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Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: A Beacon of History

Explore Pensacola's maritime history at this iconic lighthouse, offering stunning views and fascinating exhibits for all ages.

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Climb the 177 steps of the Pensacola Lighthouse, built in 1859, for breathtaking Gulf Coast views. Explore the Richard C. Callaway Museum in the restored 1869 Keeper's Quarters, with exhibits on maritime history. Discover Pensacola's rich nautical past at this active U.S. Coast Guard aid to navigation.

A brief summary to Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

  • Monday 9 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Bring proper ID, as the lighthouse is located on the Pensacola Naval Air Station and requires government-issued identification for access.
  • Wear shoes with enclosed backs for climbing the lighthouse.
  • Arrive before 3:40 PM, as last admission is sold at that time.
  • Check the schedule for Blue Angels practice shows, offering a spectacular viewing opportunity from the lighthouse.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From I-10, take Exit 7 (Pine Forest Road, 297) south for 1.5 miles, then turn right onto Blue Angel Parkway. Drive approximately 11 miles to the West Gate of NAS Pensacola. Continue on Blue Angel Parkway/Radford Boulevard; the lighthouse will be on the right. Note that public access to NAS Pensacola via the West Gate is from 9 AM to 3 PM. All U.S. citizens 18+ need a valid government-issued photo ID. Parking is available on site.

  • Public Transport

    From Pensacola Beach, take ECAT Route 61 (Gulf Breeze) toward the Gulf Breeze Zoo. Transfer at the Gulf Breeze transfer station to Route 58 (Pensacola). Get off at the stop closest to Radford Blvd and walk north for about 15 minutes to the museum. A single ride fare is approximately $1.00.

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Discover more about Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

The Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum offers a unique blend of history, education, and stunning views. Built in 1859, the lighthouse stands as a testament to Pensacola's maritime past, guiding ships through Pensacola Bay. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974, it's a must-see for history buffs and sightseers alike. Ascend the 177 steps to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of Pensacola Pass, where Pensacola Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico. From this vantage point, you can see three historic forts, the Pensacola skyline, and the Navy Yard. The climb is a rewarding experience, offering a glimpse into the lives of the lighthouse keepers who maintained the beacon. The Richard C. Callaway Museum, housed in the fully restored 1869 Keeper's Quarters, features exhibits on local history and the lighthouse itself. Explore artifacts, photographs, and stories that bring Pensacola's maritime heritage to life. Recent excavations have also unearthed the homestead of Charles Hart, an African American enslaved laborer who helped construct the lighthouse, adding another layer to the site's rich history. The museum's mission is to preserve the past to enlighten the future, and it achieves this through engaging exhibits and educational programs. Learn about the evolution of lighting technology, the role of women in the Coast Guard, and the industrial history of Pensacola. The museum also hosts special events throughout the year, including ghost hunts and Blue Angels viewing opportunities.

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