12 Fun Things To Do In Panama City Beach For Kids!

Are you looking for a fun-filled family vacation destination? Look no further than Panama City Beach! This sunny Florida city boasts 27 miles of beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. But that's not all - there are tons of exciting activities for kids to enjoy too. From thrilling water parks to fascinating aquariums, here are 12 fun things to do in Panama City Beach that your kids will love!

Visit Gulf World Marine Park

Characteristic	Description
Name	Gulf World Marine Park
Type	Aquarium in Panama City Beach, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.2 / 4,613
Address	15412 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Phone	(850) 234-5271
Hours	Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 3 PM Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 3 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 3 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 3 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 3 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 3 PM Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 3 PM
Profiles

Panama City Beach is a popular destination for families looking for a fun-filled vacation. With miles of sugar-white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of activities, the city is a great place for kids to enjoy. One of the top attractions for children in Panama City Beach is the Gulf World Marine Park.

Located on Front Beach Road, the Gulf World Marine Park is a premier destination for visitors looking to learn about marine life and conservation efforts. The park's mission is to promote the conservation of marine life through education and research. Gulf World Marine Park has been entertaining visitors with its interactive exhibits since 1969. The park is home to a variety of marine life, including bottlenose dolphins, sea lions, rough-toothed dolphins, penguins, stingrays, and many more.

One of the best things about the Gulf World Marine Park is that visitors can interact with various marine animals. There are several shows throughout the day for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular shows is the Dolphin Show, where visitors can watch the dolphins perform amazing tricks, including jumps, flips, and vocalizations. The park also offers animal encounter programs like Swimming with Dolphins, Stingray Encounter, and Sea Lion Encounter. These programs provide visitors with a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with marine animals under the supervision of trained handlers.

In addition to the shows and animal encounters, the Gulf World Marine Park offers several educational exhibits. The park features a touch tank where visitors can interact with a variety of marine invertebrates, including crabs, starfish, and sea urchins. The park also has a shark zone, which educates visitors on the different types of sharks found in the Gulf of Mexico. There is also a penguin exhibit, where visitors can learn about the different species of penguins and their unique behaviors.

Overall, Gulf World Marine Park is an excellent destination for families visiting Panama City Beach with kids. The park offers a unique opportunity to learn about marine life and conservation efforts while having fun and interacting with marine animals. Whether it's watching a dolphin show, swimming with the dolphins, or learning about sea lions, Gulf World Marine Park is a must-visit attraction for kids of all ages.

Play mini-golf at Coconut Creek

If you're looking for something fun to do with your kids in Panama City Beach, Florida, then Coconut Creek should definitely be on your list of places to visit. As one of the premier mini-golf courses in the area, Coconut Creek is a great way for families to spend quality time together and enjoy the beautiful Florida sunshine.

Located just off of Front Beach Road, Coconut Creek features two 18-hole mini-golf courses that are packed with fun and adventure. Each course offers different obstacles and challenges that will keep your kids entertained and engaged for hours.

The Tropical Course takes players through a lush, green jungle filled with waterfalls, caves, and tunnels. Kids get to putt their way through a rainforest canopied by a thatched roof. The course is complete with a pond that is inhabited by large Koi fish and turtles.

The second course is the Lagoon Course, which is set on the banks of a picturesque lagoon. Kids can putt their way over bridges and creeks while watching for the "Florida-sized" wildlife like alligators, giant turtles, and exotic birds. The course also features a challenging final hole where players must hit the ball over water to reach the hole.

The best thing about Coconut Creek is that it caters to children of all ages, making it an ideal destination for families with kids of all ages. Younger children will love the bright colors and animal sculptures scattered throughout the courses, while older kids will appreciate the challenging obstacles and fast-paced play.

In addition to mini-golf, Coconut Creek also features an arcade filled with classic games like air hockey and skeeball. There is also an ice cream parlor on-site, so the kids can cool off and enjoy some sweet treats after their round of mini-golf.

Overall, visiting Coconut Creek is a great way to spend a fun-filled day with your kids in Panama City Beach. With two exciting courses to choose from, an arcade, and an ice cream parlor, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, pack up the sunscreen and head on over to Coconut Creek for a fun-filled day of family-friendly entertainment.

