Panama City Beach, Florida continues to grow as one of the top vacation destinations in the country, and 2025 is packed with exciting new attractions. Whether you’re a returning visitor or planning your first trip, this list will give you the inside scoop on the best things to do in Panama City Beach FL in 2025 — from family activities to nightlife and dining.
A Quick Look Back: Top Panama City Beach Activities in 2024
Before diving into what’s new, let’s recap last year’s most popular Panama City Beach activities:
5. Sea Screamer Dolphin Cruise – A must-do family outing where you’ll see dolphins up close while cruising the shoreline.
4. Pier Park – Panama City Beach’s open-air shopping and entertainment district with the SkyWheel, Dave & Buster’s, and dozens of restaurants.
3. St. Andrews State Park – A stunning Florida state park with camping, fishing, and pristine natural beauty on the Gulf of Mexico.
2. Shell Island – A remote barrier island with untouched beaches, accessible by shuttle boats and charters from St. Andrews.
1. Beaches & Resorts – From lagoon pools and arcades at mega resorts to the sugar-white sands of the Gulf, the beaches are what make Panama City Beach world-famous.
Replacing the long-vacant Boar’s Head restaurant near Tidewater Resort, McGuire’s Irish Pub is finally opening in Panama City Beach. Known for its lively atmosphere in Destin, this Irish-themed restaurant serves hearty steaks, burgers, corned beef and cabbage, and their legendary bean soup that’s remained just cents for decades. Expect a spring break 2025 opening a much-needed addition to the west side of Panama City Beach.
A wildly popular dinner-and-show attraction from Gatlinburg is coming to Panama City Beach. Dolly Parton’s Pirate Voyage blends live entertainment, pirate battles, mermaids, and family fun with a full dinner. Located just west of Pier Park on Highway 98, construction is nearly complete and reservations are already being taken for June 2025.
Sports, entertainment, and nightlife collide with the opening of TopGolf just east of Pier Park. With construction moving fast and nets already up, this will be one of the hottest new attractions for summer 2025.
Replacing the old Spinnakers near Club La Vela, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is a legendary live music venue out of Nashville. With Kid Rock as part owner, expect major country acts and nightlife that could help revitalize the east end of Panama City Beach. While no official date is confirmed, fall 2025 is a strong possibility.
Not everything is “coming soon” — one brand-new entertainment hub is already open: 810 Billiards & Bowling at Laketown Wharf.
This state-of-the-art facility features:
Two full sections of bowling lanes with executive-style seating
Billiards, axe throwing, digital darts, and sports simulators
A modern arcade with unique games (including family-friendly options like Nerf shooters)
A full bar and restaurant serving pizza, wings, and more
It’s the perfect option for rainy days, families with kids, or anyone looking for indoor fun in Panama City Beach.
If you’re planning your trip, the list of things to do in Panama City Beach FL in 2025 is bigger than ever. From McGuire’s Irish Pub to Dolly Parton’s Pirate Voyage, TopGolf, and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, the city is expanding with attractions for all ages. And don’t forget the already-open 810 Billiards & Bowling at Laketown Wharf for year-round fun.
This is Eric Leitten, local real estate agent and vacation rental manager with What’s Up Beach Vacation Rentals. If you’re looking for a place to stay — or considering investing in Panama City Beach real estate — check out my pinned link for vacation rentals and property listings.
Enjoy your trip, explore the new attractions, and discover why Panama City Beach FL continues to be one of the best beach destinations in the U.S.
