When you’re surrounded by some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches and need a break from sun and sand, head to Pier Park. Visit this premier open-air shopping and entertainment destination in the Florida Panhandle.
Spend days shopping in the more than 120 stores in Pier Park. Shop in stores ranging from large chains, such as Target and Marshalls, to small specialty boutiques.
Take a break for a meal or snack. With Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Hofbräu Beer Garden and numerous fast-food outlets, the variety of restaurants is almost as vast as the shopping opportunities here. See a live rock ’n’ roll show at Rum Runners Dueling Piano Bar & Dance Club.
View the latest films at the Grand Theatre. This state-of-the-art multiplex has 16 screens, 3-D capabilities and an IMAX screen.
Pier Park’s Miracle Strip transports you back in time. Kids of all ages can enjoy the vintage carnival games and rides. See the view from the top of the Ferris wheel or go for a spin on the Tilt-A-Whirl. Surround yourself with hundreds of beautiful butterflies in the Butterfly Garden. The Miracle Strip is open daily from noon to night in summer and on weekends and holidays in spring and fall.
A visit to Pier Park offers something to see or do at every turn. Check out the antique carousel or watch a palm-tree-climbing exhibition. Play a game of volleyball or go for a stroll along the boardwalk.
Just across the street, the vast Gulf of Mexico stretches before you. Walk out to Russell-Fields Pier, also known as City Pier, which juts out more than 450 metres (1,500 feet) across the turquoise water. Enjoy sun and surf at the area’s well-maintained beach. The southern end of the beach is pet friendly.
Pier Park is open 7 days a week. Note that it has shorter shopping hours on Sundays. Use the parking lots surrounding the complex finding a spot is never an issue.
Reach Pier Park within a 15-minute drive from Panama City Beach and 25 minutes from Panama City.
