Pensacola, Florida, is a vibrant coastal town with something to offer everyone, including families with kids. From its pristine beaches and historical landmarks to its exciting museums and family-friendly attractions, Pensacola has it all. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, you’ll find plenty of things to keep your kids entertained in Pensacola.
Here is our comprehensive guide to 100+ super fun things to do in Pensacola with kids. You’ll find everything from the must-see attractions to hidden gems that you won’t want to miss. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable family vacation in Pensacola!
Table of Contents
Pensacola Museums and Historic Sites
Pensacola has a diverse and rich history and culture. Visit these museums and historic sites to discover what makes the City of Five Flags so special.
Alger Sullivan Historic District
Located at 610 4th St, Century, FL 32535, and is a replica of the early 20th-century town of Century, FL, including the Boxcar Museum, the Post Office Museum, and the Leech House. Call for tour hours and prices at (850) 256-3980.
Arcadia Mill Archaeological Site
Located at 709 Mill Pond Lane, Milton, FL 32583. It is an archeological site that allows visitors to experience this unique wetland ecosystem.
The Visitor’s Center & Museum and Arcadia Homestead are open Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. The site grounds, including the boardwalk and pavilion at Arcadia Mill Archeological Site, are open year-round from sunrise to sunset.
Cost:
- $6 for adults
- $3 for children
- $5 for Seniors +65, Active Military and Dependents, AAA Members, Pensacola Museum of Art Members, and UWF Alumni Association Members
- FREE for EBT cardholders (up to 4 people free) and UWF students
First City Art
Also known as First City Art, the artist gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Gallery tours are FREE.
Located at 1060 N. Guillemard St., Pensacola, Florida; (850) 429-1222.
Fort Barrancas
Fort Barrancas is located inside the Pensacola Naval Air Station. Open Thursday – Monday from 9 am – 4:15 pm.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the fort, Spanish Water Battery, and the outside of the Advanced Roundabout. Ranger Guided tours are also available throughout the year.
The cost is $25 per vehicle, or you can purchase the $45 annual pass, which covers your entrance fees for Fort Barrancas, Fort Pickens, and Johnsons Beach for a full year.
Fort Pickens
Located on Santa Rosa Island. Take a self-guided tour of the historic fort from 8 am – sunset daily. Be sure also to visit the Discovery Center to learn more about Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, and Ft. Pickens daily from 9 am – 4:30 pm.
Fort Pickens is also a great place to watch Blue Angel practices.
The cost is $25 per vehicle, or you can purchase the $45 annual pass, which covers your entrance fees for Fort Barrancas, Fort Pickens, and Johnsons Beach for a full year.
Pensacola History Tours
Explore the history of Pensacola with these history tours.
- Pensacola Landmark City Tour
- Pensacola Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour
- Pensacola Civil War History Tour
- North Hill Tour by Go Retro Tours
National Naval Aviation Museum
Step back in time and learn all about Naval aviation through the years at the Pensacola Naval Air Station.
The museum has an indoor playground, an IMAX theater, simulators, and hands-on exhibits that explore aviation history.
The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Also, on select Tuesdays and Wednesdays from March – November, you can watch the Blue Angels practice and get their autographs at the museum on Wednesdays. FREE
Pensacola Lighthouse
Located on NAS Pensacola, the Pensacola Lighthouse, built in 1859 with only 177 steps to the top, offers one of the Gulf Coast’s most beautiful views.
The lighthouse will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the last climb at 3:40 p.m. Admission is $9.50 for Adults and $6.50 for children 12 and under, military and 65 and older. Climbers must be 44 inches and seven years old.
Pensacola Museum of Art
Located in Downtown Pensacola at 407 South Jefferson Street, Pensacola, FL 32502.
The Pensacola Museum of Art is open from 10 am – 4 pm on Tuesday through Saturday and NOON to 4 pm on Sunday.
Cost is:
- $12 for adults
- $7 for children ages 3-14
- $11 for Seniors +65, Active Military and Dependents, AAA Members, and UWF Alumni Association Members
- FREE for EBT cardholders (up to 4 people free), children under 3, Pensacola Museum of Art Members, and UWF students
West Florida Railroad Museum
Learn the history of the railroad in West Florida at the West Florida Railroad Museum. The museum is located at 5003 Henry St., Milton, and is open Friday and Saturday from 10 am – 3 pm or by appt. FREE
Pensacola Historic Village
Visiting the Pensacola Historic Village is like taking a step back in time. Located in Downtown Pensacola, the area includes 8 1/2 acres and 28 properties, including the TT Wentworth Museum, Museum of Commerce, Museum of Industry, Julee Cottage, Voices of Pensacola, and more. The “One Ticket, Seven Days to Explore” allows you to pay one price to explore all of the Pensacola Historic Village museums, and it takes seven days to do so!
