Astoria, Oregon

Astoria is a historic maritime small town in the far northwest tip of Oregon. It is little wonder that its roots are in the shipping business, as it is strategically located where the Columbia River drains into the Pacific Ocean. Astoria has an abundance of Victorian housing. The Lewis and Clark expedition wintered near Astoria after their historic trip in search of a route to the Pacific. A favorite pastime for visitors is to ride the restored 1914 trolley that runs for 3 miles along the Columbia River in Astoria while the conductor provides interpretation of the area's history and attractions. Every Sunday from May to October, a 3-block stretch of 12th Street in downtown is filled with 100 vendors selling fresh fruits and vegetables, garden goods, art, crafts, wood works and music. Astoria is home to the Cascadia Academy of Music and Clatsop Community College. The town was named after the American investor (and first millionaire) John Jacob Astor. His American Fur Company founded Fort Astoria at the site in 1810.