Attractions for Land Lovers

Have fun while not at the beach? It's true. You actually can have fun without getting in the surf, or without the soft, white sand sifting through your toes. First up, go karts and mini golf. Family-fun centers like Emerald Falls has tracks and greens that will keep your whole family amused either day or night. And if you need to zap a few aliens, there's an arcade with all of the latest eye candy.

Time to go wild! And we have the perfect places. Zoo World brings you up close and personal with lions, tigers and even an enormous giraffe just to name a few. Your kids will love the petting zoo featuring the more tamed species. But most of all, their imaginations will take over as they imagine being on a safari while meeting the wide array of animals... from a safe distance, of course.

If you prefer to be both wet and wild, splash over to Gulf World Marine Park. Dolphin encounters, penguins strutting, stingray petting, exotic bird shows, and that's just scratching the surface of all the things you'll see and do there. Bring the whole family to this one!

Let's face it. Panama City Beach can produce some heat. The best way to cool off? Shipwreck Island Water Park. You'll love the lazy river rides, breathtaking water slides, and more. There's even a kid zone with water guns, slides and everything to keep them busy - while you rest.

On the east of Thomas Drive is St. Andrews State Park. Visitors come here for camping, swimming, snorkeling, canoeing, fishing off the Jetty and more. This State Park has over one-and-a-half miles of beaches on the Gulf of Mexico and Grand Lagoon. Natural trails provide paths to admire the wildlife and scenery either by foot or bicycle.

If you've graduated from mini-golf to the real thing, Signal Hill offers a full 18 hole golf course. And best of all, it's affordable. But don't worry, if you need more of a challenge, Panama City Beach offers over 5 courses to choose from including one designed by the Nicklaus group. In town, be sure to visit Nature Walk Golf Course for peaceful and challenging rounds of golf. In other words, if you love golf, don't forget your clubs!