Admission is $12 for adults, $11 for seniors 65 and older, active duty military and their dependents, AAA members, Pensacola Museum of Art members, and UWF Alumni Association Members, $7 for children 3 to 14, and FREE for UWF students and EBT cardholders (4 family members free per EBT card).
Things To Do In Pensacola Indoors
Bounce House Pensacola
Bounce House Pensacola offers bounce houses, inflatable slides, a creative area, sports games, video games, and a toddler area. Located at 6241-D N. Davis Hwy, they are open Monday – Thursday from 10 am- 6 pm, Friday and Saturday from 9 am -7 pm, and Sunday from 9 am-5 pm. Admission costs are infants – FREE| Crawlers – $7 | Ages 1-3 – $12 | Ages 4-12 – $12| Ages 13-17 – $12 — must be accompanying a younger sibling | guardians – FREE — two adults for every child additional adults are $7.
Bowling
Take the kids bowling at either Cordova Lanes, DeLuna Lanes. or Oops Alley.
Dreamland Skate Center
Go roller skating at Dreamland Skate Center, located at 2607 E. Olive Road, Pensacola, and offers roller skating, arcade games, birthday parties, and more. Dreamland is open various times throughout the week, and prices vary by time/day. Check the website and Facebook page for the monthly calendar.
Escape on Palafox
Solve the puzzles, crack the codes, and find the clues to see if you can escape in 60 minutes or less from one of the escape rooms at Escape on Palafox. A great activity to do with teens. Located at 28 Palafox Place, the cost is $29.50 per person.
An adult must accompany children 14 and under. Children 5 and under are only allowed if you rent the entire room (all 8 sections), and children 2 and under are not allowed under any circumstances.
Exithis Pensacola
Escape your jail cell and the wardens’ office, save the President and the country or save an ancient Mayan idol at Exitthis Pensacola.
Ice Skating at the Bay Center
The Pensacola Bay Center offers various times throughout the Ice Flyers Season (October – April) for the public to go ice skating. Check the website for details!
Pensacola Children’s Museum
The Pensacola Children’s Museum is a historical museum geared to children celebrating 450 years of Pensacola history. It has two floors of hands-on learning and is located at 115 East Zaragoza Street, Pensacola, FL 32502. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm and Sunday from noon to 4 pm. As part of the Historic Village, the Pensacola Children’s Museum is included in their “One Ticket, Seven Days to Explore” pricing.
Admission is $12 for adults, $11 for seniors 65 and older, active duty military and their dependents, AAA members, Pensacola Museum of Art members, and UWF Alumni Association Members, $7 for children 3 to 14, and FREE for UWF students and EBT cardholders (4 family members free per EBT card).
Pensacola Kids Place
Pensacola Kids Place is an indoor playground for children ages infant to 8. It offers play tunnels, slides, a ball pit, educational toys and activities, an infant play area, and more.
Open Monday through Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Saturdays are reserved for birthday parties; open play is only available if no party is scheduled—check their social media for these times), and Sunday from noon to 3 p.m. Monthly Memberships are available. Socks are required for play and can be purchased for $2.
Located at 875 E. Nine Mile Rd. Suite 6.
Pensacola Mess Hall
Located in Downtown Pensacola at 116 N. Tarragona St. At the Pensacola MESS Hall, children learn science hands-on by experimenting and engaging through tinkering.
Admission is $15 per person and $14 for active duty military, including spouses and children.
Pensacola Mess Hall is open from 1 to 5 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday during the school year. Summer hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Skyzone
Jump your heart out at Skyzone, Pensacola’s indoor trampoline park, located at 5007 N. Davis Hwy. It is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Theater
Experience the magic of live theater by seeing a show at the Pensacola Little Theater or the Saenger Theater in Downtown Pensacola. During the summer, the Saenger also has kids’ movies and a classic movie series.
Waterboyz Skatepark
5000 Sq Ft air-conditioned skate park located inside Waterboyz Surf and Skate headquarters at 380 N. 9th Ave. Call (850) 433-2929 for hours and prices.
