Astoria, Oregon - Astor Column

There's a stunning view from the Astor Column, a civic landmark atop Coxcomb Hill in Astoria. A spiral staircase winds 164 steps to the top observation deck. Entry is free; there's a $1 parking fee. Even from the hilltop base of the tower the view is great. The hill overlooks the city of Astoria, the four-mile span of the Astoria-Megler bridge, ship traffic on the Columbia river and the river's confluence with the Pacific Ocean. The column was built in 1926 and the beautiful mural of local history that spirals around the exterior was recently restored. [Kevin Violette, 01/01/2006]