10 Things to Do in Pensacola Beyond the Beach
Pensacola is synonymous with beautiful beaches. Anyone who has visited the area can attest to the enjoyment that is to be found on the area’s pristine white, sandy shores.
Play Time: Amusement Parks and Adventurous Attractions for Families in Pensacola
Amusement parks have been around since the 16th Century. Hard-working individuals and families looking for entertainment have sought out roadside parks and expositions for almost as many years as Pensacola has been on the map.
Today’s parks and adventure attractions offer everything from thrill rides and mini golf to ziplines, go-karts and water slides. Pensacola-area visitors are sure to find something that suits their play style when it comes to fun and games.
Laguna’s is the adventure park, restaurant and entertainment venue that is hard to miss when you first arrive at Pensacola Beach. With brightly colored ziplines and climbing courses situated near the foot of the Bob Sikes Bridge, it is difficult to come and go on the island without young passengers asking to ride the go-karts or play on the splash pad at Laguna’s. Adults will appreciate the availability of beach chairs and umbrellas for relaxing by the Santa Rosa Sound. Fat Tuesday’s daiquiris (and kid-friendly, non-alcoholic versions) sold here are refreshing on a hot day.
Take a walk on the wild side, and head to the Gulf Breeze Zoo! Grab a lettuce cup and feed the giraffes and take a ride around the preserve aboard the Safari Express Train Ride and see gorillas, hippos, kudu, and more animals. Be sure to stop in the Budgiery Adventure Aviary and experience budgies in flight and even feed them. At the Watering Hole Cafe you can grab a snack or even some lunch on your day at the zoo.
If you are looking to keep the fun indoors when the temperatures are high, SkyZone trampoline park is a good option. Purchas a 90-minute session or all-day pass, plus socks, to enjoy freestyle jumping, as well as a designated toddler zone, foam zone, sky ladder, sky joust and ultimate dodgeball. Early morning hours are usually less crowded and may be desirable for families with the littlest jumpers.
West of Downtown Pensacola, mini golf enthusiasts will love Goofy Golf of Pensacola. This classic putt-putt course has a retro feel. It features large sculptures over each hole. Hit the ball through a giant cowboy boot, a dinosaur or octopus, for example. Guests can play 18 or 36 holes at Goofy Golf, which reviewers have noted for its affordable rates and support of the non-profit First Tee of Northwest Florida.
Feeling the need for speed? Fast Eddie’s Fun Center boasts four go-kart tracks, an arcade and batting cages. The SuperKart Speedway, for ages 16 and up, is a competitive tri-oval track with computerized scoring and timing. Another track is designed for kids ages 4-7. There is a track here for young drivers, old drivers, and everyone in between.
Although it is a more traditional attraction, a good old-fashioned playground is sometimes all you need. Perdido Key Kids Park has a designated Tot Lot for ages 2-6. Young ones can also play in a bright red fire truck structure and steer small blue wooden airplanes, designed to look like the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.
The whole family can enjoy a ride on a Pensacola Bay City Ferry. Try a Blue Angels practice cruise to take in the jaw-dropping sights and sounds of the aerial performance squadron during their weekly practices between March-October. Be sure and check their practice schedule for specific dates.
While you're on Pensacola Beach, head over to UFO's Mini Golf. What's better than a few rounds of mini golf right on the Gulf? Head inside to hit the arcade and grab some ice cream once you're done, it's the perfect way to end the night with family.
Before you go to any of these local amusement parks or attractions, it is recommended to call or check the business website or Facebook page to confirm current days and hours of operation. Most of all, have fun!
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