Like much of the Florida Panhandle, Pensacola's beaches have powdery, sugar-white sand.
But what sets it apart from other cities along this stretch of the Gulf Coast is its deep sense of history. Founded in 1559, Pensacola has rigorously preserved its historic architecture, from New Orleans- and Spanish-influenced buildings downtown to neighborhoods chockablock with Craftsman bungalows.
Maintaining the historic core has paid off,as small businesses, new restaurants, and an emerging art scene take off.