Panama City Beach, Florida, is a popular destination for families looking for a fun-filled vacation. With its stunning beaches and abundance of fun things to do in Panama City Beach, it’s no wonder that many families flock to the area for their annual getaways. Among the various attractions, Pier Park stands out as the premier shopping and entertainment destination in Panama City Beach, offering an unmatched variety of experiences for visitors of all ages.
Read more and uncover the unique charm and endless activities that make Pier Park a must-visit destination on your next Panama City Beach vacation!
About Pier Park
Pier Park is an outdoor complex that has 124 stores, ranging from clothing for the whole family to home goods, shoes, and jewelry. This Panama City Beach Pier Park shopping experience also offers numerous exciting dining options, making it the perfect one-stop destination for all your vacation needs. From the Grand IMAX movie theater to laser tag and live music, Pier Park offers a diverse range of entertainment venues set against the backdrop of one of the country’s most stunning beaches.
Pier Park Attractions
SkyWheel
The SkyWheel is a complete family-friendly entertainment venue featuring an 18-hole miniature golf course and the prestigious SkyWheel Observation Wheel. This 200-foot observation wheel has 30 comfortable, climate-controlled, fully enclosed gondolas, each accommodating up to 6 people. During the summer season, the venue also features a 3-story SkyTrail ropes course and a Snack Shack offering delicious snacks and drinks to enjoy on the SkyWheel.
Dave & Busters
Dave & Buster’s is the ultimate destination for those seeking to eat, drink, play, and watch sports all under one roof. With a plethora of games and activities, there’s no shortage of entertainment at Dave & Buster’s. Visitors can obtain a Power Card, which grants access to a wide range of action-packed games in the Midway. The Power Card earns exciting rewards, such as free game play, ensuring that the fun never ends at this vibrant venue.
Emerald Coast Mirror Maze & Laser Craze
For an exhilarating challenge, the Emerald Coast Mirror Maze & Laser Craze offers a captivating experience for families and groups. Take a stroll through the blacklight maze of mirrors and see if you can find your way out, but beware of the numerous dead ends and unexpected twists and turns.
The Grand Theater
The Grand Theater provides a fully immersive cinematic experience, featuring IMAX, all-digital projection and sound, wall-to-wall screens, stadium seating, and 3D capabilities. Its amenities, including high-back rocking chairs and a game room, cater to the comfort and entertainment of visitors. With a specialty café and birthday party packages available, The Grand Theater offers a complete entertainment experience for families.
Pier Park Shopping
Coastal Casuals
Whether you live by the Sea, or only dream about it, that free-spirited look can be captured at Coastal Casuals. Surround yourself in soft and stylish fashions made with fabrics that feel great on the body. Then, accessorize your outfit with their finishing touches of jewelry, shoes, and handbags to complete your beachy look.
Shimmering Seas Jewelry and Gifts
Shimmering Seas offers a stunning array of unique, exotic, and timeless jewelry design collections set near the Sea. Featuring gorgeous pearls and beautiful stones and designs to remind you of the Sea. You’ll recognize some of their well-known brands, like Uno de 50, Alex and Ani, Pandora, Waxing Poetic, local artists, and emerging jewelry designers.
Additional Stores
Looking for familiar stores? Check out their Lizard Thicket, Forever 21, American Eagle Outfitters, Old Navy, LOFT, and Chico’s. Pier Park also has department stores like Target, Dillard’s, JC Penney, and Marshalls so everyone in the family can shop till they drop. Stop at Hy’s Toggery and Pink Narcissus for all things trendy. And since this is Florida, you can never have too many cute pairs of sunnies. If you can’t find the perfect pair at Sunglass Hut, head over to Sunglass World, or Costa Sunglasses. Looks for the whole family can be found at Rack Room Shoes and Flip Flop Shops at budget-friendly prices. You’ll find children’s apparel stores at Pier Park Mall, like Carter’s, 9teen Boutique, and Osh Kosh B’Gosh.
Panama City Beach Restaurants at Pier Park
Hook’d Pier Bar and Grill
Immerse yourself in a locally-owned casual beachfront dining experience with breathtaking views of the sugar white sands and emerald green waters at Hook’d Pier Bar and Grill. Enjoy the freshest coastal cuisine, including the flavorful Jerk Chicken Tacos and the irresistible Salted Caramel Cheesecake, all while soaking in the relaxed ambiance accompanied by captivating sunsets.
The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House
A local favorite since 1979, The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House is renowned for serving the finest Gulf seafood while offering breathtaking views of the Gulf. Indulge in their famous smoked tuna dip, char-grilled Amberjack, and broiled Jubilee—a delightful combination of Gulf Shrimp, Scallops, Mahi Mahi, and a delectable crab cake. Conclude your dining experience with the delightful Florida Sunshine Cake, featuring layers of orange mousse and white chocolate icing.
Additional Restaurant Options
Looking to see what Pier Park Panama City Beach restaurants have to offer? Get ready to explore a variety of eateries such as Panera, Starbucks, Smoothie King, and Five Guys. For lovers of Japanese cuisine, the Osaka Japanese Hibachi Steakhouse and Sushi Bar awaits. Seafood enthusiasts can savor the delights of Pompano Joe’s Seafood House or Margaritaville.
Pier Park Seasonal Events
Pirates of the High Seas Fest
Taking place from October 11-13, this free celebration promises an action-packed adventure for all ages. Visitors can look forward to a captivating lineup of activities, including fireworks, live mermaid shows, a fire circus, enchanting parades, and a thrilling treasure drop. Not to be missed is the Cirque Adventure, a mesmerizing spectacle that brings each day to a lively close. For those who yearn for a journey back in time, the Renaissance addition offers an enchanted marketplace where guests can enjoy sword and whip demonstrations, a pirates pub, live entertainment, and more.
New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop
Bid farewell to the old and welcome the new at the New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop, a magical celebration that takes place on December 31st. The streets of Pier Park transform into a festive hub where thousands of revelers, including families with young children, can revel in the excitement of free live music, entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks display. For those eager to usher in the New Year ahead of time, there are separate Beach Ball Drops scheduled for 8:00 p.m. and midnight, allowing families to choose the best option for their little ones. The evening’s lineup includes live performances by renowned bands, adding to the festive ambiance. As an added bonus, families can enjoy unlimited SkyWheel flights and rounds of mini-golf from 11:00 am to 11:30 pm for just $24, ensuring an entire day of joyous celebrations right by the pristine waterfront.
Mardi Gras & Music Festival
Experience the thrill of Mardi Gras against the backdrop of Panama City Beach’s stunning emerald water and sugar-white sand at the Mardi Gras & Music Festival on February 11-12, 2024. Kids can revel in the fun zones, vibrant parades with floats, live music, fireworks, and even a 5k Fun Run, promising an action-packed weekend for the entire family.
Plan Your Next Visit!
Are you ready to book the perfect vacation in Panama City Beach? Browse our selection of beachfront condos in Panama City Beach today and find the perfect match for your stay!
Panama City Beach Condo Rentals at Beachscapes
Enhance your family vacation with luxurious Panama City Beach condo rentals from Beachscapes. Experience the ultimate beachfront vacation with top-notch amenities and stunning views. Our Panama City Beach vacation rentals are in perfect proximity to all the things to do in Panama City Beach, making them convenient places to stay. When you’re looking for cozy condos in Panama City Beach, Florida, Beachscapes has the perfect accommodation for your needs.