Explore ZooWorld Zoological and Botanical Conservatory

Characteristic	Description
Name	ZooWorld Zoological Park
Type	Zoo in the Upper Grand Lagoon, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 3,864
Address	9008 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Phone	(850) 600-8866
Hours	Monday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 4 PM Tuesday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 4 PM Wednesday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 4 PM Thursday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 4 PM Friday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 4 PM Saturday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 4 PM Sunday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 4 PM
Profiles

Panama City Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Florida. This city has many attractions that are suitable for everyone, including families with kids. One of the best places to visit in Panama City Beach for kids is ZooWorld Zoological and Botanical Conservatory.

ZooWorld is a charming place where kids can explore and learn about various animals and plants. This conservatory has a collection of over 200 animals from all over the world. It has everything from monkeys and tigers to reptiles and birds. Apart from animals, ZooWorld also has an extensive collection of tropical plants and flowers.

When you visit ZooWorld, your kids can participate in guided tours and educational programs to learn about wildlife and conservation efforts. They can also enjoy animal encounters where they can meet and interact with some of the creatures at the conservatory. These animal encounters include pony rides, reptile encounters, and more.

One of the most popular animal exhibits at ZooWorld is the primate habitat. This exhibit has different species of primates, including monkeys, lemurs, and apes. The primates have a spacious, natural habitat that mimics their natural environment. Kids can watch these animals play, feed, and interact with each other.

Another favorite exhibit for kids is the exotic bird exhibit. This exhibit has birds from all over the world, including parrots, macaws, and cockatoos. Kids can watch the birds fly and perch, learn about bird behavior, and even hand-feed them.

Apart from animal exhibits, ZooWorld also has a botanical conservatory, which features a variety of tropical plants and flowers. The conservatory has a butterfly garden, which is home to various species of butterflies. Kids can watch the butterflies flutter around and even learn about their life cycle.

Overall, ZooWorld Zoological and Botanical Conservatory is an excellent place for kids to visit in Panama City Beach. It provides an educational and entertaining experience where kids can learn about animals, plants, and conservation efforts. So, next time you're visiting Panama City Beach with your family, make sure to take your kids to ZooWorld for an unforgettable experience.

Go on a dolphin-watching tour

Panama City Beach is a perfect destination for a family vacation, as it offers a variety of activities suitable for both parents and children. One of the most exciting things to do in Panama City Beach with kids is to go on a dolphin-watching tour.

Dolphins are some of nature's most fascinating and playful creatures, and observing them in their natural habitat is a thrilling experience that your kids will remember for years to come. Luckily, Panama City Beach is home to many bottlenose dolphins, which means that you have a good chance of spotting them during your tour.

There are two primary types of dolphin-watching tours available in Panama City Beach. The first option is to join a guided boat tour. There are numerous tour operators in the area that offer dolphin sightseeing tours for families. During these tours, the guides will take you to the best spots for dolphin sightings and provide you with fascinating information about these intelligent creatures.

As you watch the dolphins swim and jump around the boat, your kids will probably get very excited. Be prepared to hear a lot of oohs and aahs as the dolphins perform their playful antics close to the boat. Keep your camera handy to capture these moments of wonder.

The second option is to go kayaking or paddleboarding with your kids and search for dolphins on your own. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards from various rental shops in Panama City Beach and explore the waters around Shell Island, St. Andrews State Park, or other areas where dolphins tend to congregate. This option gives you more freedom and allows you to spend more quality time with your family while enjoying the beauty of the ocean.

When planning your dolphin-watching tour with kids, make sure to take into account the weather, time of day, and the duration of the tour. Morning tours are usually the best time to see dolphins since they are more active during this time. Also, make sure to bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and water to stay hydrated.

In conclusion, Panama City Beach is an excellent destination for families who want to experience the thrill of observing bottlenose dolphins up close. Whether you choose a guided boat tour or kayak/paddleboard tour, the experience will be unforgettable for you and your kids. So pack your bags, bring your family, and head over to Panama City Beach for a magical dolphin-watching adventure.

Ride go-karts at Race City

Characteristic	Description
Name	Race City
Type	Amusement park in Bay County, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.1 / 2,221
Address	9523 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Phone	(850) 234-1588
Hours	Monday - opens at 12 and closes at 10 PM Tuesday - opens at 12 and closes at 10 PM Wednesday - opens at 12 and closes at 10 PM Thursday - opens at 12 and closes at 10 PM Friday - opens at 12 and closes at 10 PM Saturday - opens at 12 and closes at 10 PM Sunday - opens at 12 and closes at 10 PM
Profiles

Panama City Beach is a fun destination for families with kids. With so many activities to choose from, one of the best things to do is to ride go-karts at Race City.

