Leave Fairhope, AL around 12:45 PM and take US-98 S / FL-77 S all the way toward Panama City; on a good day it’s about 6.5–7.5 hours, but plan for the usual slowdowns near the Bay Bridge and any beach traffic once you get closer to town. I’d make one clean stop for gas and coffee around the Pace/Milton stretch or somewhere just after crossing into Florida, then keep rolling so you can arrive with enough daylight to settle in, unload the dog, and find parking near downtown without feeling rushed. If you’re coming in from the east side of town, downtown parking is usually easiest in the lots and street spaces around the marina and Beach Drive area.
Start with Panama City Marina to shake off the drive and get your bearings on St. Andrews Bay. It’s a nice first look at the water without committing to a big excursion, and there are easy walking areas nearby where a dog can stretch out a bit. From the marina, it’s a short hop into downtown for Mosey’s Downtown, where you can grab a casual meal and reset after the road—think burgers, sandwiches, seafood, and cold drinks in the roughly $15–25 per person range. It’s the kind of place that works whether you want an early dinner or a late lunch, and it’s close enough that you won’t have to move the car much.
After eating, head over to McKenzie Park for a simple, low-key walk. It’s a good little green break in the middle of town, and it’s especially handy if your dog needs to burn off some energy before the evening settles in. Keep it unhurried—just enough time to wander, sit for a minute, and let the day slow down. Then finish at History Class Brewing Company, which is one of the easiergoing spots downtown for a pint and a relaxed end to travel day. Expect about $8–15 per person depending on what you order, and if you want to stay close to your lodging after that, the drive back is straightforward from downtown no matter which side of Panama City you’re staying on.