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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 — 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.
#2 — 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.
#3 — Palafox Market
The Palafox Market takes place every Saturday in Downtown Pensacola. Take a morning stroll through for local products, art and music.
#4 — Quayside Art
Take in the arts. Browse works from more than 200 local artists at the Southeast's largest co-op gallery.
#5 — Experience Innerarity Point Park
Looking to take a walk, picnic, or just get outside? Enjoy a nice breeze looking at the Intercoastal Waterway at this beautiful waterfront park.
#6 — Pensacola Beach Eco-Trail
This 8.5-mile Footprints in the Sand Eco-Trail showcases the unique aspects of Pensacola Beach’s island ecology.
#7 — 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.
#8 — Watch a Sunset
Head outside and catch one of Pensacola's very own sunsets. Be mesmerized as the sun sinks below the horizon and the skies turn to pink and orange hues.
#9 — Historic Walking Tour
Go on a free historic walking tour of Historic Downtown Pensacola with Emerald Coast Tours.
#10 — Edward Ball Nature Trail
Explore nature and take a hike at the Edward Ball Nature Trail on the University of West Florida campus.
#11 — Bands on the Beach
On Tuesday evenings from May through September, catch free concerts at Pensacola Beach's Gulfside Pavilion.
#12 — 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 — Uncover History
If your timing's right, you can actually participate in a dig at the Pensacola Colonial Archaeological Trail.
#14 — Bay Bluffs Park
Explore Bay Bluffs Park located along Scenic Highway. Take a hike, set up your hammock, and explore.
#15 — Explore Downtown Parks
Enjoy green space at one of the many parks in Downtown Pensacola.
#16 — Take a Stroll
Stroll down Palafox Street and through our Historic District to find a wealth of shops, galleries and coffee shops, restaurants, and bars.
#17 — Playground Fun
Take the kids for some playground fun.
#18 — Pensacola Photo Trail
Get ready for selfies and hit the Pensacola Photo Trail.
#19 — African American Heritage
Explore the area's rich heritage by seeing the African-American Heritage Trail.
#20 — Ride a Bike
Take a bike ride in Pensacola on one of these routes.
#21 — Attend a Festival
The Pensacola Bay Area is home to several different festivals throughout the year. Art, seafood, jazz, songwriters, crawfish, bushwackers, Greek heritage - there is something for everyone!
#22 — Explore a Cemetery
Get a glimpse of the past at St. Michael's Cemetery, a burial ground since the late 18th century.
#23 — Pelican Selfies
Pelicans are located at various locations in the Pensacola Area waiting to take a selfie with you.
#24 — 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.
#25 — Take a Self-Guided Tour
Explore Pensacola history on a self guided tour.
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