What to do in pensacola florida?
Updated: September 20, 2024Explore Pensacola Beach
Pensacola Beach, located on the Gulf of Mexico, is renowned for its sugar-white sands and clear emerald waters. This beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Visitors can also partake in numerous water sports such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing. The Pensacola Beach Pier offers a splendid view of the coastline and is a great spot for fishing. For those interested in marine life, snorkeling and scuba diving trips are available, giving you the opportunity to explore underwater ecosystems teeming with life.
Visit the National Naval Aviation Museum
The National Naval Aviation Museum is one of the largest aviation museums in the world. It houses over 150 restored aircraft, including the first plane to cross the Atlantic and the Blue Angels jets. Interactive exhibits and flight simulators provide a hands-on experience. This museum is located on the Naval Air Station Pensacola, which also offers public access to watch the Blue Angels practice. The museum's Giant Screen Theater showcases aviation-themed films that are both entertaining and educational.
Discover Historic Downtown Pensacola
Downtown Pensacola is a treasure trove of history and culture. Palafox Street, often referred to as the heart of downtown, is lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and diverse dining options. The T.T. Wentworth Jr. Florida State Museum, housed in a historic building, offers exhibits on local history and culture. St. Michael’s Cemetery, one of the oldest cemeteries in Florida, provides a glimpse into the past with gravestones dating back to the 18th century. The Pensacola Historic Village offers guided tours that delve into the area’s Spanish, British, and American heritage.
Enjoy the Outdoor Activities
Pensacola is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Gulf Islands National Seashore provides pristine landscapes for hiking, bird watching, and picnicking. The Perdido Key State Park offers similar activities with the bonus of shelling and fishing opportunities. For those who enjoy cycling, the Pensacola Beach Trail provides a scenic route along the coastline. Kayaking through the bayous and estuaries offers a peaceful way to observe local wildlife, including dolphins and a variety of bird species.
Attend Local Festivals and Events
Pensacola hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year. The Pensacola Seafood Festival, held annually in September, celebrates the area’s rich seafood heritage with a variety of dishes, live music, and arts and crafts. The Pensacola International Billfish Tournament, one of the oldest fishing tournaments in the U.S., attracts anglers from around the world. Gallery Night, held monthly, transforms downtown into an artsy wonderland with street performers, live music, and local artists showcasing their work.
Experience the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum
The Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, built in 1859, provides panoramic views of the Gulf Coast from its 177-foot tower. Climbing the 177 steps to the top is a rewarding experience, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The museum located at the base of the lighthouse features exhibits on maritime history and the life of lighthouse keepers. Ghost tours are available for those interested in the lighthouse's haunted history.
Dine at Local Restaurants
Pensacola’s culinary scene offers something for every palate. The Fish House, located on the waterfront, is famous for its Grits a Ya Ya – a dish featuring blackened shrimp and smoked Gouda cheese grits. Global Grill offers a tapas-style menu with dishes inspired by international cuisines. For a more casual dining experience, Peg Leg Pete’s serves up delicious seafood in a fun, pirate-themed setting. Don’t forget to visit Joe Patti’s Seafood, a market that offers the freshest seafood in the area.
Explore Fort Pickens
Fort Pickens, located on the western end of Santa Rosa Island, is a historic military fort built in the 1830s. It played a significant role during the Civil War and was used as a defensive structure until the 1940s. Visitors can explore the fort’s extensive brickwork, underground tunnels, and cannons. The area surrounding the fort is ideal for hiking, bird watching, and fishing. The Fort Pickens Campground provides facilities for those who wish to extend their stay.
Take a Dolphin Cruise
Dolphin cruises are a popular activity in Pensacola, offering a chance to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Various tour operators offer boat trips that take you into the Gulf of Mexico and Pensacola Bay. These cruises often include narrated tours that provide information on local marine life and ecosystems. Sunset cruises are particularly popular, offering stunning views of the sun setting over the water.
Visit the Pensacola Museum of Art
The Pensacola Museum of Art, located in a historic jail building, features a diverse collection of contemporary and modern art. The museum’s rotating exhibits showcase works by both local and international artists. Educational programs, workshops, and special events provide additional opportunities to engage with the art community. The museum’s sculpture garden offers a serene outdoor space for reflection and inspiration.
Relax at Big Lagoon State Park
Big Lagoon State Park, located near Perdido Key, offers a variety of recreational activities. The park’s extensive network of trails is perfect for hiking and bird watching. Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities, with rentals available on-site. The park’s observation tower provides panoramic views of the surrounding wetlands and waterways. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck from the park’s docks and designated fishing areas.
Shop at Cordova Mall
Cordova Mall is Pensacola’s largest shopping destination, featuring a wide range of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Major department stores like Dillard’s and Belk anchor the mall, while specialty shops offer unique items. The mall’s food court and sit-down restaurants provide a variety of dining options. A visit to Cordova Mall is perfect for a day of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Explore Pensacola's Breweries and Distilleries
Pensacola’s craft beer and spirits scene is thriving, with several breweries and distilleries offering tours and tastings. The Pensacola Bay Brewery, located in the historic district, produces a variety of craft beers that can be enjoyed in their taproom or taken to-go. Perfect Plain Brewing Co. offers a cozy atmosphere and a rotating selection of craft beers. For spirits enthusiasts, the Old Hickory Whiskey Bar features an extensive selection of whiskeys and craft cocktails.
As the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico, the vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning natural beauty of Pensacola, Florida, offer endless possibilities for exploration and adventure.
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