Where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean, Astoria sits proudly on the edge of everything — maritime history, misty hills, and a certain movie from the ’80s that involved a treasure map and a group of Goonies.
Whether you’re into historic ships, moody coastal charm, or oddball thrift shops, Astoria makes a perfect 2-day escape. Here’s how to soak it all in — and what souvenirs to bring home.
🕚 Day 1 – Arrive Late Morning
Explore Downtown Astoria
Kick things off with a gentle stroll down Commercial Street and Marine Drive. You’ll pass retro neon signs, antique stores, and riverfront views that haven’t changed in a century.
🛍️ Souvenir Tip:
Drop into Astoria Vintage Hardware or Finn Ware — the latter is a Scandinavian gift shop with gnome mugs, Nordic candy, and wool blankets.
🥪 Lunch at Bowpicker Fish & Chips
It’s a blue and white fishing boat parked on land — and yes, it serves tuna fish and chips out the window. Expect a line. It’s worth it.
⚓ Afternoon: History & Goonies
Walk it off at the Columbia River Maritime Museum, home to shipwreck stories, lighthouse lore, and full-on Coast Guard exhibits.
Then swing by the Oregon Film Museum, housed in the old Clatsop County Jail — a must for fans of The Goonies, Kindergarten Cop, and other Oregon-shot films.
🛍️ Souvenir Tip:
Buy a Goonies Never Say Die tote bag or a packet of saltwater taffy from the museum gift shop.
🍻 Pre-Dinner Pint at Fort George Brewery
Grab a rotating IPA, seasonal sour, or classic pilsner at this beloved local brewery with river views. The upstairs pizza joint is solid too.
🍽️ Dinner: Bridgewater Bistro
A short hop across the Astoria–Megler Bridge brings you to riverside fine dining at Bridgewater Bistro, set in a converted cannery warehouse. Try the pan-seared halibut or Dungeness crab cakes while watching ships pass on the Columbia.
🌙 Evening: Chill by the River
Take a twilight walk along the Astoria Riverwalk, spot the sea lions, and let the fog roll in. Or, if the weather’s right, hop aboard the Astoria Riverfront Trolley for a low-key sightseeing ride.
🛍️ Day 2 – Lighthouses, Coffee & Curiosities
Breakfast at Blue Scorcher Bakery
Locally roasted coffee, huge cinnamon rolls, and a community co-op vibe — the perfect start to a misty Oregon morning.
📸 Morning: Tower, Lighthouse & Views
Climb the Astoria Column (164 steps!) for panoramic views of the river, forest, and Pacific. Then take a short drive to North Head Lighthouse or Cape Disappointment for photos and sea spray.
🛍️ Late Morning Shopping
Back in town, check out:
- Cargo – Global goods, incense, pottery, and fun chaos.
- Lucy’s Books – A tiny indie bookshop with local titles.
- Vintage Voyage – Records, thrift clothes, and Goonies merch.
🛍️ Souvenir Tip:
Pick up a lighthouse tea towel, a bottle of craft sea salt, or a seafaring-themed enamel pin.
🍲 Lunch at South Bay Wild
This sustainable seafood market/restaurant hybrid serves what their own boats catch. Try the rockfish tacos or black cod sandwich.
🧭 Afternoon Drive or Cannon Beach Detour
If you’ve got time, cruise south to Cannon Beach (about 40 minutes) to see Haystack Rock and grab a cookie at Sleepy Monk Café.
Otherwise, loop inland toward Fort Clatsop for some Lewis & Clark vibes and trail time.
🎁 Before You Leave
Make room in your bag for:
- Local smoked salmon or Oregon cheese
- A Goonies-inspired souvenir
- A vintage nautical chart or Astoria map
✈️ The Wrap-Up
Astoria feels like a coastal postcard with a few creases — historic, misty, a little eccentric, and full of charm. You’ll come for the views and the movies, but stay for the stories, the sea air, and that cozy Oregon vibe.
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