Tour of Astoria

Discover the charm of Astoria, Oregon through a thoughtfully curated $65, 3-hour small-group tour offered by Onward Adventures. With a rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 101 reviews and a recommendation rate of 99%, this tour provides an intimate and insightful exploration of the town’s most iconic sights. Limited to 14 guests, the tour balances personalized attention with a relaxed pace, making it perfect for those seeking a deep dive into Astoria’s streets and stories.

The tour departs with stress-free pickup from your accommodation, saving you time and effort. It features a well-rounded itinerary, including the famous Astoria Column, the historic Fort Astoria, and the Goonies House, complemented by stories from passionate guides. We like how the tour includes pamphlets with additional fun facts and welcomes service animals, adding to the accessibility and friendliness of the experience.

While the tour is packed with highlights, it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness ready to climb stairs, walk around outdoor sites, and enjoy a flexible, personalized itinerary. The admission fees for some stops like the Flavel House Museum and Oregon Film Museum are not included, providing options to tailor the experience. This tour delivers both sightseeing and local insights at a fair price with high praise for the guides’ knowledge and warmth.

Key Points

• Affordable, well-rated tour at $65 per person for 3 hours of sightseeing in Astoria
• Small-group experience limited to 14 guests ensures personalized attention
• Pick-up from your accommodation included for stress-free logistics
• Key highlights include the Astoria Column, Goonies House, and Fort Astoria
• Guides provide pamphlets with fun facts and are praised for their knowledge and friendliness
• Service animals are more than welcome, making the tour accessible

Starting Point: A Comfortable Pickup Service in Astoria

The tour begins with a convenient round-trip pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Astoria. This service helps streamline your day, allowing you to relax and focus on the sights. The small-group size of 14 keeps the experience intimate, ensuring plenty of opportunities for questions and personalized interaction. The mobile ticket option adds extra convenience, allowing for easy access and flexible planning.

Visiting the Astoria Column and Its Stunning Views

The Astoria Column is the first stop, standing 125 feet tall and offering sweeping views of the coast and Columbia River. Visitors can climb the stairs to take in the scenery, breathe in the fresh coastal air, and enjoy the panoramic outlook. The guide shares stories about the history of the column, making this stop both visually impressive and educational. The admission ticket for this site is included, giving you easy access to this iconic monument.

Exploring Flavel House Museum and Its Historic Charm

Next, the tour visits the Flavel House Museum, where guests can walk the grounds and admire the quaint Victorian architecture. The interior of the house is available for visits, although admission is not included in the tour price. The carriage house and surrounding gardens add to the historic atmosphere, making this stop a charming glimpse into Astoria’s past.

The Oregon Film Museum and Goonies Fame

A highlight for movie fans is the Oregon Film Museum, where visitors can pose for photos with the Goonies jeep and browse the Goonie collectibles. This museum celebrates Astoria’s role in film, especially movies like The Goonies. The 15-minute visit is a fun chance to connect with pop culture and snap memorable photos.

Fort Astoria and Its Coastal Heritage

The free visit to Fort Astoria offers a look at the town’s early history. Guests can see the historic fort structures and learn about the site’s significance. The stop also features a Rhododendron tree over 100 years old, adding botanical interest to the historic site. The guide shares stories about the fort’s role in regional development, enriching the experience with context.

The Goonies House and Local Photo Opportunities

A quick walk takes you to the famous Goonies House, where guests can take photos outside Mikey’s house from the movie. While there’s no admission fee, the photo opportunity is a key highlight for fans and photographers alike. The colorful neighborhood provides a charming backdrop for memorable pictures.

Hanthorn Cannery Museum and Columbia River Views

The Hanthorn Cannery Museum is a 30-minute stop, blending history with scenic views. The site is over 147 years old and offers views of ships, sunsets, and sea lions along the Columbia River. Visitors can explore the free museum, walk along the river, and visit local shops, including Vineside Wine Bar, Coffee Girl, and Rogue Brewery. The area also features Goonie Gear shops, making it a lively, multi-faceted stop.

Customization and Flexibility of the Tour Itinerary

The tour’s flexible nature allows guides like Bill and Katie to tailor stops based on guest interests. For instance, there are options for additional stops or special requests, such as exploring different neighborhoods or historical sites. The guides are praised for their accommodations and the ability to revise the itinerary if needed, including extra time for downtown or beach visits.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

Guests should have a moderate physical fitness level, as some stops involve climbing stairs or walking outdoors. The walkable outdoor sites and easy access to key attractions make the tour manageable for most visitors, but those with mobility challenges should note the outdoor nature of some stops.

High Praise for Guides and Personal Touches

Reviews consistently mention guides Katie and Bill as knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. They are known for personalized experiences, patience with questions, and willingness to make extra stops. Several reviews describe feeling like they were touring with friends or family, a testament to the warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Booking and Cancellation Flexibility

Reservations can be made up to 80 days in advance, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour. This policy offers peace of mind, especially in uncertain travel times. Once booked, the tour runs rain or shine unless canceled less than 24 hours prior.

Comparing This Tour to Other Options

This small-group tour is priced competitively, considering the personalized attention and high-quality stops. Many other options in Astoria lack the intimate atmosphere and local insight that guides like Katie and Bill provide. The flexibility and customization set this experience apart from more rigid group excursions.

Astoria Tour by Onward Adventures: Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, history, and film culture, all delivered by guides who genuinely love sharing their hometown. The $65 price point includes the Astoria Column admission and a three-hour experience filled with stories and scenery. Given the numerous positive reviews praising the guides’ knowledge and personal touches, it’s clear that this tour leaves a lasting impression.

While the itinerary is flexible and may include extra stops, guests should be prepared for outdoor walking and stairs at the Astoria Column. It attracts those interested in local history, film locations, and scenic views. Overall, it’s an authentic, friendly, and enriching way to explore Astoria, especially if you enjoy personalized service and engaging storytelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, providing a thorough look at Astoria’s main sights without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
The Astoria Column admission ticket is included in the $65 fee. Stops at Flavel House, Oregon Film Museum, Fort Astoria, Goonies House, and Hanthorn Cannery Museum are part of the itinerary, but admission fees for some sites are not included.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility challenges?
Guests should have a moderate physical fitness level; some stops involve stairs and outdoor walking. The tour is flexible, but mobility limitations may restrict access to certain areas.

Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, service animals are more than welcome, making the tour accessible to all.

How far in advance should I book?
It is recommended to book about 80 days in advance to secure your spot, particularly during peak seasons.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

This Astoria tour from Onward Adventures combines scenic views, historic sites, and pop culture in a friendly, flexible format. With highly praised guides and a personalized approach, it offers a genuine taste of Astoria’s character at a competitive price point. Perfect for those wanting a relaxed, yet comprehensive exploration of this picturesque town.