Pier Park in Panama City Beach
Pier Park, located in the heart of Panama City Beach, Florida, is a vibrant outdoor lifestyle center that has become a premier destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment along the Gulf Coast. Spanning over 1 million square feet, Pier Park offers something for everyone, from boutique shops and national retailers to restaurants, a movie theater, and exciting attractions. With its lively atmosphere and proximity to the beach, Pier Park is a must-visit for visitors and locals alike.
Top Attractions at Pier Park
- Shopping
Discover a mix of over 120 stores ranging from popular brands to unique boutiques:- Fashion favorites like H&M, Old Navy, and Forever 21.
- Specialty shops such as Ron Jon Surf Shop, Southern Living Store, and The Spice & Tea Exchange.
- Unique local retailers offering handcrafted goods, beachwear, and souvenirs.
- Dining
Pier Park features a wide array of dining options to suit every palate:- Casual Eats: Enjoy favorites like Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Five Guys, and Red Robin.
- Seafood and Local Fare: Indulge in fresh Gulf seafood at The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House.
- Sweet Treats: Satisfy your sweet tooth at Kilwins, Marble Slab Creamery, or Dippin’ Dots.
- SkyWheel Panama City Beach
A standout attraction offering panoramic views of the Gulf Coast:- Take a ride on this towering Ferris wheel with air-conditioned gondolas.
- Includes a mini-golf course and a ropes course for added fun.
- The Grand Theatre
A state-of-the-art movie theater featuring:- Multiple screens with the latest blockbuster movies.
- Comfortable reclining seats and an upscale concession stand.
Recreational Activities
- Pier Park Amusements
Perfect for families and kids:- Carnival rides, games, and an arcade provide hours of fun.
- Beach Access
Located steps from City Pier and Beach:- Relax on the sugar-white sands or take a stroll along the pier.
- Live Entertainment
Enjoy regular performances at the park’s outdoor venues:- Live music, cultural festivals, and seasonal events add to the vibrant atmosphere.
Events and Seasonal Highlights
- Annual Events
Pier Park hosts popular yearly events:- New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop: A family-friendly celebration with live music and fireworks.
- Fourth of July Festivities: Includes patriotic parades, concerts, and a spectacular fireworks display.
- Seasonal Markets
Look out for farmers’ markets, craft fairs, and holiday pop-ups offering local goods and gifts. - Kid-Friendly Activities
Seasonal events like Easter egg hunts and Halloween trick-or-treating make Pier Park a hit with families.
Vicinity of Pier Park
Nearby Attractions
Pier Park’s central location makes it a perfect starting point for exploring Panama City Beach:
- Russell-Fields Pier: A scenic fishing pier just steps from Pier Park, offering stunning views of the Gulf.
- Gulf World Marine Park: A family-friendly destination with dolphin shows and marine life encounters.
- Frank Brown Park: A recreational complex with sports fields, trails, and a water park.
- Shipwreck Island Waterpark: A short drive away, featuring water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools.
Amenities
- Parking: Ample free parking is available, including spaces for RVs and oversized vehicles.
- Restrooms: Clean and accessible facilities are located throughout the shopping center.
- Pet-Friendly Areas: Many shops and outdoor dining areas welcome pets.
- Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: Conveniently located for EV drivers.
Accessibility
Pier Park is designed to accommodate all visitors:
- ADA-Compliant Facilities: Wheelchair-accessible pathways, restrooms, and parking.
- Service Animals: Permitted in accordance with ADA guidelines.
- Stroller Rentals: Available for families with young children.
Tips for Visiting Pier Park
- Arrive Early: Beat the crowds by visiting in the morning or early afternoon.
- Check the Calendar: Look for live events, sales, or special promotions during your visit.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear casual clothing and comfortable shoes for walking.
- Bring Sunscreen: With many outdoor spaces, protection from the sun is a must.
- Stay for Sunset: The nearby beach offers incredible sunset views over the Gulf of Mexico.
Why Visit Pier Park?
Pier Park is more than just a shopping center; it’s a lively hub of activity that captures the essence of Panama City Beach. With its mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, and family-friendly attractions, Pier Park provides a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re browsing boutiques, enjoying a meal with Gulf views, or taking in the excitement of a live performance, Pier Park is a must-visit destination on Florida’s Emerald Coast.
For more information visit: https://www.simon.com/mall/pier-park