Go back in time and learn the history of Astoria on this panoramic introduction to the city.
Astoria was established in 1811 by the John Astor fur trading party and became the first permanent U.S. settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. Boarding your bus at the pier, you will commence a narrated tour of the city, viewing several noteworthy locations such as the Liberty Theater where Clark Gable made his first stage appearance, the Doughboy Monument, historical homes, and the first Victorian Mansion where Captain George Flavel once lived. Your local guide will also relate the story of the 1922 fire that nearly destroyed Astoria and the subsequent rebuilding to bring it back to life. Astoria's historical Uniontown with its fish market and former boarding houses is another interesting area of the city.
Before long, you will reach the Astoria Column, a 125 ft. tower which sits atop Coxcomb Hill. Built by the Astor family in 1926, the tower features an interior circular staircase which visitors can climb to the top in order to take advantage of a breathtaking panoramic view of Astoria, the Colombia River and the surrounding countryside. Following your time here, you'll transfer back to the cruise ship pier.
Please note: This tour has limited walking and is mostly panoramic in nature. The tour is available to wheelchair guests who have a collapsible wheelchair, are able to make their own way on and off the bus and have an able-bodied companion to assist them. Those with mobility concerns are cautioned to carefully evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. Weather appropriate clothing, sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. This tour will operate with local school buses that are not air-conditioned. The local operator reserves the right to change or modify the itinerary or venues at any time due to weather, traffic or road conditions.