Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Our Pensacola Lighthouse adventure was nothing short of awe-inspiring! Climbing 177 steps to the top revealed a panoramic view of the Gulf Coast that was well worth the $6.50 fee. The grounds were immaculate, and the historic charm of the lighthouse was preserved flawlessly. We had the pleasure of meeting Diane, a dedicated volunteer from the lighthouse society, who generously shared her wealth of knowledge about the area. The recently replaced LED bulb, casting its beam up to 8 miles, is a modern marvel and made for a fascinating detail. From the top, Diane pointed out Fort Pickens on a nearby island, a National Monument managed by the National Parks Service. The proximity to our campground made the visit even more convenient. The Light keepers house, adorned with interesting displays, and the well-curated gift shop added layers to the historical experience. Diane's insights didn't end with the lighthouse; she recommended some fantastic local eateries and must-visit spots, including the Flora-Bama for a taste of fresh seafood. Our next stop is the National Naval Aviation Museum, and we're excited to share the military history we'll uncover, thanks to insights from a seasoned veteran volunteer. Stay tuned for more discoveries from our Gulf Coast journey! #straycompasslife #straycompasstravel
Tom CorraoTom Corrao
30
I've been here several times and it's a great attraction to come and see. I live here in Pensacola and bring all my guests to the Naval Aviation Museum and Lighthouse. It has a great gift shop and it celebrates each holiday with fantastic decorations and life-sized props, esp Halloween since the Lighthouse is rumored to be HAUNTED! It's 177 steps of scenery and history. It's a museum as well! At the top, you get a bird's eye view of Pensacola and you can see nearly the entire base. Currently, during COVID-19, as of Jan 3, 2021, the Lighthouse is open. I took pics of all the signs so you'll know what to expect. Surprisingly, visitors must be 44" tall. See pics below. FYI: Vistors are encouraged to enter the base through the West or back gate. Visitors can enter the base with a SPONSOR DRIVING you into the base. If a base pass is needed, a sponsor must enter the east or front gate to Bldg 777, security building located at the front gate to obtain a temporary pass. The guard will direct you. Otherwise, you cannot enter the base. This is no longer an "open" base. You must be sponsored.
Mark SoubletMark Soublet
00
Took a mini escape vacation to NAS pensacola for 1 night and 2 days. After walking through the museum we went to the lighthouse. I am not sure the cost of admission as my husband is active duty Coast Guard so it was free for us. However, I do know all other branches and civilians have an admission fee. The museum is really cool and filled with information on the history of the light houses and the Coast Guard. Then comes the lighthouse. Wow this was a beautiful view. Be prepared to climbe 177 steps to the top (if you are out of shape like me it is mo small feat, but so worth it). We took our 9yr old and learned his fear of heights. Even he was in awe at the top and so glad he went all the way up. If the angels are flying this would be the perfect view to watch everything from take off to landing. I highly recommend making the visit. The grounds are beautiful and history rich. Be sure to wear closed toe and back shoes! They said my sons crocs were fine as long as they were in sports mode. All in all 10/10 experience.
Kameron GreenKameron Green
40
Great place to go while in Pensacola. The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. Safety is also a main priority there. Make sure you wear shoes with a backing. I certainly recommend tennis shoes because of the steep steps. It took us about 30 minutes to climb to the top, take a few pictures, embrace the view, catch our breath, and go back down. The museum took about 20-30 minutes. Your time spent is based on you and the size and interest of your group. There is also a small play area. I will certainly be going back with my family next time. The price I believe was $4.00 for military (active duty member, retiree, or veteran) and $7.00 for all others. So to clarify, if you are AD and you bring your dependents, you will pay for one AD entry and $7.00 for each dependent. Lastly, if you don’t plan to climb the lighthouse but want to enter you still have to pay the entry fee to go beyond the gift store. There are places for you to have a seat while you wait on the other side.
K & J CallisteK & J Calliste
30
So I first start off by saying do not use Google Maps to get you to the lighthouse, make sure you follow the directions they give on their website otherwise you will be asked to turn around and given directions on how to get there. **Also make sure you read the "Visiting the Lighthouse" page in detail otherwise you might not enjoy your visit to the lighthouse as much. ** Anyone 18 and older will need to present an ID at the security gate. No purses are allowed so either but there is a $7 fee to climb and visit the museum and make sure you wear sneakers/gym shoes/tennis shoes otherwise you will be climbing to the top barefoot. There are 177 steps to the top of the lighthouse and it isn't too terrible if you are used to some walking, there are little window alcoves where some people would take breaks and look out the window. Overall it was pretty enjoyable experience! As someone who is slightly terrified of heights I am glad to say I did this.
SarahSarah
00
We climbed all the way to the top and then visited the museum and then the gift shop. Staff was very friendly. The climb was very easy if you’re in shape but a little intimidating at first because of the angle of the staircase. We also didn’t do proper research and didn’t know that you have to climb barefoot if you are wearing flip flops. But even barefoot it was still a very easy climb. It was a hot but breezy day (early September, Labor Day weekend) so the air at the top felt amazing. I wouldn’t go on a day that it is raining. The museum is fascinating as well, but keep in mind the property is restored from the 1800s and door frames and spaces were a lot tighter (something to keep in mind if your height starts with a 6). Definitely something that is fun for people of all ages, and there are several places that have interactive displays such as demonstrating how pulleys work and tying various knots. A must see if you’re visiting NAS Pensacola!
Katie SteinbachKatie Steinbach
10
Nearby Attractions Of Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
National Naval Aviation Museum
Naval Aviation Memorial Theater
Blue Angels
San Carlos Beach
MWR Barrancas Beach
National Naval Aviation Museum
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Naval Aviation Memorial Theater
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Blue Angels
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San Carlos Beach
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Nearby Restaurants Of Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Cubi Bar Café
Cubi Bar Café
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Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
2081 Radford Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32508
Map
Phone
(850) 393-1561
Call
Website
pensacolalighthouse.org
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.7
(1.4K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
outdoor
family friendly
Description
The Pensacola Light is a lighthouse at Pensacola Bay, in Florida. It is the third iteration of what was originally a lightship, the Aurora Borealis, and remains an aid to navigation.
attractions: National Naval Aviation Museum, Naval Aviation Memorial Theater, Blue Angels, San Carlos Beach, MWR Barrancas Beach, restaurants: Cubi Bar Café
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