Visit Apalachicola Historic Downtown

While in visiting this lovely historic coastal community, you will be in the heart of the Forgotten Coast to experience an authentic taste of Florida's Gulf Coast. It is a charming southern town with a strong maritime culture. It offers some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches, excellent fishing opportunities and many acres of National and State forests you can explore.

A Brief History:

Long ago, this land was first inhabited by the Native Americans in the area. These people gave it its name; it means Land of Peaceful People. It became a seaport in 1822 and then became one of the three busiest seaports of the Gulf Coast.

Throughout the history, the town was known as Cotton Town or Cottontown, since there was so much cotton being shipped from the area. Later, because of its geographical position was renamed West Point. However, in 1831 the original name given by the Natives of the area was reinstated.

It has a rich history that involves such matters as with the Native Americans, the Spanish, and the English and Scottish traders. Between 1861 and 1865, like many other costal areas it became a strategic point for the United States military during the Civil War.

Today, it is headquarters for the Estuarine Sanctuary and the United Nations Biosphere Reserve.

Entertainment and Recreation:

Be sure to visit the local shops, galleries and the various restaurants that serve local seafood and oysters. The area has a lot to offer by way of entertainment and recreation, these may include:

The Maritime Museum:

This museum focuses on the maritime activities of the area such as boat building, sailing, various educational programs, the restoration of the area and its rich history as a Gulf coastal region.

Area Tours:

While touring the area you can learn more about the ecosystem of the estuary as well as the natural wildlife in the area as you sail along in an all weather boat through the swamps, marsh and river.

A-1 Horseback Riding On the Beach:

You can enjoy horseback riding or riding in a horse drawn buggy along the beaches. They also provide excellent services for special occasions as well as photography services.

There are no lacks of fishing or sailing here since you may be interested in booking arrangements with the local charters such as the Apalachicola Serenity Charters, the Book Me a Charter, the Irish Town Shrimping Charter, Sailing Charters or the Wind Catcher Sailing Charters.

Remember to stop by the Visitors Center at(122 Commerce Street) and pick up a walking map, then take a leisurely walk to the river, you will be able to imagine the bustling activities of old with the cotton warehouses, sponge exchange and retail merchants.

Accommodations:

There are many great hotels, motels, and campgrounds to stay at, in Apalachicola as well providing the services of restored Bed & Breakfast venues. Combine all of this with some of the finest oysters and seafood in the country and your stay is sure to be perfect.