Weird locations and retro fun delight the inner child while on a Visit to Panama City
PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA–MARCH 2025–Panama City, Florida, on the central northern Gulf Coast, is home to the neighborhoods of Historic St. Andrews and Downtown Panama City. There is a mix of entertainment for young and old here, including lots of family activities, and a surprisingly long list of places to delight the young at heart. Panama City offers both nostalgic retro fun and fresh, innovative experiences. There are businesses designed to celebrate creativity and shops that make feeling like a kid again the norm.
One way to get to know these communities, and to have a blast while doing it, is to seek out the amazing works of art on the Mural Trail. There are eight spots in Historic St. Andrews and even more in Downtown Panama City. Many visitors like to make a game of getting photos at as many of these local treasures as they can.
Fun and games are the goal at The Portal Downtown (328 Luverne Avenue, Panama City, Florida 32401; 850-391-8710). This retro soda shop creates a screen-free play zone, filled with table games we all remember. There are nearly 300 games available along with custom sodas and snacks. This is a stop on Panama City’s downtown Social District, so they don’t mind if patrons bring in their adult beverages (in designated cups). For more gaming, there is Point Break Arcade (445 Harrison Avenue, Panama City, Florida 32401; 850-481-1898). This is the perfect spot for those who want to put their retro arcade game skills to work. From pinball to Pac-Man and more, there are plenty from which to choose. For refreshments, there are 80 craft beers, seltzers, ciders, wine and non-alcoholic beverages. This is an excellent first stop on the Panama City Ale Trail. Then, explore more locations throughout downtown and St. Andrews.
Speaking of ale, History Class Brewing Company (6 East 4th Street, Panama City, Florida 32401; 850-801-2337) serves up its fresh local brews with a dash of local culture in its historic downtown location. It is also the perfect spot to play a game of chess or grab a deck of cards while enjoying a beer and a meal. There are also weekly trivia night shenanigans to enjoy. At El Weirdo Taco Pub (24 West Oak Avenue, Panama City, Florida; 850-842-7685) craft beer is on tap, along with a full bar and a creative taco menu. Here creativity goes well beyond the menu, as the place is filled with the artistic creations of local painters and sculptors, both inside and out. On the wall, a mural proudly proclaims the pub to be filled with “weirdos . . . and lovers of weird things.”
That lively spirit is also a part of the retail scene here. Floriopolis (1131 Beck Avenue, Panama City, Florida 32401; 850-249-9295) showcases an eclectic collection of work from local artists and vintage curators. Sound Collective (1113 Beck Avenue, Panama City, Florida 32401; 850-276-2925) is heaven for music lovers and carries everything from guitar picks and drum sticks to vinyl records and players and more. Visitors can even rent a recording room for private events. There are more fun and funky shops to explore at Little Village (2808 West 12th Street, Panama City, Florida 32401; 850-215-9273), which promises “feel good shopping” in a beautiful waterfront setting.
Surprises are in store for those shopping at Bookish Boutique (456 Harrison Avenue, Panama City, Florida 32401; 850-320-8225). Not the typical low-key shop, this iconic pink book store has an edgy atmosphere as well as a gift shop and wine bar. The shop is bright and inviting every day but adds wine events, book signings and Blind Date Books as more ways to connect its “bookish” patrons. Atelier Candle Bar (100 Harrison Avenue, Panama City, Florida 32401; 850-832-0336) connects its customers through a creative candle pouring experience that includes craft cocktails. The setting is a take on a classic French brasserie and cocktail lounge with a mood that includes a distinctive Panama City vibe. Guests create their own candle from a choice of more than 80 fragrance oils. While the candles cure, patrons can enjoy cocktails, mocktails and beer in the Candle Bar’s courtyard.
Of course, there is enjoyment on the water, too. Kingdom Splash Fest Inflatable Water Park (327 West Beach Drive, Panama City, Florida 32401; 850-543-6047) is a new floating water park and ninja obstacle course bringing new ways to enjoy St. Andrews Bay. Among the other easy options for escapades is connecting with Heritage Excursions (Sun Harbor Marina, 5505 Sun Harbor Road, Panama City Florida, 32401; 850-258-5353). They offer island adventure party packages and will even build a custom expedition package. They also have pontoon rentals, guided jet ski tours and dolphin tours. With Katie’s Paddle Boarding Adventures (850-276-2365) paddlers can schedule guided SUP tours and even go on birding or fishing outings.
If you go
Consider timing a visit with one of the unique annual events here. From Mardi Gras festivities in the spring to an Oktoberfest celebration in the fall, the calendar is dotted with reasons to come, stay and play in Panama City. Of course, some of these events have a surprising twist on the fun, including:
Salty Dog Mayor Day – Historic St. Andrews is home to this one-of-a-kind fundraiser. Each year, voting opens on Mardi Gras day for canine candidates to serve as the next mayor. The winner is announced on Salty Dog Day, during a celebration held in Oaks By the Bay Park, and the new canine-in-chief begins his year of service.
FLLUXE Arts Festival – An immersive experience combines music, street chalk installations, artisanal vendors, local foods, live painting and more.
Blessing of the Fleet, Fish Fry & Burning of the Socks – A traditional procession of water vessels is joined by a community fish fry and ceremony aimed at “freeing your feet.” Participants burn their socks as a welcome to spring, the beginning of flip flop season.