Visting the Panama Canal at the Miraflores Locks
Tips to Enjoy the Engineering Marvel Outside Panama City, Panama
Jan 31, 2009
The Panama Canal, which links the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, cuts off about 8,000 additional nautical miles that ships would have to travel if they sailed around South America. It also saves vessels time and operational costs to transit through the 50-mile long canal that consists of lakes and locks. Watching the functions of the locks, which raise and lower boats between stretches of uneven waters, are part of the enchantment.
The best and easiest place to view the Panama Canal up close and in action is at the Miraflores Locks Visitors Center (a 15-20 minute taxi ride from downtown Panama). Witness colossal ships navigate the canal on the center's observation decks, learn about the Panama Canal's history and how the canal works, shop for souvenirs and enjoy a meal with a panoramic view all within the four-story Visitors Center.
Admission for non-resident adults is $8.00 USD for the complete package (which includes access to the museum, observation decks and theater) or $5.00 USD for partial access. Admission for children or students is $5.00 USD for the complete package and $3.00 USD for partial access. The Visitor Center is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Miraflores Locks Museum
The interactive exhibits, replicas of equipment used in the canal's construction and focus on unique natural wealth surrounding the canal, make this museum both educational and fun for all ages. There is even a navigation simulator for those who dream of sailing through the Panama Canal, which opened in 1914. This bilingual museum focuses on how the canal was constructed and how it works. For a more complete overview of the history and political struggles that arose involving the canal, visit the Museo del Canal Interoceanico de Panama in the city's historic Casco Viejo neighborhood. Exhibits there are in Spanish only.
Miraflores Locks Restaurant
Get a table on their outside patio for an incredible view of the Panama Canal. Sip a cocktail and wave to the passing crews as ships make their way through the locks. The food here is tasty with a wide variety of traditional and international dishes. Buffets are $24.00 USD. The restaurant stays open until 11 p.m. The canal is well-lit in the evenings, so dinner here is also enjoyable, although the rest of the attractions will be closed.
Miraflores Locks Theater and Gift Shop
A small, but comfortable, theater is also located within the visitors center. Check out a short movie presentation (both in English and Spanish) for a virtual view of the inner workings of the canal as well as a peak into the future Panama Canal expansion plans, which are already underway. Before leaving, visitors can stock up on Panama Canal memorabilia which includes everything from souvenir T-shirts to replica photos of the canal's construction more than 80 years ago.
 |
 |
