Visit Pensacola Blog

Thanksgiving Day Dinner Options

2014-11-25T11:56:00.001-08:00

The Pensacola Bay Area is the perfect place to spend Thanksgiving. If you’re here for family, business, or pleasure, we want you to spend this holiday season without a worry in the world. If time isn’t on your side this year, or it’s family tradition to eat out on Thanksgiving, we’ve got you covered. Pensacola cares about food and family, so make your Thanksgiving this year special.

There are a number of delicious and unique restaurant options available to both you and your family this year.

Grand Marlin
400 Pensacola Beach Blvd
677 9153
11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Atlas Oyster Bar
600 S Barracks St
470-0003
11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

1912 Restaurant
200 E. Gregory
433-3336
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Turkey Brunch

Fish House
600 S. Barracks St.
470-0003
11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Jackson’s Steakhouse
400 S. Palafox
469-9898
11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Landry’s Seafood House
905 E. Gregory St.
434-3600
11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Taste of India
810 E Gregory St.
439-3005
11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

H20 (Hilton)
12 Via de Luna
343 6791
10 a.m. – 3 p.m. for Thanksgiving Brunch

Golden Corral
2260 Langley Ave.
473-0185
10:45 a.m. -7:30 p.m.

Denny’s
4625 Mobile Hwy
456-0014
Open 24 hours a day

IHOP
19 N. Navy Blvd.
457-1883
OPEN 24 hours a day

Ryan’s
9006 Pensacola Blvd.
478-4561
11 a.m. -7 p.m.

Written by Sarah Patton

Historical Spotlight: The REX Theatre

2014-11-06T13:32:00.000-08:00

The Rex Theatre is a historic building that has adorned the downtown Pensacola area since 1910. It was the first art-deco style building built in Florida, which was impressive at the time. In its beginnings it was known as the Rhodes-Collins Furniture Store until it was renovated into a movie theatre in the 1930’s. The REX was a popular place among Pensacola’s visitors and locals, until it was forced to shut its doors in 1977. It was to remain closed for another 30 years.

In 2012, the REX was purchased and has been the subject of a $2.1 million renovation. This renovation will resurrect the REX from its dusty past and give it a much needed facelift. The renovation will create a REX that is both a theatre and a family-friendly community venue.

With these renovations we can also expect:

a second floor café
suites of meeting rooms
a third floor
Handicap accessible (for the first time in its history).

Pensacola may have left the REX empty for 30 years, but we have never forgotten it. Pensacola is incredibly excited about this theatre’s imminent reopening. Discover more about Pensacola’s history here.

Photos provided by the Pensacola Historical Society

Written by Sarah Patton

Pirate History of Perdido Key

2014-10-31T08:33:00.000-07:00

Perdido Key, also known as the “Lost Key”, is 16 miles of paradise along the Emerald Coast of Florida. 60 percent of Perdido Key is located in federal or state parks, making it one of the last remaining stretches of untouched wilderness in the Florida panhandle. It is exceptionally easy to “get lost” on this stretch of untouched beauty.

The history of Perdido Key is rich with pirate history and lore. After Pensacola was settled in 1559, there were rumors of a great mysterious body of water to the west of the settlement. When a search party sailed out in search for this tranquil body of water, they came up short. The entrance to Perdido’s bay was incredibly difficult for explorers to find. When explorers did finally find its entrance they named it Perdido, meaning “lost” or “hidden”. This hidden entrance to Perdido is what historians believe made the area so appealing to pirates.

It has long been speculated that pirates frequented the Gulf Coast for over 140 years, preying on Spanish galleons. Members of the Baldwin County Historical Society believe that Perdido Key was a special destinations for pirates because of its hidden entrance. Pirates were able to hide in Perdido Key, resupply, and sail out into the Gulf whenever they were ready. It can only be assumed that pirates would hide their treasure in the one place they felt safest.

Some of the most famous pirates in history were linked to Perdido Key. Legendary pirates such as Jean Lafitte, Billy Rogers, and Black Caesar, were all said to have been spotted near Perdido Key. If they did hide their treasure there, no one has found it yet. Legends aside, one thing is for certain: explorers’ young and old still travel to Perdido Key in search of its legendary buried treasure. Will you be the one to find it?

Discover Perdido Key for yourself.

Written by Sarah Patton

Freda Kelly at the Frank Brown Songwriters Festival

2014-10-30T08:47:00.003-07:00

The Beatles are a recognized band all around the globe. Before there was ever Beatle-mania there was just unknown teenagers John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Ringo Star, and Freda Kelly.

Freda Kelly was the Beatles secretary- and fan club president- from their early beginnings until their eventual split in 1970. She didn’t just work for the Beatles, she was a driving force in their overall success. And the best part? Freda Kelly will be hosting a screening of the documentary “Good ‘Ol Freda” at the 30th Annual Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival at the Flora-Bama in Perdido Key.

The producer of the documentary, Kathy McCabe, is very eager to be promoting her documentary at this year’s Frank Brown Festival. Both McCabe and Kelly have been friends for years and having this film screening at the Flora-Bama will be a special moment to both of them. Kelly has visited the Emerald Coast with both McCabe and her husband, Mac Walter, before. The last time she was at the Flora-Bama she saw Elaine Petty performing. “The Flora-Bama is like the holy grail to us,” McCabe said. “It’s wonderful to be here and bring Freda here. She loved the Flora-Bama. When I told her about the screenings, she was very excited.”

