Historic Astoria & Fort Clatsop

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Your half-day adventure includes stunning vistas from Astoria's highest point, a walk through history, and views of the lovely Victorian homes and churches of Astoria.

After boarding your motorcoach, you'll travel a short distance to the Astoria Column for a brief photo stop. Built in 1926, the 125-foot tall concrete and steel structure features a cast-iron 164-step staircase that leads to an observation deck. If you decide to climb to the top, you'll be rewarded with majestic views of Astoria, the Pacific Ocean, and the snow-capped volcanoes of the Cascade Range. But views from the base are just as panoramic – the Column stands atop Coxcomb Hill, Astoria's highest point.

Next, head towards Lewis and Clark National Historical Park for a tour of Fort Clatsop. Here, you'll take a step back in time to the cold and wet winter of 1805. The 50-foot by 50-foot structure is a replica of the seven-room fort built by members of the Lewis and Clark expedition after realizing their goal of reaching the Pacific. Named after the friendly local Indian tribe, Fort Clatsop would be the explorer's home for three months before returning home. Rangers and re-enactors are on hand to answer any questions.

Your next stop is the Columbia River Maritime Museum. Located on Astoria's historic waterfront, the museum features one of the most extensive collections of nautical artifacts on the west coast. Learn about the Columbia River, the people who work and live on the river, and marine transportation form the days of dugout canoes to the present.

After your tour, you'll return to your ship via a scenic drive through Astoria. Nestled between the Columbia River and Youngs Bay, Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. Established as a fur trading post in 1811, today Astoria boasts a rich heritage of charm and natural beauty. Some of the sights you'll see include picturesque Victorian- and Queen Anne-style homes and churches; Uniontown, home of the men who worked at the Union Fish Cannery; and the "Doughboy" monument, dedicated to the soldiers from Astoria who served during World War I.

Special Notes:

Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring along a warm jacket.