Apalachicola is a small town located on the scenic US route 98 on the southern end of the Panhandle. This charming little fishing village is famed for its warm and friendly atmosphere and numerous vacation destinations that will surely fill up any vacationer’s holiday itinerary.
Apalachicola is Indian for Friendly People
Apalachicola, an Indian name which aptly means "friendly people," was founded in the dawn of the 19th century after cotton traders established a port where they can harbor their ships on their way to New England and Europe. Visitors to Apalachicola can’t help but fall in love with the small-town charm and ageless, natural beauty that this place has to offer.
Apalachicola's Historic District Showcases old Homes and Buildings
The town’s Historic District is celebrated for its fine old homes and buildings, some of which date back to the 1830s. A good example is the original Trinity Episcopal Church that remains standing to this day and has been holding services since it was built in 1836. A scenic walk on the historic district offers vacationers a fascinating trip back in time as one can take a glimpse at the old cotton warehouses and other centuries-old structures that dot along the waterfront.
It is interesting to note that the forerunner of today’s air-conditioning system was actually developed in Apalachicola. In 1851, Dr. John Gorrie devised an ice-making machine in an attempt to keep his yellow fever patients cool. Floridians and foreigners alike delight in visiting the John Gorrie State Museum, located on Sixth Street, just a block away from the U.S. 98, where the replica of Gorrie's ice machine is displayed.
Seafood harvesting is the most important industry in Apalachicola. The town is famous for its world-class oyster, blue crab, shrimp, and fish. In fact, most of Florida's oysters are harvested in Apalachicola, thanks to nutrient-rich Apalachicola River that sustains the productivity of the tidal system in the Apalachicola Bay.
Apalachicola National Forest
The nearby national forest and sandy barrier islands give vacationers to Apalachicola a variety of places to explore and enjoy.
Apalachicola National Forest, which covers more than a half a million acres, is home to oaks, pines, cedars, and cypress trees that complement and maintains the beauty of the forest’s lakes and rivers. The national forest also offers a lot of recreational facilities and activities, such as canoeing, boating, swimming, and camping. A part of the Florida National Scenic Trail, a panoramic hiking trail that goes through the entire state, passes through the forest. Meanwhile, Silver Lake Recreation Area is located at the state road 20 near Tallahassee. A canoe trail that begins 20 miles west of Tallahassee extends 67 miles south until it reaches Ochlockonee River State Park, near Sopchoppy.
Another must-see while on a trip to Apalachicola is the St. George Island, a 28-mile barrier island, located just across the bay. This gorgeous location is home to the St. George Island State Park, as well as numerous choice vacation accommodations that it offers. The park boasts of nine miles of unspoiled, undeveloped beaches and dunes that are ideal for hikers, trailers, and boardwalkers. At the west end of the island is Cape St. George lighthouse and quarters, a 72-foot lighthouse built in 1852, an ideal spot to end your pleasant sojourn in Florida’s small town gem.
Christian George Acevedo - Christian George Acevedo has been writing since his elementary years but it was just recently that he discovered the varied opportunities ...
