The Best Things to do with Kids in Pensacola Florida
/Having called Pensacola, Florida, home for several years with my family, I've spent finding all of the best things to do with kids. From the Emerald Coast waters of the Gulf of Mexico to historic landmarks steeped in culture and charm, there is so much for those looking for things to do with kids in Pensacola.
As a seasoned local, I've explored every nook and cranny of this vibrant city, uncovering a plethora of family friendly activities. Whether you're a visitor passing through or a local looking for some family fun, join me as I share my insider tips on the best things to do with kids in Pensacola.
Table of Contents
Map of Free Things to Do with Kids in Pensacola
I have put everything in this guide here on the map for you to easily find. Search this map to find what to do in Pensacola with kids.
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Visit the Beach
The most obvious thing to do with kids in Pensacola is visit the beach!
Known for it’s sugar-white sand and emerald green waters, the beaches of Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key are probably the absolute best things to do with kids. We have spent many many days soaking in the sun along these shores.
If have early risers or late sleepers, be sure to see a sunset or sunrise on Pensacola Beach! After seeing both, I tend to like the sunrise more because there are less people and its much more quiet.
Pensacola is known as part of florida’s emerald coast for good reason. THe beaches are incredible. clear water and white powdery sand.
READ NEXT: 10 Beach Must Haves for Toddler and Baby
Pensacola Children's Museum
The Pensacola Children's Museum is a go-to spot for parents all over the area. It has hands-on history and interactive fun. As a long-time Pensacola resident, I can attest that this charming museum is a hidden gem in the heart of downtown. Admission is reasonably priced at $8 for adults and $4 for children, making it a budget-friendly outing.
THank you to Catherine Koveleski for sharing these updated photos of the recent renovation of the pensacola children’s musuem
The museum is designed with kids in mind, offering two floors of engaging exhibits that explore the rich history of Pensacola and the broader Gulf Coast region. Little ones can step back in time to experience a colonial village, play in a historic fort, and even try their hand at archaeological digs.
When we lived in pensacola, the museum had this awesome wooden ship and mini town for kids to explore!
The museum’s welcoming atmosphere and educational yet playful displays ensure that children of all ages will be entertained and inspired. Don't forget to check out the special programs and events often held here, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit. Trust me, a day spent at the Pensacola Children's Museum is a day well spent!
Pensacola children’s museum is a great place to spend a day. THank you to Catherine Koveleski for sharing these updated photos of the recent renovation of the pensacola children’s musuem
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Pensacola Postcard Mural
There are two amazing murals in Pensacola that are worth the visit with kids.
First, the Pensacola Postcard Mural is a fantastic spot to get a photo souvenir for free! You absolutely must have one of these photos. The mural is located in the East Hill neighborhood, so grab a photo and a Devil Dog brownie from J’s Bakery and sit in one of the many parks to relax!
If you’re in the downtown Pensacola area, search for the Wish You Were Here mural and grab a photo. You can take your photo and then walk a couple of block down to Children’s museum or pair this photo op with a morning a Palafox Market. (The Mural is right of Palafox)
Go for a Hike
Grab your sunscreen and a bottle of water and check out one of the many hiking spots around Pensacola and Escambia County, Florida. There are so many family friendly trails that have boardwalks for strollers or paved path for easy walking.
the edward ball nature trail on the campus of the university of northwest florida
The University of West Florida campus has over 600 acres of trails for walking, hiking, and mountain biking. If you visit on a weekday, stop and get a parking pass.
the arcadia mill trail located near pensacola
If local flora and fauna are your thing, but you want to stay near the beach, you should check out the Pensacola Beach Eco Trail.
Another handicap-accessible and stroller-friendly trail is the Bayou Marcus Birding Trail. This trail consists of 3 miles of boardwalk over wetlands.
READ NEXT: A Complete Guide to Navarre Beach in Florida
Watch the Blue Angels Practice
A trip to northwest Florida just isn’t complete without seeing the US Navy Blue Angels practice!
Photo: Amanda owens
If your kids love airplanes, you absolutely must check out a Blue Angels practice! Practice times and dates vary, so be sure to check this link to see if they’ll be flying when you’re in town. If rather not go on to the Pensacola Naval Air Station to watch the Blue Angels fly, many locals enjoy watching practices from the Blue Angel Pkwy Wal-Mart or Target parking lots.
