Top Things to Do in Astoria, Oregon on Your Visit

Astoria, Oregon, is a charming coastal town located at the mouth of the Columbia River. Known for its rich history, stunning scenery, and vibrant cultural scene, Astoria makes for an ideal getaway. Whether you’re visiting for the picturesque views, the historical landmarks, or the delicious seafood, there's something for everyone. This guide will walk you through the top things to do during your visit to this unique town.

Astoria Hotels: Where to Stay

Before diving into the exciting attractions, let's talk about accommodations. Finding the right place to stay can enhance your experience. Astoria has a variety of hotels catering to different tastes and budgets. What makes the Norblad Hotel different is that we provide everything guests need and nothing they don't. We take pride in our minimalistic accommodations. You won't find any mass-produced art or outdated furniture in our hotel - only fresh, vibrant rooms with super comfy beds and furnishings. We're located right downtown, surrounded by fun shops, pubs, distilleries, and restaurants.

For special offers, check out the Norblad Hotel Special Offers page.

Stunning sunset over the Astoria-Megler Bridge

Discover Astoria's Rich History

Astoria is steeped in history, and exploring its historical landmarks is a must. One of the most significant sites is the Oregon Film Museum, located in the old Clatsop County Jail. Here, visitors can learn about Astoria’s role in the film industry and see exhibits dedicated to iconic movies filmed in the area, such as “The Goonies.” The museum hosts interactive exhibits that make it fun for all ages.

Another historical attraction is the Columbia River Maritime Museum. This museum showcases the maritime heritage of the Columbia River and features fascinating exhibits about shipwrecks, fishing, and the region's indigenous cultures. Be sure to take a stroll along the adjacent waterfront, where you can see historic vessels moored in the river.

One popular destination is the Astoria Column, a tower that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Climbing to the top of this historic monument is well worth the effort, as you can capture stunning photographs of the Columbia River, mountains, and the city below.

Additionally, the Flavel House Museum provides an intriguing look into the life of a prominent local family during the late 19th century. The museum is housed in a beautifully preserved Victorian home and offers guided tours. Kids will enjoy the treasure hunt activity that the museum organizes, making learning about history an adventure.

The Oregon Film Museum entrance showcasing a film reel

Why Are So Many Hotels Around the World Called "Astoria?"

You may wonder why so many hotels share the name Astoria. The name originates from the early 19th century when John Jacob Astor founded what was to become a flourishing trading post. Astor’s influence established the town's identity, and over the decades, many establishments have adopted the name “Astoria” to capitalize on its historical significance and charm. Today, you'll find hotels and businesses proudly bearing the Astoria name, attracting visitors who wish to experience the locale's heritage.

Outdoor Adventures Await

The great outdoors beckons in Astoria, offering numerous activities for nature enthusiasts. One notable destination is Fort Stevens State Park, where you can explore the ruins of an old military fort, hike scenic trails, and enjoy beautiful beaches. Bring your binoculars for some bird watching or partake in fishing and crabbing. This park is a fantastic spot for adventureers looking to relax and enjoy nature.

For a unique experience, consider taking the Astoria Riverwalk. This scenic path runs along the waterfront, providing stunning views of the Columbia River and various public art installations. The Riverwalk is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking while soaking in the beautiful surroundings.

Fort Stevens State Park has lots of activities for ocean-goers, trail enthusiasts, and outdoor fans.

Culinary Delights

After a day spent exploring, delight your taste buds with Astoria's culinary offerings. The town is known for its fresh seafood, so don't miss out on trying some local specialties. One popular spot is Bowpicker Fish & Chips, famous for its delicious battered fish served from a converted tuna boat. Grab your meal to go and enjoy it at one of the riverside parks.

Another must-visit is T-Paul's Supper Club, a fun, refined establishment celebrated for its inventive menu. The casual dining atmosphere and downtown vibe make it a perfect spot to relax after a day of sightseeing.

Unique Shopping Experiences

Shopping in Astoria is an adventure in itself. The town is home to many unique boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries waiting to be explored. Astoria Vintage Hardware is a treasure trove for anyone interested in antiques and vintage decor; you can find anything from retro furniture to eclectic home accessories.

For those who appreciate local art, be sure to stop by the RiverSea Gallery. This cooperative gallery showcases the work of local artists and artisans. Here, you can find one-of-a-kind pieces to take home as a reminder of your visit.

Unwind and Reflect

After experiencing all that Astoria has to offer, take some time to relax and reflect on your adventures. A sunset walk along the Astoria River Walk to gaze at the Astoria-Megler Bridge over the Columbia River can provide the perfect end to your day. The 4-mile bridge offers stunning views and is one of the longest continuous truss bridges in North America. Enjoying the sunset over the river, with stunning colors reflecting off the water, is an experience you won't forget.

