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Within the tall pine-lined forests, along the stretching banks, and beneath the calm waters of the Columbia River lie some of the most beloved foods of the Pacific Northwest. Long known as the watery road that Lewis and Clark traveled on their exploration of the West, the Columbia River is an emblem of American history—and it’s also home to some of the region's best cuisine.

While you cruise, whether you're looking for highlights or want the complete Columbia & Snake River experience, our expert culinary team will ensure each menu you enjoy perfectly reflects the region.

Salmon

We can't talk about the Columbia and Snake Rivers without mentioning salmon. During their pioneering expedition in 1805, Lewis and Clark noted the river’s great abundance of salmon, with commercial fishing beginning in the 1820s. Since then, salmon has become the defining dish of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you prefer it smoked, baked, grilled on a cedar plank, or even candied, this upstream-swimming staple represents the region’s culinary heritage with its delicate, rich flavor.

Tillamook Cheese

Born in the Tillamook Valley, European settlers in 1851 found that the area's rainy weather was perfect for dairy farming. The lush grasslands provided ideal conditions for their cows and, by 1894, Tillamook Valley dairy farmers were transporting their wares to Portland by ship aboard the Morning Star. In 1909, the small creameries of the area united to form the Tillamook County Creamery Association.

Today, well over a century later, Tillamook's product line has expanded from butter and cheese to include ice creams, yogurts, and cream cheeses. The heart of this dairy empire remains in the Tillamook Valley, where visitors can explore the iconic creamery, learn about its history, and even watch the award-winning cheddar being made.

Huckleberries

Huckleberries have been a staple of Columbia and Snake River cuisine for thousands of years. Indigenous peoples used them for medicine, trade, and as a delicious addition to their diet. These small, tart berries only grow at high elevations in the wild from June to August. Eaten raw before ripening, they can be bitter and unremarkable, but once cooked down with sugar into jams, sauces, or dried for snacks, their flavor comes to life. Travel along these rivers and visit some of our more beautiful national parks on a National Parks & Legendary Rivers cruise to the small but mighty huckleberry.

Hazelnuts

Oregon's hazelnut legacy began in the 1850s when French and English settlers brought the nut to the region. The first hazelnut tree in Oregon was planted in 1858, paving the way for a thriving industry. Today, multi-generational farms cover over 30,000 acres, making hazelnuts a multi-million-dollar enterprise. Traditionally paired with chocolate and made into beloved spreads, hazelnuts are incredibly versatile—perfect for crusting fish and chicken, candying for a sweet salad topper, or adding depth to a flavorful romesco sauce.

Wine

The Columbia River Gorge has long been a place of wonder and abundance. However, it wasn't until the 1970s and ‘80s that its now-thriving wine industry truly took off. Winemakers have put their stamp on the region by mastering classics like Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Gris, while also cultivating rare varietals such as Furmint, a Hungarian white grape, and Mondeuse, a red grape that produces a French-style wine right here in Oregon. With over 90 vineyards, the Columbia River Gorge wine region offers something for every palate.

When you join us on a Columbia River Gorge cruise, you'll have the opportunity to sample locally crafted wines with an exclusive excursion to Stave and Stone Winery.

Cruise the Columbia River

With four unique itineraries along the Columbia & Snake Rivers, you can experience the Pacific Northwest your way. Cruise to National Parks and Legendary Rivers or weave through the Columbia River Gorge, all while enjoying breathtaking views of towering mountains against the bright blue sky from your private balcony. Cruising the Columbia & Snake Rivers is truly an unforgettable experience when you sail with American Cruise Lines.

Getting hungry? Check out a sample menu of what you might enjoy on board.