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What to Do in Pensacola, Florida: Our Road Trip from Houston

When you think of Florida’s Gulf Coast, the first thing that probably comes to mind is its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. And yes, Pensacola has that, but it also offers history, gastronomy, and an atmosphere that blends a quaint coastal town with colonial heritage. On our road trip from Houston, we had three days to explore the city and were surprised by everything it offers.

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This city also has special architecture. Walking along Palafox Street, its main avenue, you realize that it is more than just a street, it is an experience. Located in the heart of downtown, it has been named one of the most beautiful streets in the United States. We explored it slowly, stopping at spots that caught our eye, like The Rex Café, a very cool coffee shop inside the historic Rex Theater, perfect for a coffee break. We also grabbed lunch at Dog House, famous for its creative hot dogs, and finished with ice cream at Kilwins. The street carries a mix of Spanish and French influences that you can feel in its buildings and overall atmosphere, making it ideal to enjoy at a relaxed pace, eating, drinking, and letting the day go by.

A rainy afternoon took us straight to the Pensacola Museum of History, and it turned out to be the perfect choice. There we learned that the city is known as the “City of Five Flags” because throughout its history it has been under the rule of Spain, France, Great Britain, the United States, and the Confederacy. Each period left its mark on the culture, architecture, and even the way the city is lived today. The museum features very complete exhibitions, from colonial artifacts and old maps to everyday objects used by the earliest inhabitants. We loved this museum.

Once the rain stopped, we decided to visit the famous Historic Pensacola Village. It feels like stepping into another era. Here you not only see old houses, but also people dressed in period clothing who welcome you and share the city’s stories. One of them told us about how yellow fever affected Pensacola in the nineteenth century and how families hid or even fled to survive. We visited several houses that have been carefully restored to their original state, with authentic furniture and objects that show how life was back then. Walking through the village is like opening a history book, with the advantage of seeing and experiencing everything in person.

Another spot we could not miss was Seville Quarter. The concept and architecture are spectacular, it truly feels like stepping into another world. This complex of historic buildings now functions as restaurants, bars, and event spaces, all designed in a style that recalls New Orleans, with interior courtyards and a lively ambiance. We strolled through its hallways full of details and could already imagine how fun it must be at night. We will definitely return to enjoy a good party in one of its bars.

Knowing where to eat is essential on any trip, and Pensacola has amazing options. One of the must-visit places is McGuire’s Irish Pub. It is one of those spots that has to be on your list when visiting the city. Beyond the fact that the food is delicious, with portions that seem meant to be shared, what makes it truly unique is the experience. The atmosphere is different and full of details, but what really stands out are the one-dollar bills covering the walls and ceiling, each one signed by customers who have been there. This is not just decoration, it is a tradition that began with the very first dollar the pub ever earned and, over the years, has grown to more than one million bills. Each bill carries a story, and together they form part of the identity of the place. Eating at McGuire’s also means leaving your mark by adding your own signed dollar to a tradition that has lasted for decades.

Another thing that surprised us about Pensacola is that, in addition to its local cuisine, you can also find international options, including Latin flavors. We took the chance to try Peruvian food at Doncha, a restaurant that has won awards for its culinary proposal, and after visiting we understood why. The flavors were authentic, the portions generous, and the service excellent. It is one of those places that proves Pensacola is a great food destination in many different ways and one that deserves a spot on your list.

One activity worth including in your trip is visiting the Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. It is located within the active Naval Air Station Pensacola, so before going make sure to pay attention to the security requirements. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must be accompanied by one, show your passport, and enter through the West Gate during permitted hours. It is a place full of history with incredible views, so if it is on your list, be sure to meet all the requirements in order to get in.

And of course, no trip would be complete without spending a day at Pensacola Beach, one of the most recognized beaches of the Gulf Coast and considered among the best in Florida for its fine white sand and turquoise water that looks like a postcard. Getting there is easy, the beach is connected by a bridge from downtown and has wide areas to walk, swim, or simply lay in the sand and relax.

We decided to spend the entire day there, playing in the sand, resting under the sun, and walking along the shore. The water was so clear you could see the bottom even several meters out, and when we went, the temperature was perfect. Seeing that turquoise color of the water is truly incredible.

Spending a day here is the perfect way to close a trip to Pensacola. It is the moment to slow down, enjoy together, and let the sea work its magic. If you can stay until the end of the day, the sunset at Pensacola Beach is stunning. The sky turns orange and pink over the turquoise water, a view that ends the day in the best way possible. If you visit the city, dedicating a full day to its main beach is not optional, it is part of the experience.

Pensacola captivated us. It is much more than its beaches, it is history, culture, delicious food, and good vibes. In three days we explored everything from its colonial past to its beautiful sea. We left with the feeling that there is much more to discover, and without a doubt, we will be back.

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Yudy y Roger

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Yudy y Roger

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