The northern Oregon Coast pulses with a rich and varied habitat. The coastal communities also have an equally rich and diverse history that is steeped in maritime heritage, timber and pioneer settlements. This delightful tour will have you journeying from Astoria to Tillamook, making new discoveries at iconic sites that include the Tillamook Air Museum, Tillamook Cheese Factory and the Nehalem Bay Winery.
A scenic 2 1/2 hour drive brings you to the Tillamook Air Museum, the world's largest wooden structure. Hanger "B" was built in 1943 and has been home to one of the finest collections of privately owned WWII flying aircraft in the nation. View over 30 vintage aircraft in this gigantic wooden structure and enjoy 20-minute presentations of documentaries in the theater. You can even hop into the aircraft training cockpit and "play pilot". There is an excellent gift shop and café at the museum and you will be treated to a light lunch here before continuing on.
Your next stop is at the Tillamook Cheese Factory, a farmer-owned cooperative that was established in 1909. The factory also produces Tillamook ice cream which is available in more than 40 flavors; however, it is limited to the Pacific Northwest. In addition to ice cream you can take a walking tour of the second floor where you will have a bird's eye view of how cheese is made. While cheese, ice cream and everything dairy is the focus of the Tillamook Cheese Factory, make sure you take the time to shop their unique farm-themed gift shop.
Your final stop before returning to Astoria is at the Nehalem Bay Winery where you can learn about the winery and perhaps purchase one of their delicious vintages.
Please note: This tour includes approximately 2 hours of moderate walking and is available to guests who utilize a collapsible wheelchair, are able to make their way on and off the coach and have a companion to assist them. Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina. Casual, weather-appropriate clothing (jacket and umbrella) and comfortable, flat walking shoes are suggested.