Hello there! It’s Nasiba and boy do I have a story for you!
I accidentally got on the wrong flight. I know. I know. It sounds ridiculous and unbelievable, but it happened! And no, I wasn’t intoxicated. I was as sober as a judge. Sleep-deprived, maybe. But I still can’t figure out for the love of me how it happened.
So, I was in Chicago for a travel event which went late into the night. There was an after-party which I shouldn’t have gone to in the first place. I tried to talk myself out of it. My colleagues tried to talk me out of it.
Needless to say, we all failed miserably. I was out until 5 am. My flight was at 7 am. Because I’m that girl, I was at the airport at 5.45 am. I checked in and did everything right. I even had time to buy a few things at the duty-free shops.
Then somewhere between the waiting lounge and the plane, something I cannot explain happened.
My story is, which I’m sticking to, by the way, I got on a flight to Pensacola and got off the plane to see Tampa International Airport in front of my eyes. The shock!
Anyway, I ended up in Pensacola, 2 days later, and put together a list of things to do in the city.
Are you looking for a dreamy and picturesque destination for your next vacation? If yes, I would highly recommend Pensacola city in the State of Florida.
Located in northwest Florida, Pensacola is famous for its pristine award-winning beaches, and emerald green waters.
Planning a Florida vacation? Check out some of the best family beach resorts in Florida!
It is a popular travel destination among travelers owing to its relaxing and quiet nature, tasty coastal cuisine, and promise of thrilling water activities.
But the city has more to offer than just dreamy beaches. It boasts a rich history which travelers can find more about by visiting various museums spread out across the city.
It has an intriguing and beautiful art and cultural heritage. You will experience and learn more about it by exploring the city, interacting with the friendly locals, and touring art galleries.
Whether you’re traveling alone, with friends, family, or a loved one, Pensacola will give you beautiful memories. You will have an experience of a lifetime.
To help you decide on what to do when you travel to Pensacola, I have compiled fun things to do in Pensacola with kids, family and friends. This list will ensure that you get the best of this beautiful city and make your vacation worthwhile.
25 fun things to do in Pensacola
1. Gulf Islands National Seashore
Google Rate: 4.8/5
Address: Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
Entry Fees: $25/private, $20/private motorcycle, also annual pass can be purchased for $45
- Established in 1971
- Located along the Gulf of Mexico
Why you should visit
If you want to experience the awesomeness of Pensacola beaches wholesomely, you should explore the Gulf Island National Seashore.
It offers miles of beaches covered in sugar-white sand and different shades of emerald green waters.
There are a ton of things to do here. You can choose to soak up the sun by the beach under the blue skies or engage in the fun activities on offer.
Things to do
Gulf Islands National Seashore has six areas; Gulf Breeze, Okaloosa Island, Johnson Beach, Fort Pickens, Santa Rosa Island, and Fort Barrancas. Each offers different activities.
Walk along the seashore and immerse yourself in the spectacular beauty of the Atlantic waters.
You can also camp along the shore, visit historic forts, or enjoy water activities like kayaking, biking, swimming, surfing, scuba diving….As known, snorkeling in Miami and Pensacola are my favorite over the US.
2. Big Lagoon State Park
Google Rate: 4.6/5
Address: 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy, Pensacola, FL 32507
Entry Fees: $6.00 per vehicle, $4.00 Single Occupant Vehicle, $2.00 Pedestrians
- Acquired in 1977
- Located on Gulf Beach Highway
- 705 acres large
Why you should visit
Pensacola is famous for its breathtaking seashore. The Big Lagoon State Park is one of the seashore attractions that contribute to its fame.
It is named after a big lagoon that separates the mainland from the Gulf of Mexico.
Things to do
From trailing wildlife to hiking, this attraction site has something for everyone.
Enjoy a hike on its scenic nature trails as you watch out for over 23 bird species. Biking, swimming, paddling, and fishing are available.
If you love camping, this is the right destination to travel to.
3. Perdido Key
- Perdido’ means ‘lost’ in Spanish and Portuguese
- Discovered in 1693
Why you should visit
Perdido Key boasts a rich history and breathtaking views of the Gulf Coast waters. It is home to Perdido Key State Park and offers stunning picnic grounds.
