25 Best & Fun Things To Do In Apalachicola, FL
Are you planning a trip to Apalachicola and looking for fun activities to make your trip memorable? Look no further! You’re at the right place, as we’ll explore the 25 best and most fun things to do in Apalachicola, making your trip unforgettable.
The friendly port town of Apalachicola is located about 90 minutes southwest of Tallahassee, on Florida’s northwest coast. Apalachicola is a treasure trove of history and historical buildings, maritime culture, fishing, and other outdoor recreation.
Apalachicola, also known as “Oystertown,” has a total area of about 6.81 square kilometers (or 2.63 square miles). This friendly oyster town is a vibrant and charming destination, offering many activities for residents and visitors alike.
Apalachicola is an ideal place to start a Gulf Coast beach vacation, with many historical attractions and outdoor activities. Enjoy mouth-watering seafood and relax with a cocktail or a cool beer at one of Apalachicola’s finest restaurants. Explore Oyster City Brewing Company, Cape St. George Lighthouse, as well as Battey Park, and other unique attractions.
25 Best and Fun Things To Do In Apalachicola, FL (2024)
1. Oyster City Brewing Company
Exploring the Oyster City Brewing Company is one of the fun things to do in Apalachicola, Florida, with your friends. Located at the heart of Apalachicola, the Oyster City Brewing Company offers the best place to relax and enjoy locally crafted beer.
Established in 2014 by Cassie Gary, Susan Gary, Rex Humphries, and Bo Walker, who shared a passion for craft and local beer.
Oyster City Brewing Company offers a large variety of ales and lagers, as well as their five core drinks, which include Mangrove Pale Ale (fruit-infused), Hooter Brown, Apalach IPA, Mill Pond Dirty Blonde, and Tate’s Helles Lager.
On your visit to Apalachicola, explore the unique Oyster City Brewing Company with your friends, take a glass of Apalachicola-inspired beers, and relax.
Address: 25 Avenue Drive, Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States.
2. Apalachicola Vistor Centre
The Apalachicola Visitor Center is one of the best places to visit in this coastal town. This attraction offers the best guidance for planning a stirring tourist adventure.
Get excited with more information about Apalachicola, such as the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve, brochures and maps of the Apalachicola Bay area, and so many other amazing attractions.
What’s more, located at the East Point Center, it offers information on local news and up-to-date events, as well as a list of historical sites to visit. Explore the Apalachicola visitor center and get your list of things to do in Apalachicola.
Address: 17 Avenue E., Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States.
3. Apalachicola Reserve Nature Center
Exploring the unique Apalachicola Reverse Nature Center is one of the many fun and educational things to do in Apalachicola, Florida, with your family. The reserve center is one of the best places to learn about the ecosystem of this beautiful region.
Established in 1979, the Apalachicola Reserve Nature Center has a relatively small area of 28 acres, which includes buildings, exhibits, boardwalks, and trails within the nature center.
What’s more, you can explore the Bay Discovery Room with its collection of hundreds of skeletons, fossils, and preserved marine life and learn about the Apalachicola River and Bay and the diverse flora and fauna of the Forgotten Coast through exhibits, aquariums, and so much more.
Visit Apalachicola and immerse yourself in the rich natural wonders of the bay by exploring this room filled with hundreds of skeletons, fossils, and preserved marine specimens.
Address: 108 Island Drive (State Road 300), Eastpoint, FL 32328, United States.
4. Cape St. George Lighthouse
The Cape St. George Lighthouse is one of the must-see attractions in Apalachicola.
Located on St. George Island, near Apalachicola, Florida. This lighthouse is about 72 feet ( 22 meters). This iconic lighthouse can be labeled as survival, and as such, it attracts thousands of visitors a year.
This lighthouse has a unique story of resilience. Originally built in 1852, it tragically collapsed in 2005 due to erosion.
It reopened to the public in 2008, standing as a testament to perseverance and community spirit.
The lighthouse is noted for its stunning panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and the surrounding coastline, as well as a chance to learn about the region’s history and the crucial role lighthouses played in the past.
Apart from its recreational purpose, it also played a vital role in maritime navigation for over a century, guiding ships along the treacherous Florida coast, thus making your every experience therein an unforgettable one.