Race City offers a variety of go-kart tracks that can accommodate different ages and skill levels. There is a Family Track that has single and double karts that parents can ride with their children. The Rookie Track is perfect for younger kids who may be new to driving go-karts. The Pro Track is for more experienced drivers who want to race their friends and family. And for those who want some more excitement, there is the elevated Wild Woody Track, which features sharp turns and drops.

All go-kart tracks are well-maintained and regularly inspected for safety. Helmets are mandatory for all riders and provided by Race City. There are also trained staff who brief riders on safety rules and how to operate the go-karts before the race.

In addition to go-karting, Race City also offers other fun attractions that kids will love, such as bumper boats, laser tag, and a huge arcade. The arcade has over 100 games, including classic games like Pac-Man and newer games like Mario Kart. There are also ticket redemption games where kids can win prizes.

Race City is open every day during peak season, from March to October, and on weekends during the off-season. The hours of operation vary depending on the day, but generally, it opens at 11 am and closes around midnight. Admission prices vary depending on the attraction, but there are combo packages available that offer discounts for multiple attractions.

In summary, if you're planning a family vacation to Panama City Beach, be sure to visit Race City and ride go-karts with your kids. It's a fun activity that everyone can enjoy and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Spend a day at Shipwreck Island Waterpark

Characteristic	Description
Name	Shipwreck Island Waterpark
Type	Amusement park in Panama City Beach, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 2,118
Address	12201 Hutchison Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Phone	(850) 234-3333
Hours	Monday - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - Closed Thursday - Closed Friday - Closed Saturday - opens at 10:30 AM and closes at 4:30 PM Sunday - Closed
Profiles

Panama City Beach is one of the perfect vacation spots for families with kids. There are various attractions and activities that families can enjoy while in this beautiful city. One attraction that stands out and provides endless entertainment is Shipwreck Island Waterpark.

Shipwreck Island Waterpark is filled with several water-themed attractions that will leave your kids thrilled and wanting more. There are numerous slides, rides, and pools that children of all ages will enjoy. One of the most popular rides in the park is the Treetop Drop. The Treetop Drop is a high water slide that drops you into the water below. It's perfect for thrill-seekers who want to take on big drops and twisting turns. Along with the Treetop Drop, the park offers other thrill rides such as the Eye of the Storm, Raging Rapids, and Pirate's Plunge.

But it's not all about the adrenaline-inducing attractions at Shipwreck Island Waterpark. There are plenty of activities for younger kids as well. The Tadpole Hollo is a shallow pool area that’s perfect for your little ones to splash around in and have some fun. The Ocean Motion Wave Pool is another great attraction suitable for families. It comes equipped with waves that mimic the ocean’s movements, making you feel like you’re swimming in the ocean.

The park also has several food options, so you don't have to worry about getting hungry or leaving the park for lunch. There are various dining options that serve pizza, burgers, hot dogs, and other snacks.

The park has different ticket options, but it's advisable to purchase tickets online. That way, you can save money, and you won't have to wait in long lines to enter the park. There are also cabanas available to rent if you're looking for some extra comfort and privacy.

In conclusion, Shipwreck Island Waterpark is the perfect place to spend a day with your kids if you're looking to soak up some sun and have some fun in the water. The park offers a variety of water attractions for kids of all ages and even caters to the littlest swimmers. It's the perfect way to make some lasting memories with your family.

Visit Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Panama City Beach is a fantastic vacation destination for families, with plenty of attractions and activities to keep kids entertained. One attraction that's sure to thrill both kids and adults is Ripleys Believe It or Not!

Ripleys believes that even the weirdest and most bizarre things in the world can be fun to learn about. At Ripleys Believe It or Not!, your family will be able to see things that you never even knew existed. The museum is full of interactive exhibits and displays that are sure to keep kids engaged for hours.

One of the most popular exhibits at Ripleys is the Odditorium. This strange and fascinating collection of oddities features everything from real shrunken heads to a six-legged cow. Kids can explore the exhibits and learn about the stories behind them, discovering the weirdest and most wonderful things from around the world.

In addition to the Odditorium, Ripleys also has a number of other exhibits that kids will love. There's the 4-D Theater, where you can watch a movie projected on a massive screen with effects that make you feel like you're right in the action. Kids can also experience the Mirror Maze, which is like an indoor labyrinth where you'll encounter a series of surprising twists and turns.

Overall, Ripleys Believe It or Not! is a must-visit destination for any family visiting Panama City Beach. It's a unique, educational, and seriously entertaining attraction that everyone will enjoy. So if you're looking for something that kids will love, make sure to add Ripleys to your itinerary.

