
Fort Astoria
A reconstruction of the 1811 fur-trading post, marking Astoria's beginnings. A quick historical stop with adjacent brewery.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Fort Astoria
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A reconstruction of the 1811 fur-trading post, marking Astoria's beginnings. A quick historical stop with adjacent brewery.
"It's just something you need to take in and appreciate for what it is."

⏳ Quick Stop, Big History
Fort Astoria is a small reconstruction. Allow 5-10 minutes for the fort itself, then explore nearby.
🍺 Brewery Adjacent
Fort George Brewery is right next door! Great for a post-history refreshment.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fort Astoria Blockhouse
Fort Astoria Park
A reconstruction of the original 1811 fur-trading post, offering a glimpse into early settlement history.

Fort George Brewery
Adjacent to Fort Astoria Park
Housed in a historic building on the original fort site, offering local brews and a lively atmosphere.

Astoria Riverfront
Near Fort Astoria
Stroll along the waterfront, enjoy views, and explore nearby attractions like the Maritime Museum.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Fuller Experience
Beyond the Blockhouse: Explore Astoria's Rich History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Quick Stop, Big History
Fort Astoria is a small reconstruction. Allow 5-10 minutes for the fort itself, then explore nearby.
🍺 Brewery Adjacent
Fort George Brewery is right next door! Great for a post-history refreshment.
🪵 Watch for Splinters
The reconstructed wood can be rough. Be mindful if touching the structures.
🚶♀️ Explore the Park
The surrounding park offers nice views and is a pleasant place to wander.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Quick Stop, Big History
Fort Astoria is a small reconstruction. Allow 5-10 minutes for the fort itself, then explore nearby.
🍺 Brewery Adjacent
Fort George Brewery is right next door! Great for a post-history refreshment.
🪵 Watch for Splinters
The reconstructed wood can be rough. Be mindful if touching the structures.
🚶♀️ Explore the Park
The surrounding park offers nice views and is a pleasant place to wander.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Fort Astoria to be a historically significant site, representing the birthplace of Astoria. However, many note that the reconstruction is small and doesn't offer much to see beyond the exterior, leading to expectations not being fully met. Despite this, its location adjacent to Fort George Brewery and its role as a quick historical stop are appreciated.
"Well, I was hoping for more and came up short. The history is cool, but what is left here is disappointing. What makes it worse is the fact there is a brewery right up against it. Takes away from the historical value. But if you have 5 minutes to stop and look I think it’s a great side stop to see."
Casey Sharp
"I could still smell the musket powder and beaver pelts. Things to read and grass to touch for days. Amazing views and interesting people all around just doing the same as I. There were a few dog to pet when I visited too. Careful of splinter if touching the wood but it's old so it kinda comes with the territory. It's just something you need to take in and appreciate for what it is. Not sure if the houses near by were built around the same time or not. Great experience!"
Alex Dustin
"Great information about the first settlers to habitat the area"
CJ Laughlin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort Astoria is located in Astoria, Oregon. It's easily accessible by car and is situated within Fort Astoria Park. Parking is generally available nearby.
No, Fort Astoria is a separate historical site. Fort Stevens State Park, which includes Fort Stevens, is located about 2 miles away and offers different historical attractions.
Many visitors combine Fort Astoria with other key locations like Fort Clatsop and the Columbia River Maritime Museum. Consider a car for easy access between sites.
While direct public transport to the fort itself might be limited, Astoria does have a Riverfront Trolley that can take you to various points along the waterfront, which is near Fort Astoria.
Yes, Fort Astoria is relatively close to downtown Astoria. A pleasant walk along the riverfront can lead you to the park and the fort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Fort Astoria is a park and a historical site reconstruction. There is generally no admission fee to visit the park and view the blockhouse from the outside.
As Fort Astoria is located within a public park, it is generally accessible during daylight hours. The park's hours are typically from dawn to dusk.
The windows of the reconstructed blockhouse are often covered, limiting direct interior viewing. The primary experience is observing the exterior and understanding its historical context.
No, Fort Astoria Park is a public park and does not typically have an entrance fee. Enjoy the historical site and the surrounding green space.
