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 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
Gibson Inn
Constructed in 1907 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the hotel is steeped in Southern hospitality, history, and charm. The iconic Parlor Bar remains the definitive local watering hole, serving craft cocktails, OCBC beers, and a mouthwatering Pub menu from our in-house restaurant, the Franklin Cafe. Newly renovated guest rooms, featuring the work of local craftsmen, from…
Learn MoreWater Street Hotel & Marina
Located only four blocks from the center of Apalachicola, the Water Street Hotel and Marina is a unique 30 suite hotel and 20 slip marina in an Old Florida setting with today’s modern conveniences. All rooms offer Bay views, private screened verandas, two bathrooms, spacious living and dining areas, flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet, in-room safes, washer/dryer, fully equipped kitchen, plush…
Learn More49 Palmetto – The Flat
49 Palmetto is located within the designated historic district in beautiful Apalachicola, Florida. It is situated just 2 blocks from the Apalachicola River and the town center and is within easy walking distance to all this quaint, hip town has to offer. Located at the confluence of the Apalachicola River and the bountiful Apalachicola Bay, the small seaside city of…
Learn MoreLODGING INFORMATION REQUEST
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Plan Your Trip to Apalachicola
Brimming with warm hospitality and smiling faces, Apalachicola makes everyone feel at home.
Mileage from selected cities to Apalachicola:
Atlanta, GA | 338 | Memphis, TN | 572 |
Birmingham, AL | 328 | Miami, FL | 520 |
Chicago, IL | 990 | Montgomery, AL | 238 |
Columbia, SC | 466 | Nashville, TN | 518 |
Dallas, TX | 869 | New Orleans, LA | 390 |
Detroit, MI | 1055 | Orlando, FL | 297 |
Houston, TX | 712 | Pensacola, FL | 199 |
Indianapolis, IN | 806 | Panama City, FL | 60 |
Jackson, MS | 434 | Tallahassee, FL | 76 |
Little Rock, AR | 709 | Tampa, FL | 295 |
UPCOMING EVENTS IN APALACHICOLA
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
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