Oregon is an event like no other. Spanning the lower Columbia River from Washington to Oregon, the iconic Astoria-Megler Bridge is the longest continuous truss bridge in North America and is only open to pedestrians for this one event each year.
The 10K offers a scenic adventure on a fairly flat road with one STEEP incline to the peak of the bridge. Since 1982, the event has been hosted by the Astoria-Warrenton Area Chamber of Commerce and has grown to include over 3,000 participants. It is a fundraiser for the Chamber of Commerce, allowing them to continue hosting the event year after year, as well as giving back to the community by employing/hiring/utilizing chamber members and local businesses and by giving donations to area nonprofits in exchange for services provided during the event.
This run/walk event is more than just exercise – it’s an opportunity to explore some of Oregon’s best attractions along one continuous route. Whether you choose to run or walk, you will be surrounded by breathtaking scenery and plenty of opportunities to take photos and enjoy nature along the way. Even those who do not like running or walking can appreciate this course with its variety of sights from land and sea, including historic monuments and wildlife viewing areas.
For anyone looking for adventure on the Northwest coast, there is no better place than taking part in this annual race across the mighty Columbia River! Participants will have access to all kinds of amenities during their time here – camping grounds, food vendors, restrooms, picnic tables – making it easy to make this a weekend getaway full of fun activities before crossing the finish line at last.
3. Independence Day Fireworks
Every year on July 4th, Astoria, Oregon celebrates Independence Day with an awe-inspiring fireworks show. Spectators come from all over to see the 20-minute display of red, white, and blue that lights up the night sky. On the evening of July 4th, the skies will light up with a dazzling display of fireworks over the Columbia River.
The show will be visible from the Astoria Park Great Lawn and the fireworks will be shot from a barge in the river near downtown Astoria, providing a multitude of magnificent views points for spectators to safely enjoy the show. Every year there are also a variety if activities such as a 5K run, a concert, and a car show.
Come to Astoria to celebrate Independence Day in style and you will not regret it!
4. Astoria Column
Standing tall and proud, the Astoria Column commands attention. From its perch atop Coxcomb Hill, the 125-foot structure stands watch over downtown Astoria, Fort Stevens and Haystack Rock. The column was built in 1926 to honor early settlers of the region and serves as a monument for their courage, determination, and spirit of exploration.
Climbing 164 steps to reach the top reveals breathtaking views across Oregon’s north coast. A spiral frieze wraps around the shaft depicting events from local history beginning with Lewis and Clark’s arrival at Fort Clatsop in 1805 all the way up to 1912 when Oregon became a state. Alongside these images are reminders of other significant figures such as George Flavel who established himself in Astoria by building what is now known as Flavel House Museum or John Jacob Astor’s fur trading post called Fort Astoria that gave birth to modern day Astoria.
The view from this historic landmark inspires visitors to contemplate life’s possibilities while admiring nature’s beauty below. Whether it be memories of past adventures or dreams about future ones, gazing out upon this iconic piece of heritage evokes an inner sense of freedom like no other place can provide.
5. The Fisher Poets Gathering
The Fisher Poets Gathering in Astoria Oregon is an annual event that celebrates the commercial fishing industry through poetry, prose and song. It was first initiated and catalyzed by the Astoria Fisher Poets Gathering organization in 1988 and has been held on the last weekend of February ever since. The Gathering brings together commercial fishers and their families, cannery workers, shipwrights, and those who work with wooden boats or old sailing ships.
The main events of the Gathering include performances of music, poetry and prose Friday and Saturday evenings between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. at various Astoria venues such as the Astoria Brewing Co., the Ten-Fifteen Theater, Fort George Brewery’s Lovell Showroom, the Columbian Theater, KALA performance gallery and the Liberty Theatre. Additionally, there are workshops and presentations on topics like performing the spoken word, crafting working poetry, restoring global ocean health and repairing local watersheds.
6. Astoria-Megler Bridge
The Astoria-Megler Bridge is a true feat of engineering in the Pacific Northwest, stretching 4.1 miles across the Columbia River between Oregon and Washington. It’s one of those awe-inspiring sights that gives you pause – it’s like looking into an abyss as you drive across it, suspended over the icy waters below. A figure of speech to describe this experience might be ‘a bridge to freedom’.
The Astoria-Megler Bridge is a steel cantilever through truss bridge located in the northwest United States, spanning the lower Columbia River between Astoria, Oregon and Point Ellice near Megler, Washington. It was designed by William A. Bugee and opened in 1966, making it the longest continuous truss bridge in North America at 21,474 feet (4.0670 mi; 6.545 km) in length. The cantilever-span section is 2,468 feet (752 m) long, and its main (central) span measures 1,233 feet (376 m). It was built to withstand 150 mph (240 km/h) wind gusts and river water speeds of 9 mph (14 km/h).
