I have to admit that I have not been in Astoria since my elementary school class in Tacoma, Washington had a field trip that followed the path of Lewis and Clark along the Columbia River. I don’t know what I was expecting but what I found was delightful.

Astoria is located in the far northwestern corner of Oregon, just east of the famous Columbia River bar, an area prone to wind and wave.  Ocean waves crash against the build-up of river sediment that forms the under-sea wall or “bar.” Large ships must use dredged channels lest they go aground on the bar. For this reason they require skilled pilots who often board by helicopter when seas are rough. It can be a harrowing experience especially during winter. The local fishermen of Astoria know the peculiarities of the Columbia bar as they guide their boats over it every day.  If your cruise itinerary includes a call on Astoria, I recommend that you make a point of watching either the approach in or out of port – over the bar. The scenery is beautiful and the maneuvering is impressive.

The area is rich in history dating back to 1792 and the arrival of Captain Robert Gray, followed by Lewis and Clark in 1805. As a city, Astoria dates back to 1811. It was the first permanent settlement west of the Rockies. This May was the bi-centennial celebration. The town was named after John Jacob Astor who funded the fur trading expedition that set-up shop at the mouth of the Columbia River. As one of the oldest communities in the Pacific Northwest, it contains surprisingly beautiful examples of Victorian architecture. There are grand houses; some open to the public like the Flavel House, others which have been turned into fantastic bed & breakfasts like the Grandview. (Fun fact: One fourth of the city’s houses are eligible for status of National Historic Landmark!) As the county seat the government buildings constructed in the early 1900’s are magnificent. The lobby of the massive granite post office contains an impressive assortment of floor to ceiling marble quarried from throughout the state. In addition to the elegant Hotel Elliott and the former Hotel Astoria the downtown features charming store-fronts and the newly restored Liberty Theater. Looking at the black and white photos taken at the turn of the century not much has changed — a testament to the investment that has been made in restoring this historic town. Shoppers interested in antiques will be thrilled with the number of stores specializing in the heyday of Victorian Astoria – from furniture to architectural fittings – all at very reasonable prices! (My best friend jokes that I always seem to find lamps and chairs when I am traveling, true to form, I found plenty that I felt I couldn’t live without and wished I had a U-Haul!)

From the ship there is a 2 mile river-walk that winds along the water-front by-passing the traffic of the main street. The track of the old restored street car runs parallels to the walk; the trolley runs every half hour with stops along the way.  For those not on tour there is plenty of printed material to help you plan and explore; local hosts are also posted throughout town to answer questions and direct visitors.  There are many interesting museums and exhibits all within easy walking distance of downtown. Perched up on the hill is the Astoria Column, a 125 foot monument that depicts the exploration and settling of the area. From the top of the hill visitors have a great view of the Columbia River and Pacific Ocean; for a even better view you can climb the 164 steps to the top.

Not too far away are historic Fort Clatsop and Fort Stevens; both built as trading posts during the 1800’s.  Just a short drive from Astoria are the beautiful coastal towns of Seaside and Cannon Beach.