Discover Apalachicola, Florida
If you’re in Apalachicola, you’re among friends. In fact, this small coastal city at the mouth of the Apalachicola River is actually named after an Indian word meaning “land of friendly people.” Here you’ll catch a glimpse into old Florida’s maritime history in its bustling seafood houses, weather-worn shrimp boats and stately brick buildings that once served as 19th century chandleries, net factories and warehouses. The town has managed to retain its rusty crusty charm and embrace a new hip persona in the form of upscale restaurants, eclectic boutiques, galleries and a growing number of music venues that tuck themselves into the brick and tin-roofed warehouses that dominate the downtown district.
Seafood is served everywhere and in every way – slurp a dozen overlooking the river or tuck into the town’s only microbrewery which serves award-winning brews.
The town is small and very walkable – there are several parks, guided nature trails and downloadable self-guided walking tours. Stroll the canopy-shaded sidewalks of Apalachicola’s distinguished Historic District replete with the regal homes of past sea captains, river pilots and sponge divers. Apalachicola's diverse and colorful past remains visible today as you stroll along the wide tree-lined streets where picturesque Victorian homes display the charm of years gone by. Once the third largest port on the Gulf of Mexico, Apalachicola echoes with memories of an era once filled with steamboats and schooners, railroads and lumber mills. There are more than 900 historic homes, buildings and sites in the city’s Historic District. Apalachicola is considered a “distinctive destination” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation based on its unique character, charm and dedication to historic preservation.
The town features meticulously restored hotels and B&Bs as well as luxury waterfront accommodations. Looking for a treasure to take home? Spend time browsing through the eclectic boutiques, galleries and restaurants that are tucked into nooks and crannies throughout the historic downtown commercial district.
Apalachicola’s history and maritime culture are matched by the area’s bountiful natural resources. The Apalachicola River and Apalachicola Bay provide great fishing opportunities for both fresh and salt water fishing buffs. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the endless bays and waterways by kayak, canoe, riverboat or sailboat while in Apalachicola.
You can’t swing a cat in town without finding some neat festival or event – there’s lots to celebrate here. Enjoy the town’s annual Oyster Cook-off in January, Art events in March and May and the granddaddy of them all, the Florida Seafood Festival in November. For a complete list of events, visit the events page.
RELAX & STAY AWHILE
From a downtown historic district condo to a waterfront hotel, Apalachicola offers a variety of places to stay.
View all accommodations in Franklin County, Florida
Bay City Lodge
A fisherman’s retreat with lodging set in a quiet wooded atmosphere. Accommodations include fully furnished cabins and motel units. Restaurant, bait & tackle store, sports apparel shop, boat launching facilities, charter fishing guides, boat storage, and tennis courts.
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Rexford Suite
Downtown Apalach Above the Dixie Theatre! Experience downtown Apalachicola and the beautiful Apalachicola River from your windows or walk out the door and step into the shops, art galleries and restaurants of this quaint historic fishing village. Take an estuary tour or spend the day fishing with one of the experienced guides either on the Apalachicola River or in the…
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Gibson Inn
The Gibson Inn is a Victorian Inn listed on the National Historic Register of Historic Places. The Inn was carefully restored in 1985. With a tin roof and wrap around porches, many of the 30 guest rooms are uniquely appointed with authentic antique furnishings, cable TV, telephone, and wireless internet. Each guest room has its own full private bath. Banquet…
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UPCOMING EVENTS
Discover the Forgotten Coast's authentic, Old Florida charm at more than 100 annual events and festivals, that highlight our natural resources, culture and history. Click here to see all events
Independence Eve... Apalachicola
Apalachicola Main Street presents Apalachicola’s Independence Eve Celebration on Tuesday, July 3 at Riverfront Park starting at 5 p.m. The event features live music, food trucks, a parade, ice cream social, veterans’ tribute, a performance of the National Anthem, and the best fireworks show on the Forgotten Coast. This year’s featured…
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Paddle Jam Apalachicola
The fall version of the Apalachicola Paddle Jam festival will be held in October, in Apalachicola and on St. George Island. This three day festival celebrates the Forgotten Coast through paddle sports, music and food. The highlight of the event will be an attempt by paddlers to break the world…
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Pink Out! St. George Island
This local breast cancer awareness event has grown to be a popular annual fall event on St. George Island. The annual Pink Out! festivities begin at 6 pm at Paddy’s Raw Bar and will feature a silent auction, live music, food and fun!
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