25+ Things to Do Near Tyndall AFB in Panama City, Destin, and More

Tyndall Air Force Base is located in Bay County, Florida. It’s home to the 325th Fighter Wing. PCSing here is a bit like living in a permanent vacation spot while still having to get up for work every day. The area surrounding the base includes several prominent tourist destinations. Numerous white sand beaches and wildlife preserves can be found close by, along with attractions to keep each member of the family entertained. Nearby cities like Panama City and Panama City Beach are entertainment havens geared toward attracting visitors and keeping them enthralled as long as they can. There'll be plenty of things to do near Tyndall AFB to get into here for everyone.

5 Places in Panama City That Are Military Friendly

Whether you’re looking to stay on base or looking for historical spots, Panama City has what you want. Stay on base for bowling or camp, or head off base for museums that delve into the history of the military and community.

Lightning Strike Bowling Center

The Lightning Strike Bowling facility promotes a facility complete with automatic scoring, league play, lessons, parties, and more. Grab your bowling shoes, hit the lanes, and let the good times roll!

Address: Mall Lane, Tyndall AFB, FL 32403

Hours: Sunday & Thursday, 1000-1900; Friday & Saturday, 1200-2100

Admission: Cost varies by activity. Check the website linked above for more information.

Tyndall AFB Fam Camp

Tyndall AFB Fam Camp is located along Florida’s Emerald Coast. Though outside the base security perimeter, the camp is still on base property. Fam Camp gives you the ability to camp right on the coast with RV sites and cabin rentals. Amenities like a community center with a kitchen, pool tables, ping-pong, games, laundry, and more will keep you coming back season after season.

Address: 101 Fam Camp Rd., Tyndall AFB, FL 32403

Hours: Monday through Friday, 0800-1600

Admission: Rental prices vary. Check the website linked above for more information.

Panama City Publishing Company Museum

The Panama City Publishing Company Museum preserves and exhibits local history, cultural resources, the vintage printing craft, and the stories of George and Lillian West and how they influenced the development of Bay County. Call ahead for special demonstrations and children’s activities.

Address: 1134 Beck Ave, Panama City, FL 32401

Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 1300-1700; Saturday, 0900-1300

Admission: Free

Bay County Historical Museum

The Bay County Historical Museum is dedicated to the preservation of Bay County history from Spanish explorers to pirates, and more. The museum offers many exhibits, like the Smithsonian FOOD Exhibit, premiering “The Culinary Heritage of Bay County.”

Address: 133 Harrison Avenue, Panama City, FL 32401

Hours: Tuesday & Thursday, 1000-1300; Saturday, 1000-1400

Admission: Free

Man in the Sea Museum

The Man in the Sea Museum offers exhibits and documents showcasing the history of military diving. The museum offers self-guided tours and showcases to increase your diving knowledge.

Address: 17314 Panama City Beach Parkway, Panama City Beach, FL 32413

Hours: Wednesday through Saturday, 1000-1600

Admission: Military $6; children under 4 are free.

5 Restaurants Near Tyndall AFB That Are Sure to Please

In a location as stunning as Panama City, you’ll want to be on the beach or near the beach for dining options to find the most unforgettable sunsets. The list below are a few of our favorites located in the diverse areas surrounding Tyndall AFB.

Blue Iguana Taco Bar & Cantina

Stop by Blue Iguana Taco Bar & Cantina if you’re looking for tacos, margaritas, and a vibrant cantina vibe. The cantina specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine like tacos, fajitas, burritos, and more.

Address: 36178 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541

Hours: Daily, 1000-2200

Schooners

Schooners is a laid-back waterfront spot offering delicious seafood, amazing sunsets, and live music.

Address: 5121 Gulf Dr, Panama City, FL 32408

Hours: Daily, 1100-2100

Big Easy Restaurant & Bar

If Cajun and Creole is what you’re craving, don’t pass up Big Easy Restaurant & Bar. Serving up Cajun classics like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and beignets, this New Orleans-style restaurant will surely please.

