Discover Apalachicola, Florida
Apalachicola Florida is a warm, welcoming port town bursting with hometown charm, friendly folks and rich maritime history. Nestled on the mouth of the Apalachicola River, this small coastal city is home to bustling seafood houses, weather-worn shrimp boats and stately historical buildings.
The name "Apalachicola" is a combination of the Hitchoti Indian words "apalahchi," meaning "on the other side," and "okli," meaning "people.” However, Apalachicola locals will tell you it means "land of the friendly people.” As soon as you set foot in this genial small town, you’ll understand why. Brimming with warm hospitality and smiling faces, Apalachicola makes everyone feel at home.



Things to Do in Apalachicola
Though the area is certainly laid-back, there are plenty of things to do in Apalachicola—from upscale dining and shopping to museum hopping and sightseeing to fishing and kayaking.
Hip & Historical
Apalachicola has managed to retain its historic charm while evolving into a hip destination teeming with arts and culture. Affectionately called "Apalach” by locals, this picturesque town gives visitors a delightful taste of Old Florida while offering countless activities and events.
The town lays claim to a beautifully restored historic district like none other in the Panhandle. Throughout Apalachicola’s historic downtown commercial district, visitors will stumble across eclectic boutiques, unique eateries, art galleries and popular music venues tucked into brick, tin-roofed warehouses. It’s a distinctive destination that offers the best of both worlds: old world charm and new world cool.
Nationally Recognized Restaurants
Famous for its seafood, Apalachicola is home to an impressive array of world-class restaurants. You’ll find the freshest seafood served up in every way imaginable, from raw and steamed to fried and grilled and everything in between. Enjoy a dozen oysters overlooking the sparkling Apalachicola River or grab a salad or burger at one of the local diners. Don’t forget to stop by the town’s microbrewery to taste award-winning brews.
Plentiful Outdoor Activities
Apalachicola offers a variety of outdoor activities for everyone to enjoy. Extremely walkable, the small town features several parks and nature trails. Take a self-guided walking tour along the tree-shaded sidewalks of Apalachicola’s distinguished Historic District, where you can check out the regal homes of past sea captains and river pilots.
Ready for an angling adventure? You’re in luck! The Apalachicola River and Apalachicola Bay serve up a bounty of freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities. If you’d rather take a peaceful paddle or cruise, explore the area’s endless waterways by kayak, canoe, riverboat or sailboat.
History Buff Heaven
Apalachicola is the ideal destination for history buffs and inquisitive travelers. The town is considered a “distinctive destination” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation based on its unique character, charm and dedication to historic preservation. Once the third largest port on the Gulf of Mexico, Apalachicola echoes with maritime memories and old-fashioned charm.
Take a stroll through the Historic District to check out picturesque Victorian homes and learn about the town’s diverse and colorful history. More than 900 historic homes and buildings dating back to the 1830s can be seen on the city’s self-guided walking tour.
Apalachicola also features a number interesting museums, including the Apalachicola Maritime Museum and the John Gorrie Museum State Park, which contains a replica of the ice machine created and patented in 1851 by Dr. John Gorrie.
Tons of Fun Festivals
Apalachicola is renowned throughout the Panhandle for its plentiful festivals and events. After all, there’s a lot to celebrate in this charming coastal town. From a handful of holiday events in December and the annual Oyster Cookoff in January to springtime art festivals and the famous Florida Seafood Festival in November, there’s always something fun happening in Apalach.
Array of Accommodations
When it comes to places to stay, Apalachicola has something for everyone. The town features meticulously restored hotels, charming Bed & Breakfasts and luxury waterfront accommodations.
If you’re looking for a historical destination with a hip edge, look no further than Apalachicola Florida.
RELAX & STAY AWHILE IN APALACHICOLA
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
The Consulate
The Consulate features four luxury vacation suites in Apalachicola’s Grady Building, which is located in the heart of the Historic Riverfront District. Rooms are decorated with antique prints, original art and vintage maps giving each suite its own unique personality. All suites have fully equipped modern kitchens, cable TV, VCRs, laundry facilities, and balconies.
Learn MoreCoombs Inn & Suites
The Coombs Inn & Suites is a luxurious Inn consisting of three elegant Historic Victorian Mansions located in the heart of Apalachicola’s Historical District. Come discover why Travel and Leisure Magazine ranked us “One of the 30 Outstanding Small Inns in the United States.” Stay in one of our 23 luxurious guest suites furnished with European antiques, original oil paintings…
Learn MoreBest Western Apalach Inn
All rooms feature free high-speed internet access and cable satellite television with HBO. Complimentary full hot breakfast in lobby and coffee pots in rooms. Ample parking available for trucks, RVs, or boats, as well as an outdoor pool. Non-smoking and handicap accessible rooms available. Senior, AAA, AARP, and corporate discounts available.
Learn MoreLODGING INFORMATION REQUEST
Receive special offers from lodging providers for your trip to Franklin County, Florida.
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
Mardi Gras Barkus... Apalachicola
The Mystic Krewe of Salty Barkers, a parade group of dogs and their people, invite you to join in the Apalachicola Mardi Gras Barkus Parade in downtown Apalachicola. Mystic Krewe of Salty Barkers is excited to present the Annual Apalachicola Mardi Gras Barkus Parade on Saturday, February 23, 2019, in…
Learn MoreSt. George Island... St. George Island
St. George Island will host its annual Charity Chili Cookoff and Auction the first Saturday in March. Annual attendance of an estimated 5,000 people, with many contestants participating in several contests including a golf tournament, a 5K red pepper run, crock pot chili contest, Miss Chili Pepper and Mr. Hot Sauce…
Learn MoreThe Curry’s CD... Apalachicola
This is the first show of their tour and we are honored to be part of it! Reserved table seats in Orchestra are $35, Tables seat 6 and you’re welcome to purchase an entire Table for $200. All other Mezzanine and Balcony Tickets are general admission $25 in advance, $30 day…
Learn MoreUNFORGETTABLE
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