Panama City

A. Panama City is located in Northwest Florida on the northern banks of St. Andrews Bay, an inland estuary fed by the Gulf of Mexico. The city is part of Bay County and is known for its historic neighborhoods, thriving arts scene, seafood, and water sports. It is approximately 100 miles southwest of Tallahassee, the state capital.

A. Panama City is best known for its vibrant waterfront, making it a popular destination for sailing, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and dolphin-watching. It also offers a rich cultural scene with museums, galleries, live music and performance events. For more information on attractions, visit Destination Panama City.

A. Panama City Beach is approximately 10 miles west of Panama City. The drive between the two takes about 20 minutes, depending on traffic. The route is straightforward, following US-98 W.

A. Panama City offers several family-friendly attractions. The Science and Discovery Center of Northwest Florida provides interactive exhibits for children. Families can also enjoy an over-the-water obstacle course experience at Kingdom Splash Fest, explore the Mural Trail, or take a boat tour to Shell Island. The Portal Downtown offers board games and puzzles for screen-free fun. For more activities, check out Destination Panama City.

A. The best time to visit Panama City is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). These seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the busy summer months. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and events without the peak season rush.

A. Panama City is known for its fresh seafood, with many restaurants offering delicious local catches. Hunt's Oyster Bar is a popular spot for oysters, seafood platters, and whole fried fish. Captain's Table Fish House Restaurant is another favorite, known for its classic and inventive dishes like crab claws, stuffed grouper, and horseradish crusted snapper.

A. Panama City hosts a variety of events throughout the year. The annual Krewe of St. Andrews Mardi Gras celebration in February or early March features parades and live music. In the fall, Oktoberfest at Downtown Panama City offers a street fair full of German food and entertainment. For a complete list of events, visit the Destination Panama City Signature Annual Events Calendar.

A. Getting around Panama City is convenient with several transportation options. Bayway provides public transit throughout the city and surrounding areas. Car rentals are also available for those who prefer to drive.

A. Panama City offers several beautiful parks for visitors to enjoy. St. Andrews State Park is a must-visit for its beaches and nature trails. Oaks by the Bay Park provides a scenic spot with a centuries-old oak tree and waterfront views. In Asbell Park you’ll find hanging Adirondack chairs, perfect for watching the sunset, and salt pots from the Civil War era.

A. Panama City offers a variety of shopping experiences. Shop, sip, and stroll your way through the locally-owned boutiques of the Downtown Panama City Social District. Historic St. Andrews is home to eclectic shops like the Native Spirit Museum & Gallery, Sunjammers, Gypsy Willow, and Little Village. The city also offers four farmers markets held weekly year-round with fresh produce and handcrafted goods. A full directory of shops can be found at Destination Panama City.

A. The calm, protected waters of St. Andrews Bay are accessible from Panama City’s numerous bayside beaches. Spread a blanket, cast a line, or launch a kayak from popular spots like Oaks by the Bay or Asbell Parks. Calhoun Beach Park features a Mobi-Mat for easy rolling access. St. Andrews State Park and Shell Island offer a more natural beach experience with opportunities for snorkeling, beachcombing, and fishing.