Aaron Bessant Park - Panama City Beach

With 70 acres of manicured lawns, a state-of-the-art amphitheater and winding walking trails, Aaron Bessant Park offers the best outdoor recreation. Located within walking distance of the Gulf, the park serves as a venue for festivals throughout the year. If you’re looking for fun, sun and music, plan a visit here! Kick off your shoes and stroll through the velvety grass or glide a frisbee back and forth with your friends. Wide-open green spaces make Aaron Bessant Park a top-notch picnic spot. Throw down a blanket, slice open a watermelon and sit down to a feast with the family.

Take a Tour of the Park

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Take a tour of the park now

 
 

Recreational Areas

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Recreational Areas 

Pet-Friendly Hiking

Looking to get in a little exercise? Three different trails loop the park so you can stroll through the sunshine or go for an invigorating jog. The Gulf of Mexico is practically right across the street and close enough to waft a refreshing gulf breeze to cool you off. Turn the kids loose on soccer fields to work off that excess energy.

Aaron Bessant Park is pet friendly so you’re welcome to invite your canine companion along for the day’s fun. All dogs must remain leashed and, of course, you must clean up after them.

Veteran’s Memorial

In addition to beautiful open spaces and picnic areas, the park includes a Veteran’s Memorial to honor the service of our nation’s men and women in uniform. Visit this elegant testimonial to service members for a moment of quiet reflection.

Close to Pier Park

Aaron Bessant Park is only a short distance from Pier Park, one of Panama City Beach’s premiere shopping and dining destinations. After a fun afternoon at the park, stop by Pier Park to grab a bite and pick up that perfect souvenir.

Events and Festivals

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Events and Festivals

Since its dedication, Aaron Bessant Park has hosted numerous gatherings and festivals. From open-air concerts to food festivals, antique car shows to wine tastings, there’s always something happening. Keep your finger on the pulse of cultural life in Panama City Beach by staying up with the latest events and celebrations at Aaron Bessant Park.

Summer Events

One highlight of the park’s offerings is its free summer concert series. Every Tuesday night from June to August, a different performer plays a free show at the park’s state-of-the-art amphitheater. Each week will feature a different genre of music. Whether you like pumping your fist to classic rock, two-stepping to country or grooving to future funk, there’s something for every taste.

Fall and Winter Events

When fall gives way to winter, Aaron Bessant Park hosts Beach Home for the Holidays, the ultimate way to get into the holiday spirit PCB style. Enjoy a sweet, melty s’more while you stroll the grounds and take in a festive concert of carols. The kids can even visit with Santa to give the big man their Christmas wishes in person.

Spring Events

In the spring, Aaron Bessant Park hosts the Seabreeze Jazz Festival, one of the top 10 jazz festivals in the United States according to JAZZIZ Magazine. Featuring over 30 performances by the top performers in smooth jazz, this celebration of the quintessential American art form makes the perfect complement to balmy spring days and cool nights on the Gulf Coast. 

A Map of Aaron Bessant Park provided by Panama City Beach can be found here.

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