24 Hours in Apalachicola

It does not take long for you to know that you are not in another typical Florida town. Charming southern roots with the “Old Florida” laid-back frame of mind. We spent 24 hours getting a quick peek into what this little town has to offer. Apalachicola gives you the unique opportunity to slow down, kick back and soak in the North Florida charm with your family. And we did just that. When we arrived in Apalachicola in mid-October, it was sunny with a high of 79º // low of 71º. Located just 80 miles SW of Tallahassee, our drive incorporated some scenic vistas of the Gulf along U.S. Route 98.

Where to Stay in Apalachicola

We booked our stay at the Coombs Inn & Suites – a Bed & Breakfast in an elegant Victorian Mansion – commissioned by one of Apalachicola’s most notable lumber baron. When it was completed by Mr. Coombs in 1905, it was described in The Apalachicola Times as ” the most elegant house in town” for its black cypress wall paneling, nine fireplaces, spacious entrance fall, ornate brass light fixtures, and carved oak staircase leading to the second floor.

Mr. Coombs married his childhood sweetheart and worked in the timber business. In 1877 he acquired a sawmill and set up Franklin County Lumber Company.

Our room was equipped with two double beds, an armoire (with television), ornate fireplace, clawfoot bathtub, hardwood floors, and mini fridge/microwave.

What to Eat & Do

1:00pm Owl Cafe. 15 Avenue D Apalachicola, FL 32320. It’s open Wednesday through Saturday 11:30am to 3pm and then 5pm to 10pm. Brunch on Sunday 11am to 3pm and closed Monday and Tuesday.

Our family arrived to town just as a local philanthropic hot-plate luncheon was concluding. One attendee, a Franklin County Commissioner, recommended the place to us – literally steps from where we parked with views of the water. The staff was welcoming. Cheyenne, our server, waited on us with a smile and genuine southern hospitality. The restaurant is full of character and old charm.

We loved exploring the quaint and charming downtown Apalachicola, boasting ornate pre-Civil War architecture. Walking down the streets of “Apalach” as the locals call it, gives you a a glimpse of the wealth and craftsmanship that existed in the 1800 and 1900’s.

We explored a variety of eclectic small-town shops located along the waterfront, just a short distance from the Coombs Inn. Taylor bought a pair of Costa sunglasses at Apalach Outfitters and a shirt at Bee Inspired Too. There are photography studios, art galleries’, antique shops and more. It’s an oasis for artists. Many of the shops, galleries, and air b n b’s are locally owned and operated which provides such a welcoming and friendly atmosphere.

While exploring we learned that the port of Apalachicola was established in 1831. Shipping cotton was Apalachicola’s big industry and it soon became the third largest port on the Gulf of Mexico. By the end of the 19th century, harvesting oysters and seafood became a viable industry. Today Franklin County harvests more than 90 % of Florida’s oysters and 10 % of the oysters consumed in the nation.

4:30 p.m. Saturday we had drinks at Oyster City Brewing Company 17 Ave D Apalachicola, Florida 32320 . Adriene and Taylor (the head brewer) greeted us and provided our family with a first rate tour of the facility and operations. The place was packed but not overly crowded, with patrons congregated outdoors.

Her can is WATER!!

6:00pm Saturday evening we had dinner at Up the Creek 313 Water Street
Apalachicola, FL 32320. It’s open 12pm to 8pm. In true Apalachicola spirit, I indulged in a dozen raw oysters and a grilled mahi and shrimp basket.

Harper enjoyed a generous basket of chicken tenders and the best fries we’ve had in a while. Taylor enjoyed grilled mahi tacos. Hudson, our 18-month old feel asleep before the food arrived.

8:00pm Back to Coombs Inn & Suites for bed with the kids.

On Sunday morning, we had a flavorful breakfast at the Apalachicola Chocolate & Coffee Co. 75 Market Street Apalachicola, FL 32320 There’s a wide variety of homemade delicious delights including chocolate, gelato, coffee, daily breakfast and lunch specials, along with pastries, pies, and cookies. Taylor and I had a pumpkin late and we let the kids pick out cookies.