When it comes to that perfect family vacation in Florida, it’s hard to beat Panama City Beach. Named one of the top beaches in the United States, this incredible destination has 27 miles of sand and surf for you and everyone in your party to enjoy. Whether it’s a jet ski tour filled with speed, adrenaline, and Gulf waves, an airboat tour to meet the local wildlife, or just a day filled with shopping, dining, or exploring Pier Park in Panama City Beach, it’s here.
No list of things to do in Panama City Beach with kids would be complete without telling you about the Panama City Beach SkyWheel. Everything you need for the time of your life is located right near the SkyWheel, and we’re going to tell you all about the incredible time that awaits.
After you hear more, you’ll want to browse our Panama City Beach condos on Thomas Drive – right in the heart of it all – and get here as soon as possible!
About the SkyWheel
SkyWheel Panama City Beach is truly an all-around entertainment venue. There’s so much to see and do; you’ll need more than one day to have the whole experience! This epic experience features mini-golf, trails, zip lines, snacks, and observation decks to take in all the sights of the area.
First, let’s talk about the famous SkyWheel attraction. It’s a 53-meter observation wheel with 30 enclosed gondolas climate-controlled for comfort. These gondolas can hold up to six people, but if you want the VIP experience, you can have a car for four guests and never be seated with strangers. The SkyWheel is fully accessible for all guests, so it is safe and fun for people of all ages.
The SkyWheel is open all year long so that you can observe in comfort and style no matter the temperature outside. It is one of the most unique attractions in the area and something not to be missed when checking off your list of things to do in Panama City Beach. When your flight ends, pick up a fantastic souvenir photo to ensure the memory lasts. Then, head to the SkyWheel Snack Shack for a sweet funnel cake and a cold drink (either with or without alcohol!).
The cost for this journey 200 feet over the Gulf Coast of Florida is $16.99. Children four and under ride for free.
Ropes Course
There’s a lot of talk about adventures in the Gulf waters around Panama City Beach. But at SkyWheel, if you are looking for a different kind of adventure, you can try their Ropes Course, where there are two to choose from. For older kids, the SkyTrail course is just the thing. Built with safety and fun in mind, kids will tackle suspended bridges, rope ladders, cargo nets, and more. All explorers get full-body harnesses and sling lines on an overhead track for safe passage, so you’re never disconnected from the course. Go fast or go slow. While you’re up there, try the SkyRail. Soar in the air and take the adventure to the next level!
If younger kids are in your group, they might want to try the SkyTykes course instead. Guests under four feet tall can have their very own adventure at a height that is just right for them. The platforms for the little ones are less than three feet off the ground, and an adult must be with them at all times to help them through the challenges.
Remember: There are height and weight restrictions at the park. Make sure kids without chaperones are at least four feet tall and weigh under 300 pounds. Wear closed shoes when you come – no flip-flops here! Keep your pockets empty, avoid running and jumping on the course, and make sure everyone is wearing shorts or pants (no dresses or skirts!).
Tickets for the SkyTrail cost $15.99, while SkyTyke tickets are $5.99. A soaring experience on SkyRail is included with the SkyTrail ticket.
Mini Golf
Between 11 a.m. and 10 p.m. daily, for $14.99, you can get a ticket to one of the best activities in the area – SkyWheel mini golf. This miniature course has all the bumps, turns, and twists you need to keep you guessing and having a whole lot of fun. The 18-hole course gets harder as you move along, but all ages will have fun here. You may find yourself putting over a bridge one moment, then around boulders the next. Some holes have fun themes that can only be seen from the SkyWheel Observation Wheel, so make sure you ride that before teeing off!
The miniature golf course is located in the Pier Park area, right near the Gulf. You can find it right next to the SkyWheel Snack Shack, so you can get something tasty before heading out with putter in hand. Whether it’s ice cream or beer, it’s sure to satisfy.
Directions to the SkyWheel
One of the best parts about Panama City Beach condo rentals with Pelican Walk is that we’re located so close to everything you’ll never want to leave! We are less than 10 miles from the SkyWheel, so getting to it is easy.
From Pelican Walk, make a right onto Thomas Drive. Then make a U-turn and head northwest on Thomas Drive. The name of the road will change to FL-392A/Hutchison Boulevard. Keep straight and get onto FL-30/FL-98 Alt/Front Beach Road. Next, turn right onto Powell Adams Road, then Left onto LC Hilton Jr Drive. At the roundabout, take the first exit for South Pier Park Drive, turn right, then continue to SkyWheel Panama City Beach at 15700 LC Hilton Drive. For more information, call them at (850) 888-0020 or send an email to pcbinfo@skywheel.com.
Plan Your Visit
Contact us today if you want to soar high at the SkyWheel and take advantage of all the other amazing things to see and do in Panama City Beach. Let us give you the best place to stay in a place where you can have the best vacation you’ve ever had.
When you stay with Pelican Walk in Panama City Beach, you stay with the best. We know the area, and we can get you into the PCB condo you want, with the location and amenities you need, to have the time of your life right in the heart of this gem destination in Florida.
If it’s a one-bedroom you need for a fun and romantic getaway, we have it. We also have two- and three-bedroom condos in Panama City Beach for you and everyone in your party to come and enjoy.
Once you browse our fantastic selection, it’s not hard to picture yourself sitting on the porch sipping your morning coffee while watching the waves crash on the sand. Or, imagine you and your sweetheart sharing a cocktail or cooking a meal for a night in, relaxing while gazing at the beach. With pet-friendly options to round out the selection, everyone can stay and play the Pelican way. Our Panama City Beach rentals may include laundry facilities, pool and hot tub access, linens, amazing views, and a short distance to all you want to see and do.