Map Florida Panama City Travel Guide
Introduction
Located in the northwestern part of Florida, Panama City is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, and rich history. From exploring natural wonders to indulging in delicious local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. In this travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in and around Panama City.
Top Attractions
St. Andrews State Park
St. Andrews State Park is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers. The park boasts beautiful beaches, hiking trails, fishing piers, and plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching. Visitors can also rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the park’s waterways.
Gulf World Marine Park
Gulf World Marine Park is a popular family-friendly attraction that features dolphin shows, sea lion shows, and a variety of marine life exhibits. Visitors can also swim with dolphins and interact with other marine animals.
Shell Island
Shell Island is a pristine barrier island located just off the coast of Panama City. With crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches, it’s the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Visitors can also explore the island’s hiking trails and wildlife habitats.
Hidden Gems
Conservation Park
Conservation Park is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features more than 24 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and fishing in the park.
Bay County Arboretum
The Bay County Arboretum is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Panama City. The arboretum features a variety of native plants and trees, as well as walking trails and picnic areas. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching and fishing in the nearby pond.
Historic St. Andrews
Historic St. Andrews is a charming neighborhood located just across the bay from Panama City. The area features a variety of historic homes and buildings, as well as charming shops and restaurants. Visitors can also explore the nearby marina and enjoy beautiful views of the bay.
Food Scene
Firefly
Firefly is a popular restaurant known for its delicious Southern-inspired cuisine. The restaurant features a beautiful outdoor patio and a cozy indoor dining room. Visitors can enjoy dishes like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and bourbon-glazed salmon.
Andy’s Flour Power
Andy’s Flour Power is a cozy breakfast spot that serves up delicious homemade pastries and breakfast dishes. Visitors can enjoy dishes like cinnamon rolls, quiches, and omelets, as well as a variety of coffee and tea drinks.
Pineapple Willy’s
Pineapple Willy’s is a fun beachfront restaurant that’s known for its seafood and tropical cocktails. Visitors can enjoy dishes like seafood platters, fish tacos, and grilled shrimp, as well as live music and beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visit the Beaches
The beaches in and around Panama City are free to access, so spending a day soaking up the sun and swimming in the ocean is a great budget-friendly activity. Visitors can also bring their own food and drinks to save money on dining out.
Explore the Parks
There are plenty of parks and nature reserves in and around Panama City that are free to access. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and wildlife watching without spending a dime.
Take a Walking Tour
Many of the historic neighborhoods and districts in Panama City offer free walking tours. Visitors can learn about the city’s rich history and architecture while getting some exercise and fresh air.
Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
With its calm waters and beautiful scenery, Panama City is the perfect spot for kayaking and paddleboarding. Visitors can rent equipment and explore the city’s waterways on their own, or join a guided tour to learn more about the area’s natural history.
Fishing
Panama City is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. Visitors can book a fishing charter or head out on their own to catch a variety of fish, including red snapper, grouper, and amberjack.
Zip Lining
The zip lining course at Gulf World Marine Park is a thrilling way to see the city from a new perspective. Visitors can soar over the park’s lagoon and get an aerial view of the marine life below.
Historical Landmarks
St. Andrews Bay Lighthouse
The St. Andrews Bay Lighthouse is a historic landmark that dates back to the 1800s. Visitors can explore the lighthouse and learn about its fascinating history, as well as enjoy beautiful views of the bay.
Historic Downtown Panama City
The historic downtown area of Panama City is home to a variety of historic buildings and landmarks. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour to explore the area’s rich history and architecture.
Camp Helen State Park
Camp Helen State Park is a former resort that dates back to the early 1900s. Visitors can explore the park’s historic buildings and learn about its fascinating history, as well as enjoy hiking trails and beach access.
Family-Friendly Activities
Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is a fun and quirky museum that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits and interactive displays, including a 7D theater and a laser race.
WonderWorks
WonderWorks is an interactive science museum that’s designed to be fun and educational for kids and adults. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits and activities, including a hurricane simulator, a virtual roller coaster, and a glow-in-the-dark ropes course.
Shipwreck Island Waterpark
Shipwreck Island Waterpark is a fun and exciting attraction that’s perfect for families. The park features a variety of water slides, pools, and interactive play areas, as well as a lazy river and a wave pool.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Historic St. Andrews Cemetery
The historic St. Andrews Cemetery is a peaceful and tranquil spot that’s perfect for a quiet afternoon stroll. Visitors can explore the cemetery and learn about the area’s rich history, as well as enjoy beautiful views of the bay.
Seacrest Wolf Preserve
The Seacrest Wolf Preserve is a unique and off-the-beaten-path attraction that’s perfect for animal lovers. Visitors can interact with wolves and learn about their behavior and habitat, as well as enjoy hiking trails and wildlife watching.
Eden Gardens State Park
Eden Gardens State Park is a beautiful and serene park that’s known for its historic mansion and lush gardens. Visitors can explore the mansion and grounds, as well as enjoy hiking trails and picnic areas.
Natural Wonders
Econfina Creek
Econfina Creek is a scenic waterway that’s perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. Visitors can enjoy crystal-clear water, lush vegetation, and plenty of wildlife along the way.
St. Andrews Bay
St. Andrews Bay is a beautiful and diverse ecosystem that’s home to a variety of marine life and wildlife. Visitors can explore the bay by kayak or paddleboard, or join a guided tour to learn more about the area’s natural history.
Shell Island
Shell Island is a pristine barrier island that’s home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles and dolphins. Visitors can explore the island’s beaches and hiking trails, as well as enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear water.
Vibrant Nightlife
Spinnaker Beach Club & Paradise Grill
Spinnaker Beach Club & Paradise Grill is a popular beachfront bar that’s known for its live music and party atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a variety of drinks and cocktails, as well as dance the night away under the stars.
Coyote Ugly Saloon
Coyote Ugly Saloon is a fun and lively bar that’s inspired by the hit movie of the same name. Visitors can enjoy a variety of drinks and cocktails, as well as watch the bartenders dance on the bar.
Patches Pub & Grill
Patches Pub &