National Museum of Naval Aviation

If you find yourself in Pensacola (Florida) or within a day trip, I recommend visiting the National Museum of Naval Aviation and the Pensacola lighthouse. Both are located on the Pensacola Naval Air Station. Citizens need to show proper photo ID at the entrance gate.

The museum has adequate parking for larger vehicles, yet the lighthouse has limited parking. Fortunately the lighthouse is across from the museum and if you don’t mind a brief walk before your “climb” up the lighthouse you can leave your rig in the museum parking lot.

Be prepared to spend at least two hours in the museum. There are two floors of exhibits, as well as other attractions (IMAX theater and trolley tour). The museum also has a restaurant, gift shop and library/gallery to enjoy. The lighthouse has an interesting history… and is haunted!

And be sure to take your camera and spare batteries, as you will be sure to take a number of photos. I took about 600 photos that day.

National Museum of Naval Aviation

Free Parking and Admission (see website for additional attraction prices)

Museum Open Daily (except holidays) 9 am – 5 pm

www.navalaviationmuseum.org

And again, don’t forget to visit the lighthouse while you’re there!

Pensacola Lighthouse

Located across from the National Museum of Aviation

Free Parking / Free Admission to museum

$5 to climb the lighthouse (see website for additional prices and special events)

Open Monday – Saturday 10:30 am – 5:30 pm

http://www.pensacolalighthouse.org/

Check their websites for special Blue Angels dates, especially if you want to view them from the top of the lighthouse. Additional cost for lighthouse climb during Blue Angels schedule.