Storytimes In Pensacola
Barnes and Noble
Barnes and Noble offers themed storytimes weekly, plus additional storytime and special kid events throughout the month. Check the calendar for more information. FREE
Santa Rosa County Library
Throughout the week, various storytimes are offered at different library locations in Milton, Jay, Gulf Breeze, and Navarre. Check the library calendar for more information. FREE
West Florida Public Library
Various storytimes throughout the week at different library locations around Pensacola. Check the library calendar for more information. FREE
Parks In Pensacola
Pensacola Parks and Playgrounds are great places to run off that energy, meet up with friends, play, and have fun. Pensacola is full of awesome parks to play in. You can find a list of them at Play Pensacola and My Escambia. Since we couldn’t list them all, here are seven Pensacola parks we think you should explore.
Aviation Discovery Park
Do you have a plane lover? Then this is the perfect park for you, even my 16 yr old thinks it’s cool. Aviation Discovery Park is not your typical park or playground. This one is located next to the Pensacola International Airport and has a mini control tower where you can watch the planes take off and land and listen to the real control tower talk to the pilots. Located at 4200 Jerry L. Maygarden Rd, between Pensacola Aviation Center and the commercial hangar facilities and accessible from either Spanish Trail Rd. or Summit Blvd. FREE
Beach Playground on Ft. Pickens Road
I came across this adorable Beach Playground on Ft. Pickens Road a few years ago and fell in love. The playground is a pirate ship and perfect for kids to imagine they are sailing the high seas and because it’s located on the Sound Side, it’s a great place to play for younger children.
Big Lagoon State Park
Located off Gulf Beach Hwy along the Intracoastal Waterway, the park offers beaches, swimming, hiking, boating, fishing, and a playground with a water view. It also offers stargazing on select nights of the year. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. The cost of admission is $4 for single-occupant vehicles, $6 for vehicles with 2-8 people, and $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, and passengers in vehicles with the holder of an Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
Blackwater River State Park
Located at 7720 Deaton Beach Rd, Milton, the park offers white-sand beaches along the river for swimming, fishing, canoeing, tubing, hiking trails, and more. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sundown. The cost of admission is $4 per vehicle for up to 8 passengers | $2 for National Guard Admission for Active Florida National Guard members, EBT Cardholders, pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, and passengers in vehicles with the holder of an annual Individual Entrance Pass.
Things you can do on the Blackwater River:
Community Maritime Park
Located behind Blue Wahoo Stadium, Community Maritime Park is a multi-use waterfront park in Historic Downtown Pensacola and includes an inclusive playground with unique play structures, shade trees, and a covered picnic area. FREE
Naval Live Oaks
Part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, located off Hwy 98 in Gulf Breeze. The park has hiking trails, a picnic area, and swimming in the Santa Rosa Sound and is opened daily from 8 am to Sunset. There are also exhibits in the Headquarters Building that visitors can view Monday-Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. FREE
Navarre Park
Located on Navarre Pkwy right before you get to the bridge that takes you to Navarre Beach and open from 7 am to 10 pm daily, the park has a great play area with swings that face the water, a splash pad that is open from May through September. FREE
Perdido Kids Park
Located off Gulf Beach Hwy, Perdido Kids Park has one of the most unique play structures of all the local parks. Pretend you’re a princess or prince in the castle play structure, or a Blue Angel pilot in the Blue Angel Flyers, or climb the rock wall. There is something for kids of all ages, and they will never want to leave. There is also a nature trail at the park. The park is open from 7 am – sunset. FREE
Pensacola Nature Trails
Explore the natural beauty of Northwest Florida via these Pensacola Nature Trails.
Blackwater Heritage State Trails
Nine miles of paved trail great for biking, running, walking, skating, and more that runs through the town of Milton.
Open 8 am -sundown daily. The Milton trailhead is located at State Road 87 and US Hwy 90. A visitor’s center is one mile from the trailhead and offers parking, restrooms, picnic tables, BBQ grills, and a playground. FREE
Colonial Archaeological Trail
Located in Downtown Pensacola, this trail highlights colonial history and archaeology and is a collection of outdoor exhibits that showcase the Spanish, British, and American influences that shaped Pensacola.
Coldwater Creek Paddling Trail
This 20-mile spring-fed shallow water creek that runs through the Blackwater Forrest is a great place for canoeing and kayaking while exploring the natural beauty of NW Florida.
