Pack your bags for the whole crew and head to Panama City. This vibrant city is a paradise waiting to be explored, and a perfect vacation spot for the family. From splashing around in bayside beaches to becoming a little artist at local art galleries to dining at kid-friendly restaurants, and everything in between, get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime with the ultimate guide of kid-friendly things to do in Panama City!

Spend a Day on the Bay: The Best Water Activities for Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Panama City

Your Panama City family getaway is only complete after dipping your toes into the city’s refreshing water adventures. Located on the calm waters of St. Andrews Bay, the waters of Panama City beckon for adventure and there’s quite a few ways to do so!

Hang Out at Papa Joe’s Bayside with Live Music, Food Trucks, Beaches, and Boats!

Papa Joe’s Bayside offers stunning bay views to set the scene for your perfect day filled with some of the most kid-friendly things to do in Panama City. Relax with live music and delicious eats from the on-site food trucks (and a full bar for adults), or challenge your crew to a friendly yard game showdown.

Feeling extra adventurous? Head down to their dock where you can rent pontoon boats for a self-guided water expedition, or book an inshore fishing charter with Panama City Inshore for a thrill-catching adventure. For a group tour, hop aboard the Grand-Mére to dolphin watch and cruise around Shell Island. And of course, no waterfront fun is complete without a sandy toes beach experience – the bayside beach awaits for building sandcastles and soaking up the sun.

Take a Field Trip with Emerald and Forgotten Coast Adventures

Dive into the wonders of Panama City’s marine life with a special kind of adventure! Emerald and Forgotten Coast Adventures is a non-profit dedicated to igniting a love for the ocean in kids by offering unforgettable waterside tours. Forget textbooks – here, passionate professionals guide your little ones on an interactive journey, allowing them to touch, see, and learn all about the fascinating creatures that call the bay home. Bridging the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world experience, you’ll want to check this off your bucket list of kid-friendly things to do in Panama City to spark curiosity and create lasting memories.

Dive Into an Underwater Adventure with a Dolphin Tour

The crystal-clear waters surrounding Panama City are filled with exciting options for sun, sand, snorkeling, and sailing. Your family trip to Panama City is guaranteed to be an adventure with various excursions provided by local charters. Companies like Anchor Charters, Flippin’ Awesome Adventures, and Capt. Zach’s Adventures are your ticket to unforgettable dolphin and wildlife tours. These excursions provide everything you need for an underwater adventure! Imagine the excitement as your crew spots playful dolphins frolicking in the waves and discovers the colorful world teeming with fish and other marine wonders.

Splash Around at a Bayside Park

The beaches are calling! The bayside beaches, that is. In Panama City, there’s a multitude of beautiful bayside parks for your family to enjoy. If you’re planning your trip around all of the most kid-friendly things to do in Panama City, you’ll want to check off as many of these hidden spots as you can!

Destination Panama City Visitor’s Center | 101 W. Beach Drive

Kick off your waterfront fun at Destination Panama City Visitor’s Center! Here you’ll find a pristine bayside beach – perfect for snorkeling, launching kayaks or paddle boards, or simply relaxing with a picnic lunch under the palm trees. Take advantage of the free public restrooms, outdoor showers, and parking. It’s just steps aways from the shops, restaurants, arts, and entertainment of Downtown Panama City. Make sure to walk into the Visitors Center to get expert advice from the friendly staff on exploring the area and finding even more kid-friendly things to do in Panama City.

Carl Gray Park | 4600 Collegiate Drive

Carl Gray Park offers a variety of fun – cast a line and try your luck fishing, or let the little ones loose on the waterfront playground. You can also launch kayaks or paddle boards, or just swim around! Located on North Bay near Gulf Coat Community College, this waterfront park has ample parking, covered picnic tables, and a boat launch ramp if you want to explore bay more.

Oaks By the Bay Park | 2715 W. 10th Street

Seeking a quieter spot? Oaks By the Bay Park, nestled within historic St. Andrews, is your answer. This park boasts the “Old Sentry,” a majestic centuries-old oak tree, and multiple unique nautical-themed chainsaw carvings. A short walk over the dune walkovers leads you to a secluded bayside beach with breathtaking views – a paradise for exploration and relaxation. After enjoying the water, you can explore the shops and restaurants along Beck Avenue.

Asbell Park, W. Beach Drive & E. Caroline Boulevard

A perennial favorite of locals and visitors alike, Asbell Park is recognizable by its colorful, swinging Adirondack chairs, perfect for watching the sunset over St. Andrews Bay. Located on scenic Beach Drive, one side of Asbell Park is situated on Lake Caroline and just across the street is St. Andrews Bay.

