Jessi & Shane
Things To Do
The Astoria Column
Come here for panoramic views of the peninsula and a good dose of Lewis and Clark history. There is a small fee to park in the lot, which can be paid near the gift shop. If you're feeling brave, you can climb the spiral staircase inside the column for a rewarding view from the top.
Columbia River Maritime Museum
This museum helps to preserve the culture of this unique area, and gives a comprehensive study on the maritime and fishing history here. You'll find exhibits that explain everything from World War II history along the Columbia to the perilous weather conditions at the intersection of river and ocean. The museum features many interactive exhibits, including the Lightship Columbia, a floating lighthouse vessel that used to mark the entrance to the river. This is worth the visit. Take a few hours to get to know everything. Adults (18+): $14.00, Seniors (65+): $12.00, Children (6-17): $5.00, Children under 6: FREE, Active duty military: FREE, 3D Film $5.00
Wreck of the Peter Iredale
A popular place for locals and tourists year-round, this ship has been wrecked on the beach near Fort Stevens since 1906. A parking lot is available in close proximity to the site. Bring a sweater or jacket. Oregon coast beaches are frequently chilly and rainy this time of year.
Fort Stevens State Park
Once the primary military defense installation in the three-fort, Harbor Defense System at the mouth of the Columbia River (along with Forts Canby and Columbia in Washington), Fort Stevens is a 3,763-acre park with beaches, hiking & biking trails, historic bunkers, and the famed Peter Iredale shipwreck.
Fort Clatsop
Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the rockies, where Lewis and Clark spent the winter of 1805 during their journey west. The visitor center includes a replica of Fort Clatsop similar to the one built by the explorers, an exhibit hall, and bookstore. The center features ranger-led programs, costumed rangers in the fort and trails, as well as restrooms and a picnic area. $7/person entry, 15 and under free.
Cannon Beach
Home of the iconic Haystack Rock, Cannon beach is a lazy surfing and artist town with plenty of character and charm. Come here for a cup of coffee at Insomnia, then browse the streets and make your way to the beach. If you come when the tide is out, you'll be rewarded with hundreds of little tide pools teeming with life. Keep your eyes open for anemones, sea stars, crabs, and urchins. But be careful! Bring a jacket, choose correct footwear, and always keep an eye on the ocean.
Cathedral Tree Trail Trailhead
A short but fun hike for those that want to get moving yet maybe don't want to get soaked by the rain. This trail feathers a "cathedral" shaped tree and ends at Coxcomb hill, where the Astoria Column is located. For extra credit, climb the column's 164 steps and throw a balsa wood glider from the top.
Astoria Riverwalk
A great way to settle your Sunday brunch. Follow the walking path along the water and enjoy the sights, ships, people watching, and calm that the river offers. If you're lucky and the weather allows, you might see the historic Astoria Trolley.
Youngs River Falls
Beautiful and secluded, this is a favorite place to come and enjoy the nature Astoria is surrounded by. The 54-foot waterfall is roughly ten miles south of Astoria and can be viewed from the parking lot or with a 5 minute hike to the pool at the bottom. If you're unfamiliar with the area, it's recommended that you load the map before you set out. Cell phone signal cuts out about halfway to the falls. Follow the signs and you'll be fine!
Fort George Brewery
A fantastic variety of homegrown craft beers and bites. The iron steps at the entrance are a section of the old staircase from the Astoria Column. Go settle in upstairs for beautiful views and a tasty pizza. Shane's favorite: the Barbapeño.
Coffee Girl
A favorite place to take newcomers, this spot is known for its eclectic vibe and sweeping Columbia views. Come here for a sleepy cup of coffee and a maple bacon scone. Jessi took Shane here on his first trip to Astoria, and he later proposed on the end of the very same pier.
Astoria Coffee House & Bistro
A local favorite for multi-regional and New American cuisine, this is a spot Shane and Jessi frequent often. Her favorite are the fish tacos. He likes the ramen from the dinner menu. Not suitable for large groups.
Himani Indian Cuisine
A tasty dinner menu and a lunch buffet for those who like to go back for more! Try everything, but be sure to get some chai tea to go with.
T Paul's Urban Cafe
A fun, something-for-everyone sort of restaurant, appropriately priced with everything from seafood to steaks and sandwiches. Shane likes the salmon burger. Jessi prefers the Kick-Ass Cajun quesadilla.
Columbian Theater
This theater is a favorite for a reason. One nightly showing of a recently released film at 7pm. Visitors can order beer and pizza to enjoy while they watch from theater seats or couches. $4 per person entry, cash only.
Columbian Cafe
Tiny, hole-in-the-wall establishment that makes their own garlic and jalapeño jellies. Cash only and worth the wait. Try the Bloody Mary and Chef's Mercy.
Arnie's Cafe
If classic cafe breakfasts are your thing, this is the place for you. Generous portions and a fun atmosphere makes this a place people enjoy coming back to.