Ed Ball Nature Trail at UWF
Located on the UWF campus, the Ed Ball Nature Trail at UWF offers a 1/2-mile boardwalk through Thompson’s Bayou and a 20-mile bike trail for novice to experienced mountain bikers. The trails are open daily from dawn to midnight. FREE
Florida Trail at Ft. Pickens
This 28.2-mile trail is part of the 1300-mile Florida Scenic Trail. It starts at the fort, follows the old oyster shell path through the campground, and then follows the beach to the park entrance. The park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset daily. The cost is $25 per vehicle, or you can purchase the $45 annual pass, which will cover your entrance fees for Fort Barrancas, Fort Pickens, and Johnsons Beach for a full year.
Footprints in the Santa Eco Trail
Learn the secrets of Pensacola’s white sand beaches, the sea turtles’ journey, and how to identify shells and local plant and animal life on this trail through Pensacola Beach via education signs posted across the beach. FREE
Geocaching in Pensacola
Explore Pensacola on the Pensacola Geo Tour. Four trails allow you to explore the beaches, history, and culture of Pensacola. Geocaching is also available in the City of Pensacola Parks, Escambia County Parks, and Florida State Parks. It is FREE except at Florida State Parks.
Jones Swamp Wetland Preserve Greenway Trail
Open sunrise to sunset when complete, this 12-mile trail will allow visitors to experience bottomland forest and wet pine flatwoods. The eastern trail system features boardwalks, while the western trails will provide a more rustic outdoor experience. The eastern trail has 5 locations and trailheads. The trailheads are located at 700 S. Corry Rd., 402 N. Navy Blvd, 198 Patton Drive, 1131 Patton Dr., and 1190 Decatur Ave. FREE
The eastern trail includes:
- Glenn Key Boardwalk – 1/2 mile boardwalk with a 65-foot bridge crossing over Jones Creek.
- Canopy Creek Boardwalk: This is a 3/4–mile boardwalk with scenic creek views that follows a winding stream and has plenty of shade.
- Flatwoods Footpath – 1/2 mile footpath
- Rustic Flatwoods Footpath – 1/2 natural surface trail leads visitors through bottomland and upland forest and ends with a scenic view of a wet gum pond and beaver dams.
- Decatur Boardwalk is a half-mile elevated boardwalk through pristine wetlands and beautiful old-growth bottomland forest. When complete, it will be a one-mile accessible walking link to Fairfield Dr.
Perdido Key Discovery Trail at Johnson’s Beach
Located opposite the big parking lot near the pavilion area of Johnson’s Beach, close to the entrance, this is a short boardwalk showcasing the park’s ecosystems. You will see a salt marsh, birds, and possibly a snake or a raccoon. The trail can also be accessed from the boat launch area. From March 1st – October 31st, the park is open from 5 am – 10 pm, with the last entry at 8 pm, and from November 1st – February 28th, the park is open from 5 am – 6 pm. The cost is $25 per vehicle, or you can purchase the $45 annual pass that will cover your entrance fees for Fort Barrancas, Fort Pickens, and Johnsons Beach for a full year.
Perdido River Walk
Adjacent to the Perdido landfill is a 2/3 mile nature trail along the Perdido River through oak-pine uplands and bottomland hardwoods. FREE
Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park
Located at 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy, this park is home to the rare carnivorous white-top pitcher plant unique to the Gulf Coast. The park is open from 8 am to sunset and has two trails. The Tarkiln Bayou trail is a .5-mile long boardwalk that ends with a scenic view of the bayou, and the Perdido Bay Trail is a 6.5-mile rugged trail that provides access to the Bayshore beaches.
The park entrance fees are $3 per vehicle for up to 8 passengers and $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, and passengers in a vehicle with a holder of an Annual Individual Entrance Pass. Please use the honor box and have the exact change.
Yellow Marsh River Preserve State Park
Located at Dickerson City Rd and Garcon Point Road, the hiking area can be accessed from the parking lot area located on Dickerson City Rd. There are no recreational facilities here, and the park is open from 8 am to sundown daily. FREE
Pensacola Beaches and Beach Activities
The best part about living in Pensacola is having the beach close by. The Gulf’s white sands and emerald waters are perfect for a nice day relaxing and playing at the beach. Here are a few beaches in Pensacola and beach activities you should check out.
