Port Guide | United States | Worth a Wander

Astoria

Isabella Moreno | Editor

Published on 2025-09-01

Welcome to Astoria, the scrappy, charmingly weather-beaten gateway to the Pacific Northwest-where the Columbia River struts grandly into the Pacific Ocean, and locals take pride in living at the soggy crossroads of Lewis & Clark history and 80s cinema nostalgia (yes, you'll recognize scenes from "The Goonies" everywhere you turn). Your residential cruise ship docked here, proving you've outgrown the tourist traps and are ready to dive headfirst into a town that offers sea-salted authenticity mixed with a dash of frontier irreverence. Rain jackets aren't fashion statements-they're survival gear-but let drizzle be damned, because your next few days promise unofficial maritime education at the impressive Columbia River Maritime Museum, seafood that'll make you curse every overcooked fish filet you've suffered through previously, and enough Victorian architecture to fill your Instagram feed with moody charm. Lace up your hiking boots for trails boasting views that'll remind you why Lewis & Clark risked dysentery to get here, or cast a fishing line if you're feeling particularly optimistic about dinner. Most importantly, slow down, savor that local IPA, and try to channel Astoria's easygoing spirit-part rugged sailor, part hipster historian, wholly Pacific Northwest.