Overlooking the waters of St. Andrews Bay, Panama City is a lively cultural hub in the Florida Panhandle. It’s a stone’s throw away from the popular Gulf of Mexico resort at Panama City Beach, which is renowned for its long stretches of white sands, family-friendly attractions and native wetlands.
Things to do in Panama City
Panama City centres around the historic St. Andrews district, which has a main street lined with seafood restaurants, retail stores and the Panama City Center for the Arts. It extends to the whitewashed Panama City City Hall and modern marina, from where there are magnificent views over St. Andrew’s Bay.
The marina is the launching point for the Panama City Dolphin Safari, offering a unique opportunity to swim with dolphins in the Gulf of Mexico waters. After getting up close to these playful creatures, you’ll also have time to explore the picturesque beaches and walking trails of Shell Island.
Make a day trip west to Panama City Beach, which is located a short drive across the bay and features an exciting selection of attractions backing the golden sands. Be awed by the Marvelous Mirror Maze and 7D Moving Theatre at Ripley’s Believe it or Not and cool off in the wave pool and lazy river of Shipwreck Island Park.
Want to explore the natural beauty of Florida’s Gulf region? Hit one of the walking trails that wind through the wetlands of Conservation Park and pass beneath towering Cypress domes or join a guided birdwatching trek with the Bay County Audubon Society.
Getting around Panama City
Northwest Florida International Airport is located around 30 minutes’ drive north of Panama City. A car is the most convenient way to get around and there are trolleys and buses that travel throughout Panama City.