Bands on the Beach
Bring your lawn chair and listen to live music from regional artists every Tuesday at 7 pm from April 2rd through October 29th at the Gulfside Pavilion at Casino Beach during Bands On The Beach. FREE
Casino Beach
Named for the casino that put Pensacola Beach on the map, this public beach is located on Santa Rosa Island on Ft. Picken’s Rd across from the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. A portion of the beach to the pier’s right is an alcohol-free zone, making this a great place for families. FREE
Fort Pickens Beach
Located in the Ft. Pickens area of the Gulf Islands National Seashore on Santa Rosa Island. Swim, fish, look for shells, and relax! From March 1st – October 31st, the park is open from 5 am – 10 pm, with the last entry at 8 pm, and from November 1st – February 28th, the park is open from 5 am – 6 pm. The cost is $25 per vehicle, or you can purchase the $45 annual pass that will cover your entrance fees for Fort Barrancas, Fort Pickens, Opal Beach, and Johnsons Beach for a full year.
Gulf Islands National Seashore Santa Rosa Area
One of the most popular areas along the Gulf Islands Seashore located on Hwy 399 between Pensacola and Navarre. Open 24 hours a day; however, the parking lots are closed from sunset to sunrise. There is no entrance fee for this area of the seashore except for the Opal Beach facilities. FREE
Johnson’s Beach
Located in the Perdido Key Area of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, Johnson’s Beach. You can play and fish on the Gulf side or the calmer Big Lagoon side of the park. This is our favorite spot to visit the beach, and it’s well worth the fees. From March 1st – October 31st, the park is open from 5 am – 10 pm, with the last entry at 8 pm, and from November 1st – February 28th, the park is open from 5 am – 6 pm. The cost is $25 per vehicle, or you can purchase the $45 annual pass that will cover your entrance fees for Fort Barrancas, Fort Pickens, Opal Beach, and Johnsons Beach for a full year.
Navarre Beach
Just east of Pensacola, this 12-mile stretch of beach has public access points where you can swim, picnic, and even take a bike ride down a scenic bike path. FREE
Navarre Beach Fishing Pier
This 1545-foot-long pier in Navarre is popular with local fishermen. My kids love just walking on the pier, looking for marine animals that can sometimes be spotted. The pier is open from sunrise to sunset from November to March, 5 am-8 pm from March to May, and 5 am-10 pm from May to November.
The cost to walk on the pier without fishing is $1 for ages 5 and up and FREE for ages 5 and under. The cost to fish on the pier is $7 for adults | $6 for seniors | $4 for ages 15 and under | FREE for ages 5 and under, disabled veterans, and those who are mobility and visually impaired. The daily pass includes a fishing license. Monthly passes are also available. You can bring your own rod and bait or rent a pole and purchase bait at the shop at the foot of the pier.
Opal Beach
This hidden gem is part of the Gulf Islands Seashore Santa Rosa Area off Hwy 399. It’s open from 8 a.m. to sunset. The cost is $25 per vehicle, or you can purchase the $45 annual pass, which covers your entrance fees for Fort Barrancas, Fort Pickens, Opal Beach, and Johnsons Beach for a full year.
Perdido Key State Park
Located at 15301 Perdido Drive, the state park is a favorite destination for visitors to Perdido Key. Swim, sunbathe, fish, picnic, and enjoy the white sand and the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. The park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset.
The park entrance fees are $3 per vehicle up to 8 passengers and $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, and passengers in a vehicle with a holder of an Annual Individual Entrance Pass. Please use the honor box and have the exact change.
Pensacola Beach Boardwalk
Features open-air bars, restaurants, and shopping on Santa Rosa Island. As well as a shallow water beach area perfect for kids along the Santa Rosa Sound. FREE
Pensacola Beach Fishing Pier
This 1470-foot pier on Pensacola Beach is a great place to watch sunsets or view marine life. It’s also a great place to fish. The pier is open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, and fishing licenses are not required. The cost is $2.25 to observe, $7.50 for adults, $4.50 for youth, $6.50 for Seniors and Military, and free for children under 6. Annual passes, as well as rod and cart rentals, are available.
Pensacola Beach Parasailing Adventure
Fly 500 ft above the Emerald Coast waters and see sea turtles and dolphins with this parasailing adventure on Pensacola Beach.
Pensacola Beach Trolley
Explore Santa Rosa Island by trolley. The trolley runs from May 27th – September 2nd, the trolley runs 7 days a week from 4 pm – midnight. FREE
Quietwater Beach
AKA Mommy Beach.
