Aaron Bessant Park Panama City Beach
A premier outdoor venue in Panama City Beach, hosting concerts, festivals, and community events with scenic trails for recreation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free concerts, relaxed vibe
Aaron Bessant Park Panama City Beach
Best Time
Free concerts, relaxed vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier outdoor venue in Panama City Beach, hosting concerts, festivals, and community events with scenic trails for recreation.
"This park is a hub for entertainment, offering free concerts and vibrant festivals year-round."
Bring a Blanket or Chair
For concerts and events, seating is first-come, first-served. Bring your own for comfort!
Check Event Listings
The park hosts many events; check schedules to plan your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Amphitheater Concerts
Amphitheater
Catch free live music and performances under the stars. A perfect way to enjoy a warm evening with local bands and artists.
Seasonal Festivals & Markets
Open Green Spaces
Experience vibrant fall festivals, holiday markets, and Oktoberfest celebrations. Great for family fun with food, crafts, and local vendors.
Walking & Running Trails
Park Trails
Enjoy shaded paved and gravel paths perfect for a morning jog or a leisurely stroll. A clean and well-maintained space for outdoor activity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Event Schedules
Leash Up for Fido
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring a Blanket or Chair
For concerts and events, seating is first-come, first-served. Bring your own for comfort!
Check Event Listings
The park hosts many events; check schedules to plan your visit.
Leash Your Dogs
Respect the rules and keep dogs leashed to ensure safety for all.
Stay Hydrated
Water fountains are available, but bring extra water for hot Florida days.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring a Blanket or Chair
For concerts and events, seating is first-come, first-served. Bring your own for comfort!
Check Event Listings
The park hosts many events; check schedules to plan your visit.
Leash Your Dogs
Respect the rules and keep dogs leashed to ensure safety for all.
Stay Hydrated
Water fountains are available, but bring extra water for hot Florida days.
Explore Nearby Pier Park
The park is adjacent to Pier Park for shopping and dining options.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Aaron Bessant Park is highly praised for its well-maintained grounds and its role as a vibrant event space, hosting everything from concerts to community festivals. Visitors enjoy the shaded trails for recreation and the park's proximity to Pier Park. However, some guests have expressed frustration with off-leash dogs and a lack of enforcement of leash laws, impacting the experience for some pet owners and their animals.
"Parks and Recreation does a fantastic job keeping the parks in pristine condition
There is always something going on. The Concert in the Park series just finished with various band every Thursday. Free entry, just bring a chair or blanket."
Brad Doucette
"Great place we walk every day but are giving it up due to the many owners who do not leash their dogs. Of course, the rules don't apply to them! I have asked a few and they are very aggressive in responding that their dog wouldn't hurt a flea. Really? I have an 8 pound dog and as much as I know him, I have no idea what he would or wouldn't do in a certain situation. They are dogs! Little ones always are seriously injured or killed by big dogs. There are signs throughout the park that they must be leashed and picked up after as there is a lot of feces laying around. So, after consulting my dog trainer he suggested that I carry bear spray which I now have. The sad thing is that a dog is going to bear the pain of that when it is the owner's fault. The other day we were there and a large standard poodle was running off leash. A woman was walking and I can only imagine that she was bitten by a dog as she was screaming to please keep the dog away from her. Of course the owner stated that the dog was friendly and not to worry. There was a couple who consoled her and walked her to her car. Why??? I don't know why someone does not patrol the park. You want revenue for PCB fine these people as it's the only way to learn a lesson."
Cindy Calhoun
"Great place to walk or run. Trails are mostly shaded. Park was clean. Went there a couple of times on vacation to run the trails. There is a paved trail and a gravel trail. Everybody that I saw with dogs had them on leashes."
Cindy Anderson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Aaron Bessant Park is conveniently located just west of Pier Park in Panama City Beach, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available during events. Many visitors also find it a pleasant walk or bike ride from nearby accommodations.
Yes, there is parking available at Aaron Bessant Park, especially during scheduled events. It's advisable to arrive early for popular concerts or festivals to secure a good spot.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a viable option for reaching Aaron Bessant Park, particularly if you're attending an event and want to avoid parking hassles.
The park is generally accessible with paved paths, making it easier for individuals with mobility challenges to navigate. Specific accessibility details for events may vary, so it's best to check with event organizers if needed.
If you're staying on the beach, Aaron Bessant Park is a short drive or a longer walk away. Many visitors enjoy biking to the park, as it's a scenic route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Aaron Bessant Park itself is generally free. However, specific ticketed events like concerts, festivals, or special performances held within the park will require admission. Always check the event details for ticketing information.
Yes, Aaron Bessant Park frequently hosts free events, most notably the 'Concert in the Park' series, where you can enjoy live music without an admission fee.
The park is typically open from dawn until dusk for general use. However, hours can be extended for special events, and specific areas like the amphitheater will have hours dictated by scheduled programming.
For ticketed events, it's often possible to purchase tickets on the day of, but it's highly recommended to buy in advance, especially for popular acts, to guarantee entry and potentially get better pricing.
Policies on outside food and drinks vary by event. For free concerts, it's usually permitted, but for festivals or ticketed performances, check the specific event guidelines as some may have restrictions or designated areas.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Aaron Bessant Park is a versatile venue hosting a wide array of events, including live concerts, music festivals, farmers markets, holiday celebrations, Oktoberfest, and even sports practices like rugby.
Yes, there are several buildings with restrooms and water fountains located throughout the park, ensuring visitors can stay comfortable during their visit.
Aaron Bessant Park is dog-friendly, but there are strict leash laws in place. Visitors have reported issues with off-leash dogs, so it's crucial to keep your pet leashed and clean up after them.
The park offers plenty of open green space, shaded areas, and benches, making it ideal for families. It's also adjacent to Pier Park, providing additional entertainment and dining options.
While the park is primarily for public use and events, inquiries about renting specific areas for private functions might be directed to Panama City Beach Parks and Recreation. It's best to contact them directly for availability and policies.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Many events held at Aaron Bessant Park, such as festivals and concerts, feature a variety of food trucks and vendors offering diverse culinary options.
For general park visits and free concerts, bringing your own food and non-alcoholic beverages is usually allowed. However, for ticketed events or festivals, check the specific event's policy as restrictions may apply.
Aaron Bessant Park is located right next to Pier Park, which offers a vast selection of restaurants, cafes, and eateries catering to all tastes, from casual to fine dining.
The park has plenty of open green space and benches that are suitable for picnicking. It's a great spot to enjoy a meal outdoors, especially on a pleasant day.
At the Oktoberfest event, you can typically expect traditional German fare such as bratwurst, pretzels, and of course, a selection of German beers.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers scenic views, especially around the amphitheater and the open green spaces. Drone footage captures the park's expanse beautifully, showcasing its integration with the surrounding landscape.
Drone usage is often permitted in parks for recreational purposes, but it's essential to check local regulations and any specific park rules regarding drone operation. Some events might have restrictions.
Event photography, including concert shots, festival scenes, and candid moments of attendees enjoying themselves, is very popular. The park's natural beauty also lends itself to landscape and nature photography.
For professional or commercial photography and videography, it's advisable to contact Panama City Beach Parks and Recreation beforehand to inquire about any necessary permits or guidelines.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. However, the park is also vibrant during events, providing dynamic opportunities for capturing action shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When attending events, consider bringing a blanket or chairs for comfortable seating, especially for concerts. While restrooms are available, it's always a good idea to have snacks and drinks on hand, though many events will have vendors. Remember to keep an eye on children, especially in crowded event settings.
🐶 Pet Owners
Always carry waste bags to clean up after your pet, as this is also a requirement and helps maintain the park's cleanliness for everyone. The park's open spaces can be enjoyable for well-behaved, leashed dogs.
🎶 Music Lovers
For ticketed events, check the schedules in advance. Bringing a blanket or chair is highly recommended for comfort during performances. The park's acoustics and atmosphere are generally well-regarded for outdoor concerts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Concerts and Live Performances
When attending a concert, remember to bring chairs or blankets as seating is typically on a first-come, first-served basis on the lawn. The atmosphere is usually laid-back and family-friendly, perfect for enjoying a warm Florida evening. Check the Panama City Beach event calendar for upcoming performances to plan your visit.
Beyond music, the amphitheater also hosts other performances, such as aerial arts shows and community theater, showcasing the diverse talent within the region. These events add another layer to the park's appeal as a cultural hub.
Festivals, Markets, and Community Events
The Fall Festival & Market is a popular family-friendly event featuring crafts, a DJ, a farmers market, and food trucks, often with free admission and giveaways for early attendees. Similarly, the 'Beach for the Holidays' event offers a festive atmosphere with holiday music, food, and a fireworks finale, making it a perfect way to celebrate the season.
These community events are a great way to experience the local culture and enjoy family-friendly activities. They often highlight local vendors, artisans, and food providers, offering a taste of what Panama City Beach has to offer beyond its beaches.
Recreation and Daily Use
The park is also a popular spot for dog owners, though it's crucial to adhere to the leash laws. While most visitors are responsible, some reviews mention issues with off-leash dogs, so vigilance and adherence to park rules are important for a positive experience for all.
With ample green space, benches, and restroom facilities, the park is a pleasant place for a picnic or simply to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Its proximity to Pier Park also makes it a convenient stop for a breath of fresh air before or after shopping and dining.
Social
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