Walking the 3-Mile Bridge: Pensacola’s Scenic Bay Stroll

Walking the 3-Mile Bridge: Pensacola’s Scenic Bay Stroll

The Pensacola Bay Bridge—lovingly nicknamed the “3-Mile Bridge”—isn’t just a roadway, it’s an experience. Stretching nearly three miles across the glittering waters of Pensacola Bay, this wide, 10-foot pedestrian and cycling path is a local favorite and a must-do for visitors. Safely separated from vehicle traffic by a sturdy barrier, the path welcomes walkers, runners, bikers, and even roller skaters to soak in fresh air and panoramic water views.

What makes the bridge special is the scenery you’ll find along the way. Pause on one of the benches and you might spot dolphins playing below, pelicans diving gracefully into the bay, or an osprey soaring overhead. Sunrises here are serene, painting the sky in shades of pink and gold, while sunsets turn the horizon into a masterpiece—making it a picture-perfect spot for everything from family outings to date nights.

The path’s story is as memorable as the views. It first opened in August 2020, but just a month later Hurricane Sally swept through, and a loose barge struck the nearly finished bridge, causing extensive damage. After repairs and resilience, the multi-use path reopened in April 2022 and has since become one of Pensacola’s most beloved outdoor amenities.

Whether you’re a local looking for your daily exercise route or a visitor searching for one of the best ways to experience Pensacola Bay, the 3-Mile Bridge offers a breathtaking perspective you won’t forget.

🚶 Access from Pensacola Side: Pensacola Visitor Information Center & nearby Bayfront Park: There’s a parking area at Bayfront Parkway near the Pensacola Visitors Information Center (401 S Jefferson St). From there, you’ll find the trailhead that leads straight onto the multi-use path. This side is the most popular for walkers and runners. Seated at the foot of the Pensacola Bay Bridge on the Pensacola side, you’ll find Bayfront Park, home to the Pensacola Visitors Center. Walkers often start from the Pensacola Visitor Information Center, where there’s free parking, restrooms, and a nice place to stroll and watch the birds. Once parked, you’re just steps away from the bridge. There’s plenty of free parking and easy access to the multi-use path.

🚴 Access from Gulf Breeze Side: Mariners Landing
When you come over the 3-mile bridge, if you take your first right, you will enter Mariners Landing. Mariners Landing wraps around both sides of Hwy 98 off the bridge landing on the Gulf Breeze side and is a great addition to Gulf Breeze. Directly beneath the bridge on the Gulf Breeze side is Mariners Landing—a park designed to include covered picnic areas, fishing spots, and a boat launch. They are currently adding a boat ramp and launch downtown, its location makes it a key landmark to mention, and it’s worth noting for when it reopens in the future. The public have been upset that there is a pay to park with an app and you have to pay $1.00 for parking. We loved taking a walk there and it provides easy access to the 3-mile bridge multi-use path. We also loved the swings they have overlooking the water. It’s peaceful place.