Pensacola is a place that grabs your heart from the moment you arrive. With stunning beaches and a lively atmosphere, it offers a unique mix of Pensacola tourist attractions, history, and adventure. Our journey began at the Gulf Islands National Seashore, where we were amazed by the stunning beaches and abundant wildlife that kept us busy for hours. This top Pensacola tourist attraction is perfect for both nature lovers and families.
So, what makes this destination so popular with families? It’s the ideal mix of exciting activities and kid-friendly attractions that create unforgettable memories for everyone. In this blog, I’ll share 7 fun things to do in Pensacola Florida that made our trip special, along with some helpful tips to ensure you have a fantastic visit.
Table of Content
7 Fun Things to Do in Pensacola Florida
I picked these 7 locations because each one offers something different and fun. I enjoyed exploring the history and beautiful beaches. What made it even better was seeing my family have fun together. We shared laughs and created memories that I will always remember.
If you want to enjoy your stay even more, think about booking a luxury vacation rental nearby. Which upscaled my trip even more. They provide a comfortable place to relax after a day full of Pensacola outdoor adventures.
1. Gulf Islands National Seashore
I was truly amazed by the experiences this place offers. If you love nature, this peaceful spot on Florida’s Gulf Coast is perfect for you. With 160 miles of untouched beaches, it feels like a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Just drive east on Highway 98 from downtown Pensacola, and you’ll be there in no time.
Fun Things to Do in Gulf Islands National Seashore
- Explore pristine beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing along the Gulf.
- Hike scenic trails through diverse ecosystems, including marshes and coastal forests.
- Visit historic sites, such as Fort Pickens and the remnants of old military structures.
- Enjoy birdwatching and spot unique wildlife, including dolphins and various bird species.
- Go kayaking or paddleboarding to experience the tranquil waters and marine life up close.
- Have a picnic in designated areas while enjoying stunning views of the Gulf.
Best Time to Visit Gulf Islands National Seashore
- Best Time to Visit (February to December)- The weather is nice, great for exploring and outdoor fun.
- Warmest Months- Expect June -September sunny, hot days, perfect for hiking or picnics.
- Coldest and Wettest Months- January is the coldest, and July and August have the most rain, so bring the right gear.
2. Fast Eddies Fun Center
Fast Eddie’s Fun Center is one of my favorite spots in Pensacola. It’s famous for its awesome go-kart tracks and fun arcade games, making it a perfect destination for Pensacola outdoor adventures. I love racing my friends and playing all the games. The bumper boats and mini-golf are so much fun too! It’s a great place to make happy memories, especially for families looking for kid-friendly places in Pensacola.
Fun Things to Do in Fast Eddies Fun Center
- Enjoy thrilling go-kart racing on exciting tracks for some friendly competition.
- Play classic arcade games and the latest video games for hours of entertainment.
- Experience bumper boats and splash your friends for a fun-filled aquatic adventure.
- Challenge yourself on the mini-golf course with creative holes that everyone will love.
- Dive into laser tag for an action-packed experience, teaming up or going solo.
- Savor delicious snacks and drinks at the on-site cafe to keep your energy up!
Best Time to Visit Fast Eddies Fun Center
- Operating Hours- Fast Eddie’s Fun Center is open from Monday to Sunday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Plan your visit during these hours for a day full of fun and excitement!
- Holiday Exceptions- Special hours may be allowed on holidays. Be sure to check their schedule for any exceptions during holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day!
3. Pensacola Lighthouse
I had high hopes for the Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, but it didn’t quite meet my expectations. Still, it’s worth a visit! You get to climb 177 steps to the top of the lighthouse, and the views of the bay are stunning. The site offers a glimpse into Pensacola’s rich maritime history, making it an intriguing stop for history enthusiasts.
Fun Things to Do in Pensacola Lighthouse
- Climb the 177 steps to the top of the lighthouse for stunning views of Pensacola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
- Explore fascinating exhibits that highlight the region’s rich maritime history, including shipwrecks and naval heritage.
- For a thrill, join a ghost tour and hear chilling tales of the lighthouse’s haunted past.
- Catch the Blue Angels performing their impressive aerial maneuvers right from the lighthouse grounds.