Since Fort Astoria itself doesn't have an admission fee, no specific passes are required. However, if you plan to visit other National Park Service sites like Fort Clatsop, an NPS pass would be applicable.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll see a reconstruction of the original 1811 fur-trading post blockhouse. The surrounding park offers scenic views and is a good spot for a brief historical reflection.
Most visitors spend about 5-10 minutes at the fort itself, as it's a small site. You can extend your visit by exploring the park or heading to nearby attractions.
While the fort itself is a quick look, kids might enjoy the open space of the park and learning about the history. Nearby attractions like the Maritime Museum might be more engaging for younger visitors.
Restroom facilities may be available within Fort Astoria Park, though it's always a good idea to check local park information or use facilities before arriving if you have specific needs.
Information panels or plaques may be present to explain the significance of Fort Astoria as the first American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains, established by John Jacob Astor's fur company.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several good restaurants near Fort Astoria. Fort George Brewery is directly adjacent, and many other dining options are available in downtown Astoria.
You can find a variety of cuisines in Astoria, from pub fare at Fort George Brewery to seafood and other options in the downtown area.
Fort George Brewery generally welcomes families, especially during daytime hours. They offer a public house with food and drinks.
Fort Astoria Park offers green space, making it a potential spot for a picnic. Enjoying a meal with a view of the historic site could be a pleasant experience.
Astoria has a vibrant food scene. Exploring the downtown area will reveal local favorites and potentially unique culinary experiences beyond the immediate vicinity of the fort.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the reconstructed blockhouse against the backdrop of the park and the Astoria skyline. The adjacent Fort George Brewery also offers interesting architectural shots.
Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the historical feel of the site. Early mornings can offer a quieter, more atmospheric experience.
Drone usage is typically regulated in public parks and historical sites. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
The park surrounding Fort Astoria offers pleasant views. For more expansive vistas, consider visiting the Astoria Column, which provides panoramic views of the Columbia River and surrounding areas.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. If you're interested in capturing the wider landscape, a wide-angle lens can be useful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't forget to check out the Astoria Riverfront Trolley for a fun and scenic ride along the water, which can be a highlight for younger visitors. Many families also enjoy exploring the various Goonies filming locations scattered throughout Astoria, adding a pop culture element to the trip.
🏛️ History Buffs
Consider dedicating time to Fort Stevens State Park to explore its military history and the iconic Peter Iredale shipwreck. The Astoria Column also offers historical murals and panoramic views that tell the story of the region's settlement and development.
🍺 Craft Beer Enthusiasts
Astoria has a thriving craft beer scene, so after visiting Fort Astoria and Fort George, consider exploring other local breweries in the area to sample more of the region's offerings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Fort Astoria
While the original fort no longer stands, the current reconstruction in Fort Astoria Park serves as a tangible reminder of this pivotal moment in American expansion and the early days of the Pacific Northwest. Understanding its history enriches the visitor's experience, transforming a simple blockhouse into a symbol of early American enterprise and territorial claims.
Visitors interested in delving deeper into this era can explore nearby sites like Fort Clatsop, the winter encampment of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the Columbia River Maritime Museum, which further contextualizes Astoria's role in exploration and trade.
Exploring Astoria's Fortifications and Beyond
For those interested in the Lewis and Clark Expedition, Fort Clatsop is a must-visit. This reconstructed winter encampment provides insight into the daily lives of the explorers and Sacagawea during their historic journey. It's managed by the National Park Service, and an NPS pass is often accepted.
Beyond these specific forts, Astoria itself is steeped in history. The Astoria Column offers panoramic views and historical murals, while the Columbia River Maritime Museum details the region's seafaring past, from fur traders to modern shipping.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit