Pensacola, the Perfect Coastal Retreat
Pensacola is famous for their world-class sugar sand beaches, but there is so much more. Discover nearly 500 years of history, with a vibrant coastal culture making it an irresistible destination. I love going to the beach as much as anyone, but after a few days in the sun I like having options.
Historic Pensacola is extensive. It encompasses 8 1/2 acres and 28 properties. Starting your day at the Pensacola Museum of History will give you a foundation for understanding the fascinating history here. At the Historic Pensacola Village, you can experience Living History where they educate visitors by interpreting how people lived in the past through demonstrations and interaction.
For another day and an entirely different historical experience, explore the Gulf Islands National Seashore and Historic Fort Pickens. This Island is a national park offering miles of pristine beaches, scenic trails, and ranger-led programs at Fort Pickens. This is an enormous brick pre-Civil War fortress that once housed Union troops.
I was thrilled to learn that civilians can visit Naval Air Station Pensacola. By making reservations in advance, you can attend a Blue Angels Practice from the Flight Line. This was extremely exciting to witness, especially since my husband was a
Fighter Pilot.
The nearby National Naval Aviation Museum is a fantastic and interactive experience as the world’s largest naval aviation museum. Visitors have the chance to see more than 4,000 artifacts and 150 vintage aircraft, flight simulators, and special exhibits for kids.
Palafox Market has been named Florida’s Best Farmers Market by Southern Living magazine. You don’t want to miss this tree-lined market that is open
every Saturday.
At Laguna’s Adventure Park they offer many family-friendly activities including go-karts, a three-story ropes course, splash pad, climb structures, zip rail, jet ski rentals, pontoon boat rentals, dolphin cruises, and parasailing with Radical Rides.
We loved our beach-front room and big Gulf-front balcony at Marriott’s Fairfield Inn and Suites. It has an inviting poolside where we floated on the longest lazy river on the Gulf Coast, drifting across grand waterfalls and palm trees. Guests staying at the Fairfield Inn can easily access connecting hotel pools at the Holiday Inn Resort, Hilton, and Hampton Inn.
When visiting Pensacola, go for the sugar sand beaches, but stay for the culture and history. Relax, unwind and explore.
