Forts, History, and Exploring the Past

Pensacola and Pensacola Beach are so rich in history! Don't miss the chance to explore the past!

With so much history, from the earliest colonial times to the Civil War, the forts in the Pensacola area offer a great opportunity for everyone to learn about history. The forts are more than just museums! The opportunity to see how they were built, how people lived there, and their roles in our history is too good to pass up. Kids love exploring the tunnels, touching the real cannons, and climbing the walls! And so do the "bigger" kids! And if you are looking for photo opportunities, the forts offer so much!

History and Heritage - Forts and Historic Sites

Walk in the footsteps of 18th century settlers, explore 19th century fortifications and climb a haunted lighthouse and discover Pensacola's diverse history.

https://www.visitpensacola.com

The Fort on the Bluff - Fort Barrancas

Overlooking Pensacola Bay, Fort Barrancas protected the Spanish (then French, then British, then American, then the Confederate) settlement on the Gulf Coast from invaders

The Fort is located on the grounds of the Pensacola Naval Air Station. Self-guided and ranger guided tours are available throughout the year.

Fort Barrancas Area - Gulf Islands National Seashore (U.S. National Park Service)

All facilities and structures are open Thursday through Monday Visitor Center & Bookstore: 9:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Historic Fort Barrancas: 9:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Historic Advanced Redoubt: By Ranger Guided Tours Only Fort Barrancas Visitor Center: Enjoy indoor exhibits about the history of the area and restrooms. The center is staff by park rangers or volunteers.

https://www.nps.gov

Northern Fort of the South - Fort Pickens

Located at the far end of Fort Pickens Road on Pensacola Beach, this historic fort was one of the few southern forts held by the Union through the entire war. It certainly saw its share of action and was instrumental in the Northern victory. Beautiful as well as historic!, it was also the prison for the noted leader of the Apache, Geronimo, and 15 other Apache men and their families. Learn more about the role of the Fort in our history while enjoying the many other sites in the park.

Fort Pickens Area - Gulf Islands National Seashore (U.S. National Park Service)

March 1 - October 31: 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (last entry at 8:00 p.m.) November 1 - February 28: 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Year-round: Historic Fort: 8:00 a.m. to sunset Bookstore & Discovery Center: 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Campground Registration Office: 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

https://www.nps.gov

Your trip to Pensacola Beach is more than just sand and sun! Stay at Tiki House and enjoy "living" at the beach like a local!

Tiki House Pensacola Beach - Pensacola Beach

With over 3000 sq ft of room with a HUGE 1600 sq. ft. recreation room to spread out, Tiki House has it all! Steps from the beach! Beach and Gulf views from nearly every room and 4 huge decks!

https://www.houfy.com