Serving as the seat of Franklin County, Apalachicola overlooks its namesake bay on Florida’s Gulf of Mexico. Its name translates from Hitchiti as “people on the other side of the river”. Until 1763, it was part of Spanish Florida before the British trading post of “Cottonton” was established at the mouth of the Apalachicola River.
Things to do in Apalachicola
Occupying the 19th-century home of a cotton trader is the Raney House Museum, which houses exhibits that bring the local history to life. Admire the stately Greek Revival architecture and learn about the capture of its owner, David G. Raney, during the 1864 Battle of Mobile Bay. In addition to antique furnishings, the museum displays artefacts from the American Civil War.
Nearby is the Dixie Theatre, which was originally built in 1912 and has played an important role in community life ever since. It regularly hosts theatrical productions and live music performances, as well as stand-up comedy shows. The Dixie Theatre lies adjacent to the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Centre, where you’ll find information about things to see and do in the area.
On Apalachicola’s waterfront is Battery Park, which is home to a children’s playground, picnic tables and a fishing pier. You can cast a line with the team at Captain Jack Frye Fishing Charters or embark on a sunset cruise and dolphin-watching trip. A short stroll north is the Apalachicola Maritime Museum, which features a historic ketch designed by Lewis Francis Herreshoff.
Getting around Apalachicola
Apalachicola is just over an hour’s drive from Panama City and 1.5 hours from Tallahassee. Tallahassee International Airport is under two hours away and has flights to destinations across the United States. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting to Apalachicola and exploring the area.