Top Things to Do in Panama City, FL: Beyond the Charter

Planning your perfect getaway to the Florida Panhandle? While a private trip with Rising Tide Fishing Charters is the best way to experience the Gulf of Mexico, there are endless things to do in Panama City that will fill your itinerary with family fun, local culture, and incredible dining, showcasing some of the best activities Panama City Beach Florida has to offer.. This charming Gulf Coast city offers a unique blend of historical appeal and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal destination for every member of your group. Don't wait—come explore all that Panama City has to offer!

1. Outdoor Adventure: St. Andrews State Park & Shell Island

The crown jewel of Panama City attractions is the stunning St. Andrews State Park. Located at the eastern end of Panama City Beach, this preserved stretch of coastline offers a natural escape from the hustle and bustle, making it one of the standout Panama City Beach activities & attractions for nature lovers. Visitors can swim, snorkel, kayak, or hike miles of scenic trails, spotting everything from wading birds to deer. It’s a wonderful place for Panama City family activities and allows you to appreciate the raw, untouched beauty of the Florida coast.

From the park, you can easily access Shell Island, a seven-mile-long undeveloped barrier island that separates the Gulf of Mexico from St. Andrew's Bay. Shell Island is a haven for wildlife and famous for its abundant shelling opportunities and crystal-clear waters, often frequented by wild bottlenose dolphins. While the Captain can show you the marine life on a fishing trip, a visit to Shell Island lets you experience the tranquility of this pristine beach and lagoon ecosystem firsthand.

2.Culture and History: Historic St. Andrews and Floriopolis

Dive into the unique heritage of the area by exploring the historic St. Andrews neighborhood. This walkable district of Panama City is rich in maritime history and features charming streets lined with quaint boutiques, art galleries, and historic markers. The Bay County Historical Museum is a great place to step back in time and learn how the fishing and railway industries shaped the community long before the tourism boom.

For art enthusiasts, don't miss Floriopolis, Panama City’s thriving community arts center located in the St. Andrews Marina. This hub features a gallery, studio spaces, and a market showcasing works from local Gulf Coast artists. Exploring the local murals and creative districts provides a fantastic cultural contrast to the exhilaration of deep-sea fishing, adding a layer of depth to your stay in Panama City, FL.

3.Family-Friendly Fun: Discovery and Entertainment

If you’re looking for engaging Panama City family activities off the sand, the city has great options. The Science & Discovery Center of Northwest Florida offers interactive exhibits that delight children and spark curiosity about natural science, history, and technology. It’s the perfect spot to spend a few hours learning about the local ecosystem, including the marine life you might encounter on your charter with Rising Tide Fishing Charters.

For a classic family outing, explore the attractions around Pier Park. Here you can find the iconic SkyWheel Panama City Beach, a huge Ferris wheel offering spectacular panoramic views of the coast—a fantastic spot for sunset photos. Pier Park also features shopping, dining, and other amusements, ensuring that your family’s land-based fun is just as exciting as your time catching trophy fish on the water.

4.Local Flavor: Fresh Seafood and Waterfront Dining

No trip to the coast is complete without enjoying the local seafood. Panama City is renowned for its fresh catches, and you’ll find countless restaurants serving up the Gulf's bounty. Look for local staples like Grouper sandwiches and freshly shucked oysters at popular waterfront establishments. Dining by the water is one of the essential things to do in Panama City.

From casual beach dives to upscale seafood restaurants, the dining scene here reflects the coastal culture. Treat yourself to a meal featuring the very same snapper or grouper species you might be targeting on your private charter with Rising Tide Fishing Charters! It’s the perfect way to wrap up a day of adventure in Panama City, FL, before planning your next unforgettable trip.

5. Aquatic Encounters at Gulf World Marine Park

For an educational and engaging marine experience, visit Gulf World Marine Park. This is one of the top Panama City attractions for animal lovers. You can spend the day enjoying spectacular dolphin and sea lion shows, or even get hands-on with exotic marine life.

Gulf World is a great place to appreciate the tropical fish and marine ecosystem from a different perspective than fishing. They offer interactive programs, including dolphin encounters and penguin feedings, which are perfect for Panama City family activities and guaranteed to create lifelong memories.

6. Thrills and Wonder at Shipwreck Island Waterpark

When the Florida heat hits, the best place for fun is Shipwreck Island Waterpark. This 15-acre park is considered one of the top waterparks in the nation and is designed to delight guests of all ages.

From the high-speed slides like the Pirates Plunge to the wave pool and the relaxing lazy river, Shipwreck Island provides hours of high-energy fun. It’s a perfect, refreshing break from the beach and a favorite for families looking for action-packed things to do in Panama City.

7. Explore the Trails at Conservation Park

If you seek a quiet, nature-focused activity away from the beach crowds, explore Conservation Park. This massive park, covering over 2,900 acres of wetlands and forest, features more than 24 miles of trails and a mile of boardwalks.

It's an excellent destination for hiking, biking, and birdwatching, allowing you to appreciate a different side of Panama City’s ecosystem. It's a peaceful, free outdoor activity that makes for wonderful Panama City family activities and a great change of pace after a successful deep-sea fishing trip.

8. ZooWorld Zoological Park: Up-Close Animal Encounters

For a truly wild experience, head to ZooWorld Zoological Park. This intimate zoo offers much more than just viewing animals; it specializes in personalized, up-close animal encounters.

Guests can interact with various creatures, including sloths, kangaroos, and lemurs. ZooWorld is particularly popular with families, as these unique, supervised interactions are often the highlight for children, making it a highly memorable and family-friendly fishing alternative in Panama City.

Ready to mix exciting fishing action with fantastic local adventures? Rising Tide Fishing Charters is ready to take you out for the best deep-sea or inshore experience the Gulf Coast has to offer. Book your private charter today and then fill the rest of your vacation with these incredible Panama City attractions!