Pensacola, Florida, is a vibrant city with historical sites, cultural landmarks, and various dining options. Located in the northwest corner of Florida, this coastal gem offers an array of attractions that cater to diverse interests. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, a food lover, or simply someone looking to explore new places, Downtown Pensacola has something special for you.
From engaging marketplaces and captivating museums to eclectic galleries and delicious restaurants, this blog post will guide you through the best things to do in downtown Pensacola.
Things to Do
Downtown Pensacola is a dynamic hub of activities. Whether you prefer leisurely strolls through historic streets, absorbing the local art scene, or indulging in delicious cuisine, you’ll find countless opportunities to create memorable experiences. Let’s dive into some of the most noteworthy things to do in this delightful area!
Palafox Market
Every Saturday, Palafox Market transforms downtown Pensacola into a vibrant bazaar where local vendors, farmers, and artisans gather to showcase their goods. You’ll find the unique, the one-of-a-kind, the precious, the delicious, and the off-beat at Palafox Market in Downtown Pensacola. Items originate directly from talented onsite vendors who grow, make, or create each item for sale. Join them every Saturday for the award-winning Palafox Market from 9:00 am-2:00 pm, rain or shine, for farm-fresh produce, plants, flowers, baked goods, hand-crafted works of art, sculpture, fresh tea and coffee, delicious food and spices, hand-blown glass, ceramics, and much more. The market has loads of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts. Wander through the stalls, sample local treats, and discover one-of-a-kind items that will remind you of your visit to Pensacola for years to come.
Pensacola Museum of Art
Art aficionados will find a haven in the Pensacola Museum of Art. Located in the historic 1906 City Jail, the museum offers rotating exhibitions featuring contemporary and modern art, as well as works by regional and national artists. Current exhibitions include “Rising Tide: Photography by Ben Depp,” which showcases Depp’s ongoing project documenting the evolving landscape of southern Louisiana, captured over a decade from a powered paraglider. Depp’s aerial photography highlights the area’s beauty and environmental changes, emphasizing the interplay of natural and man-made elements such as canals and oil platforms. Through his lens, viewers can observe plant varieties, seasonal shifts, and the effects of saltwater intrusion, offering a visual narrative of this unique region’s transformation. Another notable exhibition is the 71st Annual Youth Art Focus, presented in collaboration with the PMA Guild and Escambia County Public Schools. This event highlights the artistic accomplishments of K-12 students and their teachers from the Escambia County School District. Since its inception in 1954, the exhibition has given students the opportunity to experience the fine art world in a professional setting while allowing the community to engage with local art education. The partnership also enables free museum tours for Escambia County Schools, attracting around 2,000 visitors during the exhibition’s run.
America’s 1st Settlement Trail
History enthusiasts must not miss America’s 1st Settlement Trail, a three-mile self-guided walking tour through downtown Pensacola and the Pensacola Historic District. This trail takes you through 450 years of Pensacola’s storied past, offering 20 stops and over seventy points of interest. Discover significant landmarks, historical buildings, and intriguing stories that paint a vivid picture of the city’s evolution. Along the trail, you’ll encounter sites dating back to 1756, such as the Spanish-built Fort San Miguel in what is now downtown Pensacola. The well-marked trail is accompanied by informative plaques that bring to life Pensacola’s rich heritage and the fascinating story of how the city developed into what you see today.
Shopping
Downtown Pensacola is a shopper’s paradise, with a variety of unique stores and boutiques. Whether you’re searching for vintage finds, artsy souvenirs, or gourmet gifts, you’ll find it all here.
Rusted Arrow Mercantile
The Rusted Arrow Mercantile is a charming boutique offering an eclectic mix of vintage and modern home décor, gifts, and furniture. Each item is handpicked to ensure quality and style. It’s the perfect place to find a unique piece to remind you of your stay in one of our Pensacola vacation rentals.
Blue Morning Gallery
If you appreciate art and handmade goods, the Blue Morning Gallery should be on your list. This artist-owned, cooperative gallery features works from over 50 local artists, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and ceramics. The gallery frequently hosts events and exhibitions, providing a dynamic space to engage with local art.
First City Bee Co.
For a truly unique shopping experience, visit the First City Bee Co. This specialty store offers a range of bee-related products, including raw honey, beeswax candles, and bee-inspired gifts. The store is committed to educating visitors about the importance of bees and offers various workshops and events.