Located on the sound side of Pensacola Beach, this a great area for families of small children to enjoy the beach due to the shallow calm waters of the Santa Rosa Sound. FREE
Stargazing on Pensacola Beach
Take in the beauty of Pensacola Beach at night and look at the stars, the moon, and the planets. Volunteers will set up telescopes on select Friday and Saturday nights throughout the summer at the Gulfside Pavilion or Ft. Picken Battery Park. FREE
Pensacola Water Parks, Splash Pads and Pools
If you’re not a fan of the beach, there are a few pools, splash pads, and water parks you can enjoy to beat the Pensacola summer heat.
Cecil T. Hunter Pool
Located at 200 East Blount St., the pool is a zero-depth entry pool with water slides and spray features. Admission is $2.25 for adults | $1 for children ages 3-7 | FREE for ages 2 and under. The pool is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Navarre Park Splash Pad
Located in the Navarre Park at 8513 Navarre Pkwy, the splash pad is open on Tuesday – Sunday from 9 am-5 pm from May 2nd to September 30th. FREE
Plaza De Luna Splash Pad
Located at the south end of Palafox at the end of the Palafox Pier, the splash pad is open from March – October from 9 am – 7 pm. The pier also has wifi, concessions, a restroom, and fishing. FREE
Roger Scott Pool
Located at 2030 Summit Blvd., the pool is a zero-depth entry pool with water slides and spray features. Admission is $4 for adults, $3 for children ages 3-17, and FREE for ages 2 and under. It is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Splash City Adventures Waterpark (formally Sam’s Splash City)
Located at 6709 Fun City Blvd, Pensacola, the waterpark is adjacent to Splash City Adventures Amusement Park. Water slides, an endless river, interactive play pools, and more provide hours of water fun for the whole family.
Pensacola Zoos and Animal Encounters
Learn about the animals that make Northwest Florida their home.
Dolphin Cruise
Take a dolphin cruise and see dolphins, birds, and other marine life that call Pensacola Beach home.
Gulf Breeze Zoo
You can feed the giraffes, goats, pigs, and sheep in the petting zoo, take a train ride, or visit the Gulf Breeze Zoo animals. The zoo is located at 5701 Gulf Breeze Hwy, Gulf Breeze. Check the website for prices. Daily tickets and memberships are available.
Navarre Sea Turtle Conservation Center
Visit Sweet Pea the Sea Turtle to learn more about sea turtles and the marine animals that call NW Florida Home. It is located at 8740 Gulf Blvd, Navarre.
The Navarre Sea Turtle Conservation Center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $5 per person, $4 for military and seniors 64+, and FREE for children 2 and under.
Uncle Sandy’s Macaw Bird Park
Uncle Sandy’s Macaw Bird Park is a parrot rescue and sanctuary. However, they have a variety of birds, including a few peacocks and emus. The park is completely staffed by volunteers and is a non-profit. They only accept cash at Uncle Sandy’s Macaw Bird Park. The cost of admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children 7-13, and children 6 and under are FREE. Active-duty personnel, veterans, and their families can receive $1 off admission with their ID.
Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida
Located at 105 North S St. Pensacola, the wildlife sanctuary is home to over 100 animals, including deer, foxes, bald eagles, owls, and hawks. It is open Wednesday through Saturday from 12 to 3:30. Self-guided tours are $3 per person, and group tours are available by appointment for groups of 15 or more for $5 per person.
Things To Do In Pensacola Outdoors
If the parks, nature trails, and beaches aren’t enough for you, here are some other places to have fun outdoors in Pensacola.
Adventures Unlimited
Go canoeing, kayaking, tubing, paddle boarding along Coldwater Creek, or have a zipline adventure at Adventures Unlimited. Now adventurous, you can camp or stay in one of the cabins. Located at 8974 Tomahawk Landing Rd., Milton, this is the perfect place for those who love outdoor adventures. Check the website for prices and times.
Blue Angels Practice
When the Blues are in town from March to November, Pensacola gets its own mini air show on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m. as the Blue Angels practice. On select Wednesdays, visitors can meet the pilots and get pictures and autographs at the National Naval Aviation Museum.
