News Releases

Spring into Summer in the Pensacola Bay Area
The Pensacola Bay Area is already experiencing a vibrant and fun-filled spring with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine to go around.
Visit Pensacola Welcomes the Winner of Cincinnati Double-Play Giveaway Contest
Visit Pensacola would like to extend a warm Southern welcome and congratulations to Linda Furlong, the winner of the Double-Play Giveaway Contest hosted in Cincinnati in early February.
PENSACOLA CHEFS HOST SOLD-OUT DINNER AT NEW YORK’S JAMES BEARD HOUSE HONORING FLORIDA’S 500-YEAR HISTORY
The Pensacola Celebrity Chefs showcased the area’s culinary offerings this evening at New York’s acclaimed James Beard House during a dinner honoring Florida’s rich history.
Tourism Cares Volunteers Revitalize Pensacola Lighthouse and Bayou Texar
Tourism Cares, a non-profit organization that organizes volunteer-driven programs to revitalize significant local landmarks, will be bringing more than 300 tourism professionals to the Pensacola Bay Area on March 29-30 to complete two restoration projects.
Visit Pensacola to Begin Search for Agency of Record
Visit Pensacola has begun a search for an agency or agencies of record to develop and implement an integrated marketing plan for the Pensacola Bay Area. Qualified agencies are encouraged to apply for one or all of the following components: research, advertising and interactive and public relations.
PENSACOLA TO BRING THE BEACH TO CINCINNATI
Pensacola is bringing the beach to Cincinnati – white sand and all – this Saturday at Kenwood Towne Center, where Visit Pensacola will host a family-friendly event celebrating the upcoming inaugural season of the Pensacola Blue Wahoos, spreading the word about all that the Pensacola Bay Area has to offer.
Wimer Named Communications Coordinator for Visit Pensacola
Visit Pensacola has promoted Kristen Wimer to the role of communications coordinator.
What's New in Pensacola for Spring 2012
It’s a new year and travelers are seeing Pensacola in a new light. While a Pensacola vacation still appeals to families, others are catching on to the destination’s expanding offerings. Foodies, history buffs and arts patrons are flocking downtown; baseball fans are getting hyped about the new Maritime Park and the Pensacola Blue Wahoos; the new National Flight Academy is nearing completion; and couples are booking reservations at upscale restaurants, hotels, resorts and B&Bs. It’s no wonder the area was named a "Destination on the Rise” by TripAdvisor. Certainly, there is lots to love in Pensacola in 2012.
Pensacola Chefs Honor Florida's 500 Year History at James Beard House
Five of Florida’s finest chefs on March 27 will prepare a historic dinner at New York’s acclaimed James Beard House as part of Viva Florida 500, the celebration of 500 years of Florida history.
2012 Pensacola Bay Area Visitor Guide Available Jan. 5
On Jan. 5, Visit Pensacola will officially release the 2012 Pensacola Bay Area Visitor Guide. With more than 75 pages, the comprehensive magazine is created to not only provide valuable information, but to assist visitors and group planners in efficiently planning their trip to Pensacola, Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key.
Pensacola Invites Visitors to Kick Off Mardi Gras with Twelfth Night
Once Dec. 25 comes and goes, many think the season to celebrate is over. But the good times roll on along the Gulf Coast where Christmas gives a holiday handoff to Mardi Gras. On Jan. 6, the twelfth day of Christmas, downtown Pensacola will come alive to celebrate the start of the carnival season.
Visit Pensacola Announces Director of Communications
Visit Pensacola has named Valeria Lento director of communications.
Mardi Gras Helps Unmask Pensacola's Festive Side
With more than 100 krewes hosting numerous costumed balls, 200 floats traveling in three different parades, a marching band march-off with 10 high school bands, a pirates boat parade and a Mardi Gras-themed lunch for snowbirds, Pensacola’s Mardi Gras is promising to be an exciting family-friendly affair.
Numbers Are In: 2011 A Record Year For Tourism
Tourism in Escambia County set all-time lodging revenue records for 2010-11
What's New for Snowbirds in Pensacola for Winter 2011-2012
As the winter months begin, snowbirds can enjoy Pensacola’s vibrant holiday spirit, cooler temperatures, amazing festivals and activities and our version of a winter wonderland: the snow-white beach.
Pensacola's 2012 Calendar of Events
With a packed calendar, 2012 is proving to be another exciting year full of celebrations for Pensacola.
