Things to do in Panama City
St Andrews State Park
4607 State Park Ln, Panama City, FL 32408
This state park, which juts out into Saint Andrews Bay, is one of the region’s natural highlights. Take to the waters in a kayak or aboard a boat tour, enjoy the views on a hiking trail, find a spot for birdwatching – St Andrews is a favorite for migratory warblers as the seasons change – or simply soak in the emerald seas.
Science & Discovery Center
308 Airport Road, Panama City, FL 32405
Take your junior adventurers on a mission to uncover the past at this friendly and interactive museum. Dig up dinosaur bones in the sand and meet their reptile descendants – residents of the Center include snakes, frogs, and lizards. Hop on the nature trail to discover fascinating things about the world around you, before touring the interactive exhibits.
ZooWorld Zoological Park
9008 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
The family highlight of nearby Panama City Beach is ZooWorld, which has more than 250 animals at home in a lush tropical habitat. Take a walking tour around the exhibits and you’ll even have the chance to pet some of their friendlier residents, such as sloths, giraffes and lemurs. Help out at feeding time by throwing alligators their lunch.
The best restaurants in Panama City
The Grand Marlin
5323 N. Lagoon Dr, Panama City, Florida 32408
Fresh seafood plus a raft of awards from Florida’s biggest tourist sites equals: a stunning dining experience. Serving shucked oysters with pepper jack cheese and a delicious BBQ butter, as well as sizzling fried shrimp, the flavors are as rich and wholesome as they come.
The Bagel Maker
41 W 4th St, Panama City, FL 32401
The oven-fresh smell alone is enough to make your mouth water, but what’s really tempting is the Bagel Maker’s creative experiments with baked-in-ingredients. Try the heaps of ham and Swiss cheese on one of their creations, and the beautiful bagel dogs – a choice of sausage swaddled in fresh bread.
Big Mama's Country Cooking
620 W Beach Dr, Panama City, FL 32401
No frills, no fuss – just some good ol’ Southern favorites in this old-timey diner. Pull up a chair at the counter for the genuine Bayou ambiance, and feast on fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy. Don’t forget the slaw.
Where to stay in Panama City
Sheraton Panama City Beach Golf & Spa Resort
4114 Jan Cooley Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
The Sheraton is home to the Panhandle’s only Nicklaus Design golf course – the gold standard for golfers. Relax between rounds in rooms with balcony views of the Grand Lagoon and tasteful interiors.
Hilton Garden Inn
1101 US-231, Panama City, FL 32405
A few minutes from downtown Panama City, the Garden Inn has an outdoor pool, plus a selection of spacious rooms with free wifi. The ideal place to rest your head after a day exploring the town.
Seychelles Beach Resort
5115 Gulf Dr, Panama City, FL 32408
Just one mile from St Andrews State Park, the rooms offer clear blue coastal views from the balcony, while the exterior pool also features a hot tub to soak up the sunsets over the Gulf.