Our Annual Apalachicola Adventure: The Charm of Tiny Downtown Shops and Rainy Day Fun!

If you’re looking for a quaint little slice of Florida that will steal your heart, look no further than Apalachicola. This gem of a town has a tiny downtown area filled with the cutest shops you can imagine, and we’ve made it our tradition to visit on the rainy day of our vacation. There’s just something about wandering through the shops while the sky is overcast that makes it feel extra cozy.

This year was no different! We parked the guys at the WaterCraft Brewery (they’re happy with a cold beer) and my mother-in-law and I set off on our shopping adventure. Honestly, you don’t need an excuse to wander around these charming boutiques, but grey skies sure help you enjoy it even more.

Our first stop? Go Fish Clothing & Jewelry, where my mother-in-law snagged the cutest white summer shirt. It’s a perfect addition to her wardrobe, and she just loved the selection here. Every piece has that perfect coastal vibe—relaxed, but oh-so-chic.

Next, we wandered over to Riverside Mercantile. I picked up a “Happy Campers” plaque (because, well, it’s the perfect keepsake for our travel trailer life), and of course, a cute Christmas ornament. It’s never too early to think about holiday decor, right? My mother-in-law grabbed a couple of little gifts for herself, too.

The best part of the day was Riverlily—this shop is an absolute treasure trove! From the beach-scented sachets that instantly take you to the coast, to the delightful collection of greeting cards and postcards, we couldn’t resist picking up a few things to send a little love to our friends and family. There’s something so satisfying about a handwritten note, and these cards. Total winners.

While some of the shops in Apalachicola are a bit on the pricier side, there is plenty of treasures on a lighter budget. There’s truly something for everyone. The window shopping alone can be just as fun as buying, but trust me, don’t let it stop you from making a purchase or two. I still kick myself for not grabbing that adorable oyster bag I almost bought. I thought, “I’ll just window shop,” and now I have a tiny regret. Lesson learned! 😂

Before leaving, we made a quick stop at Apalachicola Seafood Grill for lunch. If you’re there, their shrimp po’ boy is a MUST! Perfect way to end a rainy day of shopping.

So, next time you find yourself in the area—or when the weather isn’t cooperating—be sure to check out Apalachicola. It’s got charm, the cutest boutiques, and a laid-back vibe that’s just what you need to unwind. And if you’re lucky, you might even walk away with some treasures to remember your day by!