This serene west coast city feels like San Francisco with better prices

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Here at Travel Off Path, life’s great adventure has taken our team of experts around the world. Because some destinations are more far-fetched than others, we realize that sometimes the best trips happen right here in our own backyard.

For example, a fairly recent trip took us to San Francisco, where we were pleased to see that the iconic city’s prices were not as high as they were notorious for.

However, there is no place in California that is truly cheap. But what about the neighboring state?

We believe that the Oregon coast is just as beautiful as California’s, but has not received nearly the attention it deserves. A historic city on the bay hugging the Oregon-Washington state line is the oldest city in the Pacific Northwest and it is an absolute pleasure to visit no matter what type of traveler you are.

And not to make you feel old, but Astoria is the best filming location for The Goonies – 40 years ago!

Oregon’s Mini ‘San Francisco’

Many may not have known that a “San Francisco” existed before the real deal happened.

It’s true – a long time ago Amazonbusinessman John Jacob Astor wanted to lead the fur trade market and founded the first official city on the West Coast.

This textbook “hidden gem” is set along what remains a beautiful coastal hub, where the Columbia River meets the vast Pacific Ocean; perfect for a trading post at the time.

Here we are more than two centuries later, and what remains of these lofty dreams is a serene city of about 10,000 residents, etched in time – a far cry from San Francisco’s nearly 900,000 residents, yet exuding the same charm and beauty as the more famous city.

With its near-doppelgänger Astoria-Megler Bridge connecting Washington, this landmark gives this unsuspecting city Old San Fran vibe without the cheap ’90s sitcom attractions, frequent crime waves, and breathtaking real estate prices.

In fact, Astoria is better known as the head of the shipwreck-laden “Graveyard of the Pacific,” but today it’s a virtually crowd-free haven with mild winters and a timeless cityscape to explore.

Astoria is Oregon’s time capsule

Not to throw another big city into the mix, but Oregon’s largest city, Portland, isn’t exactly a historical wonder to ooh and ahh…

Both San Fran and Portland have seen their fair share of negative headlines, often related to crime and homelessness, resulting in a maze of eyesores spread across the city.

Here in Astoria you don’t have to worry about that. Downtown is quaint, without the bustling Chinatowns and craziness of the Tenderloin.

At every turn you’ll find charming, walkable streets that radiate with character, without towering skylines to get in the way of the scenic waterfront.

Although small, this unique part of the Pacific Northwest offers tourists a glimpse of the past through Victorian architecture and insightful museums that chronicle the city’s maritime origins.

Like any city center, locals have their favorite spots every day. You want to start your day with a soulful coffee at the Rusty cupfind new reading in eccentric Portland-esque Godfather’s booksand stop for a photo at the stuck time Freedom Theatre.

As previously mentioned, Portland may get all the credit, but this legendary city is also an unsung hero for foodies, especially if you enjoy local beers.

For an idyllic town, you might wonder how the locals bide the time. There are numerous pubs, creating an underrated food and beer scene.

Largely anchored by places like Fort George for a cold pint, top class Tres Bros for a surprising taste of Nicaragua, and Bridgewater Bistro for the best views and fresh seafood, there’s no shortage of restaurants and breweries to treat yourself.

Enjoy epic views and nostalgic stays

Astoria is the ultimate relaxing hideaway. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors and the immaculate scenery.

If you squint hard enough and convince yourself that Alcatraz is in the background, you’ll feel like you’ve scored one of the West Coast’s most prized destinations without spending a lot of money.

Here are Travel Off Path’s three best hotels in Astoria for a remarkable stay:

1. The Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa – luxury digs with prime waterfront real estate
2. Bowline Hotel — Astoria’s most stylish hotel with equally attractive views
3. Commodore Hotel — seamlessly combines timeless aesthetics with modern luxury

They are all within a reasonable distance to explore the main attractions. Our recommendation?

Hop aboard yet another San Francisco staple, the bright red $2 cartto explore the top spots along the waterfront and wave to the sea lions.

However, for the best views you should definitely make time for a hike Pigeons walk. Just pack your best walking shoes!

Sam Sears

Sam, our lead writer and San Diego-based journalist, has visited 36 countries and written more than 1,000 articles with an emphasis on sharing his own travel experiences and highlighting lesser-known gems.