McCabe, who had never lived anywhere but the Baltimore area, decided to move to the Gulf Coast area after she discovered the thriving musician community. “Once I started going out and hearing the local musicians I said ‘Mac, you are just not going to believe this,’” McCabe recalled. “There are so many good musicians down here and so many good venues, you must go out to hear them.” She was also blown away to discover that the musicians and locals are one big family who are always there to help each other when the chips are down.

“We just fell in love with it down here,” McCabe said. “My husband Mac is a professional musician. Everyone down here has been so kind to him, introducing him to other local musicians, and he started doing gigs right away." The musician community here, McCabe says, is nothing like Baltimore. "It is so much better.”

The documentary film will play on Nov. 16 and Nov. 17 at the Flora-Bama as part of the 30th Annual Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival with McCabe and Freda Kelly herself on hand to answer questions afterwards. It will play at noon both days.

Written by Sarah Patton

Get Ready For The Weekend Of The Year

2014-10-27T13:03:00.001-07:00

I’m talking about Nov. 7-9, when two awesome events share the weekend, making this prime time for visitors who want to see the Gulf Coast at its finest.

There’s no reason you can’t enjoy both – The Blue Angels Homecoming Show and the Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival.

Start planning now so you get your fill of each. (Here’s a tip from a local: For the art show, go early or go late in the day to avoid the crowds that throng Seville Square and nearby parks.)

The Navy’s daredevil pilots will close the season with high energy shows Nov. 8-9 at their home base, Pensacola Naval Air Station. Look for the air shows to be extra amazing because this is the 100th anniversary of Pensacola NAS. In addition to the Blues, you also can enjoy the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, historic Fort Barrancas and more. And it comes as the nation honors our military with Veterans Day Nov. 11.

As for the art show, there are many reasons why it’s one of the most popular in the Southeast. Great music and plenty of children’s activities add to the show, which draws 200-plus painters, potters, sculptors, jewelers and other artists. It’s all in downtown Pensacola, where you can enjoy a great lineup of restaurants, museums and bars, too.

Written by Mark O'Brien | Photo by Shawn Brown

Pensacola tales of Geronimo and a Haunted Lighthouse

2014-10-24T06:45:00.001-07:00

An old, historic town like Pensacola is sure to collect some characters, real and imagined.

Two examples: A savvy Native American was peddling merchandise to tourists long before the T-shirt shop was born, and people see all sorts of sights, real and imagined, at a 150-year-old lighthouse open to the public.

The Apache leader Geronimo showed plenty of ingenuity when he was held prisoner at Fort Pickens on Pensacola Beach after he surrendered in 1886. Several communities offered to hold Geronimo in their prisons because he would be a tourist attraction, but Pensacola won out.

Tourists were indeed allowed to walk up to Geronimo in his cell, and he would offer to sell them a button off his shirt as a souvenir. He would sell every button – and return the next day with a shirt full of new buttons to be sold.

Atop the Pensacola Lighthouse & Museum, you can see for miles and miles, but you may want to keep an eye on the building, too.

Built in 1858, the lighthouse has accumulated some legends --such as being haunted by ghosts, among them a runaway slave who once hid there as well as the restless spirit of a murder victim. The Pensacola Lighthouse has been featured on the popular television program "Ghost Hunter” for things that allegedly go “bump in the night.”

Still, it’s worth the short hike – 177 steps that bring you to a beautiful vista over Pensacola Bay. See for yourself.

Written by Mark O'Brien

6 Ways To Celebrate a Spooky Halloween

2014-10-22T08:31:00.000-07:00

From the spooky to the not so spooky, there is a lot of festive fun going on this Halloween in the Pensacola Bay Area. Here's a list of our top 6 festival favorites.

Perdido Key Pirate Festival - Join us on Oct. 25 - 26 for a weekend of fun at the Perdido Key Pirate Festival. This celebration is currently in it’s second year and to celebrate there will be vendors, music, and lots of fun activities.
Barktoberfest - If it’s the entire family you want to include in your “spooktacular” Halloween plans this weekend, why not include your family’s furry friend? Oct. 25 is the the annual Barktoberfest, a celebration of pets during this fun time of year.
Haunted Trolley Ride - take a haunted walking or trolley tour in downtown Pensacola.
Witches and Warlocks Convention - Climb aboard a Winterfest trolley and Glinda the Good Witch will lead you on encounters with some of the most famous spell-casters in history.
League of Fear 2014 Season of Screams - Are you ready for eight scream filled nights in the haunted house located in the old Pensacola News Journal building?
Haunted Lighthouse Tour - Get ready for a fun, friendly and frightful evening at the Pensacola Lighthouse. For dates and times visit our website.

Written by Sarah Patton

A Not So Scary Halloween

2014-10-21T13:03:00.000-07:00

It’s that time of year again. Halloween is right around the corner and Pensacola is buzzing with ways to curb your family’s craving for a spooky weekend. Pensacola has so much going on that this Halloween promises to be the biggest one yet!

