For beach and outdoor lovers, Eglin AFB is the jackpot of military duty stations.
With year-round mild weather, the pristine white-sand beaches of the Emerald Coast, and vibrant nearby communities like Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Niceville, you're living in a coveted vacation destination!
Once you’ve had your fill of beach life or simply want to change up activities, you'll find no shortage of other attractions and things to do near Eglin AFB. Whether family-friendly museums or outdoor adventures, there's always something new to explore.
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1. Panama City Center for the Arts
Address: 19 E 4th St, Panama City, FL 32401Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; closed Sunday and Monday
Admission: Free for gallery exhibits—some fees may apply for classes and special events
Located in historic downtown Panama City, the Panama City Center for the Arts is housed in a landmark building that dates back to 1925. Visitors can explore three galleries featuring rotating exhibitions by local and regional artists, and with over 30 exhibits each year, there’s often something new to see.
Because admission to the galleries is free, it's an easy and budget-friendly outing for families or anyone curious about the local arts scene.
Beyond the exhibits, the venue regularly hosts film screenings, live music, workshops, and creative classes for both children and adults. Special events pop up throughout the year, including seasonal programs and community events.
2. Emerald Coast Science Center
Address: 31 Memorial Parkway SW, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548Hours: Monday–Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed Sundays.
Admission:
- Adults and Children (ages 3+): $15
- Children 2 and under: free
- Military and group discounts are available
The Emerald Coast Science Center in Fort Walton Beach is an interactive and educational museum designed to spark curiosity through hands-on STEM learning. Visitors can explore exhibits on topics ranging from robotics and dinosaurs to sea turtles, space, and women in science, along with displays featuring live animals.
Touchable exhibits and interactive activities make it especially popular with school groups and families with kids. It's also a favorite spot for birthday parties and field trips. And don't miss the new outdoor exhibits!
The Science Center offers in-school programs, virtual learning opportunities, and special workshops that support STEM education throughout the region.
3. Veterans Memorial Railroad
Address: 10561 NW Theo Jacobs Way, Bristol, FL 32321Hours: 11 a.m.–3 p.m. on public run days (check website for the current schedule)
Admission: No charge on public run days, though donations are appreciated and there's an admission charge for special events
Put on your engineer’s cap and head out for a fun family outing to the Veterans Memorial Railroad. Operated by volunteers, the railroad features restored locomotives and rideable trains that have been entertaining visitors for years.
Guests can climb aboard for a ride through the park, learn about railroad history, and enjoy the surrounding picnic and playground areas. The attraction is especially notable for operating one of the few coal-fired steam trains in Florida, making it a unique experience for train lovers of all ages.
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4. Florida Caverns State Park
Address: 3345 Caverns Rd, Marianna, FL 32446
Hours: 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year, cave tours offered daily
Admission: $5 per vehicle
Cave tour fees:
- Children 2 and under: free
- Ages 3 to 12: $9
- Ages 13 and up: $16
Florida Caverns State Park offers one of the most unusual natural experiences in the state. On a guided cave tour, you’ll head underground to see striking formations like stalactites, stalagmites, draperies, and flowstones while enjoying the cooler air below the surface. Tours last about 45 minutes.
Above ground, there's plenty more to do. Nearby Chipola River and Blue Hole Spring are perfect for getting out on the water or fishing. This area is also great for horseback riding, camping, and hiking.
Get ideas for even more camping spots and day trips near Eglin AFB.
5. Gulf Breeze Zoo
Address: 5701 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563Hours: Open daily, but hours vary by season (closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day)
Admission:
- Adult (13-64): $28.95
- Seniors (65+): $26.95
- Children (2-12): $21.95
- Children under 2: free
- Military and law enforcement: 15% discount
With hundreds of animals from around the world and an elevated viewing boardwalk, from which you can observe herds of antelope, deer, and rhinos, the zoo makes an easy day trip for those looking for a mix of outdoor exploration and wildlife education.
Are you heading to Eglin AFB? Don't miss our extensive Eglin AFB Base Guide.