Address: 2B East Gulf Beach Drive, Street. George Island, FL 32328, United States.
5. Three Servicemen Statue
The Three Servicemen Statue is one of the historic sites to visit in Apalachicola, with your family and friends. The Three Servicemen Statue is also known as the Three Soiler Detail.
Dedicated on July 12, 2008, the Three Soldiers Detail Statue in Apalachicola is a detailed bronze sculpture made from parts of the original molds. It serves as a local tribute to veterans of the Vietnam War and all wars.
Located at 230 Market Street in Apalachicola, Florida, the Status is the centerpiece of the Veterans Memorial Plaza. This plaza is adjacent to Orman House State Park and Chapman Botanical Garden.
Visit the Three Servicemen Statue with your family and take some iconic pictures.
Address: Apalachicola, United States.
6. Scipio Creek Boardwalk
Exploring Scipio Creek Boardwalk is one of the best outdoor activities to do in Apalachicola, Florida, with friends.
The Scipio Creek Boardwalk offers a short and scenic walk through wetlands and hardwood hammocks in Apalachicola.
Follow Market Street NW until it dead-ends at the Scipio Creek Boat Basin and the pavilion where the Farmer’s Market is held. Turn left and proceed uphill 0.1 mi. to the parking area and trailhead on the right.
Part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, keep your eyes peeled for birds like herons, egrets, osprey, and shorebirds. You might also spot squirrels, rabbits, and other small animals inhabiting the area.
What’s more, the Scipio Creek Boardwalk offers a large telescope mounted on the deck that is available for your viewing pleasure.
On your visit to Apalachicola, dive into the wonders of nature by exploring the Scipio Creek Boardwalk.
Address: 261 7th Street, Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States.
7. St. James Bay Golf Course
Located in Carrabelle, Florida, about 30 minutes from Apalachicola, booking a tee time at St. James Bay Golf Course is one of the fun things to do near Apalachicola, FL, this weekend for golf enthusiasts.
St. James Bay Golf Course is the hidden gem of the Forgotten Coast. Just minutes to the south of Tallahassee and east of the beaches of Cape San Blas and St. George Island, this Robert Walker design is a pure joy to play with.
What’s more, this public golf club offers both experienced and inexperienced golfers a good challenge. St. James Bay Golf Course is an 18-hole, par 72 course designed to be challenging yet enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels.
Address: 151 Laughing Gull Lane, Carrabelle, FL 32322, United States.
8. Battey Park
Exploring Battey Park is one of the fun things to do in Apalachicola with your kids. This park offers a great space for kids to work off energy with a great view of the charming town.
Located near the John Gorrie Bridge, entering Apalachicola. This waterfront park features a community center, boat launch, fishing piers, picnic tables, and a children’s playground. Pets are allowed at this park, making it one of the pet-friendly things to do in Apalachicola.
Address: 1 Bay Avenue, Apalachicola, FL 32320 United States.
9. Dixie Theatre
One of the fun things to do in Apalachicola at night is to immerse yourself in the magic of Dixie Theatre, a family-friendly theater that brings together entertainment and education through captivating performances for children and youth.
Established in 1912, this historic theatre is a venue for theatrical productions, live music, and other events.
The theater was closed in 1967 and fell into disrepair. The Dixie Theatre reopened its doors in 1998, showcasing its beautiful historic architecture and providing a platform for the performing arts once again.
What’s more, The Dixie Theatre offers a professional theatre season, typically running from January to March, featuring a variety of high-quality productions.
Throughout the year, the theater hosts a diverse range of live events, including musical performances, dance recitals, comedy shows, and community events.
Address: 21 Avenue E., Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States.
10. The Raney House Museum
Exploring the Raney House Museum is one of the many free things to do in Apalachicola, Florida, for history lovers. The iconic museum is open to the public to explore.
Owned and operated by the Apalachicola Historical Society, the museum offers an excellent example of Greek Revival architecture, a popular style in the Southern United States before the Civil War.
What’s more, the Raney House Museum provides insights into the Raney family’s history and Apalachicola’s development through historical documents, clothing, and other artifacts.
Address: 128 Market Street, Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States.
11. Live Oak Gallery
One of the best things to do in Apalachicola for an art enthusiast is to admire the beautiful artwork at Live Oak Gallery.
