Livin' it up in Astoria!

Russell and I have just wrapped up 10 wonder, yet wet, days in and around Astoria, Oregon.  While Oregon lived up to its reputation of wet weather, we didn't let it stop us from spoiling our time and seeing the sites.

If you have never visited Asortia, or don't know where it is, head as far west as you can go without driving into the ocean... Then head north up the 101 as far as you can go without crossing into Washington state.  There you will find the quaint little town of Astoria.

As you pass through Astoria, you might recognize it from some pretty famous movies:  "Goonies", "Free Willy", "Short Circuit", and "Kindergarten Cop", just to name a few.  Its hillside view of the Columbia River is spectacular and worth the drive.  We visited a few museums in town, including the Oregon Movie Museum, the Flavel House and the Heritage Museum.  On Mother's Day, we even went to their Farmers' Market, which was jam-packed with both shoppers and vendors selling everything from wine to flowers and from jewelry to veggies!

Russell and I can't go anywhere along a coast without visiting lighthouses.   On one outing, we ventured north into Washington and went to both the Northhead Lighthouse and the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, both on the Long Beach Peninsula.  While on Long Beach, we also went to the Cranberry Museum.  (Who knew there was such a thing?)  This was a great find!

Northhead Lighthouse

Cape Disappointment Lighthouse

On a separate day trip, we also ventured south along the coast into Tillamook.  Yes, where they make the cheese.  We took a tour there and tasted some delicious samples of cheeses that you don't typically find in the grocery stores, such as Smoked Black Pepper.  YUM!

We also went to another lighthouse, Cape Meares, just outside of Tillamook.  This was by far, our favorite, as the views were spectacular, and the weather was fantastic!!!

Cape Meares Lighthouse

Russell and I also enjoy doing some "sampling" at local breweries, distilleries and wineries, where ever we are, and the ones in the area did not disappoint.  We went to the Rogue Brewery in Astoria and shared a flight.  Our favorite was the Beard Beer.  Sounds a little weird, but it was SO TASTY, you have to try it!

We also visited the Pilot House Distillery in Astoria.  They make some delicious vodkas, whiskeys, gins and even a canned Bloody Mary.  (We bought a bottle of Lemon Ginger Vodka, which is delicious.)

Lastly, we visited Nehalem Bay Winery.  They make a variety of wines from sweets to reds, and from fruits to whites.  Russell and I each did a tasting, and because we couldn't choose a favorite among those that we tasted, we bought 6 bottles!!!

Well, good bye Oregon.  We are headed north towards Seattle and the Cruise and Crop to Alaska, which leaves Saturday.  If you are ever in need of some beach time and a little vacation, I highly recommend Astoria and its surrounding area.

Until next time and more adventures on the road,
Roberta
The Traveling Crafter (on the road somewhere in Washington)