The bridge was meant to replace ferry service that was inefficient and subject to disruptions during bad weather. But there was much debate over its construction because of its remote location, and critics called it a “bridge to nowhere.” They were proved wrong: soon after the bridge was dedicated on August 27, 1966, the volume of traffic it carried far exceeded expectations.
The bridge is the site of the Great Columbia Crossing, held each October, during which pedestrians are allowed to cross the bridge. Associated with the event, the town of Astoria hosts the Silver Salmon Celebration festival, which includes a barbecue and entertainment. In addition, the bridge has been featured in several car and truck television commercials, as well as in the 1986 movie Short Circuit.
The Astoria-Megler Bridge is an impressive feat of engineering and a testament to the power of human ingenuity. It stands as a symbol of progress and connection, connecting two states and providing a vital link in the U.S. highway system between Mexico and Canada.
This incredible structure connects two states with history dating back centuries; Astoria, Oregon (where Lewis and Clark first set foot on the West Coast) and Cannon Beach, where you can still find the remains of Peter Iredale shipwreck which has been there since 1906. The bridge stands out against its natural surroundings too: majestic views of the Columbia River Gorge and surrounding mountains make for a truly unforgettable journey when crossing from one side to another.
It takes about 20 minutes to cross the full length of the bridge but if you’re feeling adventurous enough, you could also take a detour through some of Oregon’s most beautiful coastal towns before heading south towards Portland or further north along Highway 101 until reaching your final destination. For any travellers who are interested in maritime history, a trip to the Columbia River Maritime Museum near Astoria would be a great way to learn more about this important part of America’s past.
So why not take time out of your busy schedule to explore what lies across Astoria Megler Bridge, an amazing symbol of human ingenuity? You won’t regret it!
7. Fort Clatsop National Memorial and Lewis and Clark National Historical Park
Fort Clatsop National Memorial is a must-see destination for visitors to Astoria, Oregon. Located just south of Fort George, the memorial commemorates the winter camp at Fort Clatsop, where Lewis and Clark spent their final days before heading home in 1806. The site offers many exciting activities that capture the spirit of adventure – from hiking trails like Cathedral Tree Trail and Astoria River Trail, to visiting historic sites including public houses built by fur traders.
Fort Clatsop National Memorial in Astoria, Oregon is a replica of the original fort built by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. Located in Clatsop County, just south of U.S. 101 about 4-1/2 miles southwest of Astoria, the memorial is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day except Christmas Day. It is an ideal stop for a history lesson and a picnic, and visitors can get their National Parks Passport stamped here.
The fort consists of two long facing buildings joined on the sides by palisades, which creates a small “parade ground” between the structures. During their stay, the Corps of Discovery reworked their journals, recorded ethnological, zoological, and botanical observations, collected specimens of flora and fauna, and planned the eastward journey. They also set up a saltmaking camp about 15 miles away at present Seaside, Oregon.
Today, visitors can experience the newest replica of Fort Clatsop by walking through the rooms, hiking the trails around the area, chatting with costumed rangers, and participating in ranger-led programs during the peak seasons. There is also a small museum about the history of the fort, a 20 minute film on the half hour as well as a small gift shop. Nearby attractions include the springs area, canoe landing for the expedition, and Netul Landing, which used to be an industrial area that was transferred to the National Park Service. There is a nice little observation deck and information display discussing the fascinating history of the expedition.
For those who want to explore nature further, there’s plenty of opportunity here too. Whether it be exploring one of the state parks such as Astoria Park or Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa, or kayaking along the Columbia River – you’re sure to find something special here. You can even take advantage of coming attractions theatres nearby to enjoy some fantastic films while on your visit!
A stay at Fort Clatsop National Memorial will give adventurers an unforgettable experience full of history and exploration. From learning about its past through interactive displays and educational programs, to participating in outdoor activities such as fishing, cycling and canoeing – this is truly a place that captures freedom and discovery. So why not make plans today?
8. Fort Stevens State Park
Fort Stevens State Park in Astoria, Oregon is a 4,300-acre park offering a variety of recreational activities. It is located 2 hours northwest of Portland and 10 miles east of the Columbia River. The park features five miles of sandy beach, trails, a freshwater lake, wildlife viewing, and an historic shipwreck.
The original earthen fort was built to keep British and Confederate gunboats from entering the mouth of the Columbia River. After World War II, Fort Stevens was considered obsolete, and it was turned over to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for use as a headquarters in 1947. On the night of June 21–22, 1942, the Japanese submarine I-25 surfaced off Fort Stevens and fired 17 shells from her 14 cm-caliber deck gun, making Fort Stevens the first military installation in the Contiguous United States to come under enemy fire in World War II.
At Fort Stevens, visitors can explore 6-miles of hiking trails through wetlands, sand dunes, spruce and hemlock forests, and 9-miles of biking trails. There is also a Military History Museum with displays of the fort’s history and information center. Visitors can also take underground tours of a gun battery that served as a World War II command center.