Museums and Historic Walking Tours

Unleash your inner explorer with a visit to one of the city’s museums. From uncovering ancient artifacts to witnessing the magic of science come alive, these interactive exhibits are guaranteed to spark imaginations and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Enjoy Some Fresh Air (and History!) in Downtown Panama City

Join the Historic Downtown Walking Tour, a three-quarter-mile loop that is the perfect length for families with kids – it won’t leave little legs feeling tired! This stroll weaves together the city’s natural beauty and architectural marvels, keeping curious minds engaged with every twist and turn. Download a copy of your self-guided walking tour here! You can find more information about the history of Panama City and Bay County at the Bay County Historical Museum, dedicated to preserving and sharing the region’s rich history through engaging exhibits.

Explore the Fascinating Past of Panama City in Historic St. Andrews

In charming downtown St. Andrews, the Panama City Publishing Museum lets kids witness antique printing presses come alive, explore fascinating exhibits, and even create their own mini-newspapers at the free interactive kids’ table. Just across the street, the Native Spirits Museum and Gallery is a treasure trove of authentic Native American artifacts and artwork from the Florida Panhandle, with a special kids’ display designed to spark curiosity. Talk about a history lesson for some kid-friendly things to do in Panama City that won’t leave your little ones feeling bored!

Become a Nature Expert at the Science and Discovery Center of Northwest Florida

This interactive wonderland offers a full day of exploration, both indoors and out. Kids will ignite their imaginations with engaging displays, create their own in an art studio, and get hands-on with nature-themed simulations. Prepare for a whirlwind of learning and laughter at this fantastic children’s museum!

Let Your Imagination Run Wild: Discover Artistic Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Panama City

Our vibrant city is a haven for creative minds, offering tons of fun ways for kids to explore the world of art. You will find colorful galleries bursting with inspiration, interactive exhibits that encourage hands-on exploration, and opportunities to create masterpieces of your own. Even the streets themselves become a living canvas with a collection of stunning murals to see!

Enjoy a Self-Guided Art Tour Through Panama City’s Mural Trail

Over 18 murals, created by local and renowned artists, adorn the city walls, offering a glimpse into Panama City’s creative spirit. From the iconic Panama City Postcard mural to the Welcome Wall (featuring 8 smaller murals) to the larger-than-life Hammerhead mural, the Panama City Mural Trail is a free and unique way to spark your child’s creativity and turn your Panama City adventure into an artistic treasure hunt!
Bonus: These masterpieces double as the perfect photo-op to share your adventures of the kid-friendly things to do in Panama City with all your friends and family! You can find more Instagrammable photo ops here.

Immerse Yourselves in the Heart of Panama City’s Art Scene

Panama City Center for the Arts, located in historic downtown, is a treasure trove for creative minds of all ages. Step inside to explore ever-evolving art exhibits, relax in the cafe with your own snacks, or curl up with a good book in their cozy art library. The on-site gift shop is filled with unique locally-made treasures, perfect for taking a piece of Panama City’s artistic spirit home. And if inspiration strikes, they offer a variety of classes – from pottery and painting to drawing and writing – ensuring there’s something to spark every child’s inner artist!

Take a Class to Make Your Own Art

Craft your own dazzling stained-glass masterpiece, take the littles ones to paint, and so much more at Gypsybeach Treasured Kreations. With a gift shop full of unique pieces, this is a guaranteed recipe for fun kid-friendly things to do in Panama City and a unique souvenir to remember it as well. For more wearable art, craft your own one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces at L.H. Bead Gallery, where classes are offered for all jewelry making skill levels- making this perfect for the whole family.

Turn Up the Heat at Panama City Hot Glass

For older kids (and of course their adventurous parents!), Panama City Hot Glass offers a fiery fusion of fun. This glassblowing studio boasts a stunning gallery showcasing one-of-a-kind glass art pieces. The real magic happens during live demonstrations, where you can witness molten glass being transformed into breathtaking creations. The best part is- you and your crew can book a glassblowing class, to test out your skills and create a brag-worthy souvenir!
Pro tip: Make sure you book ahead of time to not miss out on this unique opportunity!

On a More Playful Side: Participate in Competitive Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Panama City

Craving a screen-free adventure? Escape the digital world and dive into a few Panama City hotspots that ignite nostalgic joy and friendly competition. Time to grab your game face (and maybe even inner detectives)!

Panama City Style Game Night at The Portal Downtown

Panama City has a hidden gem for your next family game night: The Portal Downtown! At this board game haven, you’ll sip on endless, whimsical soda creations and indulge in their signature popcorn salads, the perfect blend of sweet and salty for your gaming marathon. With hundreds of board games for every player count, skill level, and age, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect adventure for your crew, whether you’re seasoned strategists or board game newbies. With all-day play passes – it’s an affordable escape into a world of imagination and laughter.

