Vist The Vista House!

Vista House is a historical stop that is a must see along the Columbia River Historical Highway. Perched on a cliff you get an amazing view of the Columbia River Gorge from the 99-year-old building.

Samuel Lancaster, Assistant Highway Engineer for Multnomah County in 1913, supervised the Columbia River Highway project. Lancaster’s proposal to construct a building on the summit of Crown Point was another reflection of his desire to inspire the traveler along the highway and to make the wonders of the gorge accessible.

Majestic! It’s the only word to describe Crown Point capped by its venerable Vista House.As Lancaster described it, the Crown Point promontory was the ideal site for “an observatory from which the view both up and down the Columbia could be viewed in silent communion with the infinite.” Such an observatory would also be a fitting memorial to “the trials and hardships of those who had come into the Oregon country.” And it could “serve as a comfort station for the tourist and the travelers of America’s greatest highway.” He suggested it be known as the Vista House.

Since 1918, this regal sight has enthralled millions of travelers. From its surrounding vantage point 733 feet above the Columbia River and overlooking the busy I-84, countless sightseers and photographers have enjoyed a step back in time and one of Oregon’s most inspiring views.

Learn more about the history of the Vista House at: www.vistahouse.com/history/

Looking for lodging near the Columbia River Gorge? Check out Lodging Here