The most popular attraction at Fort Stevens is the Peter Iredale shipwreck, located at the end of Peter Iredale Road. This English ship ran aground on the Clatsop Spit in 1906, but there was no loss of life. The spit is known for its treacherous waters resulting in other shipwrecks like the Rambler (1859), Leonese (1860), J.C. Cousins (1883) and Makah (1888).
Driving is permitted on the sand at Fort Stevens, with access points at the Peter Iredale Beach, Sunset Beach, Del Rey Beach, and 10th Street in Gearhart. Cars are not permitted to drive south of 10th Street in Gearhart. The section between the Peter Iredale wreck up to the South Jetty is also off limits from May to September.
Oregon State Parks require a day use or annual fee. Visitors can also stay overnight at nearby Astoria or Cannon Beach. Astoria has a world-class Maritime Museum, Flavel House historic mansion to tour, the Astoria Column to climb, and beautiful waterfront restaurants like the Bridgewater Bistro or Buoy Beer.
Fort Stevens State Park offers something for everyone, from breathtaking views of the coast to exploring the many historic monuments and shipwrecks.
9. Astoria Oregon Riverwalk
The Astoria Oregon Riverwalk is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the United States’ Pacific Coast. As the saying goes, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step,” and this trail provides an excellent starting point to explore the entire city block. Located in downtown Astoria just off Coxcomb Hill, it’s easy to find and enjoy the beauty of nature right in town.
The Riverwalk is great for both leisurely strolls or longer explorations of the area’s unique geography and wildlife. With plenty of benches along the way, visitors can take their time to observe everything from wildflowers to migrating salmon as they move downstream. In addition, there are several annual community events that occur along the walkway such as concerts and festivals which bring locals and tourists together throughout the year.
For those looking for more educational experiences, there are also numerous community programs offered at various points on the Riverwalk including educational talks about local history and ecology. Regardless of what brings you here, The Astoria Oregon Riverwalk has something special waiting around every corner! Contact information is available online if you’d like more information or want to plan your next outing.
10. Astoria Riverfront Trolley
The Astoria Riverfront Trolley in Astoria, Oregon is a unique and exciting experience. Built in 1913 by the American Car Company of St. Louis, Missouri for the San Antonio Traction Company in Texas, the trolley has been running in the Pacific Northwest for over 10 years. It runs along the historic waterfront of Astoria, with restaurants, docks, and piers, providing passengers with magnificent views of the Columbia River and the 4-mile long Astoria-Megler Bridge, the longest bridge in North America. The trolley is operated and maintained by a volunteer crew. The conductor’s narration is informative and entertaining, pointing out the 1926 Astoria Column and other local attractions.
Don’t miss the Astoria Riverfront Trolley as one of the main attractions of the city.
11. Oregon Film Museum
If you are a movie buff, you need to visit The Oregon Film Museum located in the old Clatsop County Jail in Astoria, Oregon. The museum features memorabilia from over 400 major productions filmed in Oregon, including Animal House, The Shining, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Twilight, Rooster Cogburn, Stand By Me, Mr. Holland’s Opus, Drugstore Cowboy, Maverick, Men of Honor, Paint Your Wagon, Pay It Forward, The Postman, The General, Indian Fighter, Portlandia, Grimm, Leverage, The Librarians, Coraline, and ParaNorman. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits such as filmmaking, view behind-the-scenes videos, and browse the small gift shop.
The museum also pays homage to the iconic Goonies house, which was used in the movie’s filming. With its unique landscapes, Oregon has provided the backdrop for many memorable films, and the Oregon Film Museum is the perfect place to experience them.
Best Places to Stay in Astoria
Astoria, Oregon is home to some of the best hotels in the world. From the luxurious Rose River Inn Bed & Breakfast to the cozy Atomic Motel, there’s something for everyone. The Cannery Pier Hotel and Spa and Astoria Riverwalk Inn offer stunning views of the Columbia River and the majestic mountains of Washington, while the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Astoria provides a great family-friendly atmosphere. For those looking for a romantic getaway, the Selina Commodore Astoria is the perfect choice with its iconic guest rooms and on-site restaurant. With so many great options, Astoria is the perfect destination for a relaxing vacation.
Other accomodations in the city:
“I’m telling you, Astoria Oregon is the place to be! It’s a destination full of amusement and excitement – there’s something for everyone. From the Crab, Seafood & Wine Festival to the Great Columbia Crossing 10K Run/Walk, it’ll definitely keep your heart pumping with anticipation. And I haven’t even mentioned Independence Day Fireworks or all the other attractions yet! The Astoria Column stands tall in its beauty, while the majestic Astoria-Megler Bridge offers breathtaking views that stretch for miles and miles. Fort Stevens State Park is also an amazing sight to behold – perfect for exploration and adventure! Then there’s the quaint Astoria Riverfront Trolley and historic Fort Clatsop National Memorial too. All of these incredible locations are sure to leave you feeling satisfied and fulfilled after experiencing them yourself. So don’t miss out on coming attractions in Astoria Oregon – come explore today!”
Elizabeth