Unleash Your Inner Child and Share a Taste of Your Past at Point Break Arcade

Buckle up for a trip back in time at Point Break Arcade. This retro haven is a nostalgic blast from the past, packed with over 70 iconic 80s, 90s, and 00s arcade games. The best part? You pay one price for a day pass and play all day long! No more fumbling for quarters, just pure, uninterrupted arcade playtime. Challenge your family to classic head-to-head battles, team up for cooperative adventures, or simply lose yourself in the pixelated glow of fun.

Challenge Yourselves at Escape Manor

These brain-bending challenges are perfect for families looking for kid-friendly things to do in Panama City that are both exciting and stimulating. Imagine working together to decipher cryptic clues, solve puzzles, and crack codes. The race against the clock will have everyone on the edge of their seats, but don’t worry – these escape rooms are designed for all ages and skill levels. So put on your thinking caps, channel your inner detective, and see if you can escape the room before time runs out!

Fuel Your Adventures: The Best Dining Options for Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Panama City

Sun, sand, and smiles can work up quite an appetite! From waterfront restaurants with stunning views to hidden gems serving up delicious local fare, there’s something for everyone. Get ready to discover the best dining options to fuel all of these kid-friendly things to do in Panama City!

Experience the Panama City Oyster Trail

The Panama City Oyster Trail is a must experience! Anyone (especially your little ones) trying an oyster for the first time at Hunt’s Oyster Bar during the month of August will take home a “Golden Oyster” trophy to commemorate their first oyster eating adventure. Even if you visit outside of National Oyster Day, or oysters aren’t your thing, any stop on the Oyster Trail brings a vibrant menu of local seafood flavors perfect for the whole family.

Grab a Bite with a View

Many restaurants in Panama City offer outdoor seating with stunning bay views, creating a breezy and picturesque backdrop for your meal.

Finns Island Style Grub, located in the Little Village shopping and entertainment area, offers a casual dining experience perfect for families. Their menu lives up to their motto of “keep it fresh,” promising delicious options for even the pickiest eaters. The real star of the show is the amazing waterfront patio, where you can enjoy local music and art alongside your meal.

Bayou Joe’s Marina and Grill is another must-do dining option for the whole family. It sits on (yes, right on top of) the water and offers perfect sunset views. Attached is a dock, meaning you can pull right up from the water to dock and dine after a long day of soaking up the sun on the water. Your little ones will love the opportunity to feed the fish out back, especially because the water is lit up to see everything swimming below!

Where Art, Dining, and Entertainment Collide

A spot that truly captures the vibrant energy of Panama City is El Weirdo, a one-of-a-kind taco pub. A dozen artists came together to transform the entire experience into one the largest art installations that Panama City has to offer. Floor to ceiling, wall to wall, inside and out, El Weirdo is bursting with creativity and serves up equally delicious tacos. Prepare for a feast for both the eyes and the stomach – it’s weird, it’s fun, and it’s a guaranteed hit with the little adventurers in your crew! (Disclaimer: the next spot is a brewing company, but hear us out… the little ones will be sure to have a blast!)

History Class Brewing Company isn’t just about grown-up drinks (although those are delicious too!). This brewpub is like a step back in time, filled with cool old stuff from Panama City’s past. Kids will have a blast spotting all the neat decorations, and they even provide a selection of fun table games for the kids. Plus, the menu features yummy dishes that everyone will love. It’s a win-win for playful and tasty kid-friendly things to do in Panama City!

On the Sweeter Side

Start your Panama City adventure on the right foot (or should we say “jelly-filled donut?”) with a pitstop at Dan-D-Donuts & Deli! This local favorite is legendary for their melt-in-your-mouth donuts, the perfect fuel for any of these kid-friendly things to do in Panama City. Plus, they offer more than just sugary treats, with yummy breakfast sandwiches and fresh coffee to keep the grown-ups happy too. To top off a day of exploration, head to Drews Ice Cream in Historic St. Andrews! This ice cream haven boasts overflowing concoctions in every flavor imaginable – the perfect way to cool off and celebrate a day of unforgettable kid-friendly things to do in Panama City!

ABOUT PANAMA CITY

Panama City, Florida, is located on shores of beautiful St. Andrew Bay on Florida’s Emerald Coast and sits just about in the center of Florida’s northern Gulf Coast. With an atmosphere distinct from the bustle of nearby beaches, this destination boasts historic downtowns of Panama City and St. Andrews with their beautiful parks and an exciting arts scene. There is a collection of dining options that feature local flare and fresh seafood, along with diverse shopping opportunities. Outdoor recreation includes myriad water activities with fishing and paddling leading the way year-round. Discover your favorite kid-friendly things to do in Panama City and so much more!