Ethan MoreEveryone desires the ideal vacation after being burned out from continuous work. Finding places to visit can be challenging due to the abundance of options, and we don’t know which one to choose. If we’re talking about the perfect vacation, Astoria might be the place you are looking for. But to have a smooth trip, you need a place to stay. You might want to check out Astoria vacation rentals. Now, let us explore some places you can visit in Astoria and plan your next best trip.
1. Astoria Riverwalk
Start your day by walking through the trails of Astoria Riverwalk. The 6+ mile waterfront route is a lovely spot to walk (or bike!) and take in the history, culture, art, cuisine, and stunning river vistas. A vibrant, non-motorized tour of the city’s shoreline is offered by the Astoria Riverwalk, also known as the Astoria River Trail, which follows a section of the Astoria & Columbia River Railroad. There are museums, eateries, breweries, interpretive kiosks, and a 1913 trolley along the route, which provides a historical account of the region, home to one of the earliest European American settlements in the West. The coastline is a significant location where 20,000 birds may congregate annually during their fall migration.
Astoria-Megler Bridge is a must-see sight. This massive truss bridge, which spans the Columbia River and connects southern Washington to northern Oregon, is simply amazing. The trail is a remnant of the Astoria and Columbia River Railroad, but since it was finished in 1898, it has served a variety of functions, including tourism and logging. Early in the 1990s, when service was discontinued, the tunnel quickly grew overgrown, became impassable, and was abandoned. The Astoria Riverwalk is now a brilliant landmark, the dedication of numerous trail advocates in Astoria.
2. Astoria Column
This 600 feet above-sea-level tower is a famous landmark in this city and is essential to Astorian history. It was initially constructed in 1926 as one of 12 monuments honoring the area’s pioneers and early residents. It has a vivid historical mural painted on its external walls, high-arched windows, and a spiral staircase leading to an observation deck.
On clear days, telescopes at the top offer even better views of the Pacific Ocean, the Astoria-Megler Bridge, and the Columbia River. The column is accessible from dawn till nightfall, and the trek to the summit is free. The photographs may be seen for miles because the tower is illuminated at night. One of the city’s most popular attractions is the Astoria Column. Climb the peak for a bird’s eye view of Astoria and see the breathtaking view yourself!
3. Garden of Surging Waves
The Garden of Surging Waves, which was created to honor Astoria’s Chinese ancestry, is a stunning, serene location where you may temporarily escape the bustle of the city. There is a circular gate at the entry. Ponds and pools surround gardens and statues. In the traditional Chinese style, Siheyuan residences serve as a memorial to the previous era’s construction. Visitors are invited to stroll through the tranquility of nature, sit, meditate, and unwind.
In the outdoor arena, performers may play quiet music on any given day or present cultural performances or demonstrations. You can refuel your chi at the Garden of Surging Waves, a contemporary refuge, in preparation for your upcoming excursions.
4. Painted Lady Lavender Farm
If you’re on a budget and still want to have a good time in Astoria, then worry no more. The Painted Lady Lavender Farm is one of the niftiest spots to visit. As its name implies, it is entirely devoted to lavender farmed year-round in huge purple fields. A free-spirited woman runs the facility; she does everything by hand and offers free tours to anyone who can find it.
The gardens have various flowers, trees, and shrubs in addition to the lavender, many of which are artistically positioned around sculptures and fountains. After the tour, you can purchase items to remember your journeys, such as handcrafted pastries and hand-made keepsakes. However, this is optional, so you are free to visit the Painted Lady Lavender Farm. It will be a fantastic way to learn about the local culture while watching your spending!
5. Young River Falls
Young River Falls is about 10 miles south of Astoria and is a renowned summer swimming spot and beautiful sight. This year-round waterfall drops more than 50 feet into a sizable basin, making it the ideal place to cool off in the summer. You may enjoy the picturesque cascade the rest of the year, making the quick quarter-mile trip worthwhile.
You will arrive at Young River Falls after a 20-minute ride. Young River Road is followed for the final portion of the route until it reaches a designated parking area. On weekends with good weather, it may be a busy location. The Youngs River’s mild waters cascade over a rocky 54-foot drop to a pool below, the depth of which is between five and seven feet and encircled by thick forest. The waterfall’s base is reached from the parking area via a short 0.25-mile downhill route. The parking lot offers a view of the waterfall as well.
The location is accessible without charge and is solely meant for daytime use. Dogs are permitted but must be leashed. Be informed that cliff jumping and climbing are prohibited.
