Itinerary: Shopping Day in Pensacola

shop 'til you drop in the pensacola bay area

There's no better place for a little retail therapy than the Pensacola Bay Area. With it's walkable streets and charming storefronts, the area is home to everything from art galleries and bookstores to cozy cafes and stylish boutiques. Follow along with this itinerary and uncover hidden gems, local favorites, and maybe even your new go-to spot.

Morning

9:00 - 10:30 AM: Brunch: Downtown Pensacola offers some of the most incredible brunch spots, each serving fresh flavors and laid-back vibes. No matter if you're craving sweet, savory, or something in between, bring your appetite because this is where your shopping day truly begins.

Breakfast & Brunch

Breakfast & Brunch

In Pensacola, brunch and breakfast enthusiasts can savor a range of delicious morning fare, from traditional Southern classics to innovative coastal dishes, creating a vibrant and flavorful dining experience.

10:30 - 11:00 AM: UB - The Unique Boutique: This locally loved shop lives up to its name with a collection of gently loved treasures, brand-new gifts, locally handcrafted goods, and designer women's clothing and accessories. With prices that won't break the bank, it's the perfect place to find something fun and one-of-a-kind.

11:00 - 11:30 AM: Artesana: Artesana is a locally owned homeware and gift boutique, known for its curated selection of charming, southern-inspired pieces. As the Southeast's largest importer of wooden dinnerware, the shop offers a unique blend of traditional and handcrafted beauty, great for gifting or adding to your own collection. You won't want to leave this place empty handed.

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM: First City Bee Co.: Founded on a passion for honey, wine, and a truly meaningful experience, First City Bee Co. is a sweet stop in every sense. With a warm and welcoming space where you can sample unique meads and honeys from around the world, shop gifts, and learn about the many benefits of honey, you're guaranteed a one-of-a-kind experience.

A Virtual Look at Downtown Pensacola

Afternoon

12:00 - 12:30 PM: Blue Morning Gallery: Voted "Best Art Gallery in Pensacola" for six years in a row, Blue Morning Gallery is your go-to destination for local gifts and original art. You can find paintings, photography, pottery, and jewelry here. It's a vibrant space where creativity is at its core.

12:30 - 1:30 PM: Bodacious Bookstore and Cafe: A perfect spot for a pick-me-up during your day. This inviting spot combines a bookstore with a cozy cafe. Here you can browse the shelves for your new favorite book while enjoying coffee or a pastry in this relaxed setting.

1:30 - 2:00 PM: Rusted Arrow Mercantile: Rusted Arrow is a family-owned home decor, gift, and lifestyle shop nestled in the heart of Downtown Pensacola. Located on the corner of Intendencia and Palafox Place, the shop is known for its thoughtful arrangement and community involvement. Any pick is perfect for adding personality into every space.

2:00 - 2:30 PM: Innerlight Surf Shop: Innerlight Surf Shop has been serving the Gulf Coast's surf community for over 50 years. This locally owned shop offers quality gear and expert advice. No matter if you're a seasoned surfer or just love a coastal look, Innerlight has you covered.

Option 1: Pensacola Beach

2:30 - 3:00 PM: Travel to Pensacola Beach: After a fun morning downtown, cross the 3-mile bridge to Pensacola Beach. The views along the way are just as refreshing as the ocean breeze waiting. Roll the windows down, turn on your playlist, and enjoy the ride.

3:00 - 4:30 PM: Lunch on Pensacola Beach: Break up your shopping spree with a beachside lunch! Whether you're craving fish tacos, a juicy burger, or a frozen treat, Pensacola Beach has the perfect midday bite to keep you going strong.

Lunch Spots

on Pensacola Beach

4:30 - 5:00 PM: Envie Boutique: Envie Boutique, located on the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, offers a blend of coastal style and current trends. Shop your favorite brands and gifts for both men and women. This shop is a go-to destination for a beach day or a casual night out.