The Aviation Museum also hosts the Blue Angels FREE autograph sessions, so check the websites for places and times.
national aviation museum
Visit the Naval Aviation Museum
If you’re already on base to watch a Blue Angels practice, make sure not to check out the the history of naval aviation. The museum is open daily from 9 am - 3 pm, and free access is available to the public by entering NAS Pensacola through the west gate. Discover historic aircraft, cockpits, interactive exhibits, and a vast collection of artifacts.
The Naval Aviation Museum is extremely family friendly and by far one of the best things to do in Pensacola with kids.
The national aviation museum is free and incredible!
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Visit Historic Pensacola Village
Step back in time at Pensacola’s Historic District. This is a culmination of 450 years of America’s first multi-year settlement. It’s free to walk around this area, but if you’d like to go inside it’s $12 per adult and your ticket is good for 7 days! This ticket also includes entry into the Pensacola Children’s Museum, so the price is amazing for how many places you can visit.
the historic district in pensacola has every time covered from the first settlers to present day!
If history is your jam, then you’ve come to the right place. The historical era of Pensacola, Florida began with the arrival of Spanish explorers including Tristan de Luna who established a short-lived settlement at Pensacola Bay in 1559. This was the first multi-year European settlement in what is now the continental United States, but it was abandoned after two years.
Go back through pensacola’s entire history at the historic pensacola!
Attend a Sporting Event
Attending a sporting event in Pensacola is a really fun family friendly experience that showcases the city’s vibrant community spirit. There's nothing quite like the thrill of cheering on our local teams with family and friends.
Checking out the ice flyers game with my two little ones
Whether you’re catching the high-energy action of an Ice Flyers ice hockey game at the Pensacola Bay Center or enjoying a sun-soaked afternoon at Blue Wahoos Stadium watching our beloved Blue Wahoos baseball team, the excitement is contagious.
The Ice Flyers' fast-paced games are perfect for wintertime fun, while the Blue Wahoos offer a quintessential summer evening with stunning views of Pensacola Bay. Both venues are incredibly family-friendly, with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained, delicious local snacks, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. Whether you're a die-hard sports fan or just looking for a fun outing, Pensacola’s sports scene has something for everyone!
Be sure to catch a blue wahoos game! This is such a fun family friendly activity
Sky Zone Pensacola
Taking the kids to Sky Zone Pensacola is always a blast and a fantastic way to burn off some energy! This indoor trampoline park can turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary adventure.
Open from 9 AM to 9 PM most days, with extended hours on weekends, it's easy to fit a visit into your schedule. The cost of entry varies by the length of jump time, with prices starting around $16 for 60 minutes.
Sky Zone offers something for every age and activity level, from the Free Jump area to the Foam Zone where kids can safely dive into soft foam cubes. There are also fun dodgeball courts and a Sky Slam area where kids can live out their basketball dreams. With dedicated toddler times and special events, Sky Zone ensures a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone. Trust me, it’s a favorite spot in our family, and your kids will love it just as much!
Pensacola Kid's Place
Visiting Pensacola Kids Place is always a hit with my little ones and a favorite spot in our community! Open Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM, this indoor play center is the perfect destination for a day of fun, rain or shine. The cost of entry is reasonable, at around $10 per child for a day pass, making it an affordable option for families looking for an engaging outing.
a massive indoor playground for kids is so amazing to beat the florida heat
Pensacola Kids Place offers a vibrant, safe environment packed with activities designed to spark creativity and energy. From the expansive play structures and imaginative play zones to the arts and crafts area, there's something to keep every child entertained and happy. Plus, the café on-site is great for a quick snack or a much-needed coffee for us parents.
I absolutely loved going here to get a little work done while my kids played.
With snacks and coffee, the pensacola kids place is amazing for anyone wtih kids
Visit a Local Park or Playground
The Vince J. Whibbs, Sr. Community Maritime Park is a multi-use, public-private park development on Pensacola’s waterfront located in down town pensacola
The city of Pensacola, FL alone boasts a whopping 93 parks; if you add in all of the parks throughout the rest of Escambia County Florida, that number jumps well into triple digits! There are parks with epic playgrounds like Bayview, Hitzman-Optimist, Innerarity Point, Sanders Beach, and Corrine-Jones parks in Pensacola, and the cute little Pirate Ship playground on the sound side at Pensacola Beach.