Astoria, Oregon, is a treasure trove of history, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or on a solo adventure, there’s something for everyone. With a range of attractions and activities, it is easy to fill your itinerary with exciting things to do.

So pack your bags, book one of our great offers and make your way to this coastal gem for an unforgettable experience!

How Booking Direct Can Help You Find the Best Deals for Your Vacation

Booking your vacation directly with hotels, airlines, or other service providers can offer several advantages that may lead to better deals and overall experiences. Here are some key reasons why you should consider booking direct:

1. Best Price Guarantee

Many hotels and airlines offer a best price guarantee when you book directly through their websites. This means if you find a lower rate elsewhere, they may match it or offer additional perks.

2. Exclusive Offers and Discounts

Direct bookings often come with exclusive promotions, discounts, or packages that are not available through third-party sites. These can include free breakfast, room upgrades, or late check-out.

3. Loyalty Rewards

Booking directly allows you to earn points or rewards that can be redeemed for future stays, upgrades, or other benefits.

4. Better Customer Service

When you book direct, you are more likely to receive better customer service. Hotels and airlines prioritize direct customers, making it easier to resolve any issues or changes to your itinerary.

5. Flexible Cancellation Policies

Direct bookings often come with more flexible cancellation policies compared to third-party sites. This can be crucial if your travel plans change unexpectedly.

6. More Accurate Information

Booking directly ensures that you receive the most accurate and up-to-date information about your accommodations or flights. Third-party sites may not always reflect current availability or policies.

7. Avoiding Hidden Fees

Third-party booking sites may include hidden fees or charges that can inflate the final cost of your vacation. By booking directly, you can often avoid these additional costs.

In summary, booking your vacation directly can lead to better deals, enhanced customer service, and a more enjoyable travel experience. By taking advantage of the benefits of direct bookings, you can ensure that your vacation is not only affordable but also tailored to your preferences.

Finding the perfect hotel for your vacation can be a daunting task, especially when trying to stick to a budget. With numerous options available, it’s essential to know how to navigate them effectively to ensure you get the best hotel deals. Here, we will provide you with practical tips and strategies to help you make informed decisions for your travels.

Understanding Hotel Deals

When searching for hotel accommodations, it's crucial to understand what constitutes a great deal. A good hotel deal is often a combination of price, location, amenities, and customer service. While a low price can be enticing, consider other factors such as cleanliness, accessibility, and guest reviews. You might find a cheaper option that doesn't meet your standards, ultimately costing you more in terms of comfort and convenience.

A cozy hotel room with welcoming decor.

Look out for the following types of deals:

• Seasonal Promotions: Hotels often have discounts during off-peak seasons. Research your destination's travel seasons and consider visiting during quieter times for better rates.

• Flash Sales: Websites and apps frequently run limited-time offers at reduced prices. Set up alerts to be notified when these opportunities arise.

  
  

• Last-Minute Deals: If you’re flexible with your travel plans, booking at the last minute can sometimes yield great savings, as hotels lower their prices to fill rooms.

  
  

How to get the best deal?

Once you've identified potential hotels, you can take further steps to ensure you’re getting the best deal on your booking:

1. Flexible Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, use this to your advantage. Some websites allow you to view prices across a range of dates, helping you identify the cheapest options.

   
   

2. Call the Hotel Directly: A quick phone call to the hotel can sometimes lead to better rates or special hotel offers. It’s worth it to ask if they have any unpublished discounts.

   
   

3. Price Matching: Some hotels and booking sites offer a price match guarantee. If you find a lower price elsewhere, they’ll often match it. Be sure to ask about this option when booking.

   
   

A welcoming retreat for guests.

Additional Tips for Finding Great Hotel Deals

• Read Reviews: Always check recent reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Google. They provide insights into the current state of the hotel and its services.

  
  

• Travel Off-Peak: Avoid holidays and events that typically drive prices up. Plan your trip during less popular times for your destination.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Finding the best hotel deals requires a combination of research, strategy, and flexibility. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can secure accommodations that won’t break the bank, allowing you to enjoy your vacation without financial stress. Remember to explore special hotel offers that may be available, adding even more value to your stay.

Happy travels!

A Winter Guide for Fun in Astoria, Oregon (+6 Spots for Getting Outside)

Astoria, Oregon is the oldest settlement west of the Rocky Mountains - which is pretty impressive in its own right - but visitors often mistake this picturesque town as a seasonal spot. JUST NOT TRUE. We're here to show you that Astoria and the North Coast has SO much to offer, even in the Winter!

THE WEATHER

Astoria has a long standing reputation as a blustery and rainy place in the Winter, and while we definitely get our share of the wet stuff, the cooler season can surprise you! For instance, sunsets in Winter on the Oregon Coast are GORGEOUS. The low hanging clouds and angle of the sun make for spectacular evening shows and great photo ops! So bundle up, wear your waterproof boots, and get out there.

