Astoria

Astoria is a place name and surname used for several locations in the United States, most prominently two urban areas: Astoria, Oregon, a city on the Columbia River estuary in northwest Oregon, and Astoria, Queens, a densely populated neighborhood in western Queens, New York City.

Astoria, Oregon lies in Clatsop County, near the Columbia River and the Pacific coast. It has a maritime heritage, a historic downtown, and serves as a gateway to the Oregon Coast. The city is connected to Washington by the Astoria-Megler Bridge. Its economy historically centered on fishing, timber, and shipping, with modern tourism and service sectors. Notable institutions include the Oregon Film Museum and the Columbia River Maritime Museum nearby, reflecting the region’s nautical history.

Astoria, Queens is a residential and commercial neighborhood with a diverse population. It is bordered by the East River to the west and adjacent to Long Island City and Sunnyside. Notable institutions include Kaufman Astoria Studios and the Museum of the Moving Image. The area is served by subway lines and various bus routes, contributing to its accessibility and cultural activity, including a broad range of dining and nightlife options.

Origin of the name: both places are named for John Jacob Astor, a 19th-century fur trader and founder of the American Fur Company. The Oregon location traces its naming to early 19th-century fur trade activity around Fort Astoria, while the Queens neighborhood was named during a period of late 19th to early 20th-century development connected with the Astor family.