Florida’s ‘Forgotten Coast’ is home to several hidden gems, including the oft overlooked Orman State Park. Though this attraction is one of the lesser known Florida State Parks, you won’t want to let this beauty slip off your radar.
Ideal for visitors seeking an authentic local and historic experience, learn more about what makes the Orman House State Park one of our favorite Gulf Coast destinations!
About The Orman House Historic State Park
The Orman House State Park is located at 177 5th St, Apalachicola, FL 32320. For reference, this is approximately 20 minutes from Saint George Island, a straight shot along the Big Bend Scenic Byway Coastal Trail.
Seasonal hours for the Orman House specifically are 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursday through Monday; the house is closed every Tuesday and Wednesday.
The botanical garden is open daily from sunrise to sunset, but hours vary seasonally and are weather dependent, so be sure to check in advance before your adventure.
The state park attractions include the Chapman Botanical Gardens, a small but scenic acre park filled with nature trails, gardens, and public spaces and the historic Orman House, which is open to the public. The park also offers basic facilities including parking and public restrooms.
Situated along the scenic Apalachicola River, the park also provides easy access to Water Street, Market Street, 5th Street, and other bustling Apalachicola avenues, making it easy to enjoy local dining and shopping during your outing.
House admission is only $2 per person (children 5 and younger are free!), which covers a one hour guided tour and presentation of the historic house. Visitors are welcome at the botanical gardens free of charge.
The Orman House History
The statuesque historic home was built in 1838 by Thomas Orman, an important cotton merchant and business executive. He operated business out of Apalachicola from the 1830s through the 1880s and helped the tiny town and coastal village grow into one of the Gulf Coast’s largest cotton exporting ports.
An exercise in antebellum extravagance, the house features details of both Federal and Greek revival styles with details like the wooden mantelpieces, original wide heart-pine floorboards, and molded plaster cornices throughout. Beautifully restored to its original glory, the stunning house is a prime example of southern wealth and ornate architecture, and is an absolute ‘must see’ for architecture and history enthusiasts.
Orman House Historic State Park Activities
Tour the Historic Orman House
The ornate Orman House steals the show—and it’s not hard to see why. This historic antebellum home dates back to the 19th century and is a true display of authentic southern architecture. The tour experience is led by a knowledgeable park ranger that explains important facts and historical stories throughout the first story of the house. The second floor is open to solo exploration, though museum staff is happy to answer any and all questions. Enjoy viewing genuine period furniture and decor, period dresses and attire, Orman family heirlooms, and much more inside the meticulously preserved house museum.
Guided tours are given every hour on the hour—except noon for a quick lunch break. Admission is $2 per person; children 2 and under are free.
Picnic at the Botanical Gardens
The park gardens make a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely picnic with family and friends. Built in the late 2000’s, the gardens honor Dr. Alvin Chapman, a prominent Florida botanist and prominent Apalachicola resident.
Author of “Flora of the Southern United States”, Chapman is credited with discovering several rare and exotic plants along the Florida Gulf Coast. Today, the garden features many of these botanical features, in addition to a breathtaking butterfly garden, a half-mile walking path with public seating and gazebos, and a small marsh area complete with a boardwalk. The garden is also home to a beautiful bronze replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial “The Three Soldiers” memorial statue in Washington D.C.
The park generously offers several picnic tables and grills for use, or there are plenty of wide-open spaces for a rustic outing. Simply pack a picnic, utensils, and maybe even a few yard games for a great afternoon at the gardens. Please note that the consumption of alcoholic beverages is not allowed outside of park-sanctioned special events and social gatherings.
Hiking/Running
The Orman House State Park is a popular destination for Forgotten Coast runners seeking a scenic retreat. The botanical gardens offer a half-mile paved trail, additional walkways around the historic Orman House, and paved sidewalks that border the entire facility (approximately three quarters of a mile total). Enjoy a few scenic loops around and through the park for a short run or add the park to a larger route along the Apalachicola Bay.
Tip: For a more recreational experience, try Geo-Seeking / Geocaching during your run or walk!