WHERE TO GO

State Parks

Just because it's Winter doesn't mean that you're stuck being inside. The North Coast is a veritable wonderland of outdoor fun and provides a much needed alternative to indoor activities - which we desperately need (especially these days.) State parks are ideal for allowing travelers to get outside and explore, while still being accessible and safe.

Fort Stevens State Park

Fort Stevens State Park is not only a historic military site, but this popular park boasts 4,300 acres of hiking trails, paved walk and bike paths, beaches, coastal forests, and camping. While it can be crowded in the Summer, it sees less traffic in the Winter months so you can take full advantage of all the park has to offer while social distancing like a pro. If you're feeling especially adventurous, take in a little Winter storm watching on the South Jetty observation tower!

Distance from the Norblad Hotel - 9.4 miles.

Ecola State Park

Want to get a shot of one of the most iconic views of the Oregon coastline? Head over to Ecola State Park and hike down to the viewing platform. From Haystack Rock to the mysterious "Terribly Tilly" Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, there is no shortage of eye candy while at Ecola State Park.

Ecola is an excellent spot to spend the day on a trail too; the Oregon Coast Trail runs straight through the park in an eight mile stretch. If you want to kick up the intensity take the Clatsop Loop Trail down to the popular surf spot, Indian Beach. Just be careful when on the beach. The Winter weather can make for some gnarly seas!

Distance from the Norblad Hotel - 25.9 miles.

Astoria City Parks

You don't have to travel far from the hotel to take in a little outdoor adventure. Astoria has lots of inner-city hideaways and parks to explore without ever leaving the city limits! The best part about visiting these unique spaces in the Winter is that you might be the only one around, giving you lots of opportunities for communing with nature or just getting that perfect photo for the 'gram!

Shively Park

Shively Park is one of those tucked away places that day travelers rarely stumble upon, but it is worth the visit! The park has a paved walkway that encircles the main park area and leads you through a magical inner-city forest of enormous trees, hidden trails, and long, concrete steps that, seemingly, lead to nowhere.

In the early 1900's, Shively Park was a vibrant new park with extensive gardens and structures; now every corner holds some remnant of the park's illustrious past, reclaimed by the forest. Shively Park's paved loop is a great alternative to some of the unpaved trails in town that can get pretty muddy and sloppy in the Winter months.

Distance from the Norblad Hotel - 1.2 miles.

Astoria Riverwalk

The Astoria Riverwalk is a really special feature on our waterfront which runs along the bank of the Columbia River. Travelers normally explore parts of the Riverwalk rather than undertake the entire six mile trek, but either way it's a great way to get some incredible views of the mighty Columbia. You can walk, bike, run, or take the dog for a long stroll, all while experiencing Astoria from this unique, paved, walkway. The best part? The Astoria Riverwalk is only two blocks from the Norblad Hotel!

Distance from the Norblad Hotel - Less than a mile.

Cathedral Tree Trail

Grab your walking shoes and head up to the Cathedral Tree Trail for one of the coolest experiences Astoria has to offer. Hidden away on the Astoria hilltop, the Cathedral Tree is an enormous 300 year old Sitka Spruce that sits on a trail between the Astoria Column and Irving Avenue.

While you can make it to Cathedral Tree by taking the trailhead beginning at the Astoria Column, it can get messy in the Winter rains. To save yourself the potential for a muddy fall, park at the Cathedral Tree Trailhead on Irving Avenue and enjoy a graveled trail that makes up most of the walk to the beautiful tree.

Distance from the Norblad - 1.2 miles.

Bonus!

Sunset Beach

One of the only places in Oregon that you can drive on the beach, Sunset Beach is a cool, out of the way spot that is ideal for checking out those Winter sunsets! Being able to pull up to a cozy section of sand in your vehicle saves you from having to make the trek from the parking lot - which, in Winter, can be quite chilly and cold.

Instead, you can watch the ocean waves and dune wildlife from the comfort of your car! The beach stretches on for roughly ten miles, giving travelers plenty of room to spread out and maintain a wide berth from one another. The wind is a constant on the beach, so be sure to bring a warm hat and jacket. Also, never underestimate the power of the Winter waves and keep an eye on the tides!

Distance from the Norblad - 9.6 miles

WHEN TO GO

Crowds tend to become increasingly larger in late Spring, so shoot for December through March for ideal low-crowd conditions. The Norblad Hotel makes traveling during this time a bit easier by offering super affordable rates and specials for ambitious Winter wanderers. Whenever you decide to make your Winter adventures happen - whether for a quick weekend getaway or an all out road trip down the coast - be safe and have fun!

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