The Ultimate Weekend Getaway in Astoria, Oregon: Escape Rooms, Spa, Shopping & Best Restaurants
Your Guide to the Best Things to Do in Astoria — Oregon’s Oldest City on the Coast
By Sunshine Escapes Travel
Looking for the perfect weekend getaway from Portland? Astoria, Oregon — just under two hours from the city — is one of the best Oregon Coast destinations for adventure, relaxation, and incredible food. Our group of three recently spent a weekend exploring this charming coastal town and packed in everything from escape rooms to spa treatments to one of the best dinners we’ve had in a long time. Here’s our itinerary.
Why Astoria, Oregon? A Historic Coastal Gem
Astoria isn’t just another beach town. It’s the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains, founded in 1811 as a fur trading post by John Jacob Astor — America’s first millionaire. Lewis and Clark wintered nearby at Fort Clatsop in 1805, and the overland route to Fort Astoria eventually became the Oregon Trail. The town grew into a bustling port fueled by salmon canneries and timber, attracting immigrants from Finland, Scandinavia, and China.
After a devastating fire in 1922, Astoria rebuilt with the beautiful brick architecture you see today — the entire downtown is now a National Historic District. These days, Victorian homes climb the hillsides, eclectic shops line the streets, and the town is beloved as the filming location for The Goonies. It’s a place where history and charm meet at every corner.
Best Escape Room in Astoria: Escape Astoria
We kicked off our weekend at Escape Astoria, a locally owned, family-run escape room on Commercial Street. What makes this spot special is that they design and build all of their own puzzles — every clue and twist is homegrown, and the rooms are thoughtfully crafted so the puzzles make logical sense.
Our first room, Manor Mayhem, had us protecting our inheritance inside a mysterious mansion. With only three of us, we didn’t break out — but we had such a blast that we came back that same evening to try Sibling Shenanigans. This easier-rated room had us racing against bedtime to say the magic words, and this time we escaped — nearly beating the record! Whether you’re a seasoned escape room fan or trying one for the first time, Escape Astoria is a must-do activity in Astoria.
Best Spa on the Oregon Coast: Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa
For relaxation, we headed to the Spa at the Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa, Astoria’s iconic luxury boutique hotel built 600 feet out into the Columbia River. Each of us chose a different treatment, and across the board the verdict was the same: top-notch. My body scrub was the perfect blend of relaxing and rejuvenating.
The real standout was the relaxation room, with completely unobstructed views of the river and the Astoria-Megler Bridge. Watching ships glide beneath the bridge while wrapped in a warm robe is the kind of Oregon Coast experience you won’t forget. If you’re looking for the best spa day in Astoria, this is it.
Shopping in Downtown Astoria: Vintage Stores, Local Art & Unique Finds
Between escape room sessions, we wandered the streets of downtown Astoria and discovered a wonderful mix of shops. Vintage stores brimming with treasures, boutiques showcasing local artists, and beach-themed shops made every block feel like its own little adventure. If you love unique, locally-owned shopping, Astoria’s downtown won’t disappoint. Set aside at least an hour or two to explore.
Where to Eat in Astoria: Dinner at the Silver Salmon Grille
For dinner, we found the Silver Salmon Grille — and it instantly became a highlight of the trip. Tables are lined with white butcher paper and stocked with crayons, so you’re encouraged to doodle while you dine. But the real showstopper is the walls: they’re covered in jaw-dropping, intricate artwork — all done in crayon on butcher paper.
It turns out the Silver Salmon Grille hosts an annual coloring contest where artists compete using just a pencil and crayons. Winning pieces are displayed in the restaurant, creating a one-of-a-kind gallery. With a four-time Iron Chef Goes Coastal champion in the kitchen, the food matched the ambiance — absolutely outstanding. It’s easily one of the best restaurants in Astoria.
Plan Your Astoria, Oregon Weekend Trip
From thrilling escape rooms to a luxurious riverside spa, from treasure-hunting in vintage shops to doodling over an incredible meal, Astoria delivered the perfect weekend getaway. Whether you’re planning a girls’ trip, a romantic Oregon Coast getaway, or a solo adventure, this historic town has something for everyone.
Ready to plan your own Astoria weekend? Sunshine Escapes Travel can help you build the perfect itinerary. Reach out and let’s make it happen!
Places Mentioned:
- Escape Astoria — 1154 Commercial St Suite B, Astoria, OR | escapeastoria.com
- Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa — 10 Basin St, Astoria, OR | cannerypierhotel.com
- Silver Salmon Grille — 1105 Commercial St, Astoria, OR | silversalmongrille.com