Family Adventures in Panama City, Panama: 10 Things to Do with Kids
Our family recently spent a week in Panama City, Panama, and it turned out to be one of the best travel decisions we’ve made. I had been searching for a warm-weather destination that was easy to reach, family-friendly, and different from our usual vacation spots. Panama checked every box. It offered the excitement of a big international trip but without long flights, jet lag, or overwhelming costs.
Panama City is a vibrant blend of modern skyscrapers, colonial charm, and lush tropical rainforest. It felt like Miami met the jungle—colorful, energetic, and full of surprises. Whether your kids love wildlife, beaches, or exploring history, this city has plenty of options that balance fun with education. Here are 10 family-friendly activities that made our trip unforgettable.
1. Watch Ships Cross the Panama Canal
You can’t visit Panama City without experiencing the famous canal. We took our kids to the Miraflores Visitor Center, where they were fascinated watching enormous ships squeeze through the locks. The IMAX theater gave an excellent overview of the canal’s history and engineering marvels. It’s one of those rare attractions that captivates both adults and kids.
2. Take a Boat Ride to Monkey Island
Just outside the city, Lake Gatun is home to several small islands where monkeys thrive. A boat tour brought us up close to capuchins and howler monkeys, who boldly came near the boats. It was hands-down one of our children’s favorite experiences—equal parts wildlife encounter and jungle adventure.
3. Visit the Sloth Sanctuary and Butterfly Garden
Panama’s rainforest is full of unique wildlife, and a guided tour let us explore it all in one day. We started with a boat ride through Gatun Lake, spotting tropical birds and iguanas, then moved on to the sloth sanctuary. The kids were delighted by the butterflies and frogs, and we all learned so much about the delicate ecosystem of Central America.
4. Wander Through Casco Viejo
The city’s old quarter, Casco Viejo, is like stepping back in time. Cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial architecture, and colorful plazas make it the perfect place to wander. We enjoyed exploring its churches, snapping photos of the murals, and grabbing lunch at a small café. Walking tours are available and give great insight into Panama’s history and culture.
5. Bike Along Casco Viejo and Cinta Costera
For families with older kids, renting bikes or joining a guided tour is a fun way to cover more ground. We pedaled along the waterfront with incredible views of both the historic quarter and the glittering skyline. It’s a lively, outdoor way to take in the city while burning off some energy.
6. Experience the Embera Indigenous Village
A short drive and canoe ride brought us to an Embera village along the Chagres River. The kids loved trying traditional foods, watching dances, and even swimming by a nearby waterfall. Meeting the Embera people gave our family a valuable cultural perspective and one of the most authentic experiences of the trip.
7. Sail to Taboga Island
While the kids rested one day, we joined a catamaran trip to Taboga Island. With music, food, and stunning Pacific views, it felt like a mini tropical escape. Once there, we wandered the island’s streets, browsed local crafts, and enjoyed a lazy afternoon by the beach.
8. Explore the San Blas Islands
Although it’s a long day trip, adventurous families might want to explore the San Blas Islands in the Caribbean. These islands are stunning, with crystal-clear waters, snorkeling, and untouched beaches. It’s not the easiest excursion with little ones, but for older kids or couples, it’s a bucket-list adventure.
9. Hike at Metropolitan Natural Park
Right in the city, this urban rainforest gave us a chance to see wildlife without leaving town. The trails were easy enough for kids, and from the top, we had panoramic views of Panama City. We spotted a sloth through a telescope at the visitor’s center and came across plenty of smaller creatures along the trails.
10. Visit a Museum or Two
When the heat became too much, we ducked into museums. The Biomuseo, designed by Frank Gehry, was bright, colorful, and full of interactive exhibits about biodiversity—perfect for children. The Panama Viejo ruins and the Canal Museum also offered great insights into the country’s history.
Final Thoughts
Panama City surprised us with how easy, accessible, and family-friendly it was. We never felt out of our element—Uber rides were cheap and reliable, the U.S. dollar is the main currency, and the time zone matched our own back home. Between the canal, rainforest, and historic neighborhoods, our days were full, yet never overwhelming.
If you’re looking for a family vacation that mixes adventure, culture, and relaxation, Panama City deserves a spot on your list. We left with new knowledge, incredible photos, and plenty of memories that our kids are still talking about. This Central American gem is one we can’t wait to revisit.
