Overview
Apalachicola is a city on the Forgotten Coast of the Florida Panhandle, on the Apalachicola River and Bay.
15 sights · 5 things to do · 5 places to eat · 1 bars & cafés · 7 places to stay
Updated from Wikivoyage on 1 October 2026 · Something wrong or missing? Improve it on Wikivoyage
Best things about Apalachicola
Apalachicola Historic District
Over 900 homes and buildings are listed in this National Register Historic District, some dating as far back as the 1830s. A scenic walking tour of the town acquaints visitors with sites such as cotton warehouses, which …
Apalachicola Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum was founded to celebrate and preserve the maritime history of Apalachicola in a hands-on learning environment with active sailing program and adventure programs, boat-building, restoration and educati…
Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve
Encompassing over 246,000 acres in Apalachicola Bay, it is the 2nd largest Estuarine Research Reserve system in the nation. Nature Center is located at 108 Island Drive, Eastpoint east side of the St. George Island Bridg…
Apalachicola National Forest
Has 564,000 acres for birding, camping, boating, wildflower viewing, hunting, and fishing.
Fort Gadsden Historic Site
A National Historic Landmark. Earthen embankments and interpretive kiosk, on the east bank of the Apalachicola River, approximately 45 minutes north of Eastpoint, accessed by Highway 65. The site interprets the role of N…
John Gorrie State Museum
Contains a replica of the first ice machine (predecessor to A/C) created by Dr John Gorrie in an attempt to cool his yellow fever patients. His invention later became the basis for the ice industry and air conditioning.
Plan your trip
Best time to visit & weather
Most comfortable: Oct–May. Summer highs reach about 92°F; winter lows dip to about 40°F. Very hot (Jun, Jul, Aug) — plan outdoor time for mornings. Wettest: Jun and Aug. (climate data from nearby Florida Panhandle)
Blue bars: average daily high and low (°F). Purple columns: average monthly rain and melted snow (inches).
Getting there
- From you: to see whether to drive or fly, and how long it takes.
- TLH Tallahassee International Airport, Tallahassee — 60 mi away. Directions
- ECP Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, Panama City Beach — 65 mi away. Directions
- PNS Pensacola International Airport, Pensacola — 141 mi away (major hub). Directions
Apalachicola lies on US-98/US-319. You can pick up US-319 through the national forest straight from Tallahassee (1.5 hours), and US-98 will lead in along the coast from Panama City (1 hour).
Full “Get in” guide ↓Budget & where to stay
No prices are listed for this place yet. See the Sleep guide ↓ for options.
Sample 3-day itinerary
Day 1
- Morning Apalachicola Historic District, Orman House, Dixie Theatre
- Lunch Old Time Soda Fountain
- Afternoon Trinity Episcopal Church, John Gorrie State Museum
- Dinner The Owl Café
- Evening Owl Tap Room
Day 2
- Morning Fort Gadsden Historic Site, Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve, Lafayette Park
- Lunch Apalachicola Seafood Grill
- Afternoon Three Servicemen Statue Detail & Veterans Memorial Plaza, Historic Apalachicola Home & Garden Tour
- Dinner Crooked River Grill
Day 3
- Morning Apalachicola National Forest, Battery Park and the City Marina, Raney House Museum
- Lunch Half Shell Dockside
- Afternoon The Great Plein Air Paint-out: The Grand Patrons' Party, Apalachicola Art Walk & Wine Festival
Stops are grouped by area so each day needs little backtracking. Check opening hours before you go.
Food for you
This city is noted for having some of the finest oysters, its bay oysters having a pure, mild, briny flavor that has been recognized by top chefs throughout the country. Apalachicola harvests over 90% of the oysters sold in Florida and 10% of the nationwide supply. Smaller open bay boats, moored or trailered each day, tong for oysters in the many shallow areas of Apalachicola Bay. Fishing vessels displaying proud patinas of years of service line the waterfront and regularly net fresh local shrimp and fish. So not surprisingly, a diverse selection of acclaimed restaurants feature fresh, local, daily harvested seafood.
Cuisine (tap to filter)
What to ask about, for your diet
Diet labels come from each listing's description and cuisine; “likely” means the cuisine usually has good choices, not a promise. Check with the restaurant. Open the food finder
Photos
Map
Every listing with a location. Tap a pin for its Google Maps link.
