Nestled where the mighty Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean, Astoria is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most fascinating ports of call. As the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains, this historic coastal town blends maritime heritage, spectacular scenery, Victorian architecture, and a vibrant food scene into a memorable stop on many Columbia River small ship cruises.
While sailing on a Columbia River cruise, Astoria offers a rewarding day ashore with attractions that are easy to reach and rich in history.
Many Columbia River itineraries feature Astoria as one of their signature destinations before continuing inland toward the Columbia River Gorge and the Snake River, allowing guests to experience the region’s maritime beginnings before exploring its dramatic landscapes.
What to See and Do in Astoria, Oregon
Visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum
If you only have time for one attraction, make it the Columbia River Maritime Museum.
Located directly along the waterfront, this nationally recognized museum tells the story of one of the world’s most challenging waterways, where powerful river currents meet the Pacific Ocean. Interactive exhibits showcase:
- Historic fishing vessels
- Coast Guard rescue missions
- Columbia River Bar pilots
- Maritime exploration
- Commercial shipping
You’ll leave with a much deeper appreciation for the ships navigating these waters, including your own.
Walk Along the Astoria Riverwalk
Stretching for several miles along the Columbia River, the Astoria Riverwalk is one of the city’s best ways to experience its waterfront.
As you stroll, you’ll discover:
- Historic warehouses converted into shops and restaurants
- Working fishing docks
- Sea lions basking along the shoreline
- Views of cargo ships entering the Columbia River
- Public art and interpretive displays
Keep an eye out for the lovingly restored Astoria Riverfront Trolley, affectionately known as the “Old 300.” Riding this vintage trolley is a fun way to experience the waterfront while learning about Astoria’s colorful past.
Climb the Astoria Column
Standing atop Coxcomb Hill, the Astoria Column is the city’s most recognizable landmark.
After climbing the 164-step spiral staircase, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of:
- The Columbia River
- The Pacific Ocean
- The Astoria-Megler Bridge
- Washington’s forested shoreline
- Downtown Astoria
The exterior of the column features an illustrated spiral mural depicting important moments in Pacific Northwest history, from Indigenous cultures through the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
Step Back in Time at Fort Clatsop
History enthusiasts won’t want to miss Fort Clatsop, where the Lewis and Clark Expedition spent the winter of 1805-1806.
Today, visitors can explore:
- A reconstructed fort
- Ranger-led demonstrations
- Walking trails
- Historical exhibits
- Native American history
This stop brings to life one of America’s greatest exploration stories and provides valuable context for your Columbia River journey. Many Columbia River cruise itineraries include excursions focused on the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
Explore Astoria’s Historic Downtown
Astoria’s downtown is wonderfully walkable and filled with character.
You’ll find:
- Beautiful Victorian architecture
- Independent bookstores
- Art galleries
- Antique stores
- Boutique shopping
- Cozy coffee shops
The city’s steep hills create picturesque streets lined with colorful historic homes that overlook the river.
Tour the Flavel House Museum
The beautifully preserved Flavel House offers a glimpse into Astoria’s prosperous Victorian era.
Built in 1885 for Captain George Flavel, this Queen Anne-style mansion showcases:
- Original furnishings
- Ornate woodwork
- Period décor
- Family artifacts
It’s one of the finest examples of Victorian architecture in the Pacific Northwest.
Discover Astoria’s Hollywood Connections
Movie buffs may recognize Astoria from several famous films.
The Oregon Film Museum celebrates productions filmed throughout the state, including:
- The Goonies
- Kindergarten Cop
- Free Willy
- Short Circuit
Fans of The Goonies especially enjoy seeing memorabilia celebrating the beloved adventure film that helped make Astoria famous.
Enjoy Fresh Pacific Northwest Cuisine
Astoria’s location at the mouth of the Columbia River means fresh seafood is always on the menu.
Popular local specialties include:
- Dungeness crab
- Fresh salmon
- Oysters
- Clam chowder
- Fish and chips
The city is also known for its craft breweries and waterfront pubs, making it a great place to relax before returning to your ship.
Watch Ships Navigate the Columbia
One of Astoria’s unique attractions is simply watching the river.
From the waterfront you can observe:
- Ocean-going cargo ships
- Commercial fishing vessels
- Coast Guard cutters
- Tugboats
- River cruise ships
The Columbia is one of North America’s busiest commercial waterways, and there’s almost always something interesting passing by.
Why Astoria Is Perfect for Small Ship Cruises
Unlike larger cruise destinations that can feel crowded and commercialized, Astoria retains the charm of a working waterfront community.
Small ship cruises allow guests to spend meaningful time exploring the city at a relaxed pace while enjoying guided excursions that delve into the area’s maritime history, Indigenous heritage, and the legacy of Lewis and Clark. Astoria is consistently highlighted as one of the signature cultural and historical ports on Columbia River itineraries.
Planning Your Visit
Most cruise guests have enough time to enjoy several of Astoria’s top attractions in a single day. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as Astoria’s hills can be surprisingly steep.
Discover Astoria on Your Columbia River Adventure
Astoria perfectly captures the spirit of the Pacific Northwest. Its combination of rich history, spectacular scenery, maritime culture, and welcoming small-town atmosphere makes it one of the most memorable stops on a Columbia River small ship cruise.
Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, enjoying fresh seafood overlooking the Columbia, or taking in panoramic views from the Astoria Column, this charming coastal community offers an unforgettable introduction to one of America’s most scenic river journeys.
Contact Sunstone Tours & Cruises toll-free at 1-888-815-5428 to book your Columbia River cruise of a lifetime.