5:00 - 5:30 PM: Intracoastal Outfitters: Located only steps from the beach, Intracoastal Outfitters is the perfect beach shop for all things coastal. From men's and women's sandals and swimsuits to SPF apparel, hats, and sunglasses, you're sure to find something you didn't know you needed.

5:30 - 6:00 PM: Ron Jon Surf Shop: A staple in any beach town, Ron Jon delivers beach day essentials. Browse branded apparel, swimwear, and all the beach accessories you need before you head to the shore.

A Virtual Guide of the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk

Evening

6:00 - 8:00 PM: Dinner on Pensacola Beach: Unwind with a waterfront meal as the sun begins to set. Pensacola Beach is home to a variety of restaurants offering fresh seafood, tropical drinks, and stunning views.

Beach Restaurants

Beach Restaurants

“No shoes? No shirt? No problem.” Pensacola Beach restaurants take this famous motto to heart when it comes to sandy-toed, casual dining experiences.
Casino Beach Bar painkiller cocktail

8:00 - 8:30 PM: UFO's Pensacola Beach: Wrap up your perfect shopping day with a sweet treat at Pensacola Beach's quirkiest dessert stop. Known for its out-of-this-world charm, this mini golf and ice cream spot is fun way to end your day.

Option 2: Perdido Key

2:30 - 3:00 PM: Travel to Perdido Key: Enjoy a scenic coastal drive from Downtown Pensacola to Perdido Key, driving through lush pine forests and quiet stretches of Florida backroads. Drive by Big Lagoon State Park, where you can admire its natural beauty and local wildlife. As you cross the Intracoastal Waterway, the landscape reveals sugar-white sands and the quiet nature of Perdido Key.

3:00 - 4:30 PM: Lunch in Perdido Key: Enjoy a quick and light lunch in Perdido Key with fresh coastal flavors and a beachside view. Now is the perfect time to refuel while enjoying the breeze.

Lunch spots

in Perdido Key

Evening

4:30 - 5:00 PM: Entertainer Bait and Tackle: Entertainer Bait & Tackle is your one-stop shop for everything you need before hitting the water. From rods and reels to live and frozen bait, you can easily find all the essentials for your next big catch. Experienced angler or not, Entertainer Bait & Tackle has you covered.

5:00 - 6:00 PM: Villagio Town Centre: The Villagio Town Centre in Perdido Key is more than just a shopping center. Offering a spot for local charm and community, you can find a mix of diverse boutiques, cozy shops, and inviting restaurants.

Pro Tip: If you find yourself in Perdido Key in mid-October, look out for the Lost Key Lighted Night Market! Hosted at Villagio, twinkling lights illuminate a festive outdoor market. Local vendors set up shop, offering handcrafted good, coastal crafts, and delicious bites. Listen to live entertainment in this lively and family-friendly atmosphere. It's a delightful way to enjoy this community's charm after dark.

6:00 - 7:30 PM: Dinner at Perdido Key: Hope you saved an appetite for a peaceful dinner in Perdido. It's a perfect way to wind down from your day. Enjoy fresh seafood and savory southern favorites. With a variety of dining options with a picturesque view, your cravings will be met wherever you go.

Perdido Key Dining

Perdido Key Dining

Good food and drink are plentiful on the Key.
Florabama Lionfish

7:30 - 8:00 PM: City Coffee and Ice Cream: City Coffee and Ice Cream, a locally crafted coffee and ice cream shop, is the perfect spot for a sweet treat after dinner. This locally loved shop is the perfect place to satisfy your dessert cravings. Indulge in creamy ice cream and hand-spun milkshakes that will leave you wanting more. Grab your favorite treat and head out to catch the stunning sunset nearby. There's no better way to end your evening than a delicious treat with a beautiful view.

Here it is, Pensacola! The perfect itinerary for a shopping day filled with local finds, fun stops, and unforgettable views.

Five Spots to Shop for Antique Treasures

Five Spots to Shop for Antique Treasures

Antiques are certainly unique, especially in Pensacola. With rich history pouring out of our town, it’s not surprising that our antique stores will have an abundance of hidden treasures. Here’s five spots to shop.