Pensacola trips and vacations
The westernmost town on the Florida Panhandle has beaches that give the Caribbean a run for its money. But trips to Pensacola are often crowd free. And that’s not the only lure. History buffs will love exploring the city’s colonial streets, museums and forts. And if culture is what you want, feast on the food, arts and festivals shaped by the many nationalities who have called the ‘City of Five Flags’ home.
The best neighborhoods in Pensacola
Downtown
Creole townhouses, outdoor dining and one-of-a-kind shopping make Downtown one of the best areas to stay in Pensacola. The area has lodging options for every budget too. To learn more about the city’s past, follow the America’s First Settlement Trail or visit the Pensacola Museum of History. The National Naval Aviation Museum boasts thousands of exhibits and flight simulators for wannabe pilots.
Good for: Architecture, museums, outdoor dining
Gulf Breeze
If you’ve come for powder-white beaches, Gulf Breeze is where to stay in Pensacola. Just across the Bay Bridge from Downtown, it’s the gateway to famous Pensacola Beach. But there’s more here than just perfect sands. Hike the trails at the Naval Live Oaks area, rent a pontoon and watch the sunset over the bay, then hit the restaurants and bars.
Good for: Beaches, nature trails, boating
Old East Hill
If you’re into architecture, check out the many hotel options in Old East Hill. This gorgeous community is home to restored Victorian houses, as well as Spanish-style and postmodern homes. The area is also filled with cafes, bars and boutiques, plus some of the Panhandle’s best seafood restaurants. It’s conveniently located next door to Downtown and a short drive from Pensacola Beach.
Good for: Architecture, seafood restaurants, bars
Things to do in Pensacola
Shopping
You’ll find major stores and outlets on the city fringes, but if you want something a little different head to Downtown for shopping. Chic independent shops and stylish boutiques offer everything from clothes and seashell jewelry to home decor. You’ll also find art galleries and antique shops throughout the city, as well as surf shops if you want to try your hand at wave-riding.
Places to eat
Dive into a world of fresh-off-the-boat seafood, Southern comfort food and exotic international eats. Sit down to Gulf oysters, crab cakes and fried shrimp in waterside restaurants or download an app to track down the city's best food trucks. The best restaurants in Pensacola range from innovative fine dining to hole-in-the-wall crowd-pleasers like The Point, which has been serving up mullet sandwiches since 1985.
Beaches
The Gulf Island beaches in Pensacola have stretches of perfect sands to suit every mood. Casino Beach is perfect for games of beach volleyball. On the landward side, Quietwater Beach is ideal for young families. Go a little further to Navarre Beach’s uncrowded shores or to the wetlands and wildlife of Perdido Key. Lifeguards patrol popular beaches during peak season.
