There is truly something for everyone in this cosmopolitan city. Whether it’s shopping, sightseeing, live music, or wining and dining. The same goes for fun, outdoor adventures.
One of the biggest questions we get is where to find the best outdoor activities and adventures. Either in the city, or even close by. Luckily, there is plenty to do! And you’ll find that your next outdoor escape is just a stone’s throw away.
Here are our suggestions for what to do in Panama City.
Take a hike up Ancon Hill
Ancon Hill Panama City Panama
Ancon Hill is a historic, and ecologically lush area that sits at the western edge of Panama City. And while technically within the capital city’s limits, it’s far from urban. Ancon Hill will give you the feeling like you’ve crawled deep into the Panamanian rainforest. Ancon is a quiet, historic neighborhood that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings.
You can hike from the bottom to the top in under an hour. Here you will see some of the most spectacular aerial views of the city, all along the way.
Ancon hill sits next to Casco Viejo, Avenida Balboa, and the Panama Canal. Plus, it can be easily reached by taxi ($5-7 from hotels/apartments in the center).
Check out the Biodiversity Museum on the Amador Causeway
This Frank Ghery designed building gives you mostly an “indoor” experience. Yet, it’s a great way to discover the makeup of the great outdoors of Panama.There are thousands of flora and fauna to see and learn about first hand. And it’s a great place to visit for a fun and educational experience. You can also make an outdoor day of it, as it’s located at the beginning of the Amador Causeway.
Here you can rent a bike, rollerblade, or stroll along the 1+km tree-lined paths that run between islands. So you can see and learn about Panama’s tropical life in nature and also experience it while having fun doing so too!
Take a Day Trip to The Coronado/Chame Coast
Coronado and the Chame area are the perfect beach getaways for both residents and tourists. These beach areas are about an hour and twenty minutes southwest of Panama City.
Along the Chame coast, you’ll find white sand beaches, restaurants, surfing, and more.
If you feel like a relaxing trip, Coronado has plenty of beach clubs and restaurants. Plus quiet public beaches where you can take in some sun, and chill as you like.
We recommend renting a car, but if you don’t want to, there are both buses and taxis that will take you to the area.
Yoga and Slack Line in Parque Omar
Looking for a fun afternoon in the city that will stimulate both your mind and body? Then check out the yoga and slackline groups in Parque Omar, San Francisco.
Largely a loosely-organized community effort, groups of people gather every Saturday and Sunday. Here they practice yoga, meditation, and the physical art of slacklining. (Walking a tightrope-like cord between trees). These activities happen weather permitting. Everyone is welcoming, and there is never money involved. Simply show up around 9 am, or 3 pm for the afternoon crowd, and say hello.
There are also many organized group outings and events in the park. So check out Facebook, Twitter, and Google to see if there’s a specific event or class you want to attend.
Rent a bike on the Cinta Costera
The Cinta Costera is one of the most iconic attractions in modern-day Panama City. It’s a 7km (4.3 mile) thin but long stretch of park area and bike paths. It runs right along downtown Panama City’s coastline, from Punta Paitilla to the old city, Casco Viejo. It’s full of fascinating local flavor with joggers, skaters, vendors, and yes, bikers.
Renting a bike is the best way to see the whole thing, and get some exercise while you’re doing it. You can rent bikes towards the beginning of Cinta Costera, near the Casco Viejo end. Or, find Rally Bikes about midway through (Ave. Balboa), or in Casco Viejo itself.
Rentals are by the hour or day. Plus there are even fun 4-person covered bike carts available if you’re up for some family adventures!
