If you’re on the hunt for a fun, yet affordable family gathering in Panama City Beach, look no further than Cobra Adventure Park. This attraction is far from fancy, but it keeps kids entertained — and that’s enough to satisfy the many parents who find themselves wandering between the park’s various rides and activities.
Cobra Adventure Park is divided into several decidedly different components, most of which fall under a few basic categories: an arcade, a roller coaster area, a mini-golf course, and go-karts. Each section holds its own unique atmosphere, with regular visitors expressing a clear preference for some areas over others.
The park’s arcade tends to attract the most praise, although some visitors yearn for the payment cards used by competing locations, versus the old school tokens offered at Cobra Adventure Park. Still, the value for these games is reasonable, as is the selection.
Thrill-seekers generally prefer the park’s rides and go-karts. These are not for the faint of heart. While they don’t look particularly intimidating at first glance, their often bumpy nature adds either excitement or nausea, depending on the individual. Adventurous kids love them, but their adult companions don’t always agree. Thankfully, many children are perfectly willing to take on these rides on their own, so reluctant parents won’t necessarily be forced to join them.
A few of our favorite rides and activities include the following:
Max Flight Simulator
Dubbed the “roller coaster of the future,” this simulator provides all of the thrills of a typical ride but adds the comfort of air conditioning. Best of all, the wait for this ride is minimal, especially as compared to the other offerings at Cobra Adventure Park.
Dragon Wagon
This kids-only ride appeals to younger visitors who find the park’s other offerings too intimidating. It also provides a break for parents who dread the idea of accompanying their children on every ride. Instead, parents can snap photos as their kids make the most of this no-adults experience.
Smuggler’s Cove
Don’t worry if you’re not in the mood for roller coasters. At Smuggler’s Cove, you’ll encounter a calmer, yet still, entertaining mini-golf experience featuring a variety of photo-worthy pirate decorations. Photo opportunities abound; keep an eye out for the pirate town and gallows as you traverse this 18-hole course. Unfortunately, the course is not quite as peaceful as you might imagine, as its proximity to the go-karts prompts a fair amount of noise.
Go-Karts
The go-karts at this park are definitely exciting, but the track feels bumpy at times. This makes this attraction even more appealing for some while prompting significant discomfort for others. If, however, you love the thrill of go-karts and don’t mind the occasional bump, you are in for a great time. Double karts transform the ride into a social experience and are especially appealing for siblings and friends.
From go-karts to coasters and even mini-golf, Cobra Adventure Park provides a wide variety of activities to keep you and your loved ones entertained. It might not be Panama City Beach’s most upscale attraction, but it holds a certain kitschy appeal that many visitors appreciate.
Insider Tips:
– Depending on how much time you have available to explore the park, it may be worth your while to plan your visit strategically. Some rides move far faster than others. The go-karts, for example, tend to suffer long lines, while immediate fun can nearly always be found in the arcade or on the roller coaster simulator.
– If you have back problems or are prone to aches and pains, skip the go-karts. Their bumpy nature may appeal to kids, but many adults report feeling sore long after they’ve left the park.
– Food can be difficult to come by at this park, so plan accordingly. Thankfully, it’s located a brief drive from several restaurants that appeal to kids.