Explore Downtown Pensacola
If you ever want to hop off the island, it’s just a quick 15-minute drive back over the Pensacola Bay Bridge to get to downtown Pensacola. With a vibrant nightlife, live music, bars, restaurants, public parks, museums, boutiques, and shops, you’re certain to discover something memorable in the modern heart of one of America’s first cities.
Restaurants
Our downtown area is a special blend of historic southern charm and international influences. Inspired by a diversity of people, cultures, and traditions, you’ll find everything from quick pub bites to upscale French fusion that will satisfy any appetite.
Night Life
Strolling the historic streets around old Palafox could lead you to one of several craft breweries, a speakeasy, buzzing nightclubs, upscale lounges, or low-key sports bars. Live music fans should try to catch a show in the funky ballroom at Vinyl Music Hall. Whatever your mood or preference, you’ll find your people and your vibe.
Local Events
There’s always something happening Downtown Pensacola. Whether you’re looking for culturally enriching art festivals or an unforgettable Mardi Gras parade, our calendar of events stays packed with excitement all year long.
Galleries & Museums
If you’re up for museums and galleries while exploring the downtown district, there are plenty to choose from. Travel through time and indulge in eras past through archeological relics, archives, and hands-on learning opportunities. Experience art, history, a children’s museum, and the General Chappie James Museum and Flight Academy within a charming ten-block radius.
NAS Pensacola
Naval Air Station Pensacola is a hub for various U.S. Navy training squadrons, the renowned Blue Angels, and the world’s largest Naval Aviation Museum. The lighthouse on base offers panoramic views that are well worth the 177-step trek it takes to reach the top. It’s also a great opportunity to connect with service men and women who comprise our nation’s armed forces both past and present.
Ferry
With so many waterways around Pensacola, the most direct and scenic route to your destination is often by seafaring vessel. Pensacola Bay Ferry offers several points of service between downtown Pensacola and Pensacola Beach, including Ft. Pickens. It’s a unique way to navigate main points of interest on both the island and mainland.
Blue Wahoos
The Pensacola Blue Wahoos are a Double-A minor league affiliate of the MLB’s Miami Marlins. The team plays home games in the heart of downtown in one of minor league baseball’s newest and most iconic stadiums located in Vince Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park. The bayside park features an open-air amphitheater and lots of green space for exhibitions.
Ice Flyers
The Pensacola Ice Flyers are our hometown professional ice hockey team. As an affiliate of the Southern Professional Hockey League, the Ice Flyers bring high-flying energy and excitement to sports fanatics up and down the coast. When planning a day of downtown activities, be sure to catch a game at Pensacola Bay Center.
UNDEREXPOSEDBASIL KULOBA
Basil Kuloba, the founder of local Pensacola startup INERTIA Education Services, has ignited a passion for science in hundreds of Pensacola-area students. He explains in a Q&A how entrepreneurship in education is fueling his company’s drive to provide better education to all.
READ MORE