The winter-long deluge that Lewis and Clark experienced at the mouth of the Columbia River has become legendary. But after the 2003 restoration of Astoria's sparkling Hotel Elliott, we say let it rain. Originally built in 1924, the hotel now has heated stone floors warming the bathrooms, vintage photographs adorning the walls, and beds boasting voluptuous down pillows and duvets. Across the street is the hotel's Schooner Twelfth Street Bistro, where you can treat yourself to a Dungeness crab frittata or hazelnut waffle.

What else to do on a rainy day in Astoria? Book a massage at Columbia River Day Spa, browse the art galleries, or get a bird's-eye view from the top of the just-refurbished Astoria Column (follow signs on 16th Street to the top of Coxcomb Hill). — Bonnie Henderson

Stay dry

Columbia River Day Spa (1215 Duane St.; 503/325-7721); Hotel Elliott (357 12th St.; www.hotelelliott.com or 877/378-1924); Schooner Twelfth Street Bistro ($$; 360 12th; 503/325-7882)