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Snuggled between the pristine beaches of Perdido Key and historic downtown Pensacola is a favorite, the western pocket of Pensacola.
West Pensacola boasts plentiful Spanish, French, British and American history with endless adventures of war time, aviation, military forts, lighthouses, trinkets, antiques, family events and old-fashioned candy making.
There’s a distinctive noise in the air while visiting the western side—a roar, a thunder that encompasses your whole body—and it exemplifies the sound of freedom. It’s the Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy’s precision flight demonstration team, streaking across the skies overhead. Experiencing the Blue Angels is a treat. You can catch them on practice days or at their season finale—the Blue Angel Homecoming Air Show—aboard Pensacola Naval Air Station.
Let your inner child roam free, and your children, too, in one of the largest air and aerospace museums of the world, the National Naval Aviation Museum aboard Pensacola Naval Air Station. Get up close and personal with more than 150 actual aircrafts, test your flying (and landing) skills out in a flight simulator, and experience the thrill of what it’s like to be a Blue Angel pilot in the larger-than-life IMAX movie.
As the cradle of Naval Aviation, it’s fitting that we’re host to the world’s largest simulated aircraft carrier at the National Flight Academy. Using STEM technology, students may apply to become cadets and experience week-long mock missions, next-generation adventure and living in the danger zone.
Prepare to get a few heebie-jeebies during a guided tour of the haunted Pensacola Lighthouse. Climb the 177-step spiral staircase to catch breathtaking views and either bust the myth or join those who believe, like the Travel Channel and SciFi’s Ghost Hunters, that it’s one of the most haunted lighthouses in America.
Finding new adventures is always on the itinerary, and food is always a part of those explorations. The Oar House deck offers a trifecta of live music, a catchy atmosphere and award-winning delicacies with a sunset view. A must-stop for crawfish lovers is Cub’s Crawfish, located in the historic Warrington neighborhood. Nearby, the Hip Pocket Deli serves up one of the best gyros in town.
Peer inside one of the many shops at the antique mecca on Navy Boulevard. Peruse the likes of depression glass, vintage wardrobes, metal works, accent pieces and knickknacks at local honey hole, the Blue Moon Antique Mall. Follow the distinct aroma of candy making to Remember When Sweet Shop and J.W. Renfroe Pecans. Remember When shows you the old-fashioned way of candy making, while Renfroe's will give you all the homemade fudge, pralines and pecans your heart desires.
From roars of jets to stunning coastal views, hands-on experiences to delightful delectables, west Pensacola brings a full sensory experience that you won’t soon forget.
In sync with the Museum's collection of aircraft and artifacts that chronicle the rich history of U.S. Naval Aviation, the Museum's Cubi Bar Café is also an exhibit. Opened in 1996, the restaurant's décor and layout duplicates the bar area of the famous Cubi Point Officers' Club that was a major source of… Read More...
Serving the Pensacola area for over 60 years, J.W. Renfroe Pecan Company offers a unique shopping experience. In addition to having the best pecan products in the South, Renfroe's now also offers nearly all other varieties of nuts; simply natural, whole or chopped, candied or roasted - just perfect for any kitchen,… Read More...
Jones Swamp is a natural 1,300-acre protected watershed purchased for buffering and water quality improvements. It provides habitat to a variety of native plants and wildlife, and features public natural trails that will provide many recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking, birding, cross country running,… Read More...
The NFA is a self-supporting, tuition-based educational program. The National Flight Academy development team currently includes the best and brightest from the entertainment industry as well as leaders in education, simulation and training. For grades 7-12. A variety of overnight sessions are available. Ambition… Read More...
Experience hands-on history at the National Naval Aviation Museum located on board Pensacola Naval Air Station. See more than 4,000 artifacts and over 150 beautifully restored aircraft representing Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard aviation. Experience the thrill of flight in the Flight Simulators, catch all the… Read More...
Climb 177 steps up the historic Pensacola Lighthouse for one of the most beautiful views on the Gulf Coast. Built in 1859, the lighthouse is located on board NAS Pensacola, right across from the National Naval Aviation Museum. The top of the tower offers stunning views of Pensacola Pass (where Pensacola… Read More...
