Apalachicola Florida What To Do In A Weekend

Hidden away on the Gulf of Mexico coastline is historical Apalachicola Florida. This past week, a good friend and I decided to take a day trip to this little town to see what has changed since my last visit.

The answer? Really, not much had changed in the six years since my trip. Welcome to Apalachicola, a hidden gem nestled on Florida’s Forgotten Coast. This little town is a treasure trove of culture, history, and natural beauty.

The main difference? This visit, the little town was decorated for Christmas. S cute!

Whether you like to poke into little shops, learn something about the area you’re visiting, or simply relax, you can do it in Apalachicola Florida.

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Historical Locations

The history surround Apalachicola is nothing short of amazing. There are several museums to visit that go into detail regarding the town, development of ice and air conditioning, as well as the sponge trade.

Apalachicola Maritime Museum: Dig into the maritime legacy of this port town through exhibits and artifacts.

John Gorrie Museum State Park: Learn about the inventor of air conditioning and the town’s ties to medical history.

Chapman Botanical Garden: Explore the serene garden and historic Chapman House, offering a glimpse into Apalachicola’s past.

Culinary Adventures

If you are a foodie, this is the destination for you! A few things to try are:

Oysters Galore: Indulge in the town’s famous oysters at local eateries and learn about the oyster industry.

Fresh Seafood Markets: Explore the vibrant seafood markets and experience the freshest catch of the day.

Apalachicola Chocolate & Coffee Company: Sample local delights like key lime pie and indulge in freshly brewed coffee.

Mead Wine: This was a first for me. And I really loved this honey wine. Has antioxidants in it. How can you not drink wine?

Definitely stop by Apalachicola Bee Company for a sample and to shop the local wine, beers, tees and more. They also have an outdoor space, but it was too chilly when I was there, but it looked quite nice.

Franklin Cafe: Located in the historic, refurbished Gibson Hotel is the Franklin Cafe. This was our choice for lunch and it delivered.

Delicious but the coolest thing? Feeling like you just stepped back in time 100 years. The inside of this hotel is amazing.

Natural Wonders

If you love to live life outdoors like I do, you will love Apalachicola. There are so many fun things to do, including:

Apalachicola National Forest: Embrace the outdoors with hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife encounters.

St. George Island: Discover pristine beaches, picturesque sunsets, and tranquil settings just a short drive away.

Apalachicola River: Enjoy river tours or kayaking expeditions along this scenic waterway.

Arts and Culture

We did not peek into all the shops and buildings. It was simply too windy and chilly. It appeared also that many were not open, but we did visit on a Thursday, which could be why.

Art Galleries and Studios: Immerse yourself in local art scenes, featuring talented artists and unique creations.

Historic Architecture: Admire the town’s well-preserved historic homes and buildings, showcasing timeless Southern charm.

Festivals and Events: Check out local festivals celebrating music, seafood, and the arts.

Shopping and Souvenirs:

There were quite a few shops located near the water that we stopped in, including the Apalachicola Bee Company mentioned above, as well as a few other little shops.

You will find in this sweet town the following:

Antique Shops: Discover hidden treasures in the town’s antique shops and vintage stores.

Local Boutiques: Shop for unique souvenirs, handmade crafts, and gifts at boutique stores.

Waterfront Markets: Explore the charming waterfront markets offering artisanal goods and local produce.

Apalachicola with its coastal beauty, and small-town charm is a wonderful escape for a day, weekend or week.

Hotels

There are very few hotels directly in this beach town. The refurbished Gibson Hotel is a wonderful stop but, it is on the pricey side. If I would have had more time, I would have loved to see every inch of this hotel.

Nearby are both the Water Street Hotel & Marina and the least expensive option, Best Western Apalach Inn. All three of these are fantastic places to rest your head at night. The choice will come down to your budget.

Whether you’re drawn to its history, fresh seafood delights, or museums or state parks, this town promises a memorable getaway.

The links below will help you plan your Apalachicola Florida Getaway: