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Orman House State Park
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ORMAN HOUSE STATE PARK
ORMAN HOUSE STATE PARK
177 5th Street
Apalachicola, Florida   32320

Phone: 850-653-1209
Built in 1838 by Thomas Orman, this antebellum home overlooks the Apalachicola River, and was used for both business and social gatherings. Orman was a cotton merchant and businessman in Apalachicola from 1840 to the 1870s. He helped the tiny town become one of the Gulf Coast's most important cotton exporting ports during the mid-19th century. The house features details of both federal and Greek revival styles with wooden mantelpieces, molded plaster cornices, and wide heart-pine floorboards. The house is open 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. and closed 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m., Thursday through Monday, except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. For a small fee, guided tours are offered hourly, except at 12:00 p.m.
History of the Area
The Orman House, located in Apalachicola, Florida was built by Thomas Orman in 1838. It served as a hub for cotton trade and shipping activities during the early to mid-19th century.

In 1900s it became private property of George Marshall Jr., who added several enhancements including an octagonal library wing.

After his death in 1934, ownership passed through various hands until acquired by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) around late twentieth-century.

In May 2001 TNC donated the house along with its surrounding gardens to State of Florida's Park System where it is now open for public tours.

Passes
Annual Entrance Passes can be purchased at all park ranger stations and museums. If you require immediate use of your pass, this is the best option. Passes can be purchased during regular business hours 365 days a year. Please call the park in advance to ensure availability. Those who are eligible for discounted or free passes may use this method to receive their pass. Annual Entrance Passes may be purchased online by visiting the FLORIDA STATE PARKS ANNUALENTRANCE PASSES web page.



Trails
- Chapman Botanical Trail: A 1.3-mile loop trail that winds through a variety of habitats, including hardwood forests and salt marshes; features interpretive signs about local flora.

- Orman House Nature Walk: This short walk around the historic house offers views of Apalachicola Bay and surrounding gardens; length is less than half a mile.

- Three Soldiers Detail Pathway: An easy walking path leading to an impressive bronze statue honoring Vietnam veterans; pathway itself is not long but connects with other trails in park for extended exploration.

- Azalea Loop Trail: Named after its abundant azaleas blooming in springtime, this one-mile loop also showcases magnolias, dogwoods and ferns native to Florida's Panhandle region.

-Apalachicola River Viewpoint Track : Short track offering panoramic view over the river from elevated platform ; no specific length mentioned but considered as brief stroll from main facilities area .

-Bayfront Forest Trek : Undulating terrain under canopy cover , showcasing diverse tree species such as pines , oaks & cedars ; estimated at roughly two miles .

-Chapman Gardens Stroll : Easy access route meandering through beautifully landscaped grounds adjacent to Orman House museum building ; exact distance unknown yet suitable for all fitness levels .

-Riverside Picnic Area Access Route : Direct connection between picnic spots by riverside edge & restrooms / parking lot areas - ideal family-friendly option without specified measurement .
Guided Tours
The house is open daily for hourly guided tours from 10 a.m. ? 4 p.m. Thursday through Monday. A fee of $2 per person is charged. Children under 6 are admitted free. The gardens and grounds of the Orman House may be rented for special events. Please call the park for further information.

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Area Campgrounds
Sportsmans Lodge
99 North Bayshore Drive
Eastpoint, FL
850-670-8423
Area Accommodations (over 20 miles away)
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Sweet Magnolia Inn - Saint Marks, FL
BBs / Inns
Our historic inn is located in historic Saint Marks, one of the oldest settlements in North America. First settled in 1527, Saint Marks is a historic little city at the confluence of the Wakulla and St. Marks Rivers. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Saint Marks National Wildlife Refuge, it is located just 20 miles south of Tallahassee.
55.6 miles from park*
Nearby Hotels
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Directions
The Historical Orman House is located in Apalachicola, off U.S. 98 in the downtown historical section. From Panama City, take U.S. 98 East to Apalachicola. At the stop light in Apalachicola, turn left and follow signs to the Orman House.

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Florida
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Florida State Parks

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