October 25^thmight be a week before Halloween but we don’t think it’s too early to celebrate. This weekend marks the beginning of the Perdido Key Pirate Festival. This weekend will be filled with music and fun for pirates of all ages. Check out the pirate coin treasure hunt and maybe you will find the grand prize treasure chest filled with a luxurious vacation package to Perdido Key. The event is free with paid admission to the Big Lagoon State Park ($6.00).

If your little pumpkin likes the Blue Angels, take them down to the Naval Aviation Museum between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for the Naval Aviation Museum Halloween Celebration. This free event features treat stations around the museum. This event also features free admission to the Magic of Flight experience and Blue Angels 4D Experience for children in costume with an adult purchase of admission.

If it’s the entire family you want to include in your “spooktacular” Halloween plans this weekend, why not include your family’s furry friend? October 25^th also marks the day for the annual Barktoberfest, a celebration of pets during this fun time of year. Bring Fido along to enjoy in the festivities, and he could even win a contest!

After dropping Fido off at home, check out the NAS HauntedLighthouse Tour, happening October 24^th, 25^th, 30^th, and 31^st. This is a family friendly event based on a traditional haunted house. Costumes are encouraged, but please wear appropriate shoes and clothing because the Lighthouse Tower will be open to explore. Admission for this event is $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children.

But who could forget about the trick or treating? Pensacon is hosting Trick or Treat Downtown from 4-6:30pm on October 30^th. Members of Pensacon will be handing out candy in costume to children downtown. Families can then head over to the Saenger Theatre on Intendencia Street and experience Family Fun Fest. Both of these events are for children 9 and under, and children can enjoy bounce houses, carnival games, slides, and more!

For more events in the Pensacola Bay Area visit our website.

Written by Sarah Patton

Join us for the Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival

2014-10-17T13:20:00.002-07:00

Fill your senses with the sights, sounds and tastes of Pensacola’s most popular art festival.
Mild temperatures on tree-shaded parks near the waterfront. Tasty food from local shops. Music --everything from classical to Cajun, from blues to bluegrass.

And art. Awesome art!

It’s the annual Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival, a three-day event which opens on the first Friday of every November and draws crowds of people to historic Seville Square and nearby Bartram Park in downtown Pensacola.

The show is a hit, and not just with local folks. It draws people from throughout the Southeast, and it gets rave reviews from “Sunshine Artist Magazine” and “Top 20 Events in the Southeast,” among others. All this, and admission is free!

It’s a juried art show, meaning that barely a third of the 600-plus applicants are selected for the event. Competition is intense; there’s $20,000 in prize money, plus a chance to showcase art work to thousands of people.

The show’s art covers the gamut: ceramics, drawing, fiber/leather, glass, jewelry, mixed media, oil/acrylics, photography, printmaking/graphics, sculpture, watercolor and wood.

Even if you’re not an art connoisseur you can have a great time. That’s because music, food and fun are big parts of the festival, too. This includes art projects and other activities for kids, displays of heritage arts like blacksmithing, and great people-watching, too.

Check out our website for other Pensacola area events and activities.

Pensacola Celebrity Chefs are taking local flavors to NYC for fourth consecutive James Beard House Dinner

2014-09-26T12:21:00.003-07:00

Pensacola Bay white scampi, Gulf snapper, Apalachicola scallops among menu items reflecting Florida Gulf Coast influences

Five of the Pensacola Bay Area’s finest chefs are heading back to New York City’s acclaimed James Beard House for the fourth consecutive year to host a dinner showcasing the destination’s signature culinary offerings.

The event – titled, “Southern Inspired: Fresh from Florida’s Gulf Coast,” will be hosted by Visit Pensacola on Oct. 1, when Pensacola Celebrity Chefs Dan Dunn of H2O at the Hilton Pensacola Beach Gulf Front, Irv Miller of Jackson’s Steakhouse, Jim Shirley of the Fish House, Gus Silivos of Nancy’s Haute Affairs and Frank Taylor of Global Grill will prepare a five-course meal that highlights the distinctive flavors of Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast by featuring locally-harvested produce and seafood.

“To have been invited to the James Beard House for an unprecedented fourth year is a tremendous honor, as is having the opportunity to represent the rich history and culture of the Pensacola Bay Area and of Florida through culinary exploration,” Chef Silivos said.

House-smoked oyster sumac, seared Gulf snapper with pineapple sage pesto, Pensacola Bay white scampi, salt and pepper Apalachicola scallops and Baldwin County-raised grass-fed beef are among the dishes to be served by the reputable chefs. Dessert, prepared collaboratively by the five chefs, is the unforgettable “Bushwacker Two-Way,” featuring the signature beverage Bushwacker—a creamy, delicious rum drink made with cream of coconut, Kahlua® coffee liqueur, crème de cacao, half-and-half and vanilla ice cream—paired with a tres leches cake that is topped off with toffee glass and coconut whip.

The James Beard Foundation was established in 1986 in honor of James Beard, a cookbook author, teacher and father of American gastronomy. Beard’s Greenwich Village townhouse showcases the industry’s finest chefs at nightly dining events. The Oct. 1 event will be the Pensacola Celebrity Chefs’ fourth consecutive James Beard House dinner.

