The story of Lewis and Clark's epic adventure to reach the Pacific Ocean is one every child learns when studying United States history.  What was once just a story on paper jumps to life when exploring the sites on either side of the Columbia River at The Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Parks.

It is a two-and-a-half hour drive from Joint Base Lewis-McChord to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center at Cape Disappointment State Park using the Hwy 101 South route. The Center is situated on a cliff overlooking the pounding Pacific Ocean 200 feet below. This dramatic site is the perfect foil for telling the Lewis and Clark tale. Visitors experience the expedition through the use of artwork, photographs, artifacts and the words of members of the Corps of Discovery. The glass enclosed observation deck is a welcome respite from the chilling winds off the ocean. There are magnificent views of the Columbia River flowing into the ocean. Insider tip:  You will need a Discovery Pass for Washington State Parks and there is a small fee to tour the Interpretive Center.  Take the time to hike out to the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, you won't be disappointed (pun intended) by the detour.

Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily, 244 Robert Gray Dr. SW, Ilwaco, 360.642.3029

Continue along Hwy. 101 South and cross the bridge over the Columbia River to Astoria, Oregon, which is your destination for the night. There are many options for a place to spend the night. I have had good luck with Trip Advisor, and their ratings are usually spot on. A must stop in Astoria is Bowpickers Fish and Chips. It was named to USA Today's  list of 10 Best Waterfront Seafood Shacks.  The shack is actually a boat and you can't miss it as there is usually a long line.  It is well worth the wait. Bowpickers' is famed for its battered fried tuna and chips. If you can't fit it in on Day 1, try for lunch on Day 2.  Insider tip: Cash only and order more than you think you will want.  It is that good and you don't want to stand in line again.

Bowpickers Fish and Chips, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday, 1634 Duane St., Astoria, Oregon, 503.791.2942

The movie, The Goonies, was filmed in Astoria. If you have children, it is a fun, family movie to watch either before the trip or bring to watch at your lodgings in Astoria.

Begin Day 2 with a trip to Fort Clatsop.  Start at the visitor's center and watch one of the two available movies. Visit the interpretive center to look at the history, nature and artifacts displayed. The Fort Clatsop replica is open year-round, but in the summer months, there are daily programs featuring costumed volunteers. Kids will especially enjoy the Junior Ranger program, which is basically a history scavenger hunt. Insider tip:  There is a cell phone audio tour with 11 stops covering the history of Fort Clatsop. During the summer months, a Lewis and Clark River Paddle Tour is available at no charge. Sign up online to ensure a reservation.

Fort Clatsop Visitors' Center and Fort Clatsop Replica, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily, grounds open daylight hours, 92343 Fort Clatsop Rd., Astoria, Oregon, 503.861.2471

For detailed information and maps, visit nps.gov/lewi.

My father was a history professor and I lost count of all the battlefields, historic sites and national parks we visited growing up. These trips brought history to life for me. Now I share this with my children and help them to develop lasting memories.