What’s New in Pensacola for Winter 2011
As the winter months begin, enjoy Pensacola’s vibrant holiday spirit, cooler temperatures, amazing festivals and activities and our version of a winter wonderland: the snow-white beach.
Local Tourism Efforts Win Three Statewide Awards
Tourism marketing efforts by Visit Pensacola received three Flagler Awards Monday at the 44th Annual Governor's Conference on Tourism in Hollywood, Fla.
Pensacola Bay Area Sets Tourism Records
Tourism in Escambia County set lodging revenue records in both June and July, according to Denis McKinnon, chairman of the Escambia County Tourist Development Council
"You Play, We Pay!" Offers Up To $300 To Area Visitors
Pensacola is bringing back its popular “You Play, We Pay!” promotion that offers visitors an American Express gift card valued at up to $300 for a stay of three days or longer.
Summer Vacationers Return to Gulf Coast
It seemed our visitors, many of whom missed their Perdido Key or Pensacola Beach vacations last year, missed us as much as we missed them. Visitation so far this summer has been strong, as visitors have made sure to take full advantage of a chance to enjoy a beach vacation, many with their families.
Visit Pensacola in the Running for Florida’s Coveted Flagler Awards
Visit Pensacola is a finalist for three VISIT FLORIDA Flagler Awards for outstanding website, Internet advertising and social media marketing.
BP Oil Spill and Escambia County Tourism Crisis and Recovery:
In the spring of 2010 the tourism industry in Escambia County had every reason to be optimistic. Every indication, from advance bookings for the coming tourism season to rising bed-tax collections, was that the industry was poised to finally recover ground lost following Hurricane Ivan in 2004 and the subsequent downturn in the economy. An air of confidence was palpable among area businesses.
Pensacola Bay Area Vacation Itinerary:
If you are looking for a luxurious summer getaway, a low-cost family vacation or something in between, the Pensacola Bay Area is sure to have what you desire in your next vacation
Pensacola Named 2011 Best Gulf Coast Town
In the 2011 Readers' Choice Awards released by Gulfscapes magazine, Pensacola is named the Best Coast Town.
What's New in Pensacola for Fall 2011
In the Pensacola Bay Area, fall features fewer crowds, peaceful beaches and crisp blue skies: it’s the best kept secret season.
State and Local Officials Address State of the Beaches on Anniversary of the Oil Spill
On the anniversary of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, Florida Gov. Rick Scott met with local business and political leaders and afterwards spoke at a news conference about the recovery of Florida’s beaches and tourism industry.
VISIT FLORIDA Marks Oil Spill Anniversary by Awarding Beach Walk Grand Prize
VISIT FLORIDA®, the state’s official tourism marketing corporation, and Visit Pensacola marked the one-year anniversary of the Gulf oil spill by joining together to announce the grand prize winner for the Great VISIT FLORIDA Beach Walk promotion. The winner, Bridgette Price of Pensacola, was awarded a $5,000 American Express gift card and a Mazda Miata MX-5. The Beach Walk on Nov. 6, 2010, turned out to be the world’s biggest one-day beach rally and photo fest ever held.
VisitPensacola.com Goes Mobile
This week, the Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau launched a mobile Web site for visitors to access on their smart phones.
What's New in Pensacola for Summer 2011
Warm water splashing, Blue Angels flying, fresh seafood cooking, live music playing, fireworks sparkling – these are the makings of summer vacation memories in the Pensacola Bay Area.
VisitPensacola.com Receives National Web Marketing Award
The Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau was honored by the Web Marketing Association for outstanding travel website during the 9th Annual Internet Advertising Competition (IAC).
Pensacola Bay Area Offers Spring Breakers the Closest Beaches in Florida
This spring break, a good mix of Southern and Midwestern families and college students have been flocking to the beaches of the Pensacola Bay Area for their beauty and proximity.
Pensacola Celebrity Chefs Offer Locals Taste of the James Beard House
On March 27, Global Grill will be transformed into New York's acclaimed James Beard House as the Pensacola Celebrity Chefs showcase their menu for locals before serving the intimate New York audience in June.
Pensacola’s African-American Heritage Trail Guide Now Available
Visit Pensacola and the African-American Heritage Society have released its guide to African-American heritage in the Pensacola Bay Area, just in time for Black History Month.
