Columbia River On A Us Map

The Columbia River is one of the most iconic and picturesque waterways in the United States. Spanning over 1,200 miles, it runs through seven states and offers a diverse array of attractions, activities, and natural wonders. If you’re planning a trip to the Columbia River, this comprehensive travel guide will help you uncover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is undoubtedly one of the top attractions in the region. This 80-mile-long canyon offers stunning views of waterfalls, forests, and rock formations, and is perfect for hiking, camping, and scenic drives. The Bonneville Dam is another must-visit spot, where you can learn about the history and significance of hydroelectric power. Other top attractions include the Maryhill Museum of Art, the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, and the Columbia River Maritime Museum.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for hidden gems, consider visiting the Rowena Plateau, which offers panoramic views of the Columbia River and is perfect for wildflower viewing in the spring. The Catherine Creek Trail is another hidden gem, which offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding hills. For a unique experience, consider visiting the Maryhill Stonehenge, a replica of the famous Stonehenge in England located in the middle of a wheat field.

Food Scene

The Columbia River region offers a diverse array of food options, from fresh seafood to farm-to-table cuisine. Some of the top restaurants include Boda’s Kitchen, which offers creative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, and Solstice Wood Fire Cafe, which serves delicious wood-fired pizzas. Other top spots include the Hood River Fruit Loop, where you can sample fresh produce and artisanal foods, and the Astoria Sunday Market, which features local food vendors.

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you’re traveling on a budget, consider visiting during the shoulder season (spring or fall) when prices are lower and crowds are thinner. You can also save money by camping instead of staying in hotels, and by cooking your own meals instead of eating out. Many of the top attractions, such as hiking trails and scenic drives, are free of charge.

Outdoor Adventures

The Columbia River region offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking and camping to kayaking and windsurfing. Some of the top spots for outdoor activities include the Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood National Forest, and the Deschutes River State Recreation Area. You can also go fishing, birdwatching, or take a scenic flight over the river.

Historical Landmarks

The Columbia River region is rich in history and offers many opportunities to explore the past. Some of the top historical landmarks include Fort Clatsop National Memorial, where Lewis and Clark spent the winter of 1805-1806, and the Columbia River Highway, which was the first scenic highway in the United States. You can also visit the Bonneville Lock and Dam, which was built during the Great Depression as part of the New Deal.

Family-Friendly Activities

The Columbia River region is a great destination for families, with many kid-friendly activities and attractions. Some of the top spots include the Columbia River Gorge Interpretive Center Museum, which offers interactive exhibits on the history and geology of the region, and the Oregon Zoo, which features over 2,000 animals from around the world. You can also take a family-friendly hike, go on a river cruise, or visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, consider visiting the Maryhill Winery, which offers stunning views of the river and hosts concerts and events throughout the summer. The Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler is another unique experience, where you can take a scenic cruise on a paddlewheel boat. For a more adventurous experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the river.

Natural Wonders

The Columbia River region is home to many natural wonders, from waterfalls and canyons to hot springs and geologic formations. Some of the top spots include Multnomah Falls, which is the second-highest waterfall in the United States, and the Painted Hills, which feature colorful rock formations. You can also visit the Bagby Hot Springs, which are located in a remote forest and offer a relaxing soak in natural hot springs.

Vibrant Nightlife

The Columbia River region offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and music venues. Some of the top spots include the White Buffalo Wine Bar and Bistro, which features live music and a wide selection of local wines, and the Hood River Saloon, which is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. You can also attend a concert or event at the historic Columbia Gorge Hotel.

Local Markets

The Columbia River region is known for its local markets, which offer fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts. Some of the top markets include the Hood River Farmers’ Market, which is held every Saturday from May through October, and the Astoria Farmers’ Market, which features over 70 vendors selling everything from organic produce to handmade soap. You can also visit the Trout Lake Farmers’ Market, which is located in a scenic mountain town.

Beaches and Mountains

The Columbia River region offers both beaches and mountains, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top beaches include Cannon Beach, which offers stunning views of Haystack Rock, and Cape Disappointment State Park, which offers miles of coastline to explore. For mountain adventures, consider visiting Mount Hood, which is the tallest mountain in Oregon and offers skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.

Cultural Immersion

The Columbia River region is home to many cultural attractions, from museums and art galleries to historic sites and festivals. Some of the top spots include the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum, which showcases the history and geology of the region, and the Maryhill Museum of Art, which features a diverse collection of art from around the world. You can also attend the Astoria Scandinavian Midsummer Festival, which celebrates the Scandinavian heritage of the region.

Art and Music Scene

The Columbia River region offers a vibrant art and music scene, with many galleries, studios, and venues. Some of the top spots include the Columbia Center for the Arts, which offers classes and exhibitions, and the Hood River Art Walk, which is held on the first Friday of every month and features local artists. You can also attend a concert or event at the historic Liberty Theater, which has been a cultural hub for over 90 years.

Walking Tours

The Columbia River region offers many opportunities for walking tours, from historic downtowns to scenic trails. Some of the top tours include the Astoria Underground Tour, which explores the historic tunnels and basements beneath the city, and the Mount Hood Meadows Wildflower Walk, which showcases the stunning wildflowers of the mountain. You can also take a self-guided walking tour of the historic Columbia River Highway.

Architectural Marvels

The Columbia River region is home to many architectural marvels, from historic buildings to modern designs. Some of the top spots include the Vista House at Crown Point, which offers panoramic views of the river and features stunning Art Deco design, and the Columbia River Highway, which features many historic bridges and tunnels. You can also visit the historic Fort Vancouver, which was a key trading post during the fur trade era.

Historical Sites

The Columbia River region is rich in history and offers many opportunities to explore the past. Some of the top historical sites include the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, which commemorates the famous expedition, and the Fort Dalles Museum, which showcases the history of the region during the pioneer era. You can also visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum, which features exhibits on the history of navigation and fishing on the river.

Biking Routes

The Columbia River region offers many opportunities for biking, from scenic trails to challenging mountain routes. Some of the top routes include the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, which offers 73 miles of scenic biking along the river, and the Deschutes River Trail, which features challenging terrain and stunning views. You can also take a leisurely ride along the Hood River Fruit Loop, which offers scenic views of orchards and vineyards.

Wellness Retreats

The Columbia River region is a great destination for wellness retreats, with many spas, retreat centers, and yoga studios. Some of the top spots include the Carson Hot Springs Resort, which offers natural hot springs and massage treatments, and the Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat and Conference Center, which offers yoga classes and workshops. You can also visit the Hood River Lavender Farm, which offers relaxing aromatherapy and lavender products.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or just a relaxing getaway, the Columbia River region has