Lifestyle
Steeped in history and culture, Pensacola’s lively downtown offers the amenities of city living combined with plenty of charm and local flair. Small enough to allow you the chance to get to know your neighbors, but large enough to offer a wealth of arts and entertainment, unique retail locations, craft breweries, upscale wine bars, and restaurants to delight every foodie, Downtown Pensacola is the place to be.
Whether you choose to drive, walk, or bike downtown, you’ll find a sprawling array of businesses and attractions conveniently located near The Block at Bartels.
On each street, the history of Pensacola comes to life. Explore historic buildings, homes, and businesses, and learn about America’s First Settlement.
shopping
On Saturdays from 9am–2pm, the Palafox Market transforms Downtown Pensacola into a sprawling outdoor shopping experience that spans several blocks. Decorate your home with local art and woodworking, select handmade candles and soaps from local makers, or do your grocery shopping directly with area farmers and ranchers.
Throughout the week, browse local retailers at cutting- edge boutiques, recreation outfitters, and co-op grocers. Discover the latest fashions at GRAY and Scout. Shop home decor or find gifts for loved ones at Rusted Arrow Mercantile. Find equipment for your hobbies at Innerlight Surf & Skate Shop. Whatever your interests, you’ll find a variety of shopping opportunities within walking distance.
art
Art lovers will delight in browsing the numerous galleries, stocked with the works of talented locals. Stop in and meet eclectic artists in all mediums or take a class at the First City Arts Center. Spend a day exploring over 600 works of art at the Pensacola Museum of Art, or take in a show at the Saenger Theater or Pensacola Little Theater.
On the third Friday of every month, join the celebration of Gallery Night, when local businesses and artisans line the streets of Pensacola to offer specials and one- of-a-kind items.
Closed to traffic, Palafox Street comes to life with a bustle of activity including food trucks, vendors, live entertainment, and outdoor games.
RESTAURANTS
When it comes to food and drink, Downtown Pensacola is second to none. Grab a 1960s-inspired cocktail and modern takes on recipes of the past at The Kennedy, or sip from an expansive library of whiskeys at Old Hickory Whiskey Bar. Experience the excitement of a piano bar and live music, while drinking and dining in a historic Pensacola building at Seville Quarter.
Treat yourself to decadent twists on comfort food at Union Public House, or make it a sushi night at Kohn’s. If steak is on the menu, look no further than the decadence at Iron or Jackson’s. For a full vegan menu, End of the Line Café offers sandwiches, craft beer, and platters.
The thriving craft beer scene offers something for every beer lover. Sip craft brews at Pensacola Bay Brewery, Gulf Coast Brewery, Odd Colony Brewing Company, Perfect Plain Brewing Company, Big Top Brewing Company, or The Five Barrel.
Indulge your sweet tooth with a variety of chocolatey concoctions at Peterbrooke Chocolatier, treats and baked goods from Bluejay’s Bakery, and cheesecakes of all flavors at Chrisoula’s Cheesecake Shoppe and Café. And, don’t forget coffee! Fosko Coffee Barre and Bodacious Brew offer great coffee, tasty snacks, and scenic spaces.
Whether you’re craving food, drinks, adventure, or shopping, you’ll find it all in downtown Pensacola.