Understand
Miles of uncrowded pristine beaches, an endless supply of protected shallow bays, excellent fishing and acres of national and state forests to explore. Fine oysters and other seafood. Apalachicola or "Apalach", was established in 1831. It was once the third largest port on the Gulf of Mexico. Wide, tree lined streets are still graced by picturesque homes from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries show the wealth and craftsmanship of its early days. Apalachicola has over 900 historic homes and buildings listed in its extensive National Register District and it was selected as one of the nation's Dozen Distinctive Destinations in 2008 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
The Apalachicola basin encompasses what is considered one of the least polluted, most undeveloped, ecologically diverse systems left in the United States. The Apalachicola Estuarine Research Reserve (ANERR) oversees the health of this vast system. The ANERR is the second largest in the nation with over 246,000 acres under its protection. Apalachicola's vibrant history and rich maritime culture can still be seen on its working waterfront. Buildings that once served as 19th century ship's chandleries, old net factories and a sponge warehouse now house a mix of eclectic and trendy shops, restaurants, galleries and meticulously restored hotels and B&Bs.
These locally owned and operated businesses create a quaint and friendly atmosphere for visitors as well as local residents. A grand theater lies in the center of town (see "Do" below).
Get in
By car
Apalachicola lies on US-98/US-319. You can pick up US-319 through the national forest straight from Tallahassee (1.5 hours), and US-98 will lead in along the coast from Panama City (1 hour).
By plane
Get around
Apalachicola is small and easily seen on foot. It is laid back and very easy to navigate. Locals are glad to direct you wherever you need to go. Also there are boat and fishing tours available in the area.
See
See Apalachicola Historic District
Over 900 homes and buildings are listed in this National Register Historic District, some dating as far back as the 1830s. A scenic walking tour of the town acquaints visitors with sites such as cotton warehouses, which housed the City's once prosperous cotton export during the 1800s, a sponge exchange and Victorian homes nestled amid the moss-draped live oak trees. A map is available at the Chamber office and Visitors Center at 122 Commerce Street.
See Apalachicola Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum was founded to celebrate and preserve the maritime history of Apalachicola in a hands-on learning environment with active sailing program and adventure programs, boat-building, restoration and educational programs. Collectively, the activities of the AMM will provide a glimpse into the rich and diverse history of the three rivers that come together to form the largest river in Florida, the Apalachicola, and the maritime history of Apalachicola.
See Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve
Encompassing over 246,000 acres in Apalachicola Bay, it is the 2nd largest Estuarine Research Reserve system in the nation. Nature Center is located at 108 Island Drive, Eastpoint east side of the St. George Island Bridge. Attractions include exhibits on the flora and fauna of the area and aquaria facility featuring a variety of local fish and turtles.
See Battery Park and the City Marina
Boat launch, park with picnic tables and playground Bay Avenue 4th-6th Streets.
See Chestnut Street Cemetery
One of the most significant cemeteries on the Gulf Coast. Established in 1831, the stones tell the history of Apalachicola. Funerary art reflects the ethnic diversity of the community.
See Fort Gadsden Historic Site
A National Historic Landmark. Earthen embankments and interpretive kiosk, on the east bank of the Apalachicola River, approximately 45 minutes north of Eastpoint, accessed by Highway 65. The site interprets the role of Native and African Americans during the early 1800s.
See Lafayette Park
Block long open park overlooking Apalachicola Bay with a large gazebo in the center, plus a long broad wooden pier, interpretive signs, picnic tables and playground Avenue B between 13th and 15th.
See Orman House
Built in 1838 by Thomas Orman, the wood for this two-story home was cut to measure near Syracuse, New York and shipped to Apalachicola by sailing vessel around the Florida Keys, then assembled on the bluff overlooking the broad estuary and bay of the Apalachicola River. Today the house still resonates with a genteel aura and warmth of the past.
See Raney House Museum
Owned by the city of Apalachicola and on the National Register of Historic Places, provides a glimpse of the life of cotton commission merchant and community leader David Greenway Raney. The Apalachicola Area Historical Society has furnished the 1838 home and gives tours to the public. Donations or welcome, but not required. Historic museum is located on Market Street at the corner of Avenue F.
See St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge
St. Vincent Island is an unspoiled barrier island at the west end of Apalachicola Bay. The refuge is open during daylight hours. It is only accessible by boat and there are no facilities available. Open Visitor's Center is located on the north end of Market Street in Apalachicola.
See Three Servicemen Statue Detail & Veterans Memorial Plaza
Veterans Memorial Plaza was created in 2008 to honor veterans for their service to our country. The block-long park consists of the Circle of Freedom walkway and the striking Three Servicemen Statue Detail, a bronze sculpture by Fredrick Hart that depicts a realistic image of Vietnam servicemen.