Planning Your Foo Foo Fest Vacation

2014-09-26T12:12:00.003-07:00

You’ve heard about the Foo Foo Fest, and you are excited about a few of the great events. But, do you know about ALL of the events. The Foo Foo Fest is taking place from Nov. 6 -17 and boasts many culturally creative happenings, events, and experiences all under one banner.

Recently, Foo Foo Fest launched their new website which list all the events, dates, locations and where to buy tickets if it is a ticketed event (some events are FREE). While you can go to the website for a full listing, here are some of the key events you should be looking forward too:

Coming down for the Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival, Nov. 7, 8 & 9 (Fri. - Sun.), because you love art, handmade items and crafts? Also, plan to experience Foo Foo on Fire: A Glass & Clay Event featuring live glass blowing, clay sculpting and pottery demonstrations on Saturday, Nov. 8.
Attending the Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show at NAS Pensacola Nov. 7-9? Make plans to attend the Pensacola Children’s Chorus on Veteran’s Day, Tuesday, Nov. 11, at the National Naval Aviation Museum as they perform an “American Tribute”. Also, Naval Air Station Pensacola is celebrating it’s 100th anniversary!
If you are making your way to town for the The Pensacola Pop Expo and wanting to see Ernie Hudson of Ghostbusters fame on Saturday, Nov. 15, be sure to come a day early because the Japan-American Society of Pensacola is having their annual film festival, Nov. 14 & 15, and showing classic, contemporary and anime films.
The 28th Annual Frank Brown International Songwriter’s Festival always has a big draw for the area, Nov. 6-16! But, did you know the Frank Brown Songwriter’s Festival team is kicking this year's edition off with a huge tribute show? Make plans to be here on Nov. 6 for the Remembering Songwriter Larry Butler, celebrating and remembering the life of this Grammy-Award winning music producer and Pensacola native. Musical acts include Jim Mcbride, Mike McGuire, Chris Roach, Rhonda Hart and Don Schlitz.

The other 17 events include opera, ballet, theater, the fine arts, top-rated classical and popular music, African-American heritage events, and more, as just some of the many offerings. Visitors can also experience Pensacola’s beautiful beaches and Fall weather during what is normally the traditional “off-season.”

Other events happening during the period include performances by Cher, Jerry Seinfeld and many regional music acts. For more great event details and booking your hotel, visit our website.

Perdido Key Pirate Festival – Yo Ho! It’s A Pirate’s Life for Me

2014-09-24T08:38:00.000-07:00

Gather ye crew n’ sail to Big Lagoon State Park on Predido Key, FL to hunt for treasures for an unforgettable adventure Oct. 25-26, 2014!

The treasure hunt is on to unlock the ultimate vacation getaway at the second annual Perdido Key Pirate Festival on the “Lost Key.” The setting for the festival is the nature lover’s paradise, Big Lagoon State Park, and will be hosted by the Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center. Each day, a large key will be hidden within the park for treasure-hunters to discover. The lucky family who finds the "lost key” will unlock a treasure chest loaded with an ultimate beachside vacation getaway that includes a one week stay at Sandy Key Condominiums, dolphin cruise tickets and gift certificates to some of Perdido Key’s best attractions and restaurants.

Perdido Key is a barrier island with sugar white sand and emerald-green waters located between the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway. Pillage and run the 16 miles of beautiful coastal beaches that have been ranked among the nation’s top 20 beaches by “Dr. Beach.”

Treasure seeks will dig for more than 1,000 coins will be hidden each day of the festival.

Some of the coins will be specially marked and can be redeemed for thousands of dollars in booty donated by the Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce member businesses.

The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., October 25 - 26 at Big Lagoon State Park, located at 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy. Each treasure seeker will receive a map outlining the boundaries of the hunting area. To protect the park, no coins will be buried or hidden anywhere that would cause damage to park facilities or plant life. Free event admission with a $6 park entrance fee. The festival will also feature:

Swashbuckling Pirate games
Pirate Costume contest –don’t forget to dress up and channel your inner pirate
Live chantey and music with Captain Davy
Live reptile shows by Reno's Reptiles
Plus: storytelling, magic, face painting, food, arts and crafts vendors and more!

For more information, visit www.visitperdido.com/pirate-fest, or call 1-800-328-0107.

We’ll see you thar, matey!

Beer here! Dogs, too

2014-09-24T07:54:00.000-07:00

For us Oktoberfest fans, the only problem is deciding how many Oktoberfests to attend. Each has its own specialties, in addition to authentic German food, beer and music that will make even a dead man’s toes tap.

Let’s see how long we can hold our beer at Perdido Key’s Fifth Annual Oktoberfest Oct. 3-4. It’s a real game – called Masskrugstemen—where folks compete to see how long they can hold a stein of beer at shoulder level before they say “Bottoms up.”

The nearby Flora-Bama Lounge will get into the spirit with German draft beer, along with German-style food in its Oyster Bar and Yacht Club on Oct. 4th.

World of Beer gets its Oktoberfest party started early Oct. 18 with an 8 a.m. 5K. This way, you get your exercise out of the way so you can focus on a full day and night of fun on Palafox Street, named a Great Place in America by the American Planning Association for its mix of architecture, wide sidewalks and colorful trees, not to mention awesome locally owned restaurants and bars.

