I lived in Pensacola for 3 years as a military wife. My list is a mix of soulful experiences, hidden gems, and classic spots perfect for a relaxing, inspiring, or family-friendly visit.
Map
Sections
5
Instagram Worthy Stops 📸
Foodie Love 🌮🥗🍱🍛🍣🍤🍿
Beach Fun ☀️ 🌊
Family Fun & outings
Cocktails🍸🍹
Instagram Worthy Stops 📸
Places you should stop and take pictures even if you don’t want to post it.
Depending on your style, historical aesthetic might work for a photo opportunity. This area is walkable and very nice if you get a horse and carriage ride.
Plaza Ferdinand
Take selfies and leave a message. It’s giving “wish you were here” type of energy. I’m all for the vibes!
The Graffiti Bridge
Climb up the lighthouse for the views; make photographic memories.
Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Foodie Love 🌮🥗🍱🍛🍣🍤🍿
I love to eat so don’t judge this list! Must try and tell me what you think.
Southern meets global comfort food. Let me know what you try!
Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas
The top-tier hidden taco spot! I have not found a taco spot anywhere as great as El Asador! If this could be the only food place on my list, I would be satisfied. Please let me know if you try this food truck. I order 4 taco supreme with campechano m...
Taqueria El Asador
Soulful Southern flavors + live jazz
Five Sisters Blues Cafe
Picture it… Grab fresh seafood + a bottle of wine and cook your own coastal dinner. It’s a romantic and grounding experience.
Joe Patti's Seafood
Laid-back lounge café with a modern vibe. Known for creative lattes, good energy, and delicious avocado toast.
The Leisure Club Coffee Bar (@theleisureclubcoffee)
We would routinely grab lunch weekly for the signature sandwiches and garlic feta dip.
Four Winds International Market
The best beignets outside of New Orleans! It’s about 45 minutes away from Blue Angel park if you live nearby. We visit every other weekend.
Cafe Beignets of Alabama GS
Beach Fun ☀️ 🌊
If you’re near the water, experience the water!
Soft white sand + emerald water = a must.
Try:
• Sunset walks at Quietwater Beach Boardwalk
• Chair + umbrella rentals for ultimate soft life experience
• Dolphin cruises and paddleboard rentals
Pensacola Beach Information
Free one-hour yoga classes are held at Bayview Park on the first Sunday of every month at 9:30 AM.
Facilities • Bayview Park
Less crowded than Pensacola Beach, with sugar-white sands and gentle waves. Great for picnics, peaceful walks, or beach meditation.
Visit Perdido Key - Home
Gentle waters, birds, and hidden coves. Great at sunrise or golden hour. Some tour guides include eco-education or moonlight paddles.
Big Sabine Bay
Chic little boutique hotel with a rooftop view + wellness add-ons. Ideal for a soft weekend staycation or girls’ retreat.
Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel
Such a vibe! Is it a fit for you? Yes, if you’re all about beachfront ease, family-friendly fun, and resort-style amenities without breaking the bank.
Skip this venue if you crave ultra-quiet luxury, expect flawless service, or hate added fees.
Hilton Pensacola Beach Hotel
What’s a beach day without you in a swimsuit?
Swimsuits For All: Women's & Plus Swimsuits, Swimwear & Bathing Suits
They don’t have a Macy’s in Pensacola but I love the deals and their swimsuits are so cute. Order before your trip and check out my travel list to be sure you’re efficiently & fashionably packed.
Macy's - Shop Fashion Clothing & Accessories - Official Site - Macys ...
Family Fun & outings
Connect with your family or recharge yourself by simply BEING.
An underrated, peaceful site full of history, ocean views, and wildlife.
Perfect for photos, journaling, or just recharging in stillness.
Fort Pickens
Saturday farmers + artisan market (9am–2pm).
Think: handmade skincare, local teas, fresh flowers, etc.
Plus cute cafés, art galleries, and rooftop spots nearby.
Palafox Market
Cozy café meets community bookstore. Great for reading, writing, or tea sipping. They have great kids area and the staff is attentive.
Bodacious Bookstore and Cafe
Great if you have younger kids!
Pensacola Children's Museum
Walk-through zoo with giraffe feedings, train rides, and shaded paths. Ideal for family days or soft nature interactions. October festivities make it more fun for the kids.
Gulf Breeze Zoo
It’s about 2 hours away from Pensacola but so fun and honestly, it’s the only location my family will travel at least once a quarter for.
Dave & Buster's Panama City Beach
The Blue Angels are the U.S. Navy’s elite flight demonstration squadron, and Pensacola is their home base. Their practice shows are open to the public and absolutely breathtaking — think precision, speed, and pure adrenaline in the sky.
Blue Angels
Cocktails🍸🍹
If you’re looking for small bites & drinks with your faves, I’ve got you.
Trendy cocktail lounges with elevated vibes. Great for date night or solo romanticizing.
The Kennedy
Trendy cocktail lounges with elevated vibes. Great for date night or solo romanticizing.
Garden & Grain
Trendy cocktail lounges with elevated vibes. Great for date night or solo romanticizing.
Global Grill
Chic, walkable wine tasting spot with small plates and live music. Perfect for a slow afternoon or girls’ night out.
The Wine Bar On Palafox
Not Pensacola related but sometimes you simply don’t want to go out so this is for the girls (and guys) who enjoy an adult beverage from time to time.
ReserveBar is a go-to for discovering and gifting premium spirits, wines, and ready-to-drink cockt...