What to do in West Pensacola, Florida? Your Attractions Guide in West Pensacola

West Pensacola: A Coastal Gem of Florida

West Pensacola is a charming small town in the Florida Panhandle, situated between the blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the lush green landscapes of the state. This sun-kissed town offers a perfect blend of nature, history, culture, and relaxation for tourists of all kinds. From pristine beaches to historic sites, to art galleries and museums, there is something for everyone in West Pensacola. Here are ten places you must not miss while visiting West Pensacola and five places you should avoid.

Places to Visit

Pensacola Beach

Pensacola Beach is one of the top-rated beaches in Florida, known for its powdery white sands, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunsets. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, fishing, or water sports and don’t forget to visit the iconic Pensacola Beach pier.

Fort Pickens State Park

Fort Pickens State Park is a historic fort, built-in 1834 to protect Pensacola Bay. Today, the site offers an excellent opportunity to explore history, nature, and fun activities like birdwatching, hiking, camping, and fishing.

National Naval Aviation Museum

The National Naval Aviation Museum is one of the largest and most comprehensive aviation museums in the world, with over 150 restored aircraft on display. The museum offers interactive exhibits, guided tours, and an IMAX theatre.

Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum

The Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum features a tower that stands tall at a height of 177 feet. This historic site was built in 1859 and offers unobstructed views of the Gulf of Mexico and Pensacola Bay.

Gulf Islands National Seashore

The Gulf Islands National Seashore stretches across 160 miles of pristine beaches and coastline, offering visitors a paradise for picnics, sunbathing, swimming, shelling, and fishing.

Palafox Market

The Palafox Market is an open-air farmers market that operates on Saturdays, selling fresh produce, seafood, artisanal crafts, and music performances. The market is a popular spot to mingle with locals and enjoy a morning out in the fresh air.

Blue Wahoos Stadium

The Blue Wahoos Stadium is an excellent place to catch a minor league baseball game, with a stunning view of Pensacola Bay. From April to September, you can root for the home team and enjoy a hot dog and a cold beer.

Pensacola Museum of Art

The Pensacola Museum of Art is located in the Old City Jail, a historic site on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum showcases contemporary art exhibits, collections, and educational programs for art enthusiasts of all ages.

Perdido Bay Golf Club

The Perdido Bay Golf Club is an 18-hole championship course, designed by the renowned golf architect, Bill Bergin. The club offers stunning views of Perdido Bay and challenging golf rounds for players of all levels.

Plaza de Luna

Plaza de Luna is a waterfront park on Pensacola Bay, featuring a playground, walking trails, splash pad, picnic areas, and a fishing pier. The park hosts various cultural and community events throughout the year.

Places to Avoid

Cordova Mall

The Cordova Mall is a typical mall with chain stores, fast food restaurants, and a large parking lot. It does not offer any unique or local shopping experience and can get crowded and noisy during peak hours.

Fast Food Chains on East Cervantes Street

East Cervantes Street is known for its strip of fast-food chains and convenience stores, which can be crowded and unappealing for foodies looking for a local or healthy dining option.

The Fish House and Atlas Oyster House

The Fish House and Atlas Oyster House are popular seafood restaurants in downtown Pensacola. While they offer a great ambiance and fresh seafood dishes, they can be overpriced, especially during peak hours, and do not cater to a casual dining atmosphere.

Bayou Texar

Bayou Texar is a waterway that connects Pensacola and the Gulf of Mexico but is not ideal for swimming or any water sports due to the constant boat traffic and polluted waters.

Pensacola Greyhound Track and Poker Room

The Pensacola Greyhound Track and Poker Room feature greyhound racing, poker rooms, and betting kiosks, which can be seen as an exploitative industry that supports animal cruelty.

Overview about West Pensacola, Florida