While most of Florida is known for its tropical vibes, the Panhandle exudes a different kind of charm—one that marries the best of the Sunshine State’s coastline with the deep heritage of the South.
Pensacola: The City of Five Flags
Pensacola is a city in the Florida Panhandle, known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and military heritage. The city is also home to the National Naval Aviation Museum, which is one of the largest aviation museums in the world. Pensacola is also known as the “City of Five Flags” because it has been ruled by five different countries: Spain, France, Britain, the Confederacy, and the United States.
Popular Areas
Downtown Pensacola: A treasure trove of history, it’s home to the Historic Pensacola Village and a collection of museums, reflecting its past under Spanish, British, French, Confederate, and American rule.
Pensacola Beach: Located on Santa Rosa Island, its white-sand shores and the iconic Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier make it a must-visit.
Things To Do
National Naval Aviation Museum: One of the world’s largest aviation museums, this collection showcases the rich history of naval aviation for the US.
Fort Pickens: A historic military fort located on the Gulf Islands National Seashore, it stands as a testament to the country’s early defense systems.
Destin & Fort Walton Beach: The Heart of the Emerald Coast
Destin and Fort Walton Beach are two neighboring cities in the Florida Panhandle, offering beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class fishing. There’s something for everyone in these cities, from families to couples.
Popular Areas
HarborWalk Village: A bustling waterfront area in Destin, it’s filled with restaurants, shops, and various attractions, offering beautiful harbor views and regular events.
Okaloose Island: Nestled between Fort Walton Beach and Destin, the island boasts pristine beaches, boardwalks, and the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.
Things To Do
Deep Sea Fishing: Often dubbed the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin offers some of the best deep-sea fishing excursions in the state.
Indian Temple Mound Museum: Located in Fort Walton Beach, the museum helps sheds light on the native cultures that once thrived in the region.
Tallahassee: Beyond Being Florida’s State Capital
Tallahassee is the capital city of Florida, located in the Florida Panhandle. It is known for its rolling hills, oak-canopied streets, and historic buildings. Tallahassee is also home to two major universities, Florida State University and Florida A&M University. There is something for everyone in Tallahassee, from history buffs to nature lovers to foodies.
Popular Areas
Downtown Tallahassee: Downtown Tallahassee is bounded by East Tennessee Street, Gadsden Street, West Street, Augustine Street, and South Bronough Street. It is a walkable area with many shops, restaurants, and bars. Some of the popular attractions in Downtown Tallahassee include the Florida State Capitol, the Museum of Florida History, and the Cascades Park.
St Marks National Wildlife Refuge: A short drive from Tallahassee, it provides sanctuary to a plethora of wildlife and offers picturesque coastal views.
The Panhandle’s Pure Beauty
The Florida Panhandle offers a blend of experiences that are both quintessentially Floridian yet distinctly Southern. From its emerald waters and historic forts to its vibrant capitals and artistic enclaves, this stretch of Florida invites explorers to unearth its many layers.
If you’re interested in moving to The Panhandle, be sure to check out my 7-Step Guide for Moving to Florida. Also feel free to reach out to me! I am a mortgage broker and would love to help you make your own plan to move to Tampa that won’t break the bank!
Not Sure About The Panhandle?
That’s alright! Not everyone likes the Panhandle. Below are links to other places in Florida that I’ve written about. Check them out! Florida has something for everybody; I’m sure that you’ll find what you’re looking for.
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