Spend a Memorable Day Experiencing Pensacola

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Explore more of the Gulf Coast with a day trip to Pensacola from Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

The Gulf Coast is a beautiful destination no matter where you are! If you have some extra time on your hands during your stay on Alabama’s beaches, we encourage you to take a quick visit to our wonderful neighboring Florida city, Pensacola.

Here are some of the best things to do while visiting Pensacola.

Your first stop on your way over to Pensacola should be at one of the iconic Flora-Bama restaurants that sit right on the state line. Grab fresh oysters at The Flora-Bama Lounge and Oyster Bar or enjoy lunch and live music while overlooking the water at The Ole River Grill or Yacht Club. No matter which location you go to, be sure to treat yourself to a bushwacker!

The Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum is an excellent spot for an incredible view of the Gulf Coast. This historic lighthouse was built in 1859 and is located at the Naval Air Station. Onsite, you’ll also discover the lighthouse keeper’s quarters, history of illumination exhibit, oil shed and reading room. Learn all about the history of the lighthouse and its significance to the city of Pensacola’s progress throughout the early days of America. You may even spot the Blue Angels soaring past you as you look out onto the water from the top of the lighthouse. This attraction is currently only open to Department of Defense (DoD) car holders and certain Veterans Health Identification cardholders.

The National Naval Aviation Museum, near the lighthouse in Pensacola is a must-see when you’re on the Gulf Coast. This captivating site is the world’s largest aviation museum as it holds over 150 aircraft in its nearly 350,000 square foot space. These historic airships represent the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. In addition to the aircraft galleries, the museum also boasts flight simulators, a virtual flight deck, a 4D Blue Angels experience, an Apollo 11 VR experience, and a 325-seat theater. The museum is currently only open to DoD cardholders and certain Veterans Health Identification cardholders.

While you’re in the area, you’ll want to catch the Blue Angel’s mesmerizing flights during one of their many practices throughout the year. At this time, only DoD cardholders can watch their practices from the viewing area onboard Pensacola NAS. However, you might spot these impressive airplanes from our beaches as they soar above the water. The Blue Angels Beach Air Show takes place on July 9. In the fall, the Homecoming show takes place on November 11-12, also on Pensacola beach. Both shows are open to the public. Visit our website for more information about upcoming practice dates and shows.