Pensacola Beach Casino

Pensacola Beach Casino
Location
Pensacola Beach Blvd. at Ft. Pickens Rd.
Years
1931-1972
Now
Casino Beach Gulfside Pavilion

Previously accessible only by boat, Pensacola Beach officially welcomed tourists with the June 13, 1931 opening of two bridges connecting the barrier island to the mainland. The main attraction was the Casino, designed by architect H. S. Harvey, with a 300-person ballroom that hosted performers like Louis Armstrong. Boxing and fishing were also popular. As more modern amenities came to Santa Rosa Island, the Casino was increasingly seen as a relic and eyesore. It was demolished in 1972.