5 Family-Friendly Activities in Pensacola
There are few places that offers something for the family all year long. But Pensacola is the exception.
Whether it’s winter break, a Memorial Day vacation, holiday jaunt, or last minute Labor Day travel, Pensacola has plenty of family-friend activities to keep everyone occupied.
Located along the Gulf of Mexico, in north Florida’s Emerald Coast just a few miles from Alabama’s border, Pensacola is a mix of sweet southern charm and laid-back beach vibes.
It has remained a hot spot for family travel in Florida. Here are the top 5 family friendly activities to check out if you’re ever in Pensacola:
Hit the Boardwalk
Pensacola Beach Boardwalk is not just another plank of wood in the water. It’s a shopping, dining and event destination. The boardwalk is located on the shores of Santa Rosa Sound, on Pensacola Beach. Just look for the huge shell on the boardwalk - you can’t miss it. There you’ll find unique boutiques and activities like bungee jumping, along with nightly live music. It’s the perfect destination after a day at the beach.
Explore History
Pensacola’s history stretches back more than 400 years. And there’s no better place to take it in than at the Historic Pensacola Village, a cluster of historic homes turned museums in the heart of downtown. There you’ll see architecture and artifacts from the Colonial period through World War II. After touring the homes, stop in at the Rose Circle garden for storytelling or take a haunted walking tour.
Visit the Lighthouse
Since 1823 the Pensacola Lighthouse has been an aid in helping others navigate the seas. Still a working lighthouse, visitors can climb the 177 steps and take in the best views of the Gulf Coast. Located across from the National Naval Aviation Museum, the lighthouse houses the Richard C. Callaway museum, and other historic exhibits as well as ghost hunts for visitors 12 and older.
Watch an Air Show
Did you know Pensacola is the official home of the Blue Angels? The U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron host a show every July and November. Not planning to visit during those times? No worries, the squad begins practices in March every Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 11:30 a.m. You can catch them at the National Naval Aviation Museum. While you’re there check out the restored aircrafts, historic documents and other artifacts documenting the Navy’s history in the United States.
Take in some Art
Pensacola is home to great art. Look no further than the Pensacola Museum of Art and First City Art Center. Built in the early 1900s, the art museum building used to function as a court and jail. It wasn’t until the 1950s that the city converted the 12,000 square foot building into the Pensacola Art Association building and later the museum. The museum host a rotation of exhibits from modern art to the classics. If you’re into being the artist and not just viewing the art - head over to the First City Art Center where you and take classes in pottery, visual arts and glass blowing. The center’s goal is to engage the community in art to make the community even more beautiful.
Stay with us in Pensacola here.