See Trinity Episcopal Church
This Greek-Revival church, built in 1838, was prefabricated in White Plains New York and shipped in section by schooner to Apalachicola. Early church founders included Dr John Gorrie and botanist Dr Alvin Chapman.
Do
See Dixie Theatre
Built in 1912, the Dixie Theatre became the entertainment center of Franklin County. Closed in 1967, it was rebuilt and opened once again in 1998. The Dixie now produces live professional theatre, and musical events as well providing an acoustically perfect rental space for other community functions.
Events
Do The Great Plein Air Paint-out: The Grand Patrons' Party
Artists have been asked to reserve their very best work to present to local and visiting art patrons at a Wetroom party in the Cotton Warehouse. This tribute to "the best of the best", from 6-10:30PM, will include live music, delicious food, and the opportunity to purchase the premium art from the paint-out. Tickets are $75 per couple, $40 each, limited to 200 guests.
Do Apalachicola Antique & Classic Boat Show
Held on the 3rd Saturday in April. Antique boats, examples of classic and traditional vessels, workboats, and fiberglass and aluminum classics will all be on display throughout the day. This festival emphasizes the maritime history of Apalachicola. Special highlights include authentic oyster boats, workboats, and home-built boats by skilled craftsmen, antique outboard engines, plus antique automobiles and art booths.
Do Historic Apalachicola Home & Garden Tour
Many of Apalachicola's private homes and buildings can only be viewed from the exterior except for this unique day. For a $15 donation you can take a guided tour through architecturally and historically significant homes, churches and commercial buildings. All donations benefit the Trinity Episcopal Restoration Fund.
Do Apalachicola Art Walk & Wine Festival
Held in April. Art in all forms will be shown around downtown Apalachicola where artists and musicians will be showing, selling and demonstrating their talents.
Buy
Shop Riverlily
Bath and beauty collections from all over the world including vintage earrings made with hard to find vintage beads and findings scarves, fabulous socks, hats, fragrant candles, greeting card selection.
Eat
This city is noted for having some of the finest oysters, its bay oysters having a pure, mild, briny flavor that has been recognized by top chefs throughout the country. Apalachicola harvests over 90% of the oysters sold in Florida and 10% of the nationwide supply. Smaller open bay boats, moored or trailered each day, tong for oysters in the many shallow areas of Apalachicola Bay. Fishing vessels displaying proud patinas of years of service line the waterfront and regularly net fresh local shrimp and fish. So not surprisingly, a diverse selection of acclaimed restaurants feature fresh, local, daily harvested seafood.
Eat Apalachicola Seafood Grill
Get the "world's largest" fried fish sandwich. Great selection of beer.
Eat Crooked River Grill
Part of the St. James Bay Golf Resort. Serves breakfast, lunch, or steak and seafood dinners. The Grill features full banquet facilities and a gazebo.
Eat Old Time Soda Fountain
As the name implies, this is a 1950s themed soda fountain that serves ice cream, malts, floats and soda.
Eat The Owl Café
Local seafood, steak and pasta.
Eat Half Shell Dockside
Dine overlooking the Apalachicola River. Steaks and seafood along with an oyster bar.
Drink
Most restaurants have a full bar and there are numerous liquor stores in the area. Check out the nightlife in Saint George and Eastpoint.
Drink Owl Tap Room
Gastro-pub featuring craft beer, fine wine and a full bar
Sleep
Stay Bay City Lodge
Motel and cabins. If you're planning on fishing, the lodge sells bait and tackle and will clean your fish and your boat.
Stay The Consulate
Four suites overlooking the Apalachicola River. Rooms have a kitchen and balcony.
Stay Gibson Inn
30 rooms in a turn-of-the-century Victorian home. Rooms have a full bath, phone, TV and wi-fi. The inn also has a restaurant and bar.
Stay LaQinta Inn (Wyndham)
Go next
Nearby
Eastpoint
City / town · 1 listings · 6 mi away
Saint George
City / town · 4 listings · 8 mi away
Port St. Joe
City / town · 16 listings · 20 mi away
Carrabelle
City / town · 17 listings · 21 mi away
Apalachicola National Forest
Park · 6 listings · 40 mi away
Crawfordville
City / town · 11 listings · 48 mi away
Blountstown
City / town · 7 listings · 50 mi away
Panama City
City / town · 12 listings · 51 mi away
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