Hotel at a Glance: Gilbert Inn

In 1892, an enterprising Frenchman named Alexandre Gilbert built a charming Queen Anne–style Victorian house just 300 feet from the ocean in Seaside, Oregon. This former home is now known as the Gilbert Inn, and several of the Mr. Gilbert’s original decorations and belongings are still on display. Visitors can step onto his collection of Persian rugs at the entrance and listen for the chimes from the antique clock that sits on the mantel.

• Guest rooms: Queen beds crafted from cherry wood or iron and brass frame lush pillow-top mattresses for style and comfort.
• Adults-only oasis: The inn’s no-children policy encourages a calmness that suits its antique character.
• Freshly baked cookies are served daily, and guests can enjoy as many as their stomachs desire.
• Modern amenities: free WiFi and flat-screen TVs with cable
• Daily breakfast: eggs, waffles, and one special homemade item from bacon to pies and more; see the menu

Seaside, Oregon: Coastal Beauty Surrounding a Family-Friendly Town

Located along Oregon’s Pacific coast, about 80 miles northwest of Portland, the resort town of Seaside has attracted beachcombers since the late 19th century. More recently, the coastal village has become a family destination marked by historical buildings, tree-lined boulevards, and plenty of kid-friendly activities, including mini golf, bumper cars, and arcades.

A 1.5-mile oceanfront promenade—known locally as the Prom—stretches along the beach, its boardwalk speckled with shops and restaurants near grass-covered dunes. Along the Prom, you’ll find a bronze statue of Lewis and Clark that faces the ocean at the historic Seaside Turnaround—the spot where the explorers are thought to have ended their epic westward trek. The Seaside Aquarium is also located along the promenade. Pop in to visit its aquatic residents, including a giant Pacific octopus, tropical fish, and several crowd-pleasing harbor seals.