20 Attractions to Explore Near Panama City Center for the Arts

Panama City, is a beautiful city to visit full of fun and exciting activities. From the stunning beaches that offer breathtaking views of the crystal clear emerald green water to historical architecture and landmarks like the old Customs House, visitors have plenty to do and explore in this fascinating city. Shopping and restaurants are plentiful as well, with small boutique stores and bustling night life providing a range of experiences for all ages.

Panama City, Florida is home to the Science and Discovery Center of Northwest Florida, a children's museum. Interactive science and natural history displays, play areas, live reptiles, and a nature trail are among the exhibits.

During the American Civil War, a large number of saltworks were located in St. Andrew Bay.

This Museum, is a historic location houses a printing press museum with original 19th-century equipment used by the first newspapers in the area. It also features display cases full of various artifacts collected from newspapers printed in the area. Through interactive exhibits and guided tours led by experienced guides, guests can gain insight into the evolution of the newspaper industry and how it has shaped both Panama City's culture and America's journalistic landscape.

Shell Island, a seven-mile strip of land located in Bay County, Florida, is the perfect destination for a day on the beach. With over five miles of accessible coastline, visitors to Shell Island will find plenty of secluded spots to build sandcastles and take a refreshing dip in the crystal blue waters. Those looking to explore further can join excursions that focus on the local marine life including bottlenose dolphins and loggerhead sea turtles or even journey out to nearby wrecks.

Gator Lake, located in Bay County, Florida, is a 31-acre lake situated between two of the most beautiful crystal-clear coastal rivers that have ever been seen. The area has become well known for its expansive sub-watersheds that are home to a variety of different species including some of the rarest fish and wildlife in Florida. Gator Lake is also home to other unique features such as an old dock bridge that provides a picturesque walkway over the lake's tranquil waters.

Two-and-a-half miles of beaches, boat tours, boating, canoeing, fishing piers, hiking, kayaking, picnicking, scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, wildlife viewing, and full camping facilities can be found at St. Andrews State Park.

The Hathaway Bridge, is a stunning architectural achievement that spans St. Andrews Sound between Panama City Beach and Panama City. Originally constructed in 1947 out of steel, the bridge was reconstructed and widened to a four lane span between 1998 and 2001. The widening of the bridge provided an economic boon to the local communities by allowing for easier passage across the sound, enabling tourists and locals alike to experience all that Bay County has to offer.

The Florida Department of Transportation has designated four alternate routes for SR 30 in the Florida panhandle as State Road 30A (SR 30A).

Coconut Creek is a city in Broward County, Florida. The city is known as the "Butterfly Capital of the World" because Butterfly World is the largest butterfly aviary in the world with more than 80 species and 20,000 butterflies.

Robert Ripley founded Ripley's Believe It or Not, an American franchise that deals in unusual and bizarre events and objects. The Believe It or Not feature began as a newspaper panel and was later adapted into a variety of media, including radio, television, comic books, a chain of museums, and a book series.

WonderWorks Panama City Beach is an amazingly interactive attraction that provides visitors with captivating and educational experiences. The venue displays over 100 interactive exhibits as well as hands-on activities that are designed to stimulate learning. A wide array of historical artifacts and scientific experiments can be explored throughout the facility. Guests can see everything from dinosaur bones to gravity simulation labs! In addition, they have a 3D theatre.

Panama City Beach is a stunning beach spot with something to offer everyone. With it's abundance of white sandy beaches, breathtaking vistas and crystal blue-green waters, its the perfect place for both relaxation and adventure. Whether you desire a peaceful retreat spent lounging on the beach or are looking for the challenge of parasailing and jet skiing, the thrills await. There's an array of excellent restaurants to cater to your dining needs.

Goofy Golf is a premier mini-golf establishment. Visitors can enjoy the 18 holes which include fun obstacles like humpback whales and a giant grandfather clock. It is an excellent destination for families as it offers hours of entertainment and lighthearted fun on the well-maintained courses. The courses also offer a few challenges that test even experienced mini-golfers!

Frank Brown Park is a popular destination for campers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts. This 486-acre park boasts a scenic lakefront view with plenty of room for public recreation activities. A boat ramp provides access to the stunning Lake Powell and a disc golf course gives visitors the opportunity to test their skills. Hiking trails of varying difficulty ranges add variety to outdoor activities while picnic areas outfitted with grills encourage families to have lunch together.

At the Man in the Sea Museum, there are exhibits and documents related to the history of diving.

The West Bay Bridge is a mesmerizing sight, connecting St. Andrews and Panama City from the mainland to the Gulf of Mexico. Spanning two miles across beautiful St. Andrew's Bay, this bridge features six lanes for vehicular traffic and two dedicated lanes for pedestrians. Visitors can take advantage of the two separate overlooks located on the bridge with breathtaking vistas of the pristine St. Andrew's State Park and magnificent waters of nearby Shell Island.

Pitt and Sylvan Springs, offer a variety of activities for locals and visitors alike. This quaint village offers serene walking pathways along the beach and lush golf courses to enjoy. Families with small children can visit nearby water parks or go horseback riding, while couples looking for a romantic outing can enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant or take a walk along the shoreline. Those seeking outdoor adventures can explore nearby swamps and creeks by boat or kayak.

Mexico Beach is a stunning haven of sun-filled beauty. The lush, white sand beaches and azure blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico make it an ideal destination for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy numerous outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, swimming, and more; the nearby St. Joseph Peninsula State Park offers biking paths and nature trails to explore. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant here.

Pine Log State Forest, is a favorite local spot of outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Covering over 11,000 acres within the Nokuse Plantation area, Pine Log State Forest is a great place to explore. Paved trails through cypress-lined ponds make for excellent hiking or biking experiences with chances to see native wildlife along the way. The forest also offers hunters access for deer, turkey and small game hunting as well as primitive camping spots throughout.