Hotel Elliot Astoria - Views, Luxury and Oregon History
On one side is the Astoria-Megler Bridge, which spans 21,474 feet over the mighty Columbia River. From there the scene continues to downtown, the Astoria Column, and in the distance the green coastline of Washington State.On my Oregon travels, I had the pleasure of being hosted by Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce at the Hotel Elliot. This historic hotel tucked into the heart of downtown, is the perfect base for exploring Astoria. And, with views like these, you might find yourself lingering on the rooftop with a latte or a glass of wine until its time to leave.
There are stunning views at Hotel Elliott’s rooftop terrace. Photo by Lara Dunning
Hotel Elliott – Renovated and Revived
In the 2000’s, this former 1924 hotel underwent a 4 million dollar renovation. Its 68 rooms were transformed into 32 spacious guestrooms with modern amenities and comforts like heated tile bathroom floors, handcrafted cabinetry, and their signature pillow-top Wonderful Beds.
This former 1924 hotel has undergone a renovation resulting in an upscale, boutique hotel. Photo by Lara Dunning
Throughout the hotel are unique touches of its former life, such as the original and fire-safe doors, Art Deco sconces, and transom windows above the doorways.
You’ll notice original decor throughout the hotel. Photo courtesy of Hotel Elliott
Boutique and Classy
As soon as I enter Hotel Elliott’s lobby I’m charmed by its warm and inviting space. Outfitted with a gas fireplace, a chessboard and a spittoon, the hotel’s decor tells me I’ve landed at a place where the past mingles with the present. And, I wouldn’t have it any other way. After all, Astoria is the “oldest American settlement west of the Rockies.”
The lobby is a warm and inviting space with historic touches. Photo courtesy Hotel Elliott
A Column View Room at Hotel Elliott
My queen deluxe room is elegantly appointed with luxury bedding and contemporary dark wood furniture. While my room does not face the water, I’m pleased to discover it has a view of the famous Astoria Column.
From my room, I had a view of the Astoria Column. Photo by Lara Dunning
Surprising for its boutique size, guests will find they have plenty of room choices such as deluxe rooms, guest suites, double bedded suites, junior suites, executive club suites, premium suites, and the presidential suite that is a two-bedroom apartment style suite with a baby grand piano, wet bar, and a spiral staircase to a parlor room with another bed and private access to the rooftop terrace. A guest was kind enough to let me take a look, and wow! If you have a group, this is the way to go!
For larger groups or a special occasion, the Presidential Suite has plenty of luxury appeal. Photo courtesy Hotel Elliott
Some rooms have fireplaces and soaking tubs, and while the majority sleep two to four persons, the presidential suite sleeps eight.
Hotel Elliott Amenities
Next to the lobby is the wine bar. Here, you can enjoy a drink, take a bottle up to your room or the rooftop terrace and watch the sunset.
Guests can enjoy a drink in the wine bar, or take their beverage up to the rooftop terrace. Photo courtesy Hotel Elliott
In the morning, the seating area of the wine bar is where the complimentary breakfast is served. Breakfast includes hot items, pastries, juices, yogurt, fruits, and coffee.
On a sunny day, there is no better spot than the rooftop terrace. I found it a pleasure to relax in the sunshine. There’s plenty of seating and a gas fireplace to warm you.
After touring the town, the rooftop terrace is the perfect spot to relax and take in the view from all sides. Photo by Lara Dunning
On the basement level, there is a billiards room, ideal for less spectacular weather.
Wandering Astoria
Astoria Column
I had a short stay in Astoria, and it left me wanting more. The stop you can’t miss is the Astoria Column. The 125-foot concrete column is a hand-painted spiral frieze that captures the spirit of the local Native Americans and those that settled in the Astoria area. The Column is the last constructed of a series of 12 historical markers constructed between St. Paul, Minnesota and Astoria, Oregon under the direction of Ralph Budd, who was president of the Great Northern Railroad.
The Astoria Column is not to be missed for the art, the history and the climb! Photo by Lara Dunning
Erected in 1926, there are 164 heart-pumping steps to get to the top. Don’t let that stop you, for the view is worth it! The column is open from dawn until dusk and has a five dollar parking fee. I suggest making a late afternoon or evening visit to take in the glorious setting sun.
The expansive view from the top of the column is worth the climb. Photo by Lara Dunning
Liberty Theatre
If you are a theatergoer ,you’ll want to see what is playing at the Liberty Theatre. This fully restored historic theater showcases a range of local and national musicians and theater productions. It is also right across the street from the hotel.
The historic Liberty Theatre is right across the street from the hotel. Photo courtesy Hotel Elliott
Garden of Surging Waves
Another attraction close to the hotel is the Garden of Surging Waves. Built in honor of the city’s bicentennial it is a reminder of the role Chinese immigrants played in Astoria and the town’s continued ties to China.
Close to the hotel, the Garden of Surging Waves is a unique and artistic space. Photo by Lara Dunning
Dining and Drinks
For dining, shopping, and drinks, the hotel is steps away from the hustle and bustle of downtown and the waterfront so you’ll not be hard-pressed to find someplace to dine or drink. If you are a beer lover like me, you might even heed the call of the 5 p.m. whistle at Fort George Brewery and swing by for a burger and a craft beer.
Fort George Brewery and Pub is the perfect spot for a burger and beer. Photo by Lara Dunning
When You Visit Astoria and Hotel Elliott
For travelers wanting to experience historic downtown Astoria, Hotel Elliot is in the perfect location. Even though my stay was short, its boutique rooms and rooftop terrace provided a quiet place unwind after a days activity. And, for those visiting from Portland, it is an easy two-hour drive. To book a room visit Hotel Elliot Astoria.
For more information about the area visit Astoria Warrenton Chamber of Commerce.
Read more about travels in Oregon from Wander writers.
Note: As is common in the travel industry, the writer was provided with accommodations and meals for the purpose of review. While it has not influenced this review, the writer believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest.