Are you daydreaming about the perfect beach escape consider Pensacola, Florida, its a dream getaway. 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 for other activities especially when its a multigenerational vacation. Getting to explore centuries-old landmarks, visiting first-class museums, or shopping at Floridas number one outdoor market, theres always something special to experience in Pensacola.

Historic Pensacola

Spend the day exploring and learning about historic Pensacola.

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. One of the many things you will learn is why Pensacola is known as The City of Five Flags.

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. Tour over 260 years of history and learn the fascinating story of how Pensacola developed into the city you see today. Tours are available for historic Pensacola, including Ghost Tours.

For another day and an entirely different historical experience, explore the Gulf Islands National Seashore and Historic Fort Pickens. I was excited to go here because this is where I took my scuba underwater certification dive in 1981. It still looks just as pristine as I remember. This Island is a national park offers miles of solitary beaches, scenic trails, and ranger-led programs at Fort Pickens. This is a massive pre-Civil War fortress thatsamassivebrick fortress once housed Union troops. After nearly 200 years, the massive granite walls and massive cannon pose an imposing, majestic presence. Park rangers offer free tours daily.

National Naval Aviation Museum and Light House

Enjoy a full day at Naval Air Station Pensacola.

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 Ron was a Fighter Pilot.  Within walking distance is the National Naval Aviation Museum, you do not want to miss this. Its a fantastic and interactive experience at the worlds 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.

Before leaving the base, be sure to explore the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum. Its an experience climbing all 177 steps to get to the top of thePensacola Lighthouse where the panoramic views are the prize.

One Hotel “ Four Properties

A unique hotel concept on Pensacola Beach

We loved our beach front room and big Gulf front balcony at Marriotts Fairfield Inn and Suites. This is a new addition to Pensacola Beachs hotel scene. It had a peaceful poolside where we floated on the longest lazy river on the Gulf Coast drifting across grand waterfalls and vibrant palm trees.

What made this hotel unique is that guests staying at the Fairfield Inn can easily access neighboring hotel pools. You will have access to the pool decks of the Holiday Inn Resort, Hilton and Hampton Inn. All you must have is your wristband to gain entry to all the pools. 

More Fun Activities

Market, Kayaking, Parasailing and Adventure Park

Palafox Market has been named as Florida's Best Farmers Market by Southern Living magazine, I must agree. Rain or shine, you dont want to miss this tree-lined market that is open every Saturday on historic Palafox Street.

At Lagunas Adventure Park they offer many family-friendly activities including; go-karts, a 3 story ropes course, splash pad, climb structures, zip rail, jet ski rentals, pontoon boat rentals, dolphin cruises and parasailing with Radical Rides.

Its no wonder that USA TODAY readers named Pensacola Beach The Best Beach in Florida. The sugar sand beaches are just the beginning of your vacation experience when you visit Pensacola. Go for the sugar sand beaches, stay for culture and history. Relax, unwind and explore.

If you'd like information about becoming a preferred partner with Stroll Forrestridge please reach out to Telese Gray at telese.gray@n2co.com.