- Snap unforgettable photos of this historic lighthouse against its beautiful coastal backdrop!
Best Time to Visit Pensacola Lighthouse
- Operating Hours- The museum is open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You have plenty of time to explore its exhibits.
- Closed on Major Holidays- The museum is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.
- Holiday Exceptions- Remember these holiday closures to avoid disappointment if you plan to visit during the holidays.
4. Ghost tour
Our family took a spooky bus tour in a 1930 Ford transit bus from the corner of Avery and E Street. With an age limit of 5 to 99, everyone joined in on the fun! We explored the city’s creepiest spots and heard wild ghost stories about bank robberies and live burials. Most people love this tour for the thrills and chills, making it a memorable adventure for all. It’s a unique way to experience Pensacola cultural experiences.
Fun Things to Do in Ghost Tour
- Discover the city from a spooky perspective as you visit some of its most haunted locations.
- Experience the thrill of traveling in a retro-style 1930 Ford transit bus, adding to the eerie atmosphere of the tour.
- Join a small group for a personalized tour, ensuring you get the most out of your ghostly adventure.
- Check out a house featured in the ‘Haunted Collector’ series, and learn about its creepy past.
- Bring your camera along to snap photos of the haunted locations and share your spooky adventure with friends and family!
Best Time to Visit Ghost Tour
- Fall Season (September – November)- The cooler weather and spooky Halloween vibes make this the perfect time to enjoy a haunted tour in Pensacola.
- Evenings Year-Round- The tours are best at night when the eerie atmosphere heightens the ghostly experience, making it more thrilling for visitors.
5. Dolphin Cruise
The dolphin cruise in Pensacola Bay is one of my personal favorites! It’s an awesome chance to see dolphins up close. The cruise costs about $45 and lasts for two hours, which flies by because you’re having so much fun. It’s a fantastic way to appreciate the natural beauty of Pensacola’s waterways.
Fun Things to Do in Dolphin Cruise
- Experience the excitement of watching dolphins swim and play in their natural habitat.
- Listen to the guides as they share fascinating facts about dolphins and the local ecosystem, making your adventure even more enriching.
- Snap incredible photos of dolphins leaping and swimming alongside the boat for memories you’ll cherish.
- Sit back and relax on the boat while soaking in the stunning views of Pensacola Bay and the surrounding scenery.
- Take the chance to learn about other marine life and local wildlife.
Best Time to Visit Dolphin Cruise
- Early Morning (Sunrise)- The water is calm and quiet, making it a great time to see dolphins.
- Midday (10 a.m. to 12 p.m.)- Dolphins are very active during late morning, so you have a good chance to see them.
- Afternoon to Sunset (2 p.m. until sunset)- You can often spot dolphins as the day ends, especially in the late afternoon.
6. Pensacola Beach
There’s so much to do here, and it feels like a little slice of paradise. We spent the day walking along the boardwalk, soaking in the beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico and the soft, white sandy beaches. It was amazing to watch the waves roll in while feeling the warm sun—an ideal setting for various beach activities in Pensacola.
Fun Things to Do in Pensacola Beach
- Stroll the beautiful white sandy beaches, basking in the sun and splashing in the warm Gulf waters.
- Visit the lively Pensacola Beach Boardwalk to shop, enjoy tasty eats, and catch live music.
- Treat yourself to fresh seafood—try the must-have fish tacos and shrimp po’boys at local spots!
- Get your adrenaline pumping with thrilling water sports like paddleboarding, jet skiing, or parasailing.
- Don’t miss the breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico to end your beach day perfectly!
Best Time to Visit Pensacola Beach
- Best Weather – Mid-September to Early November time has nice, sunny days. It’s great for outdoor fun at Pensacola Beach.
- Fewer Crowds- There are fewer tourists, so you can enjoy a quiet and relaxing time at the beach and attractions.
- Lower Hurricane Risk- There’s less chance of hurricanes during these months, so it’s safer to visit.
7. Blue Wahoos Ballpark
Blue Wahoos Ballpark is a special place to catch a game. It’s the smallest stadium in the league, holding just 5,038 fans, which makes it feel cozy. You sit close to the players, and that makes the game even more exciting.
