THINGS TO DO or SEE

Natural Science & History 

Apalachicola Bay Aquatic Preserve -- This site, presented by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection is a trove of information on the natural bounty that is our area.

Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve -- Learn about the incredible biodiversity of our area, it's wildlife, endangered species, and natural habitats.

St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge -- (Boat Access and Daylight Use Only) Large Sambar deer, red wolves, and sea turtles reside on this pristine island located off C-30, west of Apalachicola, at Indian Pass/Cape San Blas area. 850-653-8088.

Trinity Episcopal Annual Tour of Homes -- Come walk through the historic district of Apalachicola. See Al and Serena's own home showcased. The tour features private residences, churches, inns and commercial structures. All are historic or architecturally significant to this fascinating coastal town that has seen the turn of two centuries. The tour is self-guided and suitable for walking, driving or biking. The tour is held every May and proceeds go  to the Trinity Episcopal Church Restoration and Preservation Fund. For more information you may contact the coordinator at: 79 6th Street, Apalachicola, Florida 32320 - Phone: (850) 653-9550 or 653-4662.

The Dixie Theatre -- The Dixie Theatre has a marvelous past and a present-day persona that brings culture and history together under one roof. Season tickets are available. Visit their site for current plays.

State Parks

St. George Island State Park -- One of the reasons St. George Island shows up in the annual survey of the Ten Best American beaches is to be found on the eastern end of the island.

St. Joseph Peninsula State Park -- St. Joseph Peninsula is more commonly known as Cape San Blas and its state park too is one of the reasons "The Cape" shows up consistently on the list of America's Ten Best Beaches.

Ochlockonee RiverState Park -- The Ochlockonee River offers perfect examples of the scenic natural characteristics found along north Florida's Gulf coast. This beautiful park is only a half hour or so away from Apalachicola and ten minutes from Carrabelle.

Wakulla Springs State Park & Lodge -- One of the world's largest and deepest fresh water springs highlights the 2,860-acre Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park. The bowl of the spring covers approximately three acres, is the source of the Wakulla River, and its origin is unknown. The water temperature remains a relatively constant 70 degrees year-round. A record peak flow from the spring on April 11, 1973 was measured at 14,325 gallons per second - equal to 1.2 billion gallons per day! Glass bottom boat rides, swimming and river boat tours ( weather permitting), make a great day for a family outing. The lodge serves dinner and the cafe serves lunch.

Museums 

John Gorrie State Museum -- It is a little known fact that Dr. John Gorrie, a physician in Apalachicola more than a century ago, invented the first mechanical device for making ice. His invention, although not a commercial success in his lifetime, spawned the whole modern refrigeration industry. 

Constitution Convention State Museum -- Port St. Joe is the site of Florida's first state convention, where the state's first Constitution was drafted. The Constitution Convention, as well as the vanished city of St. Joseph, are featured in the museum.

San Marcos De Apalache State Historical Site -- The site's history began in 1528 when Panfilo de Narvaez arrived with 300 men. Having traveled overland from Tampa, Narvaez impressed by the area located at the confluence of the Wakulla and St. Marks rivers, built and launched the first ships made by white men in the New World. Makes a great half day trip.

Governor Stone Floating Museum -- Governor Stone Historic Sailing Schooner, Kristin Anderson. An authentic, fully-restored, 1877 Gulf Coast schooner. Take a sailing tour of Apalachicola Bay. 
71 Market Street, Apalachicola, Florida 32320 - Phone: (850) 653-8700

Festivals

Forgotten Coast is noted for its annual festivals. Here are a few, as more come to our attention we will add them here: 

St. George Island's Bow Wow Ball (benefiting the Franklin County Humane Society) sponsored by Harry A's Bar and Grille in February.

St. George Island's Chili Cookoff held the first weekend in March. 

Carrabelle Waterfront Festival held in April.

Panacea's Blue Crab Festival is held in May.

St. George Island Annual SGI Mullet Toss sponsored by the Blue Parrot Oceanfront Cafe in June.

Apalachicola's Seafood Festival held the first Saturday in November.