From its emerald waters to its thriving downtown, Panama City is hitting its stride
There’s a vibrant vibe happening in Panama City. Chalk it up to the new streetscape and the revitalization of downtown, hip new restaurants, or murals everywhere, but the Florida Panhandle city breathes new life.
Hurricane Michael devastated the area in 2018, but Panama City rebounded in a new and improved way. Land developer St. Joe Company opened several new hotels in the Panhandle last year, including Panama City’s Hotel Indigo at the city’s marina.
“You would not believe how involved the community of Panama City is,” says David Demarest, St. Joe Company director of public relations and communications. “The hotel was a big investment. It shows a lot of faith in the area.”
Downtown Panama City
The downtown area contains a nice variety of shops, museums, and restaurants. Enjoy yoga or shop for mystical items at Baywitch, view more than 30 exhibitions a year at Panama City Center for the Arts, or pause at the Bay County Courthouse Gideon v. Wainwright monument, an official stop on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail.
If the offbeat is your style, El Weirdo Taco Pub is a must. Every inch of wall space is covered with artwork—even in the bathrooms, where mystical owls keep you company. This local brewery doubles as the largest art installation in Bay County’s Panama City Mural Trail, featuring the works of numerous artists. If history’s more your thing, the History Class Brewing Company tells the story of Panama City through its decor and even names its beer after famous residents.
Historic St. Andrews
Another fun neighborhood to explore is Historic St. Andrews, bookended by Oaks by the Bay Park, where Old Sentry, a 200-year-old oak tree, stands as a symbol of the city’s resilience. For an overview of Panama City history, visit the Panama City Publishing Museum, which showcases the work of pioneer George West, who published the city’s first newspaper, and his wife, Lillian West, who kept the tradition going after his death. Try your hand at printing on one of five working vintage printing presses.
Boutique shops include Floriopolis, a community art collective, and Gypsybeach Treasured Kreations, featuring crafts and vintage items from 30 local artisans. Gypsybeach also offers art classes for kids if they need a creative outlet.
There are plenty of dining options as well, including the St. Andrews Bodega, serving up a delightful array of artisanal cheeses, meats, and breads; and Luna Muna Cafebar, a casual spot for locally sourced breakfast and lunch as well as craft coffee.
For something completely unique, order the Trash Burger at Bayou Joe’s Marina & Grill on Massalina Bayou. The extra-large sloppy joe burger comes topped with animal crackers and a biscuit. If you’re really hungry, try the Trash with Class burger with double the meat and accoutrements.
Beyond the beach
And, of course, there’s the water. Panama City fronts St. Andrews Bay with easy access to the Atlantic and neighboring bays. Visitors may enjoy a peaceful sunset sailing cruise with Emerald Coast Sailing Excursions or see nature up close with Captain Chris Farley on Flippin’ Awesome Adventures. Farley’s biology background allows him to explain much of what lurks beneath the bay’s waters. Once he sets anchor, Farley dives in and emerges with a variety of sea life—sand dollars, starfish– for visitors to hold.
Get more information at panamacitybeach.com.
For a rainy day
Like any Florida town where visitors come to relish sun and water, there will be rainy days. Stop at Panama City Hot Glass and try your hand at creating a glass keepsake forged from fire. Group events may be scheduled as well.
