Fort Pickens: Guardian of Pensacola Bay
Explore a historic landmark on Pensacola Beach, offering a glimpse into 19th-century coastal defense and natural beauty.
Fort Pickens, a historic pentagonal fort on Santa Rosa Island, was completed in 1834 to defend Pensacola Bay [3]. It's the largest of four forts built for this purpose and remained in Union hands throughout the Civil War [3]. Today, it stands as a monument to military technology and a reminder of past injustices [6].
A brief summary to Fort Pickens Area of Gulf Island National Seashore
- 1400 Fort Pickens Rd, Pensacola Beach, Florida, 32561, US
- +1850-934-2600
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring sunscreen and hats, as shade is limited, especially during the summer months.
- Check the park's website for ranger-led tour schedules and special events.
- Consider visiting during the off-season (fall/winter) for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the fort and surrounding areas.
- Be aware that pets are not allowed on the beaches, ferries, or inside the fort [14].
Getting There
-
Driving
From Pensacola Beach, follow Fort Pickens Road west [11]. The entrance to the Fort Pickens area of Gulf Islands National Seashore will be on your right. Continue to the entrance station to pay the fee [8]. A one to seven day entrance pass is $25 per vehicle [4, 10]. Parking lots are available near the historic structures and beach access points [11, 17]. Be aware that some park roads are prone to flooding [17].
-
Public Transport
Take the Pensacola Bay City Ferry from downtown Pensacola or Pensacola Beach to Fort Pickens [11, 18]. The ferry operates seasonally, typically from March through October, on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays [11]. Check the ferry schedule online at pensacolabaycityferry.com for exact dates and times [11]. Round trip ferry tickets cost $30 for adults, $24 for seniors, military, college students, and persons with disabilities, and $20 for youths (ages 3-15) [18]. This price does not include the entrance fee to the National Park [18]. Upon arrival, you will still need to pay the park entrance fee of $15 per pedestrian [8, 10].
-
Walking
If you are already on Pensacola Beach, you can walk along the shoreline to Fort Pickens. From the main public beach areas, head west along the beach. Follow the coastline, and you will eventually reach the Fort Pickens area. Be aware that the walk can be long, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Once you reach the Fort Pickens entrance, pedestrians and cyclists must pay a $15 entrance fee [8, 10].
Discover more about Fort Pickens Area of Gulf Island National Seashore
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Advanced Redoubt of Fort Barrancas
3.7 km
Explore the Advanced Redoubt of Fort Barrancas in Pensacola, a historic military site offering stunning views and rich heritage.
UWF Historic Trust
11.3 km
Explore the UWF Historic Trust in Downtown Pensacola, where captivating exhibits reveal the city's rich historical tapestry and cultural heritage.
Florida Public Archaeology Network/Destination Archaeology Resource Center
11.3 km
Explore Florida's archaeological heritage at the Destination Archaeology Resource Center in Pensacola, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and programs.
Seville Quarter
11.3 km
Discover the lively Seville Quarter in Pensacola, where great food, themed lounges, and vibrant nightlife converge for an unforgettable experience.
The Olde English Creamery
11.4 km
Discover the charm of The Olde English Creamery, downtown Pensacola's beloved café, offering delightful ice creams and pastries in a cozy atmosphere.
Pensacola Pedal Trolley
11.4 km
Experience the vibrant culture and scenic beauty of Pensacola aboard the eco-friendly Pensacola Pedal Trolley, ideal for sightseeing enthusiasts.
Seville Square
11.5 km
Discover Seville Square, a vibrant park in Pensacola's historic district, where culture, community, and nature converge for a delightful experience.
Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel
11.5 km
Experience the serene beauty and historic significance of the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel in Pensacola, a captivating destination for all travelers.
Seville Historic District
11.6 km
Explore the Seville Historic District in Pensacola, Florida, where rich history meets charming architecture and vibrant local culture.
Barkley House
11.6 km
Discover the charm of Barkley House, a historic wedding chapel in Pensacola, offering a picturesque setting for events and a glimpse into the city's rich heritage.
The Quina House Museum
11.7 km
Explore The Quina House Museum in Pensacola, a charming historical site that brings the 19th-century lifestyle to life through its captivating architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Palafox Street Downtown Pensacola
11.7 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Downtown Pensacola on Palafox Street, where history meets modern charm in a delightful shopping and dining destination.
610 N Spring St
11.9 km
Discover the historic elegance of 610 N Spring St in Pensacola, a must-see landmark that showcases the city's architectural beauty and cultural heritage.
Fort George
12.0 km
Explore Fort George in Pensacola, a historical park where nature meets history, perfect for leisurely strolls and cultural insights.