My kids love sitting in the backyard, watching the Blues fly overhead. It’s one reason we love our house. Can’t watch them from your house. You can watch them from the Naval Aviation Museum, the Pensacola Lighthouse, and Ft. Pickens. I’ve also heard you can see them from Big Lagoon St. Park, and I’ve seen them while driving down Navy Blvd. FREE
Fast Eddies Fun Center
Located at 505 Michigan Ave., Fast Eddy’s has go-karts, batting cages, an arcade, and mini-golf. Open Monday -Thursday from 3-9 pm, Friday from 3-10 pm, Saturday from 11 am-10 pm, Sunday from 11 am-9 pm. Prices vary by activity, so see the website for pricing.
Gallery Night
Once a month, Downtown Pensacola shuts down the streets and comes alive. Enjoy music, art, and cuisine at this perfect chance to explore Pensacola’s downtown and art scene. Gallery night happens on the third Friday of each month.
Splash City Adventures
Pensacola’s only amusement park is located at 6709 Fun City Blvd, Pensacola. The park has amusement park rides, go-carts, bumper boats, mini-golf, an arcade with laser tag, a play zone, inflatables, and more. Check the website for pricing and hours.
T & W Flea Market
The flea market, with 60 indoor and 400 outdoor vendors selling everything from clothing to furniture to produce and more every Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., is a place to check out. It is located at 1717 N. T Street, Pensacola.
Pensacola Sports
Blue Wahoos
Pensacola’s Minor League Baseball Team, the Blue Wahoos, has a season that starts in April and runs through Labor Day. The team hosts special events and promotions, like weekly fireworks. Check the website for schedule and ticket prices.
Pensacola Ice Flyers
Pensacola’s Minor League Professional Hockey Team. The Ice Flyers play at the Bay Center, and their season runs from October to April. The team hosts special events and promotions like Wiener Dogs Racing on the Ice, 90’s Night, Zombie Night, and more. Check the website for schedule and ticket prices.
UWF Argonauts
Football, basketball, soccer, softball, baseball, and more. Cheer on the home team and check out a game. The website has tickets and schedules. Go, Argos!
Five Flags Speedway
Located on Pine Forest Rd, Five Flags Speedway is a half-mile paved racetrack where visitors can experience the thrill of stock car racing. See the website for tickets and details.
Pensacola Events for the Holidays
Pensacola is the place to be for all the holidays, with lots of fun happening all year round.
Easter In Pensacola:
Egg hunts, Easter Bunny photo-ops, and more. Pensacola is full of Easter fun in the spring.
Elf Parade
Part of Pensacola Winterfest, this 6-block parade features costumed kids, tumbling snowflakes, an alligator second-line brass band, and, of course, Santa himself. The parade ends at the Escambia County Courthouse with the Downtown Pensacola tree lighting ceremony and SNOW!
Fourth of July Fireworks on Pensacola Beach
Enjoy fireworks over the Santa Rosa Sound behind the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk at 8:30 pm. FREE
Fourth of July In Pensacola
Daylong family-friendly festival on the Fourth of July in Seville Square. The festival hosts a FREE children’s area with inflatables, pony rides, face painting, and more. There are also food vendors, craft vendors, live entertainment, and a hot dog eating contest. The day ends with fireworks over Pensacola Bay at 9 pm. FREE
Mardi Gras Parades
Celebrate Mardi Gras in Pensacola with two parades in Downtown Pensacola and one on Pensacola Beach, along with other events happening during Carnival Season! FREE
Martin Luther King, Jr Day Parade
Annual Parade in Downtown Pensacola that celebrates the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The parade starts on the corner of Spring and Garden Streets at 11 am on Martin Luther King, Jr Day. FREE
New Year’s Eve Fireworks on Pensacola Beach
Ring in the New Year early with fireworks over the Santa Rosa Sound behind the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk at 8:00 pm on New Year’s Eve.
Pensacola Beach Christmas Boat Parade and Fireworks
Lighted boat parade with Santa from Sabine Marina to the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. View the parade from Little Sabine at 6:30 pm and Quietwater Beach at 7:30 pm. Stay after the parade to enjoy Fireworks with Santa at 8 pm in the Santa Rosa Sound behind the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. 2024 Date TBA
Pensacola Christmas Parade
Annual Christmas Parade in Downtown Pensacola. The parade starts at Spring and Garden Streets at 5:15 pm and includes local bands, dance schools, organizations, the Blue Angels, and Santa himself. 2024 Date TBA
Pensacola Haunted Houses
Have some spooky fun this Halloween and visit these Pensacola Haunted Houses.