Play laser tag at WonderWorks

Characteristic	Description
Name	WonderWorks Panama City Beach
Type	Amusement park in Bay County, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 3,387
Address	9910 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Phone	(850) 249-7000
Hours	Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 7 PM Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 7 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 7 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 7 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 9 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 9 PM Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 7 PM
Profiles

Panama City Beach is an amazing vacation destination for families with kids of all ages. The city offers a variety of fun-filled activities that are perfect for the little ones. One of the most exciting experiences to try out in Panama City Beach with kids is playing laser tag at WonderWorks.

WonderWorks is a popular attraction that features interactive exhibits, rides, games, and more. Among the many attractions that the place offers, laser tag is one of the most thrilling and engaging experiences that you and your children can enjoy. This is a perfect way to spend some quality time with your family while enjoying some friendly competition.

Laser tag is an indoor game that involves two teams with players aiming to score points by hitting opponents with laser beams from handheld guns. At WonderWorks, you and your kids will get to play in a 2,000 square-foot, glow-in-the-dark arena that is filled with twists, turns, and obstacles. The arena is spaciously designed to accommodate a maximum of 24 people at once, making it ideal for family reunions, birthday parties, and group outings.

While playing laser tag at WonderWorks, you and your kids will be equipped with specialized laser tag guns and vests that track hits and scores. The game is designed with high-tech laser equipment that is safe and easy to use, even for younger children. Moreover, it is a fast-paced and adrenaline-fueled experience that will keep you and your kids thoroughly entertained throughout the game.

One of the best things about laser tag is that it is a game that everyone can enjoy, regardless of age or skill level. It's a great way to bond with your family and create lasting memories that you and your kids will cherish forever. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned laser tag player, playing at WonderWorks is an experience that you and your kids will love.

In conclusion, if you're planning a trip to Panama City Beach with kids, make sure to play laser tag at WonderWorks. Not only is it a fun and exciting experience, but it's also a perfect way to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Book your reservation today, and get ready for a laser tag adventure like no other!

Take a sunset cruise on a catamaran

Panama City Beach is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Florida, and for good reason - it has something for everyone, including children! Children of all ages will love taking a sunset cruise on a catamaran while visiting Panama City Beach.

A sunset cruise on a catamaran is a perfect way to spend the evening with your family on the water. As the boat sets sail, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico as the sunsets behind the horizon. It's the perfect time to take pictures with your family and capture memories that will last a lifetime.

On board, there will be a range of activities to keep kids entertained. The catamarans often have a bar and grill, so you can grab some snacks and drinks while enjoying the sunset. There’s also plenty of room for kids to run around and explore, and they'll be fascinated by the dolphins and sea birds that are often spotted in the area.

One of the best things about taking a sunset cruise on a catamaran is that kids will learn about sailing and navigation in a fun and educational way. Children who are interested in boats and the ocean will love learning about how the captain navigates and steers the vessel. They'll learn about wind direction, tides, and the currents that power the boat, which will open up a whole new world of exploration for them.

A sunset catamaran cruise is a great way to spend quality time together as a family and explore the beautiful scenery of Panama City beach. It's also a good option for those who want a break from the hustle and bustle of the beachfront. So, be sure to book a sunset catamaran cruise when you're in Panama City Beach for an unforgettable experience that your kids will cherish for a long, long time!

Visit the Science and Discovery Center of Northwest Florida

Characteristic	Description
Name	Science & Discovery Center of Northwest Florida
Type	Children's museum in Panama City, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 187
Address	308 Airport Rd, Panama City, FL 32405
Phone	(850) 769-6128
Hours	Monday - Closed Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Sunday - Closed
Profiles

Are you planning a vacation to Panama City Beach with your kids? Look no further than the Science and Discovery Center of Northwest Florida for a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

The Science and Discovery Center is a hands-on museum located in Panama City Beach, focused on inspiring a love of science in children of all ages. The center offers over 60 engaging exhibits that allow kids to learn about a wide range of scientific topics, including engineering, biology, physics, and more.

One of the most popular exhibits is the Shark & Ray Touch Tank, where kids can get up close and personal with these majestic sea creatures. Feeding time is a must-see experience; watch as the sharks and rays eagerly swim up to the surface to eat.

Another favorite spot for kids is the Energy Zone exhibit. This exhibit teaches children about different sources of energy, including solar, wind, and hydro power. In addition, kids can use a thermal camera to see how much heat their body emits, and try out the energy bike to pedal to power a light bulb.