This art gallery features work from a variety of contemporary visual artists.
Visitors can admire a series of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, mixed media, drawings, and prints.
Address: 156 Market Street, Apalachicola, Florida 32320, United States.
12. Chapman Botanical Garden
Exploring the Chapman Botanical Garden is one of the best things to do in Apalachicola, FL, for an anthophile.
This naturalistic garden offers shady woodland walks and splashes of color, especially at their peak in spring.
The Chapman Botanical Garden is assessed as a half-mile loop. It is a peaceful natural escape located within the downtown district.
This garden features a variety of plants and flowers, walkways, and open spaces.
Address: 177 5th Street, Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States.
13. The Gibson Inn
The Gibson Inn is one of the best places to relax in Apalachicola with your partner. It offers a delightful stay steeped in Southern hospitality and historic ambiance.
Established in 1907, it is situated conveniently in the heart of Apalachicola’s vibrant downtown district. The Gibson Inn boasts a rich history as a cornerstone of Apalachicola’s hospitality scene
The inn offers unique and comfortable guest rooms, free wifi, a bar, and an onsite restaurant.
Address: 51 Avenue C, Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States.
14. High Five Dive Bar
Exploring High Dive Bar is one of the most exciting things to do in Apalachicola at night. The High Five Dive Dar is an exciting place to unwind with friends as well as interact with the local crowd.
The Bar is locally owned and operated; it offers a live music venue and a dive bar.
Open from 2–10 PM, Wednesday through Sunday. Great selection of craft beers, wine, and all your favorite domestics.
This bar provides live music, cuisine, drinks, and an outside patio to create a welcoming atmosphere where you can unwind with your friends.
Come enjoy good vibes and high-fives with your pals at the High Five Dive Bar in Apalachicola, Florida.
Address: 131 Commerce Street, Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States.
15. Grady market
One of the unique things to do in Apalachicola this weekend is to explore local produce at the Grady Market.
Located within the beautifully restored Grady Building, which is located in the heart of the Historic Riverfront District and once housed the French Consulate.
This market offers excellent upscale and casual clothing and accessories for men, women, and children; home accessories and décor; t-shirts; luggage; and unique gifts. A selection of children’s toys and gifts.
Address: 76 Water St, Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States.
16. Chapman Auditorium
One of the fun things to do in Apalachicola, FL, at night is to catch your favorite movie at Chapman Auditorium. Originally built in 1941 as Chapman High School, Chapman Auditorium is a significant landmark in Apalachicola’s history.
Today, the Chapman Auditorium serves as a venue for various performances, including plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, poetry readings, dancing, cultural events, and visiting artist performances staged here. The Panhandle Players, a local community theater group, uses the auditorium as their home base, presenting a regular season of productions.
To see exciting and talented live performances, visit the Chapman Auditorium and spend a few hours with your family.
Address: 155 Avenue E, Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States.
17. Lafayette Park
Located on the shores of Apalachicola Bay, Lafayette Park is a serene oasis offering stunning views and various recreational opportunities for visitors.
The Green Square Park features scenic views, a gazebo, a fishing pier, a playground, and brick walkways, and it is dog-friendly. Lafayette Park is a delightful spot to relax and take in the waterfront views.
As one of the fun things to do in Apalachicola, escape the summer heat and spend your day reconnecting with nature while your kids have fun.
Address: 169 Avenue B, Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States.
18. Old Stuff Shop
Your Apalachicola vacation is incomplete without a visit to the Old Stuff Shop, a treasure trove for antiques and collectibles.
Located near the base of the bridge on Market Street in Apalachicola, the Old Stuff Shop carries a large selection of antiques and collectibles. it offers new and used merchandise.
There are other antiques in Apalachicola you can visit, such as Tin Shed Nautical & Antiques, Random Catch, Backstreet Trading Company, Riverlily, and Retsyo Inc
Address: 49 Market Street, Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States.
19. Apalachicola Dog Park
Exploring the Apalachicola Dog Park is one of the best outdoor activities to do in Apalachicola with your pet.
The fur-friendly park is divided into 3 sections, which include the large dog sections, a small dog section area, and a special section designed for just older dogs.
Located behind the old Apalachicola High School, the park also provides essential dog amenities such as water bowls and benches for pet owners to relax while their pups have fun.
