25 Fun, Free Things to Do in Pensacola

Some of the best things in life are free, and this is certainly true in the Pensacola Bay Area. Here's a list of 25 fun, free things to do in Pensacola.

Sure, we have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Our legendary sugar-white sand and turquoise water were discovered in 1559 by Don Tristan de Luna, and Pensacola has been loved by explorers ever since. But what many don’t know is that there is a world of fun, free things to do in Pensacola after you visit our award-winning beaches.

From Perdido Key to Downtown Pensacola to Pensacola Beach, you’ll find unforgettable things to do that are free year-round. Get to know our history, culture and wildlife and have some family fun with our list of 25 of Pensacola’s best free concerts, events, activities and more.

#1 — Have a Beach Day

Enjoy public beach access points along Pensacola Beach or Perdido Key and have the perfect beach day.

#2 — Check out the Naval Aviation Museum

Located at NAS Pensacola, National Naval Aviation Museum is one of the world's largest aviation museums. See more than 4,000 artifacts and over 150 beautifully restored aircraft representing Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard aviation.

#3 — Go Birding

Explore the Florida Great Birding and Wildlife Trail and take in nature. We’re the official gateway to the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail of which we boast 10 stops.

#4 — See Palafox Market

The Palafox Market takes place every Saturday in Downtown Pensacola. Take a morning stroll through for local products, art and music.

#5 — Go on a Mural Tour

The Pensacola Bay Area is home to tons of murals waiting for you to enjoy.

#6 — Find the Pelicans

Go on a Pelican adventure and add the free Pelican Passport to your phone.

#7 — Play iSpy Pensacola

Look around and see what you can spot—pelicans, pirate clues, dolphins, and more! When you find an item, point it out, click the quiz, and answer the question.

#8 — See a Blue Angels Practice

America's favorite flight squadron takes to the skies on select days to practice its famed air shows March – November, and YOU can have a front-row seat to it.

#9 — Catch a Sunset

Head outside and catch one of Pensacola's very own sunsets. Don't forget to bring your camera!

#10 — Explore Edward Ball Nature Trail

Explore nature and take a hike at the Edward Ball Nature Trail on the University of West Florida campus.

#11 — Catch Bands on the Beach

On Tuesday evenings from April through October, catch free concerts at Pensacola Beach's Gulfside Pavilion.

#12 — Go to Veterans Memorial Park

Veterans Memorial Park is a place of healing, to honor and remember our fallen heroes. Visit the nation's only full-name permanent replica of Washington D.C.'s Veteran's Memorial.

#13 — Go Shelling

On any given morning, after the night's high tide has come and gone, the Gulf has left a shoreline littered with gifts for shell-seekers in Pensacola.

#14 — Play Pickleball

It's time to get outdoors and play some pickleball. Check out all the spots to go hit the court and play.

#15 — Go Snorkeling

Exploring the underwater world of Pensacola by snorkeling.

#16 — Hang out at Bruce Beach

Stroll around this bayside park. Enjoy the view from the adirondack chairs, play on the playground, and observe the history of Bruce Beach.

#17 — Walk the Bridge

The General Chappie James Memorial Bridge has a great multi use path to enjoy a walk or bike along. It's a fun way to get outdoors and get moving.

#18 — Discover the Americas First Settlement Trail

Dive into Pensacola's History and experience the Americas First Settlement Trail in Downtown Pensacola. Walk along the three mile long marked path and uncover over seventy points of interest.

#19 — Pensacola Photo Trail

Get ready for selfies and hit the Pensacola Photo Trail.

#20 — Ride a Bike

Take a bike ride in Pensacola on one of these routes.

#21 — Tag the Graffiti Bridge

Located at the 17th Avenue railroad trestle, the Graffiti Bridge is a local landmark! Grab a can of spray paint and leave your mark on this piece of Pensacola history.

#22 — Attend a Festival

The Pensacola Bay Area is home to several different festivals throughout the year. Art, seafood, songwriters, crawfish, bushwackers, Greek heritage - there is something for everyone!

#23 — Enjoy Gallery Night

Enjoy this downtown Pensacola street party. These monthly events focus on specific themes, highlight featured artists, and showcase the best creators our area has to offer.