Bay County Residents Receive Free Russell-Fields Pier Access During August and September |
Local residents can enjoy complimentary spectator admission to the Panama City Beach landmark as part of America’s 250th birthday celebration. |
Bay County residents will have a new reason to visit Panama City Beach during the final months of summer.
Throughout August and September 2026, residents from anywhere in Bay County will be able to walk onto the Russell-Fields City Pier without paying the usual spectator admission fee. The temporary free-access program was approved by the Panama City Beach City Council during its July 23 meeting.
The promotion is being offered in recognition of America’s 250th birthday and is intended to give local families greater access to one of Panama City Beach’s most recognizable public landmarks.
Free Access Is for Spectators
The waived admission applies only to people visiting the pier as spectators. Residents who plan to fish from the pier will still be required to purchase the appropriate fishing admission.
To receive free spectator access, visitors must present identification showing that they live in Bay County. The benefit is available to all county residents, including those living in Panama City, Lynn Haven, Callaway, Springfield, Mexico Beach, Parker and other Bay County communities, not only residents of Panama City Beach.
Panama City Beach City Councilman Ethan Register said the program gives local residents an opportunity to enjoy the pier during the area’s shoulder season, when summer tourism begins to slow.
The two-month period provides plenty of opportunities for residents to take an evening walk, watch fishermen bring in their catches, photograph a Gulf sunset or simply enjoy the view with visiting friends and family.
A Landmark Beside Pier Park
Russell-Fields City Pier is located at 16201 Front Beach Road, directly across from Pier Park. Stretching over the Gulf, it is a popular destination for fishing, sightseeing, wildlife watching and sunset photography.
The pier is also within walking distance of restaurants, shops and entertainment, making it easy for residents to include a pier visit as part of an afternoon or evening at Pier Park.
Lifeguards are normally stationed near Russell-Fields City Pier through Labor Day weekend, although coverage may be affected by severe weather or unsafe Gulf conditions. Visitors should always check the beach-warning flags before entering the water.
Important Details for Residents
Although Panama City Beach has two major public fishing piers, current reporting on the council’s decision specifically identifies Russell-Fields City Pier as the location included in the August and September promotion. The M.B. Miller County Pier continues to have its regular pier-usage fees. Its standard spectator admission is $3, while fishing admission is generally $6, with discounted rates available for certain visitors.
Bay County residents can separately apply for a free parking permit at the M.B. Miller County Pier. That parking program is ongoing, is connected to the resident’s vehicle tag and is not the same as the temporary free spectator-admission offer at Russell-Fields City Pier.
For local families looking for an affordable outing, the new promotion offers a simple opportunity to slow down, enjoy the Gulf breeze and experience one of Panama City Beach’s most scenic landmarks without an admission charge. |
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25 Comments
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Pier visit + Pier Park shopping = Perfect date night in September!
I think the fishing fee is fair. Keeps the pier from being overrun just for free fishing. Good call.
Loving the idea but hope they keep the pier clean with all the extra folks coming through.
Can kids get in free too if their parents are residents? Didn’t see that part mentioned.
It's cool that they're recognizing America's 250th birthday this way. Fun way to celebrate right here at home.
Do temporary residents count? Like snowbirds who rent for a few months?
Nice to see something for locals for a change. Usually feels like we get priced out when tourists flood the area.
Don’t forget sunscreen, folks. Even in September, that sun is brutal on the pier!
Hope things don’t get too crowded with this offer, but happy for local families.
I’ll probably take my camera out and get some fall sunset pics finally! Thanks PCB council.
So does 'spectator' mean I can't bring my pole even if I just want to hang out?
Good that it’s for all of Bay County. Now my sister from Lynn Haven can finally see the sunset from the pier for free!
Always thought spectators paying was silly anyway. Hope they keep this going after the promo.
Just make sure you check the beach flags before getting in the water. Water can look calm but be tricky!
Will the lifeguards be there in September or is that after they leave?
Have to say I wish fishing was included for locals on the birthday year. Maybe next time?
Guess this means I’ll start my evening walks in August! Nice way to end the summer.
Love watching the dolphins from the pier. Anyone know if you can bring binoculars?
I’m in Mexico Beach, so glad we’re included! Always assumed this stuff was PCB only.
Parking is always a zoo by Pier Park though. Does this include any help with that?
Wish M.B. Miller would get the same deal, but at least Russell-Fields isn’t as crowded off season.
Great move by the council! The pier is always so packed with tourists, nice locals get some love too during slower months.
Heads up: bring your ID or they won't let you in. Saw folks turned away last year when they did something similar.
Too bad fishing isn't free too, but hey, I'll take the free stroll! The sunset from out there is hard to beat.
Love this! Always wanted to take my grandkids out on the pier but didn’t want to pay just to walk. Glad they’re doing this for locals.