Things to do
Make lasting memories alone or with a loved one by including Perdido Key in the coolest things to do in Pensacola with kids.
Enjoy a picnic by the coastline as you enjoy the cool breeze and soothing sound of water waves.
The ocean view is to die for. Once in a while, you will catch a glimpse of exotic birds and beautiful sea turtles.
4. Pensacola Museum of Art
Google Rate: 4.3/5
Address: 407 S Jefferson St, Pensacola, FL 32502
Entry Fees: Active Military & Dependents $9.00, Senior 65+ $9.00, UWF Alumni $9.00, Child 3-14 $5.00
- Founded in 1954
- The structure was formerly a Spanish jail
Why you should visit
When listing down museums to visit in Pensacola, this historic attraction should be one of them.
It’s not only a sight to behold owing to its architectural design, but also home to a great art collection.
It contains works from artists of both the 20th and 21st centuries.
The founders were women from the American Association of the University of Women.
Things to do
Explore educative and engaging artwork from famous artists like Pablo Picasso, Kathe Kollwitz, and Andy Warhol.
There are both permanent and traveling exhibits. They feature contemporary and modern art.
You can attend art forums and watch films in the museum.
5. Pensacola Mess Hall
Google Rate: 4.7/5
Address: 418 E Wright St, Pensacola, FL 32502
Entry Fees: $8 per person
- Established in 2012
- Founded by Jerry Pratt and Megan Pratt
- Ideal for adults and children
Why you should visit
If you want to travel to Pensacola with your children but are unsure where to take them for fun, this is the right place.
Pensacola Mess Hall is a science museum that allows its guests to experiment like actual scientists, mathematicians, and engineers.
Things to do
This is a fun place for you and your children to spend time. It’s a hands-on and entertaining way of educating children.
6. Sam’s Fun City
Google Rate: 3.7/5
Address: 6709 Pensacola Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32505
Entry Fees: Free admission, there is a fee on car parking
- The largest family fun park in Pensacola
Why you should visit
Sam’s Fun City is one of the best places to explore if you’re traveling to Pensacola with your children. You will all have fun!
It is the only water and amusement park in the city.
Things to do
Explore over 20 rides and other exciting indoor and outdoor activities with your children. There are over 50 arcade games such as billiards, air hockey, and laser games.
7. Pensacola Graffiti Bridge
Google Rate: 4.6/5
Address: N 17th Ave, Pensacola, FL 32502
- Built in 1888
Why you should visit
You cannot travel to Pensacola and not visit the city’s most outstanding landmark.
What makes it interesting is that anyone can be an artist here. The artwork changes all the time as more people paint the bridge.
Things to do
Take a trip to this famous bridge to take photos and see what others have painted. Make sure to carry a spray bottle and leave a permanent mark in Pensacola, FL.
8. USS Massachusetts (BB-2)
Google Rate: 4.6/5
- Launched in June 1893
Why you should visit
Its war history significance makes it one of the things to do in Pensacola. It is the oldest American battleship in existence.
This battleship broke down several times before it was sunk, making it gain the title of ‘the worst battleship ever built’.
It now lies 30 ft. deep in the Gulf of Mexico. It serves as an underground museum and archaeological preserve.
Things to do
Travel to Pensacola to see the site of this battleship. The site is open to divers to go underwater and see its wreckage.
9. Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier
Google Rate: 4.7/5
Address: 41 Fort Pickens Rd #2005, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
Entry Fees: $2.25 for the all day
Why you should visit
Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier is a fisherman’s paradise. It is named the best fishing pier in Pensacola. It’s also renowned for being one of the best sightseeing attractions in the city.
The pier offers one of the best views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Things to do
Enjoy deep-sea fishing in the pier’s waters. It runs up to 20ft in depth.
Some of the fish species found include whitefish, the Spanish mackerel, and cobia. The species depend on the time of year.
If fishing is not your forte, you can take a walk along the coastline and enjoy the scenic view of your surroundings. It’s a perfect place to catch sunrise and sunset.