For the younger ones, the Tot Spot exhibit is perfect. Designed for kids under 5, this exhibit offers a safe place for little ones to explore and learn about science through imaginative play. They can climb through tunnels, play with water and sand tables, and even fly a mini airplane or drive a race car.

Overall, the Science and Discovery Center of Northwest Florida should be on every family’s itinerary while visiting Panama City Beach. With interactive exhibits that are both fun and educational, kids will have a blast while also learning about the fascinating world of science.

Watch a movie at The Grand Theatre

If you're planning a family vacation to Panama City Beach, Florida, you might be wondering what fun activities there are for kids. While the beach is always a great option, there are plenty of indoor activities that will keep your children entertained as well. One of the best things to do with kids in Panama City Beach is to watch a movie at The Grand Theatre.

The Grand Theatre is located in Pier Park, a popular shopping and entertainment complex in Panama City Beach. The theater features 16 screens, so there are plenty of movies to choose from. Whether your kids are into action, comedy, or animated films, you're sure to find something that will keep them entertained.

One of the best things about The Grand Theatre is that it's a great place to beat the heat. On hot summer days, or even on a rainy afternoon, heading to the movies can be a perfect way to cool off. Plus, there's always something new playing, so you can keep coming back throughout your vacation.

Another great aspect of The Grand Theatre is that it's affordable. Tickets are reasonably priced, and there are often specials available, such as discounted matinee showings. You can even sign up for the theater's rewards program to earn points and discounts on future visits.

Finally, going to see a movie at The Grand Theatre is a wonderful way to spend quality time with your kids. Whether you're all laughing together at a comedy or holding on tight during an action sequence, watching a movie can be a great bonding experience. Plus, after the movie, you can stroll through Pier Park together and grab a bite to eat or do some shopping.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a fun and affordable activity to do with your kids in Panama City Beach, heading to The Grand Theatre is a great option. With a wide selection of movies, affordable prices, and a convenient location in Pier Park, it's sure to be a hit with your whole family.

Play arcade games at Dave & Buster's

Characteristic	Description
Name	Dave & Buster's Panama City Beach
Type	Restaurant
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 4,968
Address	15701 L C Hilton Jr Dr, Panama City, FL 32413
Phone	(850) 238-3501
Hours	Monday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 12 AM Tuesday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 12 AM Wednesday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 12 AM Thursday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 12 AM Friday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 1 AM Saturday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 1 AM Sunday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 12 AM
Profiles

Panama City Beach is a great destination for families traveling with kids. With its sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and numerous attractions, it has something for everyone. If you're looking for a fun indoor activity that your kids will love, head to Dave & Busters.

Dave & Busters is a one-stop-shop for entertainment, featuring a restaurant, arcade games, and a sports bar. It is located at Pier Park, a popular shopping and entertainment center in Panama City Beach. The arcade games at Dave & Busters are a great way to keep kids entertained, no matter the weather outside. Here are some of the top games your kids will enjoy.

• Jurassic Park Arcade: If your kids love dinosaurs, this game is a must-play. Players sit in a "Jeep" and shoot various dinosaurs running towards them. The game has stunning graphics, exciting sound effects, and even a motion-based ride system that simulates bumps and turns.
• Crossy Road: Based on the popular mobile game of the same name, Crossy Road challenges players to hop across busy roads, rivers, and train tracks while avoiding various obstacles. The graphics are cute and colorful, and the gameplay is easy to learn but hard to master.
• Fruit Ninja: This arcade adaptation of the hit mobile game is a fan favorite. Players use a virtual sword to slice various fruits and avoid bombs, all while trying to achieve the highest score possible. It's a fast-paced game that requires quick reflexes and precision.
• Mario Kart Arcade GP DX: This classic racing game features the iconic characters from the Mario franchise, colorful tracks, and power-ups. Up to four players can race at the same time, making it perfect for family fun.
• SpongeBob Pineapple Arcade: Kids can join SpongeBob and his friends for a series of wacky mini-games set inside a giant pineapple. The game is easy to play and filled with silly humor that will keep young ones entertained.

In addition to the arcade games, Dave & Busters also offers a variety of kid-friendly menu items, including burgers, chicken tenders, and mac-and-cheese. Parents can enjoy a drink at the sports bar while the kids have fun playing. It's a win-win situation for the whole family.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a fun activity for kids in Panama City Beach, check out the arcade games at Dave & Busters. With its exciting games, tasty food, and convenient location at Pier Park, it's sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.

Frequently asked questions