October is so friendly that even our four-legged friends have their own event – Barktoberfest, Oct. 25, at Seville Square. Put your best paw forward and see if your pup can win a contest; categories include Best Costume, Best Kisser, Best Trick and Owner-Pet Look Alike – maybe not a prize you want to win.

Written by Mark O'Brien

Immerse Yourself in a Greek Experience in the Pensacola Bay Area

2014-09-18T07:50:00.000-07:00

Get ready to immerse yourself in a Pensacola Bay Area tradition at the 55th Annual Pensacola Greek Festival held at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, Oct. 10-12. This is a cultural festival you don’t want to miss. Bring your appetite and friends for delicious traditional Greek cuisine while enjoying live Greek music and youth folk-dancing. You may even want to test your own skills and join in for some festive Greek dancing. Opa!

While enjoying the festival, make sure to take a tour of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, and experience beautiful Byzantine hymns sung by choir members, as you view the architectural beauty of the church.

The event is free and open to the public. We hope to see you there!

Visit our website for other events taking place this fall in the Pensacola Bay Area.

Written by Shawn Brown

Fun at the 80th Annual Pensacola Interstate Fair

2014-09-17T12:00:00.000-07:00

Fall is in the air, and that means it’s fair time!

Get ready to indulge in sugary-sweet cotton candy, top-notch entertainment and hair-raising rides at the 80th Annual Pensacola Interstate Fair. The fair will take place Oct. 16-26 and offer attractions that the whole family will enjoy.

If you are a thrill seeker, strap in and hold tight on over 60 exciting rides. Are you looking to add a giant stuffed animal to your collection? Give it your best shot at one of the many games of skill. When you're ready to take a break from the rides, explore the exhibits or grab a bite to eat.

In addition to the rides, there will be first-rate entertainment. Grab your seat and get ready to rock out with Eddie Money, David Nail, Craig Morgan, the Eli Young Band, and more.

Don't miss this opportunity to make memories with friends and family that you will enjoy for many years to come! Visit our website for other events in the Pensacola Bay Area.

24th Annual Haunted House Walking and Trolley Tours

2014-09-16T14:51:00.000-07:00

There's a slight chill in the air. Is it just fall or maybe.... a ghost? If you are hoping to be sufficiently spooked, the Pensacola Historical Society has just what you're looking for. The 24th Annual Haunted House Walking and Trolley Tours return to historic downtown Pensacola on Friday, Oct. 17, and will show you a side of the Pensacola Bay Area that rarely meets the eye. The Historical Society will be offering four different tours to all specter seekers.

Murder and Mayhem Walking Tours

Follow along with costumed guides, as they take you down Intendencia Street, touted by many as the most haunted street in the Pensacola Bay Area. How did it receive this ominous title? There's only one way to find out...

Spooky Seville Walking Tours

Seville Square is home to many historic houses that exude the charm and grace of a simpler time... during the day. Take a stroll down Seville's sidewalks after dark and listen to tales of the buildings and those who once called them home... or maybe still do.

Adults-Only Redlight Walking Tours

For the more mature ghost-hunters, the Historical Society offers a trip down what used to be Pensacola's redlight district. Hear tales of the area's port history, as you explore Palafox Street.

Trolley of the Doomed

Buy your ticket and become part of the cursed cargo of the Trolley of the Doomed. This tour of terror takes you to Pensacola's North Hill District. On this tour, you will not be allowed to leave the trolley, but after hearing the haunting history of North Hill, you will probably prefer the view from inside the vehicle.

The hour-long walking tours will take place every half hour beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 17,18, 24, 25, and November 1. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Trolley tours will also begin at 6:30 p.m., and will run once each hour on Oct. 17, 18, 24,25, and November 1. Tickets are $16 for adults and $8 for children 12 and under. If you think you are brave enough to explore the other side of the Pensacola Bay Area, call 850-595-5985, ext. 111.Tickets go on sale September 23, 2014, so don't miss your chance! Visit our website for more information.

Written by Brooke Fleming

New Website For Visitors On The Run

2014-09-11T13:17:00.003-07:00

www.runningpensacola.com makes finding a local running or endurance event easy

For runners who travel, it can be challenging to maintain a consistent running schedule away from home—and a few days’ interval can throw off even the best runners. That’s why the Pensacola Sports Association teamed up with Visit Pensacola to launch a new online resource for runners visiting the Pensacola Bay Area, www.RunningPensacola.com. The new site is a one-stop listing of local running and endurance events throughout the “City of Five Flags,” including 5Ks, 10Ks, 15Ks, half and full marathons, mud and obstacle runs, swims, bike rides/events, tri- and duathlons and other high-endurance events.

It’s the perfect resource for visitors looking to maintain a personal training schedule, or those who want to find a running or endurance event while they’re here exploring the beautiful Gulf Coast.

The Pensacola Bay Area is teaming with unique and unforgettable running events, from the renowned Pensacola Marathon to the fall Zombie Run to the 37-year-old McGuire’s St. Patrick’s Day Run. Year-round mild temperatures mean ample opportunities for visitors to join an event, and the new site makes it easier than ever to find the perfect one.