Apalachicola Dog Park is a fantastic spot for your dog to burn off energy, socialize with other dogs, and have a fun-filled outing.
Address: 183-189 Avenue L, Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States.
20. Trinity Episcopal Church
Visiting the Trinity Episcopal Church is one of the unique things to do in Apalachicola with your family this weekend. The Trinity Episcopal Church is a historic landmark and house of worship in Apalachicola, Florida.
This Greek Revival church, established in 1838, was prefabricated in White Plains, New York, and shipped in sections by schooner to Apalachicola. Early church founders included Dr. John Gorrie and botanist Dr. Alvin Chapman.
What’s more, The church offers regular Sunday services at 8 am and 10:30 a.m. The church also features iconic sites such as the Queen Anne” style in 1900, The Parish Hall, and the Memorial Garden
Address: 79 6th Street, Apalachicola, FL, United States.
21. Apalachicola Margaret Key Public Library
Escape into the world of literature and learning at the Apalachicola Margaret Key Public Library. This public hub of knowledge and culture is located downtown in Apalachicola.
The Apalachicola Margaret Key Public Library offers a vast collection of current and classic fiction for adults, young adults, and children. This also includes non-fiction selections that cater to a wide range of interests, including an extensive Florida collection.
What’s more, Beyond books, the library provides various services, including printing, photocopying, scanning, and faxing; computer and internet access for public use; shredding services for sensitive documents; and meeting spaces available for public use.
Address: 80 12th Street, Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States.
22. St. George Island State Park Splash Pad
One of the kid-friendly things to do in Apalachicola, FL, is to spend time at the St. George Island State Park Splash Pad. it is a great place for your kids to play and cool off on a sunny day.
Located on the white-sand shores of St. George Island, it is about a 35-minute drive from Apalachicola. It features a variety of water jets, sprays, and a bucket dump, perfect for keeping cool on a sunny day.
Address: 1900 E. Gulf Beach Drive, St. George Island, FL 32328, United States.
23. Apalachicola Family Airboat Tours
One of the fun things to do in Apalachicola with your family is to explore Apalachicola Family Airboat Tours. The airboat tour provides an opportunity for you and your family to have a picturesque view of the Apalachicola River.
Located in Battery Park, the Apalachicola Family Airboat Tour is friendly for all ages; it also offers narrations that highlight the local wildlife and ecosystem in a way that’s understandable for children.
Apalachicola Family Airboat Tours will provide you with a fun-filled and memorable experience in Apalachicola, Florida.
You can also explore other alternatives, such as Bay Eco Tours and St. George Island Tours.
Address: 1 Bay Avenue, Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States.
24. The Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve
Exploring the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve is one of the best outdoor activities to do in Apalachicola with your family and friends.
The natural reserves span a stunning 246,766 acres of public lands and waters in the Florida Panhandle. The reserve boundaries include 52 miles of the lower river and its associated floodplain, most of Apalachicola Bay, two barrier islands, part of a third, and several small out-parcels.
What’s more, the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve also offers a coastal walk from the Nature Center to the shoreline, giving further opportunities to learn about and enjoy the natural setting.
Address: 108 Island Drive (State Road 300), Eastpoint, Florida 32328, United States.
25. Will S. Kendrick Sports Complex
One of the best and most fun outdoor activities to do near Apalachicola for sports enthusiasts is to explore the Will S. Kendrick Sports Complex.
The park is named after Will S. Kendrick, a former Florida State Representative who served Franklin County, and it is managed by the Franklin County Parks and Recreation Department.
The Will S. Kendrick Sports Complex features three softball fields, basketball, a playground, ample public parking, and a John Jordan “Buck” O’Neil, Jr. Memorial to honor a baseball player who played in the Negro Leagues and received Baseball’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
Address: 1601 Ken Cope Avenue, Carrabelle, Florida 32322, United States.
Plan Your Trip To Apalachicola, FL
Apalachicola, Florida, offers many thrilling opportunities to discover and embark on, from the exciting pet-friendly Dog Park to the peaks of its scenic vistas. If you’re planning a visit, this amazing town promises memories that will linger long after the trip has concluded. We hope this guide serves as a comprehensive starting point on your journey of discovery and wonder. Farewell and safe travels!