Pensacola Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes
Have some fall fun exploring these Pensacola Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes throughout September and October.
Pensacola Trunk or Treats
Safe trick-or-treating experiences at churches and community centers for kids around Pensacola.
Surfing Santa Parade
The Annual Christmas Parade on Santa Rosa Island starts at 2 p.m. at Avenida 10, down Via De Luna toward Casino Beach, and ends at the Gulfside Pavilion. Don’t miss Santa riding atop a Pensacola Beach Firetruck. The 2024 Date is TBA.
Veterans Day Parade
The annual salute to veterans on Santa Rosa Island on November 11, 2024. Time TBA.
Winterfest
Winterfest runs select nights throughout November and December and nightly the week of Christmas. You can play Reindeer Games, see the plaza show, and visit with Santa. You can also take the performance tour and be there on Christmas Eve for Santa’s Sendoff. Check the website for dates and performance tour prices.
Pensacola Festivals
Pensacola is home to some of the best festivals on the Gulf Coast.
Baby Sea Turtle Shower
This family-friendly event at the Casino Beach Gulf Side Pavillion educates and celebrates Sea Turtles. The afternoon will be filled with games, activities, entertainment, a meet and greet with Meg the Mermaid, and more. 2024’s baby shower will be held on Saturday, June 1st, from 9 am to noon. FREE
Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show
The last Blue Angels air show of the year is at home in Pensacola at the National Naval Aviation Museum on NAS Pensacola on November 1st and 2nd. See the website for times and details. You can also watch the show from Ft. Pickens, and we were able to view some of the shows from Big Lagoon State Park. FREE
Fiesta Children’s Treasure Hunt
Bayview Park in April or May on East Hill, children and families can enjoy a day of fun activities, including a treasure hunt that lets children explore and learn about Pensacola’s history. FREE
Fiesta of Five Flags
The annual celebration of Pensacola’s founding. This 10-day festival, which starts on May 29th, has events for all ages and interests, including the Grand Fiesta Parade in Downtown Pensacola on Friday, May 31st, at 7 p.m. and the Centennial Imports Boat Parade from the Bayou Chico Bridge’s mouth to the Quietwater Boardwalk on Pensacola Beach on Saturday, June 1st. The Fiesta also hosts other events throughout the year, such as the Crawfish Festival, the Seafood Festival, and a treasure hunt for adults and children.
Gulf Coast Arts Festival
The first weekend in November in Seville Square in Downtown Pensacola. This three-day arts festival has live music, performances by local groups, local and regional foods, and a children’s festival with hands-on art activities. The festival hours are Friday and Saturday from 9 am-5 pm and Sunday from 9 am-4 pm, and the children’s festival is Saturday and Sunday from 10 am-4 pm.
Interstate Mullet Toss
This family-friendly party with food, fun, and entertainment occurs at the end of April on the beach in Perdido Key at the Florida/Alabama state line at Flora-Bama. The highlight is the mullet toss, where you can toss a dead mullet from a 10ft circle across the state line from Florida to Alabama.
Pensacola Beach Air Show
The annual air show takes place on Pensacola Beach from July 10th to 13th. Along with other civilian and military aircraft, the Blue Angels perform stunts over the Gulf Of Mexico.
Pensacola Ciclovia (Open Streets)
Ciclovia happens mid-March in Downtown Pensacola on streets closed to vehicle traffic so that everyone can bike, walk, skate, skateboard, run, or play. The 2024 event was postponed due to construction.
Pensacola Crawfish Festival
From April 26th to 28th, 16000 lbs of crawfish will be cooked along with crawfish po’boys, crawfish bread, and other delicious foods at Seville Square and Fountain Park. The festival will also feature a children’s area with cost-friendly arts and crafts, face painting, crawfish races, and a crawfish eating contest. Admission is $5 per day for adults, $2 per day for children ages 6-12, and FREE for children 5 and under.
Pensacola Greek Festival
Experience Greek culture, heritage, food, traditions, music, and more at the three-day celebration of Greek Culture held at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church (1720 Garden St.) November 1st – 3rd.
Pensacola Seafood Festival
At the end of September, in Seville Square, Fountain Park, and Bartram Park in Downtown Pensacola, the Pensacola Seafood Festival will feature seafood from around the region, live cooking demos, live music, a huge arts and crafts fair, and more. There will also be a children’s area with arts and crafts, face painting, and touch pools for hands-on marine science educational fun.
