Pensacola Naval Museum: A Must-see Attraction in Florida

While Pensacola draws visitors to its beaches and warm weather, there’s one attraction families should make time to see. Named a Travelers’ Choice Top Museum, the National Naval Aviation Museum showcases more than 4,000 artifacts and 150 aircraft from the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard on display. Interested? Get the scoop on the Pensacola Naval Museum.

Pensacola Naval Museum: Why It’s a Must-see Attraction

The National Naval Aviation Museum ranks as the largest of its kind in the world and one of the most popular museums in Florida. Covering 37 acres, families have plenty to do and see. Exhibits, hands-on activities and stories keep everyone engaged and entertained.

Things to Do

Visitors can experience the thrill of piloting an elite jet aircraft in flight simulators. Giant-screen IMAX films let visitors feel the excitement of launching an aircraft carrier or flying in formation with the famous Blue Angels.

In addition, hands-on exhibits trace the history of U.S. naval aviation. Don’t miss the guided trolley tour of the flight line. Meet pilots, get autographs and take pictures with local legends. Kids can even climb inside cockpits, grab the stick, check dials and imagine flying off into the wild blue yonder!

When to Visit

Because the museum offers so many attractions, visit early in the morning. Make plans to enjoy lunch in Cubi Bar Café, but don’t wait too long as the café closes around 3:30 p.m. Before leaving, stop in the Flight Deck store to pick up a memento. Reduced hours are in effect at most federal sites, so check current hours of operation before visiting.

The Pensacola Naval Museum offers free admission, free parking and free tours. All guests ages 16 and older must have a valid ID, and all bags are subject to search. For access, enter the museum’s West Gate off Blue Angel Parkway.

The National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola sits within an hour’s drive from Orange Beach, Alabama.