Dining
Downtown Pensacola is a culinary hotspot, offering diverse Pensacola restaurants that can satisfy any palate. From fresh seafood to Southern comfort food, you’ll find it all here.
The Fish House
Located at 600 South Barracks Street, The Fish House is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Start with Smoky Alabama Wings, featuring Mesquite-rubbed grilled wings tossed in a smoked jalapeño white BBQ sauce. For your entrée, indulge in the Redfish Lafayette, which includes Blackened wild redfish and crispy Louisiana crawfish tails served with smoked Gouda cheese grits, grilled asparagus, and topped with creamy crawfish étouffée.
600 South Barracks St., Pensacola, FL 32502
Hub Stacy’s
Hub Stacy’s Downtown, found at 312 E. Government St., is a local favorite for lunch. Begin with their Loaded Tater Tots, and then move on to the Main Street sandwich. This hearty dish combines lean tender ham, fresh roast beef, Swiss cheese, smoked turkey, provolone, lettuce, tomato, dill mayo, and crispy bacon, all grilled to perfection.
312 E. Government St., Pensacola, FL 32502
Graffiti Pizza
Graffiti Pizza, located at 1401 E. Gregory Street is known for its lively atmosphere and locally-inspired artworks. The pizzeria celebrates Pensacola’s vibrant art community and offers a unique experience filled with quality pizzas, drinks, and eye-catching murals.
1401 E. Gregory St., Pensacola, FL 32502
South Market
At 905 East Gregory Street, South Market is renowned for its fresh food and craft cocktails. Begin your meal with the Bay Scallop Corn Dip, featuring local scallops, sweet corn, parmesan creole cream, and tortilla chips. For the main course, try the Cajun Chicken Pasta, served with sausage, red bell peppers, and penne pasta in a house-made Cajun Alfredo sauce.
905 East Gregory St., Pensacola, FL 32502
The Ruby Slipper
Located at 509 S Palafox St, The Ruby Slipper is a fantastic spot for Southern comfort food. Start with Fried Green Tomatoes, topped with red tomatoes, remoulade, and bacon onion jam. The Southern BLT, featuring fried green and fresh red tomato, Applewood-smoked bacon, lettuce, and mayo on brioche toast with fries, is a must-try for any visit.
509 S Palafox St., Pensacola, FL, 32502
Plan Your Visit
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Coffee & Sweets
Fosko Coffee
Known for its artisanal brews and relaxed atmosphere, Fosko Coffee prides itself on using high-quality beans and expert brewing techniques. Whether you’re looking for a rich espresso, a smooth cold brew, or a meticulously crafted pour-over, Fosko Coffee has something to enhance your palate.
8 S Palafox Pl, Pensacola, FL 32502
Bodacious Coffee
Bodacious Coffee goes beyond your typical coffeehouse experience by offering a menu that features specialty drinks, pastries, and light bites. They are committed to sustainability and quality, sourcing their beans from reputable farms and roasting them to perfection.
407-F S. Palafox St. Pensacola, FL 32502
Parlor Donuts
Parlor Donuts is famous for its wide array of inventive and delicious donuts. From classic flavors to creative combinations, their donuts are freshly made and beautifully presented, ensuring a delightful treat for every visitor.
120 Palafox Pl, Pensacola, FL 32502
Bubbas Sweet Spot
This charming sweet shop offers an extensive selection of candies, chocolates, and homemade ice cream flavors. The vibrant and nostalgic atmosphere of Bubbas Sweet Spot makes it a fun stop for families and individuals alike.
405 S Palafox St, Pensacola, FL 32502
Pensacola Beach Rentals with Beach Bum BB
For those looking to extend their downtown Pensacola adventure to the beach, Beach Bum BB offers an array of vacation rentals that serve as the perfect home base for exploring fun things to do in Pensacola. Beach Bum BB provides a variety of Pensacola Beach rentals, from well-equipped beachfront condos to luxurious vacation homes, making it easy to find the ideal Pensacola vacation rental. With stunning views and easy access to the pristine waters of the Gulf of Mexico, whether you’re seeking one of our cozy Pensacola Beach condo rentals or a spacious family home, Beach Bum BB’s Pensacola Beach vacation rentals ensure a memorable stay.