10. Navarre Beach Fishing Pier
Google Rate: 4.7/5
Address: 8579 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566
Entry Fees: $7 a day, $4 for ages (15 and younger) – It costs $1 only for walk the pier to look for wildlife and view the sunsets
- Located between Destin and Pensacola
Why you should visit
This is the longest fishing pier in Florida and the Gulf of Mexico, at 1,548 feet.
It also boasts being the second most popular fishing attraction site in Pensacola, after the Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier.
It is famous for being a fishing spot for large fish and other marine creatures. A white shark was once caught here.
Things to do
Take a fishing trip to Navarre and immerse yourself in fishing at the clear emerald green waters.
You can also visit the pier for a stroll along its stretch.
11. Flounder’s Chowder House
Google Rate: 4.5/5
Address: 800 Quietwater Beach Rd, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561
Entry Fees: the range is $$ to $$$
- Established in 1979
Why you should visit
When you combine adventure and dining, the result is Flounder’s Chowder House. It is a beach bar and restaurant located in Gulf Breeze.
Things to do
Enjoy a taste of Pensacola’s coastal cuisine from the restaurant’s wide selection of seafood.
Children have a pirate ship playground where they can engage in fun activities.
Explore the property to see a historic Cuban raft that took 27 refugees from Cuba to Key West.
12. Urban Swinery
Google Rate: 4.6/5
Address: 19 Palafox Pl, Pensacola, FL 32502
Why you should visit
For a delicious culinary experience, you have to make your way to the Urban Swinery. It serves all types of pork dishes.
Things to do
Sit back, relax and enjoy the best pork in town. It is the ideal spot to re-energize when touring Pensacola.
13. Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center
Google Rate: 4.7/5
Address: 8740 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566
- Found in the Navarre Beach Marine Park
- Established in 2013
Why you should visit
This is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rehabilitation and study of endangered sea turtles. It is an eco-tourist attraction site.
Things to do
Visit Navarre Beach Turtle Conservation Center to appreciate the work done and learn all about sea turtles. You will also learn how you can contribute to their conservation.
This is also an opportunity to see Sweet Pea, one of the center’s most famous turtles.
Explore the exhibits to see and interact with the sea turtles.
14. Seville Historic District
- Also known as Pensacola Historic District
- Founded in 1559 by Don Tristan de Luna, a Spanish sailor
Why you should visit
Take a trip to Seville Historic District to learn the history of Pensacola. Located downtown, it boasts being the first European settlement in America.
It will take you back in history, over 450 years ago, as you explore the 28 properties found here.
Things to do
Step into life in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries as showcased in museums found here.
Experience how the district’s history has influenced and shaped current culture and cuisines in the city.
Walk around Pensacola Historic District to see charming architecture, and browse through attractions like Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, Lavalle House, and Old Christ Church.
15. Seville Quarter
Google Rate: 4.4/5
Address: 130 E Government St, Pensacola, FL 32502
Entry Fees: $3 from 8-9pm (ages 21 & over) – $5 after 9pm (ages 21 & over) – Subject to Change after 11pm (ages 18 & over)
- Located in downtown Pensacola
- Built in 1971
Why you should visit
For entertainment, Seville Quarter is one of the best places to have fun. It has eight themed bars. Each offers visitors a different experience.
From piano shows to karaoke, there is something to satisfy everyone’s needs.
Things to do
Prepare to be entertained and have the time of your life in the Seville Quarter. Explore the eight themed bars and have a taste of each.
Party like there is no tomorrow in the Phineas Phogg’s Balloon Works. Enjoy live music at the End o’the Alley Bar. Participate in a karaoke session in the Lili Marlene’s.
Enjoy an intimate dinner in Palace Oyster Bar.
You will also learn about its rich history during your visit.
16. Admiral Fetterman Field
Google Rate: 4.8/5
Address: 351 W Cedar St, Pensacola, FL 32502
Fees : Regions Club seats behind home plate $17 on weekends – $12 on weekdays, General Admission seats are $10 on weekends and $7 on weekdays
- Opened in 2012
- Capacity of 5,038
- Named after Admiral John H. Fetterman Jr.
