20 Best Places and Things To Do in Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola, located in the northwest region of Florida, is a popular vacation destination with a variety of activities and attractions to suit all ages and interests. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Pensacola:

1. National Naval Aviation Museum

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The National Naval Aviation Museum is the world’s largest naval aviation museum and one of the most-visited museums in Florida. Here, you can see over 150 aircraft and exhibits showcasing the history of naval aviation.

2. Fort Pickens

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Fort Pickens is a historic fort that dates back to the 1800s and is now a popular attraction in Pensacola. Visitors can tour the fort, explore the surrounding nature trails, and enjoy the beach and camping facilities.

3. Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum

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The Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum is a historic lighthouse that offers tours of the tower and keeper’s quarters, as well as a museum with exhibits about the history of the lighthouse and the local area.

4. Pensacola Children’s Museum

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The Pensacola Children’s Museum is a hands-on museum that offers interactive exhibits and activities for kids of all ages. It’s a great spot to keep kids entertained and engaged while learning about the history and culture of Pensacola.

5. Pensacola Museum of Art

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The Pensacola Museum of Art is a small art museum that showcases a variety of contemporary and modern art. The museum also offers art classes and workshops for visitors of all ages.

6. Perdido Key State Park

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This is a popular park that offers visitors the chance to explore the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast. It features hiking trails, beaches, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

7. Bay Bluffs Park

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This is a scenic park located on a bluff overlooking Escambia Bay. It offers visitors the chance to hike, picnic, and enjoy beautiful views of the bay.

8. Gulf Islands National Seashore

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This protected area includes miles of pristine coastline, undeveloped barrier islands, and historic forts. You can explore the natural beauty of the area by hiking, camping, fishing, or kayaking.

9. Big Lagoon State Park

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This state park is located on the mainland near Perdido Key and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching. You can also enjoy a picnic or rent a pavilion for a family gathering.

10. Historic Pensacola’s Voices of Pensacola Multicultural Center

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This museum celebrates the diverse cultures that have shaped Pensacola’s history. You can explore exhibits on African American, Native American, and Hispanic cultures, as well as learn about the city’s music, food, and traditions.

11. Veterans Memorial Park

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This park honors the men and women who have served in the military and features a variety of memorials and exhibits. You can learn about the history of the armed forces, pay your respects, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

12. Uncle Sandy’s Macaw Bird Park

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Uncle Sandy’s Macaw Bird Park is a unique and fascinating attraction located in Pensacola, Florida. The park is home to over 100 macaws, as well as other parrots and exotic birds, and provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about these beautiful creatures and their habitat.

13. Fort Barrancas

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Fort Barrancas is a historic military fort located on the Pensacola Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida. The fort was built by the Spanish in the late 18th century to protect Pensacola Bay and was later used by the British and the United States military.

14. Blackwater River State Recreation Area

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Blackwater River State Recreation Area is a beautiful natural area located in northwest Florida near Pensacola. It is known for its crystal-clear river, beautiful white sand beaches, and extensive hiking trails. The park is perfect for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families looking for a fun and relaxing day out.

15. Wall South

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Wall South is a unique and moving memorial located in Pensacola, Florida, that honors the men and women who served in the Vietnam War. The memorial consists of a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., and a museum that features exhibits and artifacts related to the war.

16. Pensacola Museum of History

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The Pensacola Museum of History is a museum located in downtown Pensacola that showcases the history and culture of the city and the surrounding Gulf Coast region. The museum features exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that tell the story of Pensacola, from its earliest Native American inhabitants to the present day.

17. Pensacola MESS Hall

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The Pensacola MESS Hall is a hands-on science museum located in downtown Pensacola that offers a fun and engaging way for visitors to learn about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts. The museum’s name, MESS, stands for “Math, Engineering, Science, and Stuff,” reflecting the diverse range of activities and exhibits available at the museum.

18. Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park

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Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park is a natural area located in Pensacola, Florida, that is known for its beautiful wetlands and diverse wildlife. The park spans 4,290 acres and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species.

19. Seville Square

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Seville Square is a beautiful and historic public park located in the heart of downtown Pensacola, Florida. The park is named after the Spanish city of Seville and is surrounded by some of Pensacola’s most historic buildings and landmarks.

20. The Graffiti Bridge

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The Graffiti Bridge is a unique Pensacola landmark that has become an iconic part of the city’s culture. Located on North 17th Avenue, the bridge is a railroad overpass that has been covered in colorful and ever-changing graffiti art over the years.

Pensacola has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches to rich history and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or a foodie, you’re sure to find something to love in this charming coastal city.