Pensacola to Panama City Beach via Hwy 98

When people find out I live in Pensacola, Florida, they usually call me right before their Disneyworld trip and ask if we want to meet for dinner. They don’t realize that it is a 6 hour drive and most of the time, they are not interested in adding the Panhandle to their itinerary. It seems as if the Florida Panhandle is like that special toy shoved in the back of your child’s room. Easily forgotten, but when found it is a gem to be treasured!

The approximate 90 mile stretch of Highway 98 from Pensacola to Panama City Beach is my Route 66. I love to put the kids in the car and cruise down Highway 98, stopping wherever and whenever the mood strikes me. Here are our favorite kid-friendly stops:

Gulf Islands National Seashore – Let the kids do some exploring while you relax on the beach.

John Duncan Memorial Park and Panhandle Butterfly House – The Butterfly Garden is open throughout the summertime as well as the splash pad at the John Duncan Memorial Park. Let the kids cool off in the water and enjoy the beautiful view of Navarre Beach.

Indian Temple Mound and Museum – See artifacts, a temple mound and learn about the history of Ft. Walton Beach.

Gulfarium – Get close to the local sealife at the Gulfarium. Check out the dolphin show, the touch pool, pelicans and gators.

Destin Commons – This is a fairly new shopping center that is a great stop for the kids. They can run around the Pop Fountains Splash Pad, make a buddy at the Build-a-Bear, check out the huge fish at Bass Pro, or play at the small playground.

Mellow Mushroom – Fantastic pizza, quick service so you are back on the road again and it is loud so the kids can blow off some steam while waiting for their dinner…need I say more?!

Seaside – This beautiful town might look familiar to some of you. It was the set of the Truman Show. Grab an ice cream cone and take a walk through town.

Eden State Gardens – Eden Gardens is one of the Florida State Parks. It is absolutely beautiful with its moss covered tree canopy and if you get there at the right time you can tour the Wesley House, which looks like it came right out of Gone with the Wind.

Pier Park – This is another great shopping center with lots of kid-friendly activities. Ride the carousel or the train, visit some shops and stop in at the Candymaker to buy some fresh saltwater taffy.

Shipwreck Island – You will want to reserve some time for a visit to Shipwreck. This water park will keep every busy all day long.