One of the 93 parks located throughout Pensacola - this one is in the neighborhood of east hill
Visit a Local Splash Pad
Cool off at one of the FREE splash pads in Pensacola.
This is the splash pad located on palafox pier — during a festival they had inflatables for the kids to play
There are also two free splash pads in Pensacola, at Plaza de Luna and Legion Field, and one in Gulf Breeze, FL at Sunset Children’s park. We have spend many afternoons running through the water at Plaza de Luna!
The Plaza de Luna splashpad is located at the end of Palafox Pier and located right next to one of the best restaurants in Pensacola - Jaco’s Bayfront Bar. Plan to cool off in the splashpad after a great lunch!
*Note that none of these parks are shaded, so be prepared with sunscreen & sun hats!
If you’re headed to Pensacola Beach from Pensacola, there is a splash pad in Gulf Breeze called Shoreline Park & Splash Pad - it would be a great stop if you’re driving through!
Plaza de luna is such a great splashpad. with jacos right next door you have have lunch, drinks, and cool off!
I used to spend every single free hour I had walking the shores of gulf islands national seashore and pensacola beach.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Gulf Islands National Seashore reaches from the Mississippi coast through Okaloosa Island, Florida. In my opinion, these beaches are the most gorgeous beaches in all of Florida.
In Pensacola there are multiple beach access points to the National Seashore. Visiting the National Seashore is free and one of the best places to visit the beach alone. Note that there are no lifeguards.
Gulf islands national seashore is home to some of the most expansive and beautiful beaches in the united states. imagine spending an entire morning walking the shore and not seeing another person?? We love this place.
Fort Pickens
A visit to Fort Pickens is a must-do for families looking to blend outdoor adventure with a touch of history. This historic site never fails to impress. Open daily from 8 AM to sunset, Fort Pickens is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore and offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. The entrance fee is $25 per vehicle, which covers access for an entire week – a great deal for multiple visits! (Entry is FREE with a National Park Pass)
The fort itself, with its impressive brickwork and rich Civil War history, captivates both kids and adults alike. You can explore the well-preserved structures, walk along scenic trails, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. The surrounding area is perfect for picnicking, fishing, and even spotting local wildlife. Whether you’re history buffs or nature lovers, Fort Pickens provides a delightful and educational family outing that showcases the best of Pensacola's coastal charm.
Fort pickens is a great spot to spend an afternoon.
Visit Graffiti Bridge
Among the vibrant streets of Pensacola, Florida, there is a hidden gem that captures the essence of the city's artistic spirit—the Graffiti Bridge. The entire city has come to admire this ever-changing mural that spans the length of the bridge, transforming it into a kaleidoscope of colors and creativity.
Grab a lawn chair and watch the artists work OR bring your own paint and let the kids add their own art to the bridge. Every day there are new writings from political stances to marriage proposals to birth announcements. With each passing day, new layers of paint and fresh designs adorn its surface, creating an ever-evolving masterpiece that never fails to inspire awe and wonder.
The Graffiti Bridge is a Pensacola icon and testament to the boundless creativity and vibrant spirit that defines the city.
Spend a Morning at Palafox Market
Exploring Palafox Market is one of our family's favorite weekend traditions here in Pensacola. Open every Saturday from 9 AM to 2 PM, this bustling market transforms downtown’s Palafox Street into a vibrant hub of local culture and community.
Palafox Market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique local products. Strolling through the rows of vendor stalls, you’ll find everything from artisanal breads and organic vegetables to beautiful jewelry and colorful artwork. It’s a fantastic place to chat with local farmers, artists, and craftsmen who are always eager to share their stories and passions. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Palafox Market is a delightful way to spend a Saturday morning and truly experience the heart of Pensacola.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach vacation with great shopping, tons of history, and miles upon miles of access stunning white sand beaches, Pensacola, Florida should be at the top of your list!
Fly Brave, Travel Often, See Everything,
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