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Here at Travel Off Path, the grand adventure of life has taken our team of experts across the globe. With some destinations more far-fetched than others, we realize sometimes the best trips are right here in our own backyard.
As such, one fairly recent trip took us to San Francisco, where we were stoked to see that the iconic city’s prices weren’t as high as they were notoriously known for.
However, there’s no place in California that’s truly cheap. But what about the state next door?
We believe Oregon’s coast is just as gorgeous as California’s, but hasn’t gained nearly the attention it deserves. One historic bayside town hugging the Oregon-Washington state line is the oldest town in the Pacific Northwest and is absolutely a delight to visit, no matter what type of traveler you are.
And not to make you feel old, but Astoria is the top filming location for The Goonies — 40 years ago!
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Oregon’s Mini ‘San Francisco’
Many may not know there was a “San Francisco” before the real deal came into existence.
It’s true — way before Amazon, businessman John Jacob Astor wanted to spearhead the fur trading market and founded the West Coast’s first official city.
This textbook “hidden gem” is set along what’s still a beautiful coastal junction where the Columbia River meets the vast Pacific; perfect for a trading post back then.
Here we are over 2 centuries later, and what’s left of these lofty dreams is a serene town etched in time of roughly 10,000 residents – a far cry from San Francisco’s nearly 900,000, yet exuding the same charm and beauty as the more famed city.
With its near-doppelgänger Astoria-Megler Bridge connecting Washington, this landmark gives this unsuspecting town Old San Fran vibes without the cheesy 90s sitcom attractions, common crime waves, and jaw-dropping real estate prices.
In fact, Astoria is more commonly known as heading the shipwreck-laden “Graveyard of the Pacific”, but nowadays is a virtually crowd-free getaway with mild winters and a timeless townscape to explore.
Astoria Is Oregon’s Time Capsule
Not to throw another major city in the mix, but Oregon’s largest city, Portland, isn’t exactly a historical marvel to “ooh” and “ahh” at…
Both San Fran and Portland have dealt with their fair share of negative headlines, often pertaining to crime and homelessness, resulting in a maze of eyesores scattered around the city.
You don’t have to worry about that here in Astoria. Downtown is quaint, void of bustling Chinatowns and Tenderloin madness.
You’ll find charming, walkable streets beaming with character at every tur,n with no towering skylines in your way of the scenic waterfront.
Though small, this unique pocket of the Pacific Northwest offers tourists a glimpse of the past through Victorian architecture and insightful museums that chronicle the city’s seafaring origins.
Like any downtown, locals have their daily go-to spots. You’ll want to start your day with a soulful coffee at the Rusty Cup, scour new reads at the eccentric Portland-esque Godfather’s Books, and stop for a photo op at the stuck-in-time Liberty Theatre.
Aforementioned, Portland may get all the credit, but this storied town is an unsung hero for foodies too — especially if you love local brews.
For an idyllic little town, you might wonder how locals bide their time. There are numerous watering holes, creating an underrated food and beer scene.
Largely anchored by such places as Fort George for a cold pint, top-rated Tres Bros for a surprising taste of Nicaragua, and Bridgewater Bistro for the best views and fresh seafood platters, there’s no shortage of restaurants and breweries to treat yourself.
Enjoy Epic Views & Nostalgic Stays
Astoria is the ultimate relaxing hideaway. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors and the immaculate scenery.
If you squint hard enough and convince yourself Alcatraz is in the background, you’ll feel like you’ve scored one of the West Coast’s most prized destinations without breaking the bank.
These are Travel Off Path’s top 3 Astoria hotels for a remarkable stay:
- The Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa — luxurious digs with prime waterfront real estate
- Bowline Hotel — Astoria’s most stylish hotel with equally desirable views
- Commodore Hotel — seamlessly blends timeless aesthetics with modern luxury
All are within a reasonable distance to explore the top sights. Our recommendation?
Hop aboard yet another San Francisco-esque staple, the bright red $2 trolley, to scope out the top spots along the waterfront and wave to the sea lions.
For the best views, however, you’ll definitely want to make time to trek the Pigeon Steps. Just pack your best walking shoes!
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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