Kayak, BBQ & Blues Fest—One of Fall’s Hottest Beach Festivals

2014-09-04T13:48:00.002-07:00

Who says outdoor summer fun has to end? Perdido Key, FL is gearing up for its second annual Kayak, BBQ & Blues Festival this Saturday, Sept. 6. Paddle boarders and kayakers will get their adrenaline pumping as they set out out on the beautiful emerald-green waters to compete for more than $5,000 in prize money. Fun-seekers of all ages will cheer them on amid a backdrop of live music, a barbeque cook-off and live flyboarding show—an extreme sport described as “being propelled through the water and high into the air by a water jet-pack that’s also attached to a Jet Ski.”

It all happens this Saturday at Hub Stacey’s at the Point, where musical acts The Band Wagon, Jay Williams Band, Cat Rhodes and Johnny Barbato and the Lucky Doggs will perform throughout the day and backyard cooks will compete for cash prizes and bragging rights in an authentic, southern style BBQ cook-off. At 8pm, the festival will conclude with an unforgettable waterfront fireworks extravaganza produced by internationally known Pyrotecnico.

To register for Battle of the Paddle and the BBQ Cook-Off online click here.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Jam Out to Your Favorites at Gulf Coast Summer Fest!

2014-08-25T12:38:00.002-07:00

Picture it. Your toes are buried in sand so soft and white you’d almost think it was straight from the sugar bowl. A gentle breeze stirs the straw in your tropical beverage to the beat of some of your favorite songs. This… is Gulf Coast Summer Fest. On Aug. 30, you will be able to enjoy some of the best R&B, jazz and southern soul artists all in one perfect location – Pensacola Beach.

The event began in 2007 at the Pensacola Interstate Fairground, and has continued to grow in popularity ever since. Last year, show organizers decided it was time for a change of scenery and moved Summer Fest to beach. This decision was so well received that they expect to see about 20,000 people at this year’s event!

American Idol Winner Fantasia Barrino at Summer Fest 2013

The Summer Fest 2014 lineup is packed with star-power. New Edition fans will be treated to a performance by Johnny Gill, who is best remembered for his lead vocals on their hit, “Boys to Men.” Average White Band will also be taking the stage, with many familiar tunes from the 70s that will have you humming along, including their hit “Pick Up the Pieces”. You will also get to see 90s singing group Dru Hill, Will Downing, Lacee, Tucka, New Orleans Jazz Vocalist Gina Brown, and local favorite En’Trigue.

So, bring your chair, your umbrella and your cooler, and make a day out of it! The event begins at noon on Saturday, Aug. 30, and advance tickets are $50. You can also buy tickets on the day of the event for $65. For more information, check out our website! We’ll see you there!

Written by Brooke Fleming

Pensacola Bay Burger Guide

2014-07-29T07:03:00.000-07:00

Get ready to kick back, relax and enjoy a legendary burger in the Pensacola Bay Area. There are many great places to eat, but I thought I’d share a few local places to enjoy a delicious burger, at a modest price. Some of them have been around for generations and haven't changed their approach since they first opened their doors. Others entered the scene more recently and have worked their way onto the list of favorite eateries by delivering an unforgettable burger.

The first place I’d like to take you is a burger joint located on Palafox Street in downtown Pensacola. Get ready to build your own custom “dream burger” at Tin Cow, where it’s a sure bet that you’ll have a hard time choosing from the endless list of fresh dressings and toppings.

For generations Blue Dot Barbecue and Jerry’s Drive-In have been serving up some great burgers. Just ask any local, and they’ll know exactly what you are talking about. My all-time favorite at Jerry’s is the bacon swiss burger with a chocolate shake on the side. Now I’m getting hungry! You’ll experience the flavor of the local neighborhoods as well as the excellent burgers they create just for you.

Get ready to get some spectacular views of Santa Rosa Sound, get some sand between your toes, listen to live music as you enjoy the Paradise Burger at Paradise Bar & Grill.

If you are feeling adventurous, you may want to visit McGuire’s Irish Pub and indulge in one of their custom ground Angus Steak Burgers. They’ve got everything from a BBQ Cheddar Steak Burger, Skippy Peanut Butter Burger, Wasabi Steak Burger, Big Daddy Burger, and St. Patty Melt to the McGuire’s Terrible Garbage Burger. Of course if you really want to splurge for only $100 you can get The Grand Burger, a filet mignon served with a side of caviar, merlot sauce and a Grand Magnum of imported Moet Imperial Champagne. If you are looking for something a bit more economical, it’s hard to beat their house-brewed root beer.

If you are “lost” on the key you may want to let those taste buds come alive as you enjoy the Hubba Bubba burger at Hub Stacey’s at the Point in Perdido Key. This 8-ounce burger with sautéed mushrooms, gravy and melted Swiss cheese will put you in food coma for the rest of the day.

We’d love to hear about your burger experience in the Pensacola Bay Area. While you are visiting, make sure you check out all the great food offerings available.

Written by Shawn Brown

Canoe and Kayak on Perdido Key

2014-07-18T10:29:00.000-07:00

Are you ready to explore the scenic waterways of the “lost island” also known as Perdido Key? Sit back and imagine yourself paddling a canoe or kayak on this aquatic adventure.

