Central America Adventures: Top Things to Do in Panama City

Panama City embraces one of the most unique blends of historic and new, as well as city and wildlife—it has a little something for everyone! It’s a great starting point for many Central America cruises and is often seen as a connector city to other parts of Central and South America. Many who visit are surprised by the sheer number of things to do in Panama City, as it is a bustling and beautiful destination all on its own. Here are some of the top local attractions in Panama City to spend a few days before your cruise or Panama adventure.

Casco Viejo
Known as Old Town, Casco Viejo is where many visitors spend their time. It’s a neighborhood full of colonial-style architecture, and even a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Roam the cobblestone streets as you admire the many historic buildings in the area, including Iglesia de la Compañia de Jesus, Iglesia de La Merced, Plaza de Francia, and Convento Santo Domingo. Many of the museums are in this area, in addition to theaters with musicals and operas. It has a vibrant nightlife and some of the best rooftop bars in the city. Consider booking a tour with a local guide to show you the highlights of this must-see area.

Cerro Ancon
Anyone who goes to the top of Cerro Ancon (Ancon Hill) will quickly realize why Panama City is one of the best tropical vacation spots in Central America. The views are absolutely spectacular! It sits between the old city and the new city, where you can see everything from the city skyscrapers to the white beaches of the ocean. The hill itself is home to plenty of wildlife and is a beautiful pocket of rainforest within the city. For the adventurous, you can climb to the top in a three-hour hike. There is also a road that takes you to the top. Cerro Ancon is part of many Panama City day tours, so be sure to check out the itinerary to see if this stop is included.

Panama Canal
No list of things to do in Panama City is complete without mentioning the famous Panama Canal, one of the Seven Industrial Wonders of the World. It’s a must-see while you’re visiting, where you can ooh and ahh at the vast array of ships passing by. Many visit the Miraflores Locks, located less than thirty minutes from downtown. It has a visitor center with a great viewing deck and restaurant, as well as a museum exploring the history of the canal. Stop by an hour before sunset for truly great views and a less busy experience.

Biomuseo
Designed by the famous architect Frank Gehry, the Biomuseo is a colorful and funky-looking building. With eight exhibits in the museum, it showcases the amazing biodiversity of Panama. The Biomuseo has a special location bridging North and South America, being near the end of the canal and facing the Pacific Ocean.

Monkey Island
Located on Gatun Lake, Monkey Island is one of the best places to spot the vast array of wildlife in Panama. The island is known for having three types of monkeys: capuchins, howler monkeys and tamarins, as well as other wildlife, including toucans, iguanas, sloths, crocodiles and more. To visit, you can book a half-day tour, which often includes transportation on a river boat along the Chagres River, one of the largest rivers in Panama, with amazing, lush scenery. It’s one of the best places to visit in December, as the dry season runs from December to April.

Book Your Panama City Vacation Today!
Whether you’re looking to relax beachside or want to see some of the oldest architecture in Central America, there are so many amazing vacations in Panama Central America that await you. A Dream Vacations Advisor can help you find the best things to do in Panama City, including day tours and excursions. Find your nearest local Dream Vacations Advisor to get started today!