Pensacola, Florida -- The fastest way to spectacular white-sand beaches on one of the world’s longest barrier islands is now with a new direct flight from Chicago to Pensacola, Fla. United Airlines recently began direct service from Chicago O’Hare to the Pensacola Gulf Coast Regional Airport on Saturdays and Sundays.
The schedule is ideal for a week-long beach vacation, where families can relax along sugar-white beaches and emerald waters, explore 450 years of history, see the world-renowned National Naval Aviation Museum, enjoy free outdoor concerts and watch the amazing Blue Angels. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, there are plenty of activities to keep family and friends entertained. Plus, with great deals and free admission at the area’s most popular attractions, a fun-filled Florida vacation doesn’t have to bust the budget.
Summer’s Saturday-to-Saturday Specials
* Eden Condominium – Stay right on the Gulf of Mexico in scenic Perdido Key, close to national seashore beaches, nightlife and the National Naval Aviation Museum. Rates start at $1,854 for a one-bedroom condo and $2,031 for a two-bedroom. (800) 523-8141, www.edencondominiums.com
* Portofino Island Resort – Stay in a two-bedroom condominium surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico, Santa Rosa Sound and the secluded beaches of Gulf Islands National Seashore. Chicago guests receive one free night with a week-long stay, valued at $425. Additionally, guests receive one complimentary round of golf and fishing excursion daily. Mention WINDY. (850) 454-2341, www.portofinoisland.com
* Paradise Beach Homes – Rent a cozy condo for two or a Gulf-front home large enough for four families. Guests from Chicago receive a 15 percent discount on week-long rentals or a 25 percent discount when booking a last-minute trip within 14 days of arrival. (850) 916-0777, www.paradisebeachhomes.com
* Hilton Pensacola Beach Gulf Front – Enjoy beach-front access and deluxe amenities including indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center and restaurants at the newly renovated Hilton. Stay six nights and get the seventh night free, valued from $259. (850) 916-2999, www.pensacolabeachgulffront.hilton.com
* New World Landing – You’ll be in the heart of historic downtown Pensacola at this boutique inn. Walk to local restaurants, museums, art galleries, attractions and Pensacola Bay. Stay six nights and get the seventh free, valued from $109. (850) 434-7736, www.newworldlanding.com
* Quality Inn North – A short drive away from the beaches and downtown Pensacola, the Quality Inn offers an outdoor pool along with complimentary breakfast and airport shuttle. The weekly rate is $427. (850) 477-0711
* Fiesta Days Celebration. June 3-12. Celebrate the founding of Pensacola, the first European settlement in the United States, with a street parade, boat parade, reenactments and a sand-sculpting contest. (850) 433-6512, www.fiestaoffiveflags.org
* Shallow Water Slam. June 26. Redfish, flounder and speckled trout are the game in this Pensacola Beach tournament. (850) 393-1602, www.pensacolakingmack.com
* Bud Light King Mackerel/Cobia Tournament. June 26. See some of the biggest king mackerel and cobia caught at the largest two-day boat event in the Gulf of Mexico. www.pensacolakingmack.com
* 40th annual Pensacola International Billfish Tournament. June 30-July 4. The Pensacola Big Game Fishing Club hosts one of the country’s largest billfish tournaments at NAS Pensacola, which attracts around 600 anglers from all over the Southeast. (850) 453-4638, www.pbgfc.com
* 4th of July Celebration. July 4. This family-oriented event is the largest 4th of July celebration on the Gulf Coast and named a top summer event by the Southeast Tourism Society. www.pensacolasertomajuly4th.org
* Gallery Night. July 9. Enjoy an evening of arts and culture by touring downtown shops, eateries and art galleries boasting a variety of special happenings. (850) 434-1234
* Pensacola Beach Air Show. July 10. This must-see event features a show by the world-famous Blue Angels. (850) 932-2257, www.visitpensacolabeach.com
* Thunder on the Gulf Powerboat Races. July/Aug. More than 40 boats compete at speeds up to 170 mph at this Perdido Key event. (251) 980-7223, www.thunderonthegulf.com
* Bushwacker Festival and 5K. Aug. 6-8. This festival is centered on Pensacola’s favorite adult beverage: the milk-chocolaty bushwacker. (850) 232-0931, www.captnfun.net
* Jamaican Fest. Sept. 3-5. Featuring live music on Portofino Boardwalk, The Kids Zone, sidewalk sale and the “Anything that Floats” race in the Santa Rosa Sound. (850) 932-1500, www.visitpensacolabeach.com
For more information about the Pensacola Bay Area or to request a Visitor Guide, call the Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at (800) 874-1234 or (850) 434-1234 or go online to VisitPensacola.com or VisitPensacola.blogspot.com.
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