Address: 8744 Thomas Dr, Panama City, FL 32408

Hours: Daily, 1100-2200

Uncle Earnie’s Bayfront Bar & Grill

For fresh seafood served in a historic house on the bay, stop by Uncle Earnie’s. Sourcing only the freshest wild-caught grouper, you’ll rave about the quality of the food and the beauty of the beach.

Address: 1151 Bayview Ave, Panama City, FL 32401

Hours: Daily, 1100-2200

Gary’s Oyster Shack

The locals know about this place, and now you do too. Stop by Gary’s Oyster Shack for oysters and BBQ favorites prepared for groups of all sizes.

Address: 1320 N Tyndall Pkwy., Panama City, FL 32404

Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 1030-2030

What Are Some Pet-Friendly Places Near Tyndall AFB?

No need to leave your four-legged friend at home. There are plenty of spots to adventure and dine with your furry friends, bringing them in on the fun. Below are several pet-friendly outdoor spaces and restaurants in the areas surrounding Tyndall AFB.

Outdoor Spaces

Dog Beach at Pier Park

Don’t leave your pup out of the beach fun. Although dogs are not welcome on many beaches, this is one spot where your four-legged friend is welcome to play in the sand and water.

Address: 600 Pier Park Drive, Panama City, FL

Lynn Haven Bayou Park and Preserve

Lynn Haven Bayou Park and Preserve welcomes your whole family, pets included. Spend the day at this park featuring a kayak launch, playground, picnic pavilions, fitness trails, and more.

Address: 4770 Co Rd 2321, Panama City, FL 32409

Veterans Park

Veterans Park features a clean outdoor space with a playground and walking trails. Pets are welcome to explore trails on a leash.

Address: Cherry St, Panama City, FL 32404

Fur-Family Friendly Restaurants

Capt. Max’s Dockside Bar & Grill

A weathered Gulf Coast hangout where the drinks are cold, the music is loud, and the sunsets are free. Bring your four-legged friends along to chill on the patio!

Address: 5550 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City, FL 32408

Dawghouse at Cook Bayou Marina

This waterfront bar and restaurant welcomes you and your pup to enjoy the great atmosphere and amazing views.

Address: 11722 Bay Vista Rd, Panama City, FL 32404

The Cafe on Tyndall Parkway

The Cafe on Tyndall Parkway serves up great breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a friendly staff that welcomes you and your pet on the outdoor patio.

Address: 804 S Tyndall Pkwy, Panama City, FL 32404

5 Things For Couples to Do in Panama City

Whether you’re looking to view the shoreline from high above in a skywheel or helicopter, looking for a challenging escape room, or something a little low-key like dinner at Firefly, Panama City has everything you need to plan your next date.

SkyWheel

The Panama City Beach Skywheel offers climate-controlled gondola rides ascending high above the emerald coast. Get VIP treatment for private boarding, luxurious leather seats, and a souvenir photo.

Address: 15700 LC Hilton Jr. Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32413

Hours: Daily, 1100-2300

Helicopter Tour

Gondola ride not your style, but still want to make a sky-high impression? Book a helicopter tour showcasing the gorgeous emerald coast and white-sand beaches. With many options to choose from, you’re sure to find a flight within your price range.

Address: 17711 Beach Park Trail, Panama City Beach, FL 32413

Hours: Daily, 1000-1930

Dinner at Firefly

Dinner at Firefly is a much slower pace, but still high on appeal. Enjoy a romantic dinner under a lit-up oak tree for a truly memorable dining experience.

Address: 535 Richard Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407

Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 1700-2200

Escape Room

Can you make an escape? With 5 rooms to choose from, you can select your challenge and work together to escape.

Address: 15801 L C Hilton Jr Dr #105, Panama City Beach, FL 32413

Hours: Daily, 0800-0000

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

Looking for live music and a good time? Head over to Tootsie’s for seven days of live country music and dancing!

