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Astoria is a port and city on Oregon Coast, the place where the Columbia River falls into the ocean. The oldest city on the Pacific Coast, and the oldest settlement by far west of the Rockies is Astoria, founded in 1811 by a millionaire by the name of John Jacob Astor. Streets here are hung with original, beautifully-kept Victorian homes. The view from Astoria Column is nothing less than breathtaking. Because of the colorful Victorian homes, it has been coined as the "Little San Francisco of the Pacific Northwest." Feast upon delectable Northwest halibut fish and chips along with craft beers. Trendy, one-of-a-kind shops are found downtown, as well as breathtaking sights, and the good stuff about food and drink. You will love this stop-on-your-cruise experience!
From examining maritime heritage to enjoying scenic outdoor exploits, this pretty destination would appeal to all. Here are five of the best things to do when one visits Astoria.
Atop Coxcomb Hill stands the 125-foot Astoria Column with a spiral mural embellished with depictions of the history of the region. Also, remember to launch a wooden glider from the top—a fun local tradition! The glider swoops and swooshes through the air, dancing across the terrain before softly landing. This is one experience that captures the charm and adventure Astoria is about, forever making a climb up Coxcomb Hill unforgettable.
An interesting museum that depicts Astoria's maritime history with interactive presentations and artifacts. It gives insights into deadly shipwrecks, life at sea, and the strong influence of the Columbia River Bar. Guests can actually experience the life of a mariner aboard the decommissioned lightship Columbia at the museum. It provides education programs and workshops to people of all ages on maritime history and its effects. Observation decks allow viewing of the Columbia River and Pacific Ocean.
Coming onto the scenic Columbia River shores is the exquisite six-mile stretch of the river park known as the Astoria Riverwalk. This is designed to showcase the outstanding visual beauty, the historic sites, and local wildlife that this portion of the Columbia River has to offer. Walk, bike, or hop on one of the retro-style Riverfront Trolley cars—you'll pass by delightful waterfront eateries, old canaries, and playful sea lions languidly basking on the docks. On the exciting Riverwalk, you'll also see art installations, interpretive signage, and benches for rest—the walk is perfectly suited for those seeking leisurely outings or those wanting to conduct an educational session. Feast your eyes on all the seasonal events and festivals that enliven the area even more as it turns the place into a bright side of its gorgeous riverside experience.
Once a military installation of great importance in defense, Fort Stevens State Park today is a historical and recreational place—one complete with the sites of the ruins of the fort built during Civil War times, the relic of the famed Peter Iredale shipwreck, and miles of hiking and biking trails.
If you are a film buff, then Oregon Film Museum is a must. Housed in the earlier Clatsop County Jail, where Goonies was filmed, the museum celebrates almost that historic decade in Oregon's film history with some memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and a mini film studio. This is a cool, odd stop for everyone! Guided excursions of the museum offer you a more in-depth understanding of the state's film heritage. Be it a film buff or someone merely looking for something different, this is a must-see for all visitors to Astoria.
Choose your cruise line to take you to Astoria according to your preference, be it for luxury, adventure, or traditional cruising.
So would you like to travel by Princess Cruises to reach Astoria in Oregon? This beautiful historic port town is usually included in the itinerary of Princess Cruises for Pacific Coast and Alaska routes, to be enjoyed with Prince's stunning waterfront, maritime history, and scenic scenery, plus the rich heritage and breathtaking scenery make for unforgettable memories. Passengers will experience guided tours, local culinary delights, and some shopping adventures. Princess Cruises guarantees a comfortable and gratifying journey to discover the best of Astoria.
Entertains both thrill-seeking and nature-craving individuals with a variety of activities and excursions. Find fun in Astoria's rough coastline and adventure activities, coupled with a lively local culture. It depicts the coastal natural beauty and adventurous spirit of the Astorian dweller through an action-packed and exciting cruise journey.
Celebrity Cruises will be an awesome consideration for a lovely, modern twist to a cruise visit to Astoria, Oregon. Coastal town Astoria is quite a place on the schedule of Celebrity Cruises Pacific Coastal and Alaska itineraries, because of its rich maritime history, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant culture. Everything will be there, from fine dining to chic accommodation and world-class entertainment. Celebrity Cruises combine modern luxury with the charm of what makes Astoria so special.
Astoria's regal and immersive journey is with Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Regent ships are smaller and elegant; they are more convenient means of enjoying how rich the history, landscapes, and cultures that Astoria has been producing. Go aboard a Regent ship and discover what rich history, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage could be found in Astoria. Regent Seven Seas Cruises provides personalized service with gourmet cuisine and immersive shore excursions.
Astoria is another destination you can do freestyle with Norwegian. There are excursions to the Astoria Column, Fort Stevens, and the Columbia River Maritime Museum. Good entertainment, large rooms, and great dining, that's what you get on board a Norwegian Cruise.
On its Pacific Northwest and Alaska itineraries, Holland America usually includes Astoria. The elegant and classic design of the onboard experience allows for lectures, culinary experiences, and scenic tours of the Columbia River Gorge.
It is probable that the best time to visit as a port of call would be in late spring or early fall (October-November) or during the summer months (July) if you like warm weather and springlike conditions.
Any cruise will also be pleasant because it makes smart packing possible with this simple checklist of additional mandatory items: