Exploring Astoria

Most people know it as the home of The Goonies, others as a retreat to soak up the sun in the summer, whatever your associations, the quaint, sea shanty town of Astoria is definitely worth a visit.






Only about a two-hour drive from Portland, Astoria is a small town nestled right where the Columbia River meets the ocean. While it's not your typical "beach town" it does have some unique experiences to offer, especially if you're new to the Northwest region.

One of those experiences is Buoy Beer Company - an old canning factory turned brewery that's serving up some tasty eats featuring ingredients plucked straight from the sea. Not only do you have a spectacular view of the water, they also section of glass flooring so you can see the sea lions lounging around below! Their menu ranges from unique small bites like Spiced Pistachios and Fried Cheese Curds to seafood classics like Rockfish & Chips. Of course, there's also a wide selection of beers that were brewed on site, I ordered a German Dunkel paired with their signature Buoy Louie salad (which is equally as enjoyable to eat as it is to say). The shrimp, "Oregon Pink Shrimp" was some of the best I've ever had - they almost tasted like they were cooked ceviche-style which created the perfect flavor and texture.

Pirate face

A big blubbery onlooker 

No trip to Astoria would be complete without at least one "heyyyyy you guyyys", a truffle shuffle, and a trip to the Goonies house. A warning to you superfans, you'll, unfortunately, have to settle for a picture taken from the street because the current owners don't take too kindly to strangers.

If you need to get your Goonies fix, there aren't as many movie-themed novelty shops around as one would think, but in true Oregon fashion, there IS Astoria Coffee down the street that also sells some items if you're looking for some nifty nick-knacks.

Wherever you are in this town, you're bound to hear some barking from your friendly neighborhood sea lions. We followed the sounds and came across this boardwalk, it was really entertaining to watch them fight for a space on the boat dock.

Even though our trip was short, here are some other potential place to check out and some fun facts thrown in for good measure.

-Oregon Film Museum some classics include: One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Kindergarten Cop, and Animal House

-The Columbia River Maritime Museum has an impressive collection of artifacts and information about the history of the river and was actually the first Museum in Oregon!

-Astoria might not have a beach, but the sandy shores of Seaside is just a 20 min. drive away.