Address: 8795 Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32408

Kitchen Hours: Daily, 1100-2200

Bar Hours: Daily, 1100-0300

Check Out These Nearby Day Trips Perfect for a Quick Getaway

Whether you’re into history, caves, or beachfront activities, the following quick getaways will leave you wanting to explore more.

Apalachiola

Drive time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

• Take a walk along downtown’s historic brick streets lined with 19th-century storefronts and art galleries.
• Tour the Apalachiola Maritime Museum or take a river boat eco-tour
• Enjoy world-famous local oysters at waterfront spots like Reagan’s Restaurant.

St. Andrews State Park

Drive time: 40 minutes

• Swim, snorkel, or sunbathe along the pristine white sand and jetties.
• Catch the seasonal shuttle boat to undeveloped Shell Island for prime shelling.
• Hike the pier or the two nature trails winding through coastal plant communities.

Marianna

Drive time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

• Walk amongst stalagmites and stalactites at Florida Caverns State Park
• Go canoeing, kayaking, or swimming in the crystal-clear, 68-degree water at nearby Blue Springs Recreational Area.
• Hike the shaded limestone and sinkhole trails.

7 Things For Kids to Do in Panama City

The military-friendly area surrounding Tyndall AFB includes many kid-friendly museums and activities!

• Shipwreck Island Waterpark: This massive water park features over 20 attractions ranging from lazy river, wave pool, slides, rapids, and more.
• Sea Dragon Pirate Cruise: Take the whole family for a 2-hour pirate cruise that includes dolphin sightings, fun music, and non-stop pirate activities for kids.
• Zoo World: Zoo World is much smaller than its name implies, but it offers a great opportunity to see animals up close. The kids will love the petting zoo too!
• Race City Amusement Park: You’ll find everything you need to spend the whole day at Race City Amusement Park. Featuring thrill rides, go-karts, blacklight mini-golf, a mega arcade, and so much more.
• Coconut Creek Family Fun Park: Coconut Creek Family Fun Park may not be as big as some other fun centers, but with 3 mini-golf courses and an enormous maze, your family will have just as much fun!
• Bear Creek Feline Center: This feline center provides permanent homes to displaced bobcats, panthers, servals, jaguarundi, and lynx. Call ahead for a tour so you don’t scare the animals with an unexpected visit.
• WonderWorks: Explore this upside-down building filled with over 100 hands-on exhibits, laser tag, and ropes courses. It will surely be a fun day of learning and exploring.

Don’t Miss These Panama City Seasonal Events!

We’re sharing 5 seasonal events taking place in Panama City that you won’t want to miss.

• PCB Mardi Gras & Music Festival: Featuring a parade, colorful costumes, and festive live music, Pier Park puts on a show for this annual February celebration.
• Summer Concerts: June through August, head to Aaron Bessant Park’s amphitheater for live music on Thursday evenings.
• Gulf Coast Jam: In early June, this four-day outdoor country music festival draws major headlines to the coast. Get your tickets well in advance for this big event.
• Pirates of the High Seas & Renaissance Fest: Join the community in October for a family-friendly Columbus Day festival complete with pirate parades, reenactments, and fireworks.
• New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop: Don’t want to freeze in New York for an iconic ball drop? Stay here and celebrate the new year with a ball drop at Pier Park featuring live entertainment and thousands of beach balls dropping at midnight.

Don’t Miss Out on These Fun Things to Do Near Tyndall AFB

Tyndall AFB is surrounded by white sand beaches and entertainment options for the whole family. The area is designed to suck in tourists, and locals can’t be blamed for taking advantage of the available attractions. There are so many outdoor adventures to take part in that you’ll find yourself going back again and again.

Find a favorite spot like Crook Beach and watch the sunset fall below the waves while you enjoy a favorite book, or take the kids to see the animals at ZooWorld. This isn’t your average PCS scenario. There’s so much to see at Tyndall that you may never want to leave.