Florida Square
12.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Florida Square, a picturesque park in downtown Pensacola, perfect for relaxation and leisure amidst vibrant surroundings.
Unmissable attractions to see
Picnic Pavilion
0.2 km
Discover the Picnic Pavilion at Pensacola Beach, a serene picnic ground perfect for family gatherings and enjoying Florida's stunning natural beauty.
Fort Pickens
1.0 km
Explore Fort Pickens, a historic fortress in Pensacola Beach, where American history meets stunning coastal landscapes.
Battery Langdon
1.9 km
Explore the historic Battery Langdon at Fort Pickens, a coastal fortress rich in Civil War history and breathtaking Gulf views.
Historic Fort Barrancas
2.9 km
Explore Fort Barrancas, a historical fortress in Pensacola, showcasing military history and scenic beauty amidst lush landscapes.
National Naval Aviation Museum
3.4 km
Discover the National Naval Aviation Museum, where aviation history comes alive with over 150 aircraft and engaging exhibits in Pensacola, Florida.
Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
3.5 km
Explore maritime history and breathtaking views at the Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, a historic treasure on Florida's Gulf Coast.
Fort Pickens Battery Worth
6.0 km
Explore the historical Fort Pickens Battery Worth in Pensacola Beach, a stunning coastal fortification showcasing America's military legacy.
Navy Point Park
6.2 km
Explore the serene beauty of Navy Point Park in Pensacola, where lush landscapes and stunning waterfront views await every visitor.
Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida
10.4 km
Explore the Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida, a haven for rescued wildlife and a hub for conservation education in Pensacola.
Pensacola Bay
10.4 km
Explore the captivating Pensacola Bay, a historical gem in Florida offering stunning views, rich maritime culture, and endless recreational activities.
Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park
10.4 km
Explore the Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park: a lively destination for events, recreation, and scenic views in downtown Pensacola.
Blue Wahoos Stadium featuring Admiral Fetterman Field - Home of the Pensacola Blue Wahoos
10.5 km
Discover the excitement of Blue Wahoos Stadium in Pensacola, where thrilling baseball games meet a vibrant community atmosphere.
Plaza De Luna Memorial Monument
10.7 km
Experience the charm of Plaza De Luna Memorial Monument, a stunning park and monument in Pensacola offering breathtaking bay views and rich cultural heritage.
Pensacola Bay City Ferry
11.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Pensacola Bay City Ferry for a scenic maritime journey showcasing the beauty of Florida's coastline and local attractions.
Pensacola Museum of Art
11.1 km
Explore the Pensacola Museum of Art, where contemporary creativity meets cultural heritage in a vibrant downtown setting.
Essential places to dine
The Oar House
9.0 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at The Oar House in Pensacola - where American flavors meet Caribbean charm in a vibrant setting.
Pearl & Horn
10.2 km
Discover Pearl & Horn: A premier seafood destination in South Pensacola offering fresh flavors and a cozy atmosphere.
Nick's Boathouse
10.4 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Nick's Boathouse in Downtown Pensacola – where every meal is a coastal celebration!
Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille
10.7 km
Experience waterfront dining at Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille in Pensacola - where fresh seafood meets vibrant flavors in a picturesque setting.
Captain Joey Patti's Seafood & Saloon
10.7 km
Discover authentic Gulf Coast flavors at Captain Joey Patti's Seafood & Saloon – a top-rated seafood haven in Pensacola.
Taste of Jerusalem and More
11.0 km
Experience authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Taste of Jerusalem and More in Pensacola - a culinary delight not to be missed!
Jumping Lomo Peruvian Cuisine
11.0 km
Discover vibrant Peruvian flavors at Jumping Lomo in Pensacola - an affordable dining gem serving authentic cuisine with warm hospitality.
Ruby Slipper
11.0 km
Discover Ruby Slipper in Pensacola: A charming brunch destination blending Southern flavors with inviting hospitality.
Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas
11.1 km
Experience diverse culinary delights at Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas in Pensacola - where American, Asian fusion, and Mediterranean flavors meet.
Peg Leg Pete's
11.1 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Peg Leg Pete's on Pensacola Beach - where every meal is a coastal celebration!
Jackson's Steakhouse
11.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at Jackson's Steakhouse in downtown Pensacola—home to prime steaks and fine dining.
Atlas Oyster House
11.2 km
Experience fresh Gulf Coast seafood in a vibrant atmosphere at Atlas Oyster House in Downtown Pensacola.
The Fish House
11.2 km
Discover exceptional seafood dining at The Fish House in Pensacola - where fresh catches meet breathtaking bay views.
Steam Joint at Casks & Flights
11.3 km
Experience fresh Gulf seafood like never before at Steam Joint in Downtown Pensacola - where taste meets tradition.
