A Feel-Good Hurricane Story: The Rebirth of Historic Panama City
Those of us a My Space Downtown cherish its Historic Downtown Panama City location. The rebirth of downtown is an amazing story, as it was literally rebuilt after being hit by Hurricane Michael on October 7th of 2018.
On this six-year anniversary, we want you to know a little about the miracles that have happened here over the past half-dozen years, for two reasons: First, we want to encourage you to visit My Space Downtown, join our coworkers, and see this special place for yourself. Second, we want to give hope to those so recently battered by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. If we could come back from Michael, and we did, we are confident you can rebuild from Helene and Milton.
Michael was at Category 5 when it made landfall near Panama City, with wind speeds reaching up to 161 mph. It left a moonscape of destruction. But our community pulled together and brought the city back, stronger than ever.
Our rebuilding began almost immediately. Inspired city leaders hatched a plan to rebuild and include arts, theaters and restaurants, while retaining the historic look even though construction would be all new.
In a companion blog, we offer a tour of the many restaurants, brew pubs and coffee houses within walking distance of My Space Downtown. Here, we focus on how the arts and special events play a part, too. Here’s a partial list of what the Historic District has to offer:
The Martin Theatre. Gutted by Hurricane Michael, the theater has been rebuilt and now hosts plays, special events and rock ‘n roll extravaganzas.
Murals. Historic Panama City used to have beautiful murals, and some were restored. New ones have since been added, including a new, 10,925 sq. ft. painting of bright flowers sprouting from a dying blossom, symbolic of our city’s renaissance. Check out the mural trail. The artwork featured in this blog is by J.D. Justice, Muralist & Public Artist.
A European Game Café. Called The Portal, this board game café has nearly 300 games. You go in, pick a game and enjoy the create-your-own soda bar. After all, games are an expression of art, too!
Panama Pedal Tours. Sip and cycle on this 14-seater megacycle that doubles as a bar. You can “pedal like a Panama pirate,” their website says, on private tours to celebrate birthdays, family reunions or even weddings.
Panama City Songwriters Festival. Founded by musician Will Thompson, the next festival is November 8th-9th. Details on performers and tickets are available on their website.
The renaissance in Panama City is ongoing, even after six years. Just this summer, we began rehabbing the Drummond Park area, which will include more water pressure, repaved streets and new sidewalks. Despite some trying experiences, we’re a place full of life and hope.
A list of upcoming events is posted by the Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce.
Come be a part of the downtown renaissance by trying our remote workspace at My Space Downtown, where you can experience wonderful new events, new sights, antique stores, restaurants and bars--most are steps away from our building.