To me, Perdido Key is a paddler’s paradise waiting to be discovered again and again. The scenic beauty of the waterways on Perdido Key is the perfect destination for the ecotourist at heart. You’ll explore shallow bays, discover islands with white, sandy beaches to relax on and observe an abundance of wildlife, as you paddle the key’s beautiful salt marshes.

Getting to these locations is easier than you think. To get you started, I am sharing three great locations to get you ready for your own paddling expedition.

Small Island off Perdido Key

We’ll start our paddling adventure at my secret spot. This kayak launch, known by a few locals, is perfect for exploring Old River and accessing the many small uninhabited islands. These islands have nice beaches that are perfect for a picnic break during your paddling adventure. The public launch is located off River Road on Perdido Key. There is a shell parking area, and the elevated boardwalk takes you directly into the water for easy kayak and canoe access.

Kayak launch in Rosamond Johnson Beach

Next, we’ll move over to the award-winning Gulf Islands National Seashore, in Rosamond Johnson Beach, located on the east end of Perdido Key. Here, you will explore extensive seagrass beds, wildlife and historical points of interest. Recently dedicated as the Perdido Key Blueway Trail, this canoe and kayak trail is a 5.5-mile addition to the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail.

Kayaker in Big Lagoon State Park

Travel across the Perdido Key bridge to Big Lagoon State Park for our next paddling destination. This park is known as the start of the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. Paddlers will explore shallow bays, estuaries and Big Lagoon Bay. This area is also a great place for birding, casting a fishing line or for a leisurely paddle. You’ll enjoy floating along while watching Blue and Green Herons and other coastal birds, as they hunt for their next meal. In Big Lagoon State Park, you may bring your own kayak or rent one from the park.

Now, you’re ready to paddle the “lost island." We’d love to hear about your adventure.

Written by Shawn Brown

The Pensacola Bay Area for Kids and Kids at Heart

2014-07-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

It might sound a bit cliché to say that the Pensacola Bay Area is a child’s ideal playground, but it really is! With more than 52 miles of pristine beaches, numerous parks, museums, year-round family-friend festivals and events and educational attractions, our beautiful destination provides plenty for kids (or kids at heart) to enjoy! The best part? Every adventure is a learning one.

Kids of all ages can explore vintage aircraft, learn about naval aviation first-hand and take part in the Blue Angels Experience at the National Naval Aviation Museum. During the summer, seventh through 12th-graders can immerse themselves in fully simulated missions at the state-of-the-art National Flight Academy, aboard Naval Air Station Pensacola. Also aboard NAS Pensacola, kids can learn about the history of Pensacola Bay at the historic Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum and climb 177 steps to witness breathtaking views.

In historic downtown Pensacola, not only can kids walk in the footsteps of early explorers through Historic Pensacola Village but also learn about heritage, art and even engineering! The newly opened Pensacola M.E.S.S. Hall, a far-from-average science museum, allows kids to become real scientists for the day, exploring math, engineering and science in a fun, exciting atmosphere. At the Pensacola Children’s Museum, kids can explore more than 450 years of history on two separate floors designed for young and older children alike, thanks to the Panton Trading Post, the Fort, a Native American Village, a reading nook, train sets, building blocks and a Discovery Gallery.

Little explorers wanting to discover the outdoors will find plenty to do across the Gulf Islands National Seashore in the Pensacola Bay Area, which this year was voted as the third-best beach in the country! Parents and little ones alike can enjoy a paddle boarding lesson, hop aboard a dolphin cruise, hike numerous walking trails, explore a historic fort or simply take a swim. They can also see hundreds of animals at the Gulf Breeze Zoo, enjoy a dolphin show at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park or pitch a tent at Big Lagoon State Park. There’s also something for pint-sized adventurers, who can enjoy thrilling rides, water slides and other games at Sam’s Fun City or zoom around a go-cart track at Fast Eddie’s Fun Center.

With all of this and more, it’s no surprise that the Pensacola Bay Area remains a preferred vacation destination for families across the country. There’s always something to discover, and your little ones will enjoy exploring and more, right here along Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Learn about more family-friendly activities in the Pensacola Bay Area or browse our calendar of events. We hope to see you and your family soon!

Written by Valeria L. Palmertree

Dog-Friendly Activities in the Pensacola Bay Area

2014-07-07T14:32:00.000-07:00

It’s a great time to get outdoors with your furry friend as fall quickly approaches. If you’re like me, you are always looking for something new and fresh to do outdoors. From a dog beach to pet-friendly dining experiences, the Pensacola Bay area has many opportunities for you and your dog to enjoy together. Thinking of all that the Pensacola Bay Area has to offer, I decided to compile a list of some of my favorite experiences.

Let your dog have a blast splashing around in the water and running free with other furry friends at Dog Beach, located in Bayview Park.
Explore nature with your dog at Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park. Tarkiln Bayou is a 4,290-acre park that includes wheelchair accessible trails. The park is also a great place to view pitcher plants.
Take a walk with your dog along the walking paths at Navy Point. Navy Point Walking Trail features 2.5 miles of walking trails along Bayou Grande for you and your dog to enjoy the scenery.
Take your dog camping at Big Lagoon State Park or Fort Pickens.
Discover the beauty of Perdido Key on the Johnson Beach Discovery Nature Trail, located in the Gulf Islands National Seashore.
Enjoy a pet-friendly outdoor dining experience at some of these area restaurants.
Take your furry friend to Barktoberfest this fall!