The District: Seville Steak & Seafood
11.3 km
Experience exquisite seafood and prime steaks at The District: Seville Steak & Seafood in downtown Pensacola.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
All About Antiques
9.3 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques in Pensacola, Florida, at All About Antiques, where every piece has a story to tell.
Rusty Relic
9.3 km
Explore Rusty Relic in Pensacola, Florida: A treasure trove of antiques and nautical finds waiting for your discovery.
Rocket Anyway Vintage
9.5 km
Uncover unique vintage clothing treasures at Rocket Anyway Vintage in Pensacola, Florida, where nostalgia meets style in a charming shopping experience.
Oooodles Antiques
9.5 km
Explore unique finds and nostalgic treasures at Oooodles Antiques, Pensacola's hidden gem for vintage lovers and collectors.
Blue Moon Antique Mall
9.5 km
Explore the charm of vintage shopping at Blue Moon Antique Mall in Pensacola, where treasures from the past await every visitor.
The Hippie's Greenhouse
9.5 km
Uncover unique treasures at The Hippie's Greenhouse, Pensacola's vibrant antique store filled with charming vintage finds and eclectic decor.
Eye Spy
9.6 km
Explore the charm of Eye Spy Antique Store in Pensacola, where unique vintage treasures await every collector and nostalgia lover.
Cottage Attitudes
10.4 km
Explore Cottage Attitudes, a charming Pensacola gift shop, where unique local creations meet a warm shopping experience.
A Bead and Crystal House
10.8 km
Discover the enchanting world of beads and crystals at A Bead and Crystal House in downtown Pensacola, where creativity meets spirituality.
The Market & Mainly Shoes
10.9 km
Discover a charming women's boutique in downtown Pensacola, offering stylish shoes, jewelry, and lingerie in a delightful shopping atmosphere.
The Pensacola Store
11.0 km
Explore The Pensacola Store for unique gifts and local souvenirs that capture the essence of Pensacola, Florida.
Bodacious Shops
11.1 km
Discover the heart of Pensacola at Bodacious Shops, where gourmet delights meet unique shopping in a vibrant atmosphere.
Scout
11.1 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Scout, a stylish boutique in the heart of Downtown Pensacola, where local charm meets modern elegance.
The Original Basket Boutique
11.2 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and gourmet baskets at The Original Basket Boutique in Gulf Breeze, Florida - a must-visit for all tourists.
Artesana
11.2 km
Explore Artesana in Pensacola for unique gifts and artisan crafts that reflect the vibrant culture of Florida's Gulf Coast.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rocky's Bar
6.7 km
Discover Rocky's Bar in Pensacola - a vibrant cocktail and karaoke venue perfect for a fun night out with friends.
Perennial Patio Bar
11.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique cocktails at Perennial Patio Bar in Downtown Pensacola, a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoyment.
Elbow Room
11.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Elbow Room in Pensacola, a perfect blend of bar and restaurant offering delicious bites and refreshing drinks.
O'Riley's Irish Pub Downtown
11.1 km
Discover the heart of Irish culture at O'Riley's Irish Pub Downtown, where great food, drinks, and live sports come together in a vibrant setting.
Intermission
11.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine at Intermission, Pensacola's favorite bar and restaurant in Downtown.
Old Hickory Whiskey Bar
11.3 km
Experience the best of local nightlife at Old Hickory Whiskey Bar, where exceptional cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await in downtown Pensacola.
200 South Tap House
11.3 km
Experience the best of Pensacola's sports culture at 200 South Tap House, where great food, drinks, and lively atmosphere await.
Blend Lounge
11.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Blend Lounge, a cocktail and sports bar in downtown Pensacola, perfect for drinks, dancing, and live sports.
Rosie O'Grady's Inc
11.3 km
Discover the vibrant grill and bar scene at Rosie O'Grady's Inc in Pensacola, where delicious food meets lively entertainment for an unforgettable experience.
Wild Greg's Saloon
11.4 km
Immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of Wild Greg's Saloon, a must-visit bar in downtown Pensacola, featuring live music and a vibrant nightlife.
The Wine Bar On Palafox
11.5 km
Experience the essence of Pensacola at The Wine Bar On Palafox, where fine wines and gourmet dishes create unforgettable moments.
The Kennedy
11.5 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture at The Kennedy, a stylish bar in Downtown Pensacola offering unique drinks and a lively atmosphere.
The Well
11.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Pensacola at The Well, a lively bar and event venue perfect for craft cocktails and unforgettable events.
Handlebar
12.0 km
Discover the lively spirit of Handlebar, Pensacola's premier live music bar, offering affordable drinks and a diverse range of local performances.
Azalea Cocktail Lounge
12.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Azalea Cocktail Lounge in Pensacola, the perfect spot for an unforgettable night out.
