Things To Do
in Ferry Pass

Ferry Pass is a residential community just north of downtown Pensacola, Florida, in Escambia County. It sits near Pensacola Bay and the local beaches, offering easy access to parks, schools, and shopping. The area blends family-friendly neighborhoods with convenient links to the city’s maritime culture and military heritage.

Visitors to Ferry Pass typically use it as a gateway to the Pensacola coastline and cultural sites further afield.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Ferry Pass community, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through its quaint streets. Stop by the local café for a delicious breakfast featuring homemade pastries and locally sourced coffee. As you walk, take in the charming architecture that reflects the rich history of the area.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the nearby Pensacola Museum of Art to immerse yourself in the local art scene. Enjoy the rotating exhibits and perhaps even join a guided tour to learn more about the artists and their works. Afterward, take a relaxing walk in the surrounding park, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

evening
:

As evening approaches, treat yourself to dinner at a waterfront restaurant offering fresh seafood and stunning views of the sunset. Choose a table outside to enjoy the gentle breeze while savoring delicious dishes made from local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the sounds of the water and the twinkling lights reflecting off the bay.

day 2
Beach Day at Pensacola Beach
morning
:

Spend the morning soaking up the sun at Pensacola Beach, just a short drive from Ferry Pass. Settle down on the soft, white sands and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters. Don't forget to pack a picnic breakfast to savor while you listen to the calming waves.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, indulge in exciting water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing. Rent equipment from a local vendor and explore the coastline at your own pace, with opportunities to spot dolphins and other marine life. After your adventure, relax at a beachside bar with a cool drink in hand.

evening
:

As the sun sets, gather around one of the beach bonfires for a cozy evening with friends or family. Roast marshmallows and share stories as you watch the vibrant colors of the sunset paint the sky. End your day with a peaceful stroll along the shore, feeling the sand between your toes.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-15
Coffee or drink in cafe$3-5
🏨One night in a mid-range hotel$120-180
🚗Gasoline for a week$25-40
🛒Groceries for a week$60-100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Excellent access to beaches and water activities
  • Family-friendly neighborhoods with good parks and schools
  • Vibrant downtown Pensacola nearby with culture and dining
  • Hot and humid summers with hurricane season risk
  • Public transit limited; car-dependent for most attractions
  • Traffic can be heavy near downtown and major bridges during peak times

Places to Visit in Ferry Pass

Visit one of these nice places.

Pensacola Beach Pier

Iconic pier with expansive ocean views; ideal for sunrise and twilight photography plus silhouettes over the water.

Fort Barrancas and Gulf Islands National Seashore

Historic fort ruins against blue skies and sea horizons; dramatic coastal lighting at golden hours.

Historic Pensacola Village and Palafox Street

Colorful, preserved architecture and quaint storefronts along a historic downtown corridor.

Big Lagoon State Park Boardwalk

Marshland and lagoon vistas with opportunities for wildlife photography and wide landscape shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ferry Pass

The local cuisine centers on seafood, Southern coastal flavors, and farm-to-table options, with casual seafood shacks, traditional Southern plates, and modern bistro-style dining throughout the area.

Ferry Pass Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grouper sandwich

Fresh grouper filet served fried or grilled on a bun with slaw and tartar sauce, a Pensacola staple found at many seaside eateries.

Must-Try!

Shrimp and grits

Creamy grits topped with seasoned shrimp and a savory sauce, a comforting coastal classic often featured in local menus.

Cuban-inspired roast pork sandwich

A nod to Florida’s Cuban-influenced cuisine, typically featuring roast pork, pickles, mustard, and crusty bread at casual spots.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Palafox Market

Downtown Pensacola market with local produce, prepared foods, and crafts; great for sampling regional flavors.

Pensacola Farmers Market

Seasonal produce, seafood, and artisanal goods from local vendors; ideal for fresh ingredients and snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

The Ferry Pass area experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Expect abundant sunshine most of the year, frequent summer thunderstorms, and a hurricane season window from June through November.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Hospitality

Friendly, polite greetings are appreciated; small talk about weather or local events is common.

Naval base awareness

Be respectful near NAS Pensacola and observe posted rules around security zones and restricted areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Practice standard coastal safety: secure valuables, monitor weather during hurricane season, swim near lifeguards, and be mindful of rip currents at beaches. In urban areas, stay aware of surroundings and use well-lit routes at night. In emergencies, call 911.

Tipping in Ferry Pass

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tip 15-20% in restaurants and bars; higher for exceptional service. In casual settings, rounding up is acceptable.

Payment methods

Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is always useful for small vendors. Contactless payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; expect occasional showers—pack a light layer and a compact umbrella.

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon storms; sunscreen, hydration, and shade are essential for outdoor plans.

Autumn

Pleasant, cooler days with lower humidity; excellent for outdoor exploration and coastal walks.

Winter

Generally mild with cool mornings and comfortable days; great for sightseeing with lighter crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Ferry Pass at Night

Downtown Pensacola offers casual bars, craft breweries, and live music venues along Palafox Street. Seville Quarter and nearby venues provide multi-bar experiences, with family-friendly hours earlier in the evening and more energetic scenes later on weekends.

Hiking in Ferry Pass

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Big Lagoon State Park Trails

Coastal trails with marshland views and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park Trails

Wooded trails with lush scenery and birdwatching opportunities.

Gulf Islands National Seashore (Fort Pickens area) Trails

Coastal routes with ocean vistas and historic sites along the barrier island.

Airports

How to reach Ferry Pass by plane.

Pensacola International Airport (PNS)

Main airport serving Ferry Pass, about 15-20 miles from central Ferry Pass; wide domestic connections and seasonal international flights.

Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS)

Alternative airport about 60-70 miles east; smaller but convenient for peak-season travel to the Emerald Coast.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ferry Pass itself is fairly car-dependent, with limited walkable cores. Downtown Pensacola is more walkable, with compact sidewalks, attractions, and dining within foot distance. Parking is usually available but can be tight during events.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Military families

Significant presence due to nearby NAS Pensacola and military bases.

Families

Suburban neighborhoods with good schools attract many families.

Retirees

Active seniors contribute to community services and a relaxed pace in many areas.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Strong local culture around high school and college games in the region.

Baseball and softball

Active leagues and community fields across the area.

Water sports

Fishing, boating, kayaking, and beach sports are popular along the coast.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be moderate to heavy during weekday commutes and event days. Major corridors include I-110 and US-98; public transit exists (ECAT) but is limited compared to larger cities. Ride-sharing is a common alternative.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ferry Pass.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most menus offer salads, veggie bowls, and grilled vegetable sides; many restaurants can customize dishes—inform staff of dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities are accessible in Pensacola, including Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola and Baptist Hospital; urgent care centers and clinics are available throughout the area for routine care and emergencies.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide