Astoria, OR

Astoria is a small Oregon port city at the mouth of the Columbia River, where the river meets the Pacific. It is often described as the oldest city in the state, with roots tied to Fort Astoria and early fur-trade settlement in 1811. The town's steep streets, Victorian houses, working waterfront, and Columbia River views give it a stronger sense of place than its population suggests. Astoria also leans into its maritime history, including the long-running local musical Shanghaied in Astoria.