Spring Break Is Closer Than You Think
Are you ready to feel the sand between your toes, relax in the shade along our emerald coastline or bask in the sunlight reflecting off our crystal clear beaches?
Pensacola Celebrity Chefs To Cook At James Beard House
The acclaimed James Beard House has selected the Pensacola Celebrity Chefs to showcase Gulf Coast cuisine this summer in New York City.
Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Naval Aviation in the Pensacola Bay Area
With Blue Angels air shows, concerts, special events and exhibits at the world-renowned National Naval Aviation Museum, the Pensacola Bay Area is the ideal place to celebrate 100 years of naval aviation.
What’s New in Pensacola for Spring 2011
Everything visitors need to replenish their mind, body and soul this spring is right here in the Pensacola Bay Area with Mardi Gras, spring break and music festivals along with new hotels, restaurants and attractions. Travelers can escape cold, rainy weather and enjoy the most beautiful time of year on our white-sandy shores. Spring is a time to relax, let loose and have fun, and Pensacola is the perfect place to do it.
2011 Visitor Guide to the Pensacola Bay Area Now Available
Visit Pensacola has released its annual Visitor Guide, a 75-page comprehensive magazine designed to help visitors and group planners effectively plan their trip to Pensacola, Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key.
LODGING REVENUES STRONG DESPITE OIL SPILL
Lodging revenues in Escambia County for the year showed a five percent decrease compared to the same time period in 2009, a result tourism officials consider a victory in light of the economic repercussions of the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
Double Bridge Run Celebrates Fitness and Beauty in the Pensacola Bay Area
From historic downtown Pensacola to the white sand of Pensacola Beach, runners in the Pensacola Double Bridge Run compete in a 15-kilometer race offering stunning vistas and a chance to race almost literally over the surface of the water.
Ring in the New Year in Downtown Pensacola
The Pensacola Bay Area offers the perfect combination for New Year’s Eve family fun: sugar-white beaches, a lively street party, brilliant fireworks and a half-ton, illuminated pelican that drops 100 feet at midnight.
Pure Mardi Gras Fun in the Pensacola Bay Area
Pensacola Mardi Gras offers revelers the best of both worlds: colorful parades and costumes alongside a magnificent backdrop of sugar-white beaches.
Coppels Honored for Tourism Efforts
Visit Pensacola’s Group Tour Manager Lori Coppels was honored recently during the annual Florida Motorcoach Conference for her outstanding tourism efforts.
Pensacola’s 2011 Sports Calendar
Beautiful beaches and warm weather create the perfect environment for all your outdoor adventures.
Pensacola’s 2011 Arts Calendar
Beautiful beaches and a historic downtown set the stage for special arts and cultural events throughout the year.
Pensacola’s 2011 Culinary Events Calendar
Known for fresh, Gulf seafood served up with Southern hospitality, Pensacola plays host to numerous culinary events throughout the year.
Pensacola’s 2011 Calendar of Events
Pensacola is known for its lively festivities, keeping locals and visitors busy year-round.
Visit Pensacola Wins Award for Outstanding Achievement in Web Development
Visit Pensacola received the award for Outstanding Web site from the Web Marketing Association.
Bersabal Selected for Expert Panel
E-commerce and marketing manager for Visit Pensacola, Mike Bersabal has been invited to present at the world’s largest social media conference, the Blog World Expo, Oct. 14-16 in Las Vegas.
Pensacola Celebrity Chefs Host Capture the Fort Event
Five of the South’s finest chefs and seafood from local waters; a historic setting overlooking a magnificent sweep of crystalline sand beaches and emerald Gulf waters.
Visit Pensacola Announces “Invite A Friend” Winners
Six lucky visitors have won a vacation to the Pensacola Bay Area as part of the “Invite A Friend” summer promotion.
Savor Delicious Seafood At The 2010 Pensacola Seafood Festival
Savor delicious seafood and enjoy the surroundings of downtown Pensacola during the 33rd annual Pensacola Seafood Festival. The festival presented by the Fiesta of Five Flags Association will be held September 24, 25 and 26 in historic Seville Square, Fountain Park and Bartram Park. Admission to the festival is free.
VisitPensacola Launches I ♥ Pensacola • I ♥ Pensacola Beach • I ♥ Gulf Breeze • I ♥ Perdido Key as Next Phase of 1Pensacola Social Media Campaign
VisitPensacola has initiated the next phase of the 1Pensacola social media marketing campaign launched earlier this month by creating separate I ♥ Facebook pages for Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, Gulf Breeze and Perdido Key.
