What to do in panama city?
Updated: July 18, 2024Exploring the Historic Casco Viejo
Casco Viejo, also known as Casco Antiguo, is the historic heart of Panama City. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a maze of narrow streets lined with colorful colonial buildings, charming plazas, and an array of cafes, restaurants, and shops. Begin your exploration at Plaza de la Independencia, the main square, and admire the Metropolitan Cathedral. Wander through the picturesque streets, stopping by the Church of San José with its golden altar and the Museo del Canal Interoceánico, which provides fascinating insights into the history of the Panama Canal.
Strolling Along the Cinta Costera
The Cinta Costera is a scenic coastal beltway that stretches along the Bay of Panama. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, cycling, or rollerblading while enjoying panoramic views of the city's skyline and the ocean. The path is lined with parks, playgrounds, and public art installations, making it an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Don't miss the iconic Panama sign, a popular spot for photos. The Cinta Costera also connects to the Amador Causeway, offering even more recreational opportunities.
Visiting the Panama Canal
No trip to Panama City is complete without visiting the Panama Canal, one of the greatest engineering marvels in the world. Head to the Miraflores Visitor Center for an up-close look at the canal's operations. Here, you can watch massive ships navigate through the locks, visit the museum to learn about the canal's history and construction, and enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck. For a more immersive experience, consider taking a partial or full transit tour of the canal.
Exploring the Biomuseo
Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the Biomuseo is a striking museum dedicated to Panama's biodiversity and natural history. The museum's colorful, angular structure is a sight to behold, and inside, you'll find interactive exhibits that highlight the country's unique ecological heritage. The "Panamarama" exhibit features a breathtaking 10-screen projection of Panama's diverse ecosystems, while other exhibits showcase the geological formation of the isthmus and its impact on global biodiversity.
Enjoying the Nightlife
Panama City boasts a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. Casco Viejo is a hotspot for nightlife, with its rooftop bars, trendy lounges, and lively clubs. Start your evening with cocktails at one of the many rooftop bars, such as Tantalo or CasaCasco, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline. For a more laid-back experience, head to the Jazz Club at the American Trade Hotel for live jazz performances. If you're looking to dance the night away, clubs like Teatro Amador and Casa Jaguar offer pulsating beats and a lively atmosphere.
Savoring the Culinary Delights
Panama City's culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, blending traditional Panamanian cuisine with international influences. For an authentic taste of Panama, try dishes like sancocho (a hearty chicken soup), ceviche, and patacones (fried plantains). Casco Viejo is home to numerous top-rated restaurants, such as Donde José, which offers a tasting menu of creative Panamanian dishes, and Tomillo, known for its farm-to-table approach. For a more casual dining experience, visit the Mercado de Mariscos (Seafood Market) to sample fresh seafood dishes like ceviche and fried fish.
Shopping at Multiplaza Pacific
For those in the mood for shopping, Multiplaza Pacific is Panama City's premier shopping destination. This upscale mall features a wide range of international and local brands, luxury boutiques, and department stores. In addition to shopping, Multiplaza Pacific offers a variety of dining options, from fast food to fine dining, as well as a cinema and entertainment options for the whole family. It's the perfect place to spend a day indulging in retail therapy.
Exploring the Natural Beauty of Metropolitan Natural Park
Just a short drive from the city center, Metropolitan Natural Park is a lush urban oasis that offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of Panama City. The park features several hiking trails that wind through tropical forests, providing opportunities to spot wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds. The Cerro Cedro trail leads to a viewpoint with panoramic views of the city and the Panama Canal. The park is also home to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, which conducts important research on tropical ecosystems.
Relaxing on Taboga Island
For a relaxing day trip, take a ferry from the Amador Causeway to Taboga Island, known as the "Island of Flowers." This charming island offers beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. Spend the day lounging on the beach, swimming, or exploring the island's hiking trails. Don't miss a visit to the Church of San Pedro, one of the oldest churches in the Americas, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the island's beachfront restaurants.
Discovering the Amador Causeway
The Amador Causeway is a scenic roadway that connects four small islands at the entrance of the Panama Canal. It's a popular spot for walking, cycling, and enjoying stunning views of the city skyline and the canal. The causeway is home to several attractions, including the Punta Culebra Nature Center, where you can learn about marine life and visit a turtle sanctuary. The causeway also features a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.
Learning at the Museum of Contemporary Art
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC) is Panama City's premier institution for modern and contemporary art. The museum's collection includes works by Panamanian and Latin American artists, as well as rotating exhibitions that showcase a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums. The MAC also hosts workshops, lectures, and cultural events, making it a vibrant hub for the local art community. It's a must-visit for art enthusiasts looking to explore Panama's contemporary art scene.
Experiencing the Ancon Hill
Ancon Hill is a prominent natural landmark that offers some of the best views of Panama City, the Panama Canal, and the surrounding rainforest. The hill is covered in lush vegetation and is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and monkeys. A paved trail leads to the summit, where you'll find a large Panamanian flag and panoramic viewpoints. Ancon Hill is not only a great spot for hiking and nature photography but also holds historical significance, as it was once a strategic vantage point during the construction of the canal.
Unwinding at Veracruz Beach
Located just a short drive from the city, Veracruz Beach is a popular destination for locals and visitors looking to escape the urban hustle. The beach offers calm waters, golden sands, and a range of beachfront restaurants and bars where you can savor fresh seafood and tropical drinks. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding. In the evenings, the beach comes alive with live music and a relaxed, festive atmosphere.
Exploring the Albrook Mall
Albrook Mall is one of the largest shopping centers in Latin America and a favorite destination for shoppers in Panama City. The mall features a vast array of stores, from high-end boutiques to budget-friendly shops, as well as a wide selection of dining options and entertainment venues, including a cinema and a bowling alley. The mall's distinctive animal-themed entrances make it easy to navigate, and its family-friendly atmosphere ensures there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Visiting the Iglesia del Carmen
The Iglesia del Carmen is a stunning Gothic-style church located in the heart of Panama City's bustling financial district. Its intricate architecture, stained glass windows, and serene interior make it a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. The church is an important religious and cultural landmark, and it's worth taking the time to admire its unique design and learn about its history. Whether you're attending a service or simply exploring the building, the Iglesia del Carmen offers a moment of tranquility in the midst of the city's hustle and bustle.
And so, as you find yourself weaving through the vibrant tapestry that is Panama City, each experience adds a unique thread to your journey. The city unfolds its stories, inviting you to explore, discover, and create your own narrative amidst its historic charm, modern marvels, and natural beauty.
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