Now that you know my top seven, it’s time to get out and explore the Pensacola Bay Area to experience them for yourself. What are your favorite dog spots?

Written by Shawn Brown

Family Fun Outdoor Events

2014-03-20T13:56:00.003-07:00

Spring is in the air, and I'd have to say we are a bit excited about it!

The days are warming, the flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and we've got some fun festivities to welcome Spring in the Pensacola Bay Area. We've compiled a list of a few events we thought you would enjoy.

Palafox Market

Palafox Market is open every Sat. from 8 a.m. to 2. p.m. rain or shine in downtown Pensacola. This thriving open-air market is the place to get fresh produce, live plants, baked goods and enjoy fine art.

Gallery Night

If you enjoy art, music and delicious cuisine, then head to downtown Pensacola for an evening of fun. Once a month the streets of downtown Pensacola come alive for Gallery Night as visitors and locals come together to enjoy local During this event Palafox Street is open to foot traffic only, and most of the downtown businesses stay open late. You'll enjoy strolling down the brick sidewalks as you take in the sights and sounds of downtown Pensacola.

20th Annual Gulf Breeze Arts Festival

Come celebrate fine arts and crafts at the 20th Annual Gulf Breeze Arts Festival March 29-30. This festival is a juried event that brings over 150 national and local artists, and it will be held in the Gulf Breeze High School parking lot.

Bands on the Beach

Sink your toes in the sand, feel the breeze and sway to the music at the Gulfside Pavilion on Pensacola Beach. Bands on the Beach is a free weekly concert series that features regional artists performing a wide variety of music every Tuesday night April through October.

Perdido Key Wine & Art Festival

Let the breeze take you away to the "Lost Island", where you can enjoy art and live music at the Perdido Key Wine & Art Festival. The festival will overlook the Gulf of Mexico at the Visitor Information Center on Perdido Key.

Festival on the Green

I can't think of a better place to host Festival on the Green than on the beautiful, natural setting of the campus at University of West Floridain northeast Pensacola. There you'll enjoy strolling under large oak trees as you explore booth after booth of arts and crafts while listening to live music. We're sure you'll find fun something for everyone at this family-friendly event taking place April 4 - 5.

JazzFest

Enjoy a two day celebration of musical fun under a live oak canopy in historic downtown Pensacola. This celebration, scheduled for April 5 - 6, in historic Seville Square is the perfect setting for the Pensacola JazzFest. Bring out your lawn chairs and picnic baskets, or purchase food from one of the food vendors and make a day of it.

Opera in the Park

Kick back and enjoy the sea breeze and breathtaking bay front views at Opera in the Park. This first annual event will feature arts and crafts, story time, and other activities designed for kids and families. The day will also include a special performance of the educational children’s opera “Little Red’s Most Unusual Day”, performed by the Pensacola Opera’s Artists in Residence. The event will be held in downtown Pensacola at the Community Maritime Park on April 5 at 9:00 a.m.

Art in the Park

If you want to soak up some local culture while you soak up our Pensacola Bay Area sunshine, you will not want to miss the 12th Annual Art in the Park May 17-18! Taking place at Seville Square in the heart of historic Pensacola Village, Art in the Park will showcase the works of more than 100 regional and national artists.

We hope you will join us in celebrating our beautiful Spring weather at these wonderful outdoor events. See you soon!

Written by Shawn Brown

Cirque du Soleil will delight Pensacola with Varekai March 19-23

2014-03-17T14:41:00.002-07:00

Cirque du Soleil is bringing its newest arena show, Varekai, to the Pensacola Bay Center! Become immersed in a spell-binding acrobatic adventure, filled with fantastical creatures that fly through the air, dance on stilts and not only juggle fire, but humans as well. And, as with all Cirque shows, clowns and other performers will keep everyone smiling, too.

As in many Cirque du Soleil productions, Varekai will wow the audience when brightly-hued creatures find their lives disrupted by a man, Icarus, who suddenly falls from the sky into a glittering forest where he embarks on an eye-opening journey. Through Icarus’s excursion, a multitude of creatures emerge from the forest to perform a diverse range of intricately choreographed and physically demanding acts aimed to astound the audience.

Created and directed by Quebec’s very own Dominic Champagne, an award-winning artist and director of both Cirque’s Zumanity and the Beatles-inspired Love, Varekai echoes Cirque’s version of a modern circus.

The critically-acclaimed production features an International cast of 50 performers and musicians that have brought wonder and delight to over 8 million people worldwide since it first premiered in Montreal in 2002. Since then, Varekai has visited more than 72 cities in 20 different countries around the world.

Now it’s your turn to see Varekai perform one of seven shows, March 19 – 23 at the Pensacola Bay Center—only the second time a Cirque du Soleil show has visited this city. Tickets are available at www.cirquedusoleil.com/varekai or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Written by Ideawörks