Fun Things to Do in Blue Wahoos Ballpark
- Catch an exciting minor league baseball game and cheer on the Blue Wahoos as they battle it out on the field.
- Savor tasty ballpark snacks, from classic hot dogs and popcorn to local specialties that elevate your game day experience.
- Join in the fun with activities and entertainment during the breaks, featuring contests, mascots, and live music.
- Enjoy stunning views of Pensacola Bay from the ballpark, creating a gorgeous backdrop.
- Bring the family for special theme nights, fireworks shows, and promotional giveaways.
Best Time to Visit Blue Wahoos Ballpark
- Season Duration- The Blue Wahoos play from April 5 to September 15. You have plenty of chances to see a game!
- Key Matchups- The team plays the Mississippi Braves from April 5 to 7, kicking off the season with excitement.
- Additional Games- Watch for games against Rocket City and Biloxi from April 16 to 28. Don’t miss the Montgomery Biscuits from July 1 to 3 for more fun!
Where to Stay in Pensacola Florida
During our visit to Pensacola, we found some amazing vacation rentals around Pensacola Florida that added a special touch to our adventure. These rentals give you plenty of space and privacy, allowing you to unwind and feel at home. Plus, they’re super close to family activities in Pensacola like the beach and museums, perfect for diving into all the fun activities Pensacola offers.
1. Days Inn & Suites: The ocean views from our room were breathtaking, and we loved relaxing by the pool. The on-site restaurant served delicious meals, and the bar was a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
2. Hampton Inn: The rooms were cozy and clean, and starting the day with a free breakfast was a real treat! Plus, with the airport shuttle facilities, we could easily share our adventures with friends back home.
3. Motel 6 Pensacola FL NAS: It was a great choice. The rooms were simple but comfortable, and they had everything we needed, like air conditioning and free parking.
And the options don’t end there! Pensacola has plenty of other fantastic places to stay, like Home2 Suites and Sabine Yacht and the list goes on.
Additional Tips for Travelers
Here are some tips to make your experience smoother and more enjoyable:
- Stay Hydrated and Protect Yourself: Drink lots of water, especially in the summer. Don’t forget sunscreen and insect repellent to keep your skin safe!
- Insider Tips: Parking can be tricky during busy seasons, so plan. Be sure to ask locals for their favorite dining spots and hidden gems—you’ll be glad you did!
- Packing Essentials: Bring sunscreen, hats, and comfy walking shoes for all those beach days and museum visits. A light jacket is useful for those cooler evenings.
- Utilise Public Transportation: Pensacola’s bus system is a great way to explore without the stress of finding parking.
- Check Weather Forecasts: Keep an eye on the weather, especially during hurricane season.
Conclusion
Reflecting on our trip to Pensacola, I can’t help but smile at all the amazing experiences we had. From exploring the rich history at Fort Pickens to enjoying the stunning beaches and lively atmosphere at the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, every moment felt special. Each spot we visited had something unique to offer, whether it was delicious seafood, live music, or fun activities like paddle boarding and beach volleyball.
What made this trip unforgettable was the time we spent together as a family, creating memories that we will cherish forever. If you’re looking for a place that combines relaxation, adventure, and a touch of learning, I highly recommend visiting Pensacola.
FAQs
Wander through the charming Historic Pensacola Village, and historic district, visit museums, and enjoy free outdoor events.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Families with kids will love Fast Eddies Fun Center for go-karts, Pensacola Zoo for animal encounters, and the Pensacola Children’s Museum for interactive exhibits perfect for younger explorers.
Adults can find engaging activities in Pensacola at the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Seville Quarter entertainment complex, or by exploring the beautiful Pensacola Beach.
Pensacola offers a lively nightlife for young adults. Enjoy live music and dancing at Seville Quarter, beach parties on Pensacola Beach, or explore local art at the vibrant Graffiti Bridge.
Take a romantic beach walk at sunset, enjoy a seafood dinner with bay views at a waterfront restaurant, and explore the charming Historic Pensacola Village for a perfect couples’ day out.
Explore Pensacola Beach Boardwalk for shops and dining, stroll the Pensacola Beach Pier for ocean views, and visit Fort San Carlos or Quiet Waters Park for history and peaceful outdoor fun.
More Related Blogs From Travel Experiences