De Luna Fest Revives America’s Original Beach Party with a Major Music Festival Friday and Saturday, Oct. 15-17
De Luna Fest is the official 50 year countdown to the 500 year anniversary of Pensacola, America’s first settlement. The festival will celebrate Pensacola’s history and heritage by reviving De Luna’s original American beach party held in 1559. After 450 years, the first American beach party will begin again. De Luna Fest will educate the region about Pensacola’s rich history and attract thousands throughout the Southeastern United States and beyond to visit Pensacola Beach.
Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Naval Aviation at Pensacola’s National Naval Aviation Museum
Explore an aircraft carrier, discover Home Front USA during World War II and test your skills in a dog fight at the world’s largest Naval aviation museum.
Battle Sites and Antebellum Buildings Beckon Travelers to Pensacola for the Civil War’s 150th Anniversary
Pensacola is well known for its beaches and Blue Angels but what visitors are often surprised to discover is the city’s significant role during the Civil War.
What’s New in the Pensacola Bay Area Fall 2010
Lively festivals, new hotels, restaurants and attractions beckon travelers to the Pensacola Bay Area this fall. Fall is known as our “secret season,” with blue skies, warm temperatures and fewer crowds. Travelers can have our famous white-sand beaches to themselves while enjoying new activities and amenities the area has to offer.
Pensacola Bay Area CVB Hires Convention Sales Manager
The Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau has announced the addition of Leslie Mathews as convention sales manager.
Free Activities and Attractions Abound in the Pensacola Bay Area Summer Vacations on a Shoestring Budget
It’s a vacationer’s dream: pristine beaches and Florida sunshine with plenty of free activities to keep the family entertained.
National Tourism Week May 8-16
The Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau and its county-wide partners attract millions of visitors each year, but locals leave their mark on the industry, too.
Pensacola Bay Area Is a Spring Break Hot Spot
Tourism in the Pensacola Bay Area received a burst of energy during the 2010 Spring Break season.
White Christmas in the Pensacola Bay Area
From tall ships and giant pelicans to bright lights and white beaches, the Pensacola Bay Area is an action-packed getaway for the holidays this year.
What’s New in the Pensacola Bay Area Winter 2010
Special events, travel deals and new direct flights make it easy to get to the Pensacola Bay Area this winter.
What’s New in the Pensacola Bay Area Summer 2009
Summer in the Pensacola Bay Area is the perfect time to sip a cocktail from a bayside bar, dine on Southern barbecue or take a drive on one of the most scenic highways in the country.
What's New in the Pensacola Bay Area June 2009
Free deep-sea fishing, teen dances, surfing lessons, historic fort walks, free movies and concerts...
United’s New Direct Flight To Pensacola, Fla., Ideal For Summer Vacations
The fastest way to spectacular white-sand beaches on one of the world’s longest barrier islands is now with a new direct flight from Chicago to Pensacola, Fla.
United’s New Direct Flight To Pensacola, Fla., Just In Time For Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras, Florida style, is now within reach of D.C. area residents, thanks to great lodging deals and a new direct flight from Washington/Dulles International Airport to Pensacola Gulf Coast Regional Airport.
TripAdvisor® Names Pensacola Among Top Family-Friendly Travel Destinations
TripAdvisor® the world’s largest travel community, recently named Pensacola among the “Best Family Friendly Vacations” in the United States and Canada.
Travelers Can Choose Their Own Adventure in the Pensacola Bay Area
From white-sand beaches and deep Gulf waters to flourishing forests and serene creeks, Pensacola's storybook setting inspires both nature lovers and thrill seekers to explore their wild side and create their own adventure.
Tourism A Bright Spot In Slow Economy
Despite a slow economy, tourism numbers in the Pensacola Bay Area were the second-highest in history. From Oct. 1, 2008 to Sept. 30, 2009, overnight visitors to the area generated $133 million in lodging revenue.
Top Trends In Weddings Found In Pensacola Bay Area
Whether it's a theme wedding or a green wedding, a combination ceremony/honeymoon or a post-wedding day brunch, brides will easily find some of this year's hottest wedding trends in the Pensacola Bay Area.
Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Named Top CVB In Southeast
The Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau yesterday was selected as the CVB of the year by the Southeast Tourism Society (STS).
Recently Renovated Barkley House Creates Perfect Event Venue
The Barkley House, one of the oldest masonry houses in Florida, has reopened as a venue for special events following a meticulous two-year renovation.
Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Wins State-Wide Tourism Award
The Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau on Monday received VISIT FLORIDA’s coveted Flagler Award, recognizing excellence in tourism marketing.
Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Internet Marketing Program Named Best In Southeast
The Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau yesterday received a Shining Example Award by the Southeast Tourism Society for Internet Excellence in tourism marketing practices.
Pensacola Offers Wild Times for Divers with Varied and Ample Marine Life
Plunging into Pensacola’s waters allows divers to explore sites from natural limestone reefs and an underwater archaeological preserve to the USS Oriskany, a retired aircraft carrier that is the world’s largest artificial reef.
Pensacola Bay Area Offers Luxury Amenities At A Great Value
he Pensacola Bay Area offers many choices for the most discerning of tastes, while still giving travelers an excellent value.
Pensacola Bay Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Announces New Board Chairman
The Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau on Tuesday announced Harlan Butler, president of Innisfree Hotels, Inc., as the new chairman of the Tourism Administration and Convention Committee (TACC).
New Pensacola Beach Conference Campus Package Available To Meeting Planners
Sugar-white sand and the emerald-blue water of the Gulf of Mexico create a dynamic backdrop for meetings.
New Tours in the Pensacola Bay Area Bring Groups Close to Nature and History
New group tours in the Pensacola Bay Area give travelers access to some of the region’s hottest destinations, from the acclaimed National Naval Aviation Museum and quaint historic districts to secluded beaches and forts on Gulf Islands National Seashore.
New Road Brings Visitors Closer to Authentic Florida
Visitors once again have access to miles of protected seashore and historic Fort Pickens thanks to the re-opening of Fort Pickens Road this month.
King and Queen of Spain To Visit Pensacola For Its 450th Anniversary
Celebrate Pensacola, Inc., along with city officials announced today that King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofía will visit the city during its 450th anniversary celebration.
Historic Homes, Vintage Clothing And Fine Antiques Await Treasure Hunters In The Pensacola Bay Area
As Pensacola celebrates its 450th anniversary, there’s no better time to discover the historic side of Pensacola and seek unique finds and bargains.
Groups Retreat To Pensacola Bay Area For Fall Savings And Lively Festivals
Dine on delicious seafood, hear music from some of the hottest songwriters and enjoy pristine beaches to yourself this fall in the Pensacola Bay Area.
Green Vacations Made Easy in Pensacola
How do you make your dream vacation a green vacation? On the Gulf Coast of Florida, it’s easy.
From Fish To Farms, Pensacola's Heartland Tours Intrigue Visitors From All Walks Of Life
From the rich marine life along the shores of Pensacola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico to the lush acres of forests and fields, an abundance of natural resources are ready to be explored on off-the-beaten path agri-tours.
Celebrate Pensacola Group Plans 450th Birthday Bash
Pensacola has been in the midst of a 450-day celebration, including a kick-off party in May 2008, a visit from the king and queen of Spain, tours of the Elcano tall ship, Revolutionary War battle reenactments, and visits from renowned artists and Spanish winemakers.
Celebrate Mardi Gras Florida Style In The Pensacola Bay Area
It’s the feast before the fast during Carnival season in the Pensacola Bay Area where for once, the brilliant, white-sand beaches are outshone by masked characters, merry music and tons of wacky, family-friendly fun.
A Unique Setting And Great Savings For Meeting Planners In the Pensacola Bay Area
The Pensacola Bay Area is meeting the needs of meeting planners, whether it's helping them find a green venue, an easier RFP process, delectable culinary dishes or a special activity for their attendees.
The Pensacola Bay Area Announces A Royal Tour
Travelers to the Pensacola Bay Area can now add something new to their vacation checklist: walking in the footsteps of a king and queen, thanks to a new brochure by the Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Pensacola Bay Area Publishes 2010 Visitor Guide, Unveils New Logo
In honor of a new decade, the Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau has published its 2010 visitor guide featuring a new logo.
Recently Renovated Barkley House Creates Perfect Event Venue
The Barkley House, one of the oldest masonry houses in Florida, has reopened as a venue for special events following a meticulous two-year renovation.