Historical Boutique Hotel near Columbia River

Situated just a stone's throw from the Columbia River, the Commodore Hotel Astoria closed abruptly in 1965 after four decades in business. When developers unsealed the property another four decades later, they found a scene frozen in time, complete with yellowed photographs, rotary telephones, and even ashtrays still filled with cigarette butts. By the time the hotel reopened in 2009, it had been transformed, its bright colors and playful décor evincing a fresh, youthful sensibility Still, in deference to the Commodore's rich history, the restoration managed to preserve many of the building's original architectural features.

The three-story brick-front hotel houses 18 smartly styled rooms, each outfitted with a full-size bed and flat-screen TV. Bathrooms with showers are located at the end of each hallway, and complimentary bathrobes keep the stroll to the shower from getting too chilly or illegal. For more space and privacy, the hotel's suites offer an in-room bathroom and a separate seating area.

Astoria, Oregon: Riverside Community in Pacific Northwest

Located about 100 miles northwest of Portland, the quiet town of Astoria lies along the scenic south shore of the Columbia River. A fur-trading outpost in the days of Lewis and Clark, the city reached its heyday as a timber port in the late 19th century, when Astoria became the second-most populous city in the state. It was during this era that wealthy merchants erected ornate Victorian homes and lined the streets with expensive bearskin rugs.

Contrasting with the town's elegant Victorian architecture is the rugged beauty of the surrounding landscape, which encompasses acres of densely wooded forests. From any number of vantage points along the Columbia River, you can see the hills of southern Washington, and a suspension bridge connects the two states. Astoria's downtown area isn't crowded with tourists, giving you a chance to browse its art galleries, coffee shops, and bookstores at any pace you like.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.