Why you should visit
This is a multi-purpose park consisting of an amphitheater, commercial buildings, a stadium, and a waterfront public park. It is an ideal place to have a relaxed day on your vacation in Pensacola.
Things to do
Interact with the locals by catching a concert or a game in the stadium, which serves as the home ground for the city’s baseball team, Pensacola Blue Wahoos.
There are different games taking place across the year.
Explore the commercial section to have a glimpse of the shopping scene. Get yourself a souvenir while at it.
The waterfront park has beautifully manicured green lawns and trees. It is a lovely place to cool off and relax.
Are you planning to extend your trip to explore more in Florida? feel free to check what things to do in Marco Island & best resorts there.
17. Palafox Street
Why you should visit
Shopping, history, dining, and art meet in Palafox Street. It is considered the gateway and artery of the city’s downtown owing to its bustling vibe.
It comprises three major blocks that are home to art galleries, restaurants, cafés, shops, and commercial spaces.
Things to do
Palafox is called an entertainment hub for a reason. You can learn the city’s history, shop, explore Pensacola’s cuisine, and visit art galleries, all in one place. It is one of the most visited places by travelers since there is something for everyone.
18. Pensacola Beach
Rate: 4.6/5
Address: Pensacola, FL 32501
Entry Fees : $20 per year for public annual passes and $70 per year for commercial annual passes
Why you should visit
Pensacola is famous for its breathtaking beaches. You can never have enough of their beauty.
Pensacola Beach is in the Southern area of the city.
Its serenity and breathtaking views make it ideal for anyone seeking to enjoy a relaxed day by the beach or engage in beach activities.
Things to do
It has both crowded and secluded areas. You can choose to tour the crowded area to interact with locals and other tourists.
Alternatively, you can opt for the secluded area where you will enjoy an intimate experience, alone or with loved ones.
Whatever your choice, you will enjoy fun activities like swim with dolphins in Florida, sailing, boating, surfing, and paddling.
Dining and shopping options are also available.
19. National Naval Aviation Museum
Google Rate: 4.8/5
Address: 1750 Radford Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32508
Entry Fees : free Museum admission and also free parking
- Formerly known as the National Museum of Naval Aviation
- Established in 1962
- Oldest air station in the nation
Why you should visit
It is the ideal place to visit to understand the history of naval aviation in the country.
It has over 150 spacecraft and aircraft, and over 4000 artifacts on display. They exhibit the history of the United States Marine Corps, US Navy, and the US Coast Guard.
Things to do
Explore the facility to learn what each artifact, aircraft, and memorabilia represents.
Everything preserved in the National Naval Aviation Museum served a specific purpose in the history of US naval aviation.
For example, the Curtiss NC-4 was the first aircraft in history to cross the Atlantic Ocean.
The Emil Buehler National Aviation Library is home to a collection of manuscripts, books, and photographs. They all carry naval history.
You can watch educative naval films in the IMAX theatre inside the museum grounds.
20. Fort Pickens
Google Rate: 4.8/5
Address: 1400 Fort Pickens Rd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
Entry Fees : $8.00 per car
- Built in 1834
- Named after Andrew Pickens, a war hero
- Located on Pensacola beach
Why you should visit
This is a historical military fort that was built and dedicated to the protection of Pensacola bay. It is one of the only four military forts in the nation.
It is a history-rich facility that once served as jailing ground for the infamous Apache leader Geronimo.
The facility was closed in 1947. It currently serves as a historic attraction site and informational museum.
Things to do
You can take a day’s visit to explore the facility as you learn the history of each section.
Visit the information center for more educative material.
Camping is available at Fort Pickens Campground. You can spend your time touring the museum in detail, trailing and biking along the beach, and enjoying a ton of other beach activities.
21. Pensacola Lighthouse
Google Rate: 4.7/5
Address: 2081 Radford Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32508
Entry Fees : $8 for adults and $4 for children
- Built in 1859
Why you should visit
Pensacola Lighthouse served as a lighthouse back in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Although it remains an active navigation aid, it mainly serves as a historical landmark and museum.
It has 177 steps that take travelers to the top section, from where you will have a breathtaking aerial view of the Gulf Coast.
Things to do
In your hunger for history, take a trip to Pensacola Lighthouse. You will learn more about the Civil War and the Coast Guard history. All information about it is in the Richard C. Callaway Museum.
Climb the 177 steps to get the beautiful views of Fort Pickens, the Gulf Coast, and the Intracoastal Waterway.
22. Five Flags Speedway
Google Rate: 4.7/5
Address: 7451 Pine Forest Rd, Pensacola, FL 32526
Entry Fees : $45 for the 300-lap race – Normal ticket costs : $75
- Located in Pine Forest Road
- Established in 1953
Why you should visit
One of the best things to do in Pensacola is visiting the Five Flags Speedway, especially when a race is underway.
If you enjoy the thrill of adrenaline-rush when watching Formula One or films like Fast and Furious, a trip here will be worth every minute of your time.
It lists as one of the fastest half-mile tracks in Florida.
Things to do
Take your vacation in Pensacola to its peak by watching a racing match here. Witness some of the finest racing drivers in the world show off their skills on the speedway.
The official racing season opens from March to October while the Snowball Derby takes place in December.
23. Gulf Breeze Zoo
Google Rate: 4.6/5
Address: 5701 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
Entry Fees : Adult (13-64) $24.95 – Senior (65+) $23.95 – Children (2-12) $19.95 – Under 2 Free
- Hosts over 900 animals
- Award-winning zoo
- Opened in 1984
- Formerly known as The Zoo Northwest Florida but changed to its current name in 2010
Why you should visit
Gulf Breeze Zoo is a wildlife conservation center that offers a home to animals from all over the world. It also gives habitat preservation programs. It is home to various exotic animals.
Some of them are Western lowland gorillas, hippos, giraffes, and rhinos, among others.
Things to do
Although the zoo is in Navarre, 25 miles away from Pensacola, it is a destination worth visiting.
Tour the zoo to appreciate its conservation work and learn how you can contribute to wildlife conservation.
The zoo is divided into two sections. One section offers a walking exhibit spread out over 20 acres.
The other one gives a guided train ride over 30 acres of land with free-roaming animals.
There is a feeding area where you will feed giraffes and other animals.
24. Bay Bluffs Park
Google Rate: 4.4/5
Address: 3400 Scenic Hwy, Pensacola, FL 32503
- 42 acres of land
- Free entry
Why you should visit
If you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful thing to do in Pensacola, Bay Bluffs Park is the place. It will wow you with its serenity.
The park offers one of the best and most beautiful nature trails in the city, with a seashore view.
It has a boardwalk that leads to the beach.
Things to do
Travel to Bay Bluffs Park and explore one of its many trails. It’s a lovely way to connect with nature and breathe some fresh air.
You can take a walk on the boardwalk that offers beautiful views of the coastline. At the beach, take a walk along the seashore as you listen to the waves and enjoy the view of the emerald green waters.
25. Fort Barrancas
Google Rate: 4.6/5
Address: 3182 Taylor Rd, Pensacola, FL 32508
Entry Fees : $25 per vehicle, $20 per motorcycle, or $15 per pedestrian arriving on foot or bicycle
- Originally built in 1787
- Rebuilt as an American Military Fort in 1844
- Formerly known as Fort San Carlos de Barrancas
- Found in the Gulf Islands National Seashore
Why you should visit
Fort Barrancas boasts a rich war history. It was one of the four military forts in the nation. The ground on which it’s built was once home to three other forts.
It was initially a Spanish fort. The French fought them and turned it into a French Fort. The French were later fought by the British, making it a British Fort.
In 1781, the Spanish fought the British and took the fort back.
Things to do
Learning the history of the different eras of war and how this facility influenced it is as educative as it is intriguing.
Explore this fort with a preserved history, when you travel to Pensacola, FL.
You will be excited to know that the Naval Air station is built around this National Historic Landmark.
I hope you’ve enjoyed the read and will make better choices. Don’t be like Nasiba. Do better.
See you on the next adventure!