5 Fascinating Places to Explore Panama’s History, Culture, and Identity (Things to Do in Panama City)

---

Panama is a country with a rich and complex history that stretches back thousands of years. From pre-Columbian civilizations to Spanish colonial settlements and modern marvels of engineering, the country offers an incredible range of cultural experiences for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re interested in ancient ruins, world-changing infrastructure, or indigenous craftsmanship, there’s no shortage of meaningful places to explore.

Here are five can’t-miss destinations that offer a deeper look at Panama’s past and present, if you are looking for things to do:

---

🏛 1. Panama Viejo

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Panama Viejo is the original site of Panama City, founded in 1519 and abandoned in the 17th century. Today, the ruins still whisper stories of conquest, gold, and rebellion. Wander among crumbling cathedrals and stone walls where some say Captain Henry Morgan set fire to the city—others claim the Panamanians did it themselves to keep it from pirate hands.

Either way, Panama Viejo is a place where legends live in the walls, and the view from the cathedral tower alone is worth the visit. History buffs, photographers, and curious travelers of all ages will find something to love here.

---

🚢 2. Panama Canal Museum & Miraflores Locks

No visit to Panama is complete without experiencing the Panama Canal, one of the greatest engineering feats of the modern world. The Miraflores Visitor Center, located about 20 minutes from downtown Panama City, features an interactive museum and observation deck where you can watch massive cargo ships pass through the locks.

The museum offers context on the canal’s construction, its impact on global trade, and its significance to Panamanian identity. It’s a powerful reminder of how geography and ambition have shaped this small but mighty country.

A cargo ship navigates through the Miraflores Locks of the Panama Canal, showcasing the impressive engineering that facilitates global maritime trade.

---

🌿 3. Biomuseo

Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the Biomuseo is striking before you even step inside. Located on the Amador Causeway, this bold and colorful building houses eight galleries that explore Panama’s role in the formation of the land bridge between North and South America—and the biodiversity explosion that followed.

Interactive exhibits, immersive design, and thoughtful curation make this a must-see for anyone interested in ecology, climate, or the natural history of the region.

Innovative architecture of the Biomuseo's foyer on the Amador Causeway in Panama, showcasing its vibrant colors and striking design elements.

---

🏘 4. Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo (also known as San Felipe), Panama City’s historic district, is a beautifully preserved colonial-era neighborhood full of charm and contrasts. Spanish colonial buildings have been restored into boutique hotels, rooftop bars, and stylish restaurants—yet within the same blocks, you’ll find local families living alongside the old churches and plazas.

It’s a place best explored on foot, with time to wander. Stop for coffee, shop for handmade crafts, or take in the architecture while imagining what life looked like here 300 years ago.

---

🧵 5. Museo de la Mola

Tucked into Casco Viejo is a cultural gem: the Museo de la Mola. This small but powerful museum celebrates the artistry and heritage of the Guna people, an Indigenous community known for their intricate molas—hand-sewn textile panels that reflect spiritual beliefs, natural elements, and generational skill.

The museum’s collection features molas both traditional and contemporary, and helps visitors understand the deeper meaning behind this vibrant art form. If you’re interested in craft, identity, or Indigenous culture, this is an essential stop.

---

✨ Beyond the Main Sites…

As you travel beyond Panama City, you’ll find architectural ruins scattered throughout the countryside—especially near Penonomé, where overgrown stone foundations lie like open-air secrets.

If you have the chance to visit one of Panama’s Indigenous communities, do so respectfully and with a commitment to ethical travel practices. In many communities, women are the economic backbone—crafting, selling, and sustaining their families through handmade work. Supporting them directly honors both cultural tradition and economic resilience.

---

🧭 Final Thoughts

From colonial ruins to cutting-edge museums, Panama’s cultural landscape is as layered and dynamic as its geography. Whether you’re an architecture lover, a history enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, these destinations will help you see the country with deeper eyes—and leave with a stronger sense of connection.