Mini staycations are the thing of the moment and our most recent escape was the perfect getaway. As a resident 30a gal, something my friends and I have found more and more common is going the opposite direction when we need to slow down. So, the Gibson Inn in Apalachicola was the perfect 24-hour escape we needed earlier this summer.
The Gibson Inn
The Vibe
A historic inn, originally opening in 1907, The Gibson Inn is everything you want in a classic Southern home. Large wrap-around porches, grand wooden staircases, and antique furniture mixed with newer well-loved pieces. Of course, each room requires a traditional key for entry.
With views of the water, an easy access to downtown, and a plethora of places to sit and enjoy a drink, the sunset, or the company you’re with, the slower pace matches the vibe of the town & classic Southern culture.
Where Is It?
Tucked just before the bridge in Apalachicola, The Gibson Inn is about 26 minutes past Port St. Joe, 44 minutes past Mexico Beach, and 1 hr 20 minutes from Panama City.
Does The Gibson Inn Have Parking?
Also, the parking available is predominately street parking. So, there are currently two buildings with rooms available and a third in progress. However, the parking wraps around the entire property so it’s easy to find an option closer to your room.
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What Is There To Do On The Property?
While there isn’t your standard gym or pool, The Gibson Inn encourages exploration and outdoor activity. With your stay, you have the option to rent a bike (complimentary) to explore around the city. Also, you are able to rent a golf cart if you fancy a most casual vibe.
There is a full billiards room on the main floor just past check in along with parlor and the Franklin Cafe.
What Is There To Do Nearby?
For our mini getaway, we did a bit of exploring downtown. So, shopping and enjoying the eclectic variety of shops meant we felt like we really got a sense for the culture that local Apalach is building. Of course, we are always on the hunt for a local coffee shop.
However, outside of the boutique shopping and unique home finds, there’s hiking, kayaking, seashell hunting fishing and scalloping available in the area. Ps. You’ll need a fishing license do the later two.
The Franklin Cafe Review
We ate two of our meals at the Franklin Cafe and enjoyed both tremendously. Also, Apalach is very geared towards seafood life with limited chicken options so it’s worth checking menus ahead of time. However, chicken was on the menu – even if we opted for a seafood feast. I went for the mussels (not something I often order so my experience was a bit underwhelming). But the crab cakes were a big hit as well as the tuna salad.
For dinner, we made reservations ahead but we probably could have gotten away with not having it. Then, lunch was an easy, last minute walk up. I would highly suggest going for a sunset dinner as the view of the sunset from the porch corner is gorgeous. Also, gluten free friends – there are lots of options but I’m not too certain on the cross contamination factors. Thenn, vegan/vegetarian friends – it will be your classic Southern challenge.
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WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF STAYING AT THE GIBSON INN?
The biggest draw to staying at The Gibson Inn for me was the slower pace. Also, it can feel very easy in a busy season to find time to schedule a moment away or a vacation. So, I love that this local option allowed for a luxury moment with only a short drive.
All of your standard features and needs are available, coffee in the rooms, nice beds, wifi, tv, etc. However, I did really enjoy the historic vibes blended with the gorgeous marble bathroom and large tub. I would 100% see myself escaping here when I needed a quieter moment away from it all.
WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF STAYING AT THE GIBSON INN?
Unfortunately, historic doesn’t always equal accessible. And the wheel chair accessibility was horrendous. I counted one ramp that was on the main street and gave you access to only a few rooms as well as the restaurant. But this could be improved massively for the property.
Given the historic nature, there are no elevators so you’ll need to be prepared to carry heavier luggage up quite a few stairs. Additionally, if room service is your vibe, it is not available. However, the restaurant on the property is lovely and easy to find.
Tips For Making The most Of Your Stay
While we didn’t arrive in time to take advantage of all the property’s features, I would love to do so in the future. But I would note two things that important for us to learn. First, Apalach is a very sleepy southern town meaning a lot of the restaurants open after 11am. So your breakfast options are going to be limited.
Secondly, it was 100% worth upgrading your room and paying the extra $10. We ended up asking for an upgrade after we arrived because our original room would have been way too cramped with luggage and trying to shoot content. The second option we were given had almost twice the space, a gorgeous corner view of the bridge and water plus a bathroom that was a showstopper.
All in all, we had the most wonderful mini escape with our time at The Gibson Inn. The details of the inn were incredible from the lobby to the hallways to the rocking chairs on the wraparound porch. It was the perfect way to slow down for 24 hours.
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