Spring break is here, and if you live in Pensacola, you don’t have to pack a suitcase or sit in beach traffic to have an unforgettable week.
From hidden historic gems to waterfront adventures and local traditions, our city is full of experiences that make the perfect staycation. The Local Pulse team teamed up with The Zimmern Team to round up some of our favorite ways to enjoy spring break right here at home.
Here are 20 ways to make the most of spring break in Pensacola.
Visit the SS United States in Mobile Bay: Just a short drive away, this iconic ocean liner tells tales of maritime history.The SS United States will be the centerpiece of exclusive harbor tours before it becomes the world’s largest artificial reef.
Road trip to Buc-ee’s: Don’t forget to stop at Buc-ee’s on your way to Mobile! Known for its massive size and quirky offerings, a trip to Buc-ee’s is a must. Stock up on delicious snacks, quirky souvenirs, and enjoy the cleanest restrooms on the road.
America’s First Settlement Tour: The America’s First Settlement Trail is a three-mile marked path through downtown Pensacola and the Pensacola Historic District. Along this trail are twenty stops and over seventy points of interest. Along the Trail you will see sites from as early as 1756, when the Spanish built Fort San Miguel in what is now downtown Pensacola. Tour over 260 years of history and learn the fascinating story of how Pensacola developed into the city you see today.
Visit the Gulf Breeze Zoo: Just a short drive from Pensacola, the Gulf Breeze Zoo is home to more than 800 animals from around the world. Visitors can stroll shaded walking paths, see giraffes, rhinos, and gorillas up close, and hop aboard the safari train ride through the preserve. And there’s even more excitement this spring, the zoo recently welcomed new lion cubs, giving visitors a chance to catch a glimpse of the newest additions to the pride.
Go strawberry picking: Spring is the perfect time to visit local farms for strawberry picking. Enjoy the sweet taste of fresh strawberries while soaking up the sunshine!
39th Annual St. Paddy’s Day Pub Crawl: Happening TODAY! Join the festivities and explore the local beach bar scene with fellow revelers. Enjoy themed drinks, lively music and local tradition as you celebrate all things green.
Hop on/Hop off Ferry ride: Take the ferry between Downtown Pensacola to Fort Pickens to Pensacola Beach. Pensacola Bay City Ferry operates two 149-passenger, catamaran-style vessels, the “Turtle Runner” and “Pelican Perch”. The vessels offer air-conditioned interior and covered exterior seating and restrooms. Imported and domestic beer, wines, soft drinks and water are available for purchase
Gallery Night – Dancing in the Streets (March 20): Downtown Pensacola comes alive on March 20 for Gallery Night’s “Dancing in the Streets.” Palafox will be filled with live performances, artists selling their work, food trucks, and local nonprofits connecting with the community. It’s one of the best nights of the year to stroll downtown, discover new artists, and celebrate Pensacola’s creative scene.
Go fishing: Whether you’re casting from the Pensacola Beach Fishing Pier, the beautiful hike sands or heading out on Hot Spot Charters, Pensacola’s waters are teeming with fish. Enjoy a relaxing day catching your dinner — just don’t forget your fishing license!
Plant a garden: Spring is the perfect time to get your hands dirty and start a garden. Grow your favorite flowers or vegetables right in your backyard or head to From the Ground up Community Garden – a hub for education, art, music and sustainability.
Visit the Coastal Cat Cafe: If you’re a cat lover, spend some time at the coastal cat café where you can sip coffee and hang out with adorable adoptable cats. It’s a purr-fect way to unwind!
Pensacola Paddle Pub: Gather your friends and pedal along the Pensacola waterways while enjoying some refreshing beverages.
Bike the three-mile bridge: The multi-use path on the Pensacola Bay Bridge aka “General Chappie James Memorial Bridge” is approximately 10 feet wide and is separated from vehicular traffic by a barrier. The multi-use path is open to both pedestrians and cyclists, and is a popular way to bike.
Catch the sunrise & sunset: When was the last time you caught the sunrise? Now when was the last time you caught the sunrise and sunset in the same day? We challenge you to find a cozy spot, breathe in the ocean air, and witness both in the same day.
Find your favorite oysters: Whether you prefer them raw, grilled, or baked, Pensacola is known for its delicious oysters. Explore local seafood restaurants and discover your favorites. Some of our favorite spots are Peg Leg Pete’s, Pearl and Horn, The Grand Marlin and The Well, but this short list is only scratching the surface.
UWF trails: Enjoy the great outdoors on the University of West Florida’s trails. Perfect for hiking or biking, these trails offer a peaceful escape into nature.
Visit the Pensacola Lighthouse: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 onboard Naval Air Station Pensacola.
Big Lagoon State Park: This coastal park sits on the northern shoreline of its namesake, Big Lagoon, which separates the mainland from Perdido Key and the Gulf of Mexico. Natural communities, ranging from saltwater marshes to pine flatwoods, attract a wide variety of birds, especially during the spring and fall migrations.
Go golfing (outdoor or indoor): Hit the links at one of Pensacola’s beautiful golf courses, or enjoy a round indoors at a golf simulator at Bogeys. Either way, it’s a great way to enjoy spring weather.
Happy Spring Break Pensacola!
