If you’re planning an Oregon Coast trip and Astoria isn’t on your list yet, let me fix that.
Astoria, Oregon is one of those places that somehow manages to feel like a beach town, an old fishing village, a tiny artsy city, and the set of your childhood favorite movie all at once.
It’s a little quirky, a little moody, extremely walkable, and packed with enough good food, cute shops, historic buildings, and outdoor adventures to easily fill a weekend. Plus, there are sea lions loudly announcing their presence from the waterfront, giant ships cruising down the Columbia River, and, yes, the actual house from The Goonies.
Things to Do in Astoria, Oregon
You can absolutely fill an entire weekend with sightseeing, shopping, hiking, eating, and general wandering around Astoria.
Visit the Goonies House – The house used as the Walsh family home in The Goonies is in Astoria, and yes, people absolutely make the pilgrimage to see it. Just remember that it’s a private residence, so admire it respectfully from the appropriate public area and don’t trespass.
Climb the Astoria Column – The Astoria Column sits high above town on Coxcomb Hill and offers huge views over Astoria, the Columbia River, the surrounding forests, and the bridge. It is a bit of a walk to the top of the column, so you definitely can count it as your workout for the day. They have cute wooden gliders to purchase at the gift shop. I’d highly recommend launching one off the top of the column and trying to find it later.
Parking for the column is $10.
Wander through downtown – Wander through downtown, check out the historic buildings, pop into little shops, grab coffee, and make your way toward the waterfront. Astoria has plenty of vintage, antique, thrift, and secondhand shops, so you’ll probably end up taking home something that definitely was not on your original packing list. I had a little too much fun at a shop dedicated to Finnish Goods called Finn Ware, check that store out for sure.
Watch the Sea Lions – You’ll probably hear the sea lions before you see them. They hang out around the waterfront and are impossible to miss when they’re around.
Walk the Astoria Riverwalk – You’ll get views of the Columbia River, boats, ships, historic buildings, restaurants, and plenty of opportunities to stop for a drink or snack along the way.
Go to the Beach – Astoria itself sits on the Columbia River rather than directly on the Pacific, but some fantastic beaches are just a short drive away. Head to Fort Stevens State Park for beach walks, forest trails, history, and the famous Peter Iredale shipwreck, or drive toward Cannon Beach for the classic Oregon Coast experience with Haystack Rock.
Where to Eat in Astoria, Oregon
Astoria packs a surprisingly stellar food scene. Enjoy iconic fish and chips, craft breweries, cozy bakeries, fresh seafood, and handmade pasta. Top it all off with scenic waterfront dining. You could easily spend an entire weekend eating your way around town, and honestly, I support that plan.
Bowpicker Fish & Chips – Bowpicker is an Astoria classic, and yes, it’s literally housed in an old fishing boat. Grab the fish and chips, sit outside, and enjoy eating out of a paper boat.
Fort George Brewery – Fort George is the place to go when you want yummy beer, pizza, burgers and vibes.
Blue Scorcher Bakery & Cafe – Start your morning at Blue Scorcher with a coffee and something fresh from the bakery. It’s cozy, local, and exactly the kind of place where you walk in for one pastry and somehow leave with three.
Bridgewater Bistro – For a waterfront dinner with views of the Columbia River, head to Bridgewater Bistro. It is the perfect choice for an upscale meal with an approachable vibe. You get high-end dining without any stuffy pretension.
Where to Stay in Astoria, Oregon
Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa – For a luxury splurge, this top-tier spot sits directly over the Columbia River. Every room offers sweeping waterfront views right from your window.
Bowline Hotel – Bowline Hotel is a stylish, modern stay in a converted cannery right on the waterfront. It has a cool, relaxed vibe and puts you close to downtown, restaurants, breweries, and all the wandering you came to Astoria for.
Hotel Elliott – This charming boutique hotel sits right in the heart of downtown Astoria. Its walkable location lets you park once and explore everything on foot. Historic details, cozy rooms, and a rooftop terrace make it a memorable part of your stay.
Norblad Hotel – This historic downtown hotel offers a fun, independent vibe. Walkable access to local restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, and boutiques is right outside your door.
Hikes Near Astoria, Oregon
Netul River Trail: This easy riverside walk near Fort Clatsop meanders peacefully through dense forest. It is the perfect choice when you want lush nature without a serious workout.
Fort to Sea Trail: This longer route connects Fort Clatsop to the Pacific through scenic forests and coastal dunes. It makes for an ideal half-day hiking adventure.
Fort Stevens State Park: Come for the scenic trails, expansive beaches, and historic military sites. Don’t miss the iconic Peter Iredale shipwreck resting right on the shore.
Cape Disappointment: Located just across the river in Washington, this rugged park features dramatic cliffs and ocean views. Its forest trails and historic lighthouses make the extra drive well worth it.
The Perfect Astoria Weekend
If I were planning the ultimate Astoria, Oregon weekend getaway, here’s how I’d do it:
Friday: Coastal Air and Cold Beer
Check into your hotel, and head straight downtown to take in the historic brick architecture and working waterfront vibes. Kick off the weekend with a cold craft pint at Fort George Brewery in the heart of town. Grab a pizza at the brewery!
Saturday: Nostalgic Sights and Sea Lion Serenades
Start early with fresh pastries at Blue Scorcher Bakery before taking a drive to the iconic Goonies House. Climb the 164 spiral stairs of the Astoria Column to launch a wood glider. Catch lunch at Bowpicker for fresh fish and chips, then stroll the Riverwalk to watch the boisterous sea lions before eating and drinking your way throughout the town.
Sunday: Forest Trails and Ocean Waves
Grab a warm coffee and head into the towering greenery along the Cathedral Tree Trail or out to Fort Stevens State Park. Walk along the windy beach to check out the rusting shipwreck of the Peter Iredale.