I know that the fishing is the main attraction when coming to visit me anyway, but you’ll be glad to know that there are plenty of activities and sites to take in around Astoria. Below are some suggestions of places to take in during your visit.
The Columbia River Maritime Museum
The history of the Columbia River will be right at your fingertips as you visit this one of a kind museum. Located right on the river in downtown Astoria, I’ve always enjoyed my visits to the Columbia River’s past and I’m sure you will too. Visit their site at www.crmm.org.
Fort Stevens State Park
Fort Stevens is a state park located about 5 miles to the West of Astoria on the northwesterly most tip of Oregon. The fort was in use by the U.S. government from 1847 until 1947. The park has many activities, reenactments and is just plain fun to visit throughout the year. The park even provides camping and yurts to visitors of the area. To learn more about the park visit the site sponsored by Friends of Old Fort Stevens.
Astoria Column
The Astoria Column is one of the great landmarks on the Northern Oregon Coast. Spectacular views of the ocean, river and coastal range. This is a must on the first clear afternoon of your visit. A view from this peak will definitely help you put your fishing day in perspective. You can just about see the whole estuary. You can learn more at the column’s website.
Clamming on the beach in Seaside
Besides the fish in the ocean and river, the razor clams are a pretty hot topic on the North Coast. The area between Seaside (15 miles to the south) and Hammond produce much of the regions razor clam harvest. And if the tides are right, you can produce plenty of your own harvest. Clamming isn’t hard and when the tides are right 15 razors in a half an hour is pretty typical. The local resource for clamming info is Bud’s Campground and Store about 7 miles south of Astoria. You can find them at 4412 Hwy 101, Gearhart, Oregon 97138. You can reach them at 503-738-6855. Of course you can always pick my brain as well. Our family regularly utilizes this resource.
In addition to my above suggestion you can find several very nice golf courses in the area. You will also find plenty of theaters and shopping galore. One of the great outlet malls in the region is located just to the south in the town of Seaside. You can also drive across the bridge to Washington to visit some of the little towns that make up the Southwestern tip of Washington. Don’t forget to check out Long Beach, Washington. 28 miles of beach which are officially a state highway, with a speed limit of 25 mph. It’s also a great beach for walk, beach combing, and sandcastles.
As usual, let me know if I can offer any further help. Below you will find additional links on fishing, dining and places to stay.
Astoria Salmon Fishing- Buoy 10
Astoria Estuary Sturgeon Fishing
A guides recommendation of places to stay while fishing in Astoria
Where guides eat while fishing in Astoria
Feel free to contact us with any questions you might have, or to simply book a trip.