Pensacola was the capital of Florida until 1822, but just because that honor was turned over to Tallahassee doesn’t mean Pensacola withered away. In fact, the U.S. government considers Pensacola a pretty important place. In 1914, the U.S. naval air station was established here and the National Museum of Naval Aviation continues to draw millions of visitors booking Pensacola flights every year. The museum pays homage and respect to the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps pilots who trained at Pensacola. While your flight to Pensacola might not be piloted by a Blue Angel, you can still see The Blue Angles and their fancy flying at the naval air station, where the fastest fighter jets are based. Take a walk to historic Fort Barrancas during the visit to the naval station and take in the gorgeous views of Perdido Key and Santa Rosa Island.
Pensacola’s downtown district has been revitalized and re-energized over the years. Today, visitors to Pensacola can experience a downtown center full of theaters, restaurants, bars and nightlife. Don’t dismiss the various Pensacola festivals like Florida Springfest, a 3-day music festival channeling the Woodstock era, which boasts big name acts like Bonnie Rait, the Allman Brothers, Jethro Tull and more.
Whether your Pensacola flight leaves you at Fort Pickens or picking up seashells on the powdery